Revelation Lesson 6

Revelation--Lesson 6

The Door & The Scroll

Chapters 4-7

We know about John's Vision of the events prophesied to occur in the Last days (in Chapter 1) and we've read the Letters to the 7 churches (in Chapters 2 & 3). Now, In Rev. 4:1 we read:

After this (meta tauta =these things) I (John) looked,

and there before me was a door standing open in heaven.

And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said,

"Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this"

(meta tauta=these things).

We need to look closely at this verse (4:1), because there are several important and key concepts in it which we need to understand before we continue in our study of Revelation.

Let's look first at the phrase "before me was a door standing open in heaven." Put a tall blue rectangle (that looks like a door) around the word, door, in the phrase, "a door standing open." or "a door was opened" in KJV.

The Greek word for DOOR is THURA (2374) and, according to the BDB/Thayers Lexicon, means: "... a door, the vestibule, ...any opening like a door, an entrance, way or passage into, ... the door through which sheep go in and out,...the name of Him Who brings salvation to those who follow His guidance, ...an 'open door' is used of the opportunity of doing something, ...the door of the kingdom of heaven ..."

To further understand what this word, DOOR, might mean, let's look at some of the many other places in the New Testament where this same word, Door (Thura 2374 = Door = Gate) is used and see if those verses give us any insight as to what Rev. 4:1 might be saying.

As you read the following Scriptures, also put a tall blue rectangle (that looks like a door) on each occurrence of the word, door, gate, or any other word used in its place.

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Scriptures which also use the word, THURA (Door / Gate)

John 10:1-18 "I (Jesus) tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate (Thura), but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The man who enters by the gate (Thura) is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate (Thura) for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice." ... Jesus said again, "I (Jesus) tell you the truth, I am the gate (Thura) for the sheep. All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate (Thura); whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. I (Jesus) am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd who owns the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me -- just as the Father knows me and I know the Father -- and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life -- only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father."

Acts 14:27 On arriving there (Antioch), they (Paul and Barnabus) gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them and how He had opened the door (Thura) of faith to the Gentiles.

I Cor. 16:8-9 But I (Paul) will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great door (Thura) for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.

2 Cor. 2:12 Now when I (Paul) went to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ and found that the Lord had opened a door (Thura) for me, ...

Colossians 4:3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door (Thura) for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I (Paul) am in chains.

Matthew 24:33 Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door (Thura).

Matthew 25:10 But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door (Thura) was shut.

Rev. 3:8 I (Jesus) know your (church at Philadelphia) deeds. See, I have placed before you an open (perfect passive ptc.) door (Thura) that no one can shut. ...

Rev. 3:20 Here I (Jesus) am! I stand at the door (Thura) and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door (Thura), I will come in and eat with him, and he with Me.

Luke 13:22-29 Then Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as He made His way to

Jerusalem. Someone asked Him, "Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?" He (Jesus) said to them, "Make every effort to enter through the narrow door (Thura), because many, I tell you will try to enter and will not be able to. Once the Owner of the house gets up and closes the door (Thura), you will stand outside knocking and pleading, 'Sir, open the door (Thura) for us.' But He will answer, 'I don't know you or where you come from.' Then you will say, 'We ate and drank with You, and You taught in our streets.' But He will reply, 'I don't know you or where you come from. Away from me, all you evil doers! There will be weeping there, and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but you yourselves thrown out. People will come from east and west and north and south, and will take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. Indeed there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last."

Rev. 4:1 After this I looked, and there before me was a door (Thura) standing open (perfect passive) in heaven. ... (And, for you word buffs, the Perfect tense means that "the action of the verb has happened in the past with its results continuing into the present." Hmmmm. Very interesting.)

Ok, you have looked at many of the scriptures which speak about doors (Thura). And we have discovered that the word, door, can be not only a literal door but can also represent or picture various things or individuals.

What are some of the meanings of the word, DOOR, as represented in the scriptures you just read and marked? List 2 or 3 or more in the space below

____________________________________________________________________

Yes, DOOR (Thura) in scripture can be used literally to just simply mean a door. But, it can also refer to the accepting the gospel by faith, to an opening for teaching and preaching the gospel, to the way Jesus enters into a person's heart, and the way a saved person can enter into the Kingdom of God.

The word, DOOR, can even represent Jesus Christ, who is the door / gate by which the sheep enter. "... Jesus said ... " I (Jesus) tell you the truth, I am the gate (Thura) for the sheep. All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate (Thura); whoever enters through me will be saved. " And in John 14:6, Jesus said that He is the WAY and the truth and the life (and that) no one comes to the Father except THROUGH Him.....

Let's look at that verse, John 14:6, in its context so you will know what Jesus was saying and teaching. And, by the way, this verse is in the Gospel of John. And, Yes, this is the SAME John who wrote the Book of Revelation. And, interestingly, did you also notice that the passage about Jesus being the Shepherd of the Sheep and the GATE (DOOR) was also in the Gospel of John! Hmmm. Very interesting.

Anyway, let's look at John 14:6 in its context. These words of Jesus were spoken to John and the other Disciples (Apostles) when Jesus Christ was still on earth but not long before His sacrificial death on the cross as the Lamb of God and His resurrection as Savior and Redeemer. Jesus is teaching John and the others some very important things about Himself, about God the Father, about heaven, and about Salvation. So, let's listen now to what Jesus said, as recorded by John, who had personally heard these words when they were spoken. And again, as you read these verses, mark every reference to Jesus with a Blue cross and every reference to God the Father with a Blue triangle.

John 14:1-7 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me (Jesus). In My (Jesus) Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going." Thomas said to Him, "Lord, we don't know where you are going, so how can we know the way?" Jesus answered, "I AM THE WAY AND THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE. NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT THROUGH ME. If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know Him and have seen Him."

Wow!

Now, isn't it interesting that when John went through the DOOR (Thura) into Heaven in Chapter 4, he saw GOD the Father being worshiped. And Jesus had told John previously that no one comes to the Father except through Him (Jesus)! Hmmmmmmmmm. Could this be significant?

Hmmmmmm.

Well, with all of this in mind, the question now is: Who or what does the door (Thura) in Rev. 4:1 represent?

_____________________________________________________________

Explain your answer:

_________________________________________________________________

Wow! Awesome possibility, isn't it! Yes!

Now, let's look at the phrase 'after this' in Rev. 4:1. You will notice that it is used twice in that verse. Put a red box around each of the two places where it is used in Rev. 4:1.

For your information, 'After this,' in the Greek is 'meta tauta' which literally means 'these things.' So, the first thing we want to ask is What things?

Is the Church a 'thing'? Are the 7 Churches = 'these things'?

Are 'these things' = events? And, if 'these things' = events, then what events? Are these the events of John's vision on the island of Patmos? Or are they the events of the writing of the messages to the 7 Churches? Or are they the messages themselves? Or what? Don't answer those questions yet. Let's complicate the issue a bit more first.

Look at the second use of the phrase 'after this', at the END of the verse, 4:1. John was told that he would be shown what must take place after 'these things.' Again, the question is, after what things? Does this refer to the 'these things' in Chapters 1,2, and 3? Or could this be referring to the 'things' (events) which are described in chapters 4,5, and 6? Or what? Don't answer those questions yet, either. We will be back to them in a few minutes.

It is interesting to note that the same 'meta tauta' phrase is also used in several places in Revelation including 1:19, 4:1, 7:1, 7:9, 9:12, 18:1 and 19:1. Stop now and put a RED box around the words 'after this' at each of those locations in your Bible. We will look at the first 3 of these meta tauta's in this lesson. For those of you who are using different version of the Bible, this phrase is translated slightly differently. So, in

1:19, meta tauta is translated as 'later' in NIV, 'after these things' in NAS, and 'hereafter' in KJV.

4:1, meta tauta is translated as 'after this' in NIV, 'after these things' in NAS, 'hereafter' in KJV.

And in 7:1, meta tauta is meta touto (singular instead of plural), and is translated 'after this' in NIV, 'after this' in NAS, and 'after these things' in KJV.

Anyway, now that you have marked your 'meta tauta' words in whatever Version of the Bible you are using, let's think about what you marked. Hmmm. These seem to suggest a division. And there is another verse in Revelation (1:19), which also seems to suggest divisions of the book. And interestingly, that verse also contains this 'meta tauta' phrase. So, let's look at verse 1:19 again. I will give it to you here in the 3 main versions which most of us are using in this course: Put a red box around the meta tauta phrase in each of these 3 versions as you read them.

NIV 1:19 Write therefore

what you have seen

what is now

and what will take place later (meta tauta).

KJV 1:19 Write

the things which thou hast seen

and the things which are

and the things which shall be hereafter (meta tauta).

NAS 1:19 Write therefore

the things which you have seen

and the things which are

and the things which shall take place after these things (meta touto).

Ok. Now, remembering that the 3 of the 'meta tauta' phrases were found at 1:19, 4:1, and 7:1, let's see if those phrases might be related to the divisions suggested in 1:19. If so, then

'what you have seen' in 1:19 seems to refer to chapters ? _____________________?

'what is now' in 1:19 seems to refer to chapters ? ___________________________?

'what will take place later' in 1:19 seems to refer to chapters ? ________________?

Hmmmm, if these three are subdivisions, then in Chapters 1-3, are the "what you have seen' referrimg to Chapter 1 and Jesus' messages to the churches; and could Chapters 4-6 represent the things which are now; and Chapters 7-22 the things which shall take place after the things? Well, some people do think that. But, again, some people don't. The question is, of course, what difference would it make if this is or if this is NOT the subdivision?

If this is the subdivision , then

_________________________________________________________________

and, if this is not the subdivision, then

_________________________________________________________________

Well, assuming, at least for the time being, that these are subdivisions, we have already studied 'the things which you have seen' (in Chapters 1-3). In this lesson, we will look at these 'things (meta tauta) which are.' And, since Revelation 4 - 6 seem to be included in this section, we will study those Chapters as a group in this lesson. Then, in Lessons 7 and through the end of the course, we will look at the third subdivision, the 'what must take place after this'. Those things will be described for us in Chapters 7 through the end of the book of Revelation.

So, your assignment now is to read Revelation, chapters 4, 5, and 6. And, as you read, notice what is happening and who is participating in the actions. Also, as you read, as you have been doing before, mark every reference to God the Father by putting a BLUE triangle or circle around all the God the Father words. Mark every reference to Jesus by putting a BLUE Cross on all the Jesus words. Mark all the WORSHIP words by putting a green circle around them. And mark every Seal by putting a BLACK circle (in the shape of a 'seal' ...no, not the animal) around every occurrence of the word, seal, and put the number of the seal in the circle. When you have finished, there will be, of course, some questions for you to answer.

*************pause while you read Chapters 4,5 & 6**********

and mark the words

Wow! A lot sure happened in those 3 chapters. So, let's try to summarize what you just read.

In Chapter 4, we saw the Worship of (4:9-11) ________________ by (4:9) _____________

and by (4:10) __________________________.

In Chapter 5, we saw the worship of (5:12) _______________ by (5:8) _______________

and by (5:8) ___________________ and by (5:11) _______________________________

and by (5:13) ___________________________________ .

Did you see any people or groups of people worshiping God or Jesus in Chapters 4, 5, or 6?

circle your answer..................YES................NO.................NOT SURE

If you answered YES to that question, who were they? _____________________ (6:9-11)

Yes, we saw the martyrs under the throne worshiping God and crying out: (6:10) ____________

_________________________________________________________________________

Did you think that the creatures mentioned in 5:13 might represent people? Well, let's consider that possibility.

Who are the 'creatures' in 5:13? Before you answer that question, let me give you some information that might be helpful. The Greek word for 'creature' used in this verse is KTISMA (2938) and means "... the created thing, the creature, the product of the creative act." And, let's look at some other places in the New Testament where this same word is used. As you read the following scriptures, put a brown circle around the word, CREATURE (Ktisma) or any words used in place of that word.

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I Timothy 4:3-5 ...They (those who abandon the faith in the later times...) forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. For everything God created (ktisma) is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.

James 1:17-18 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all He created (ktisma).

Rev. 8:8-9 The second angel sounded his trumpet, and something like a huge mountain, all ablaze, was thrown into the sea. A third of the sea turned into blood, a third of the living creatures (ktisma) in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed.

Romans 8:22 We know that the whole creation (ktisma) has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.

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Now, based on what you know about the definition of the word, Ktisma, and the way it is used in the scriptures you just read and marked, who or what do you think the 'creation' referred to in Rev. 5:13 is describing? Circle your answer:

................People (the Church)...............the other creations of God (birds, animals, fish, etc.)

Also, did you think that the 24 Elders in Chapter 4 were people? Well, let's think about that, too. There are at least 2 views about who these 24 Elders are. And to tell you the truth, no one has a corner on who they are. Debates have continued through the centuries over their identity and will probably continue until the Lord tells us in that wonderful Question and Answer session that we are all eagerly anticipating when we get to heaven. But,here are the two most common views (There are more, I will just give you the two main ones .)

VIEW 1 = The 24 Elders are an exalted high ranking order of Angels, members of the heavenly Sanhedrin, who worship and serve God in His throne room. The fact that in 5:8 they are 'holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints, seems to add some credence to this view since Jewish tradition says that angels present the prayers of the saints to God. Also, we also know from Old Testament writings and from the book of Hebrews that the earthly tabernacle and its implements, priests, etc. are patterned after the things that are in the Heavenly tabernacle. Since there are, in the earthly pattern, 24 Classes of priests and 24 classes of Levites, could it be possible that these earthly groups are patterned after these 24 Elders (Angels)?

VIEW 2 = The 24 Elders are 24 very important Old Testament and New Testament Saints, 12 from OT and 12 from NT. Which 12 varies depending on who your 'authority' is and ranges from the heads of the 12 Tribes to other luminaries such as Moses, Daniel, Isaiah, etc. The 12 NT representatives are thought to represent the 12 Apostles in the New Testament or possibly 12 other key figures from the Church who represent the Church. An interesting thing about this view, however, which might give you some pause before you accept it is -- IF these 12 NT Elders represent the 12 Apostles, why didn't John recognize himself? And, why didn't he recognize the others, his friends and now deceased and martyred former co-workers? Perhaps John might not have recognized the O.T. ones, but surely he would recognize himself, Peter, Andrew, James, Paul, etc.! Hmmmmmmmm.

Well, so much for the two views. But, one more thing. For those of you who hold to View 2, one of the reasons some hold this view is because of the words the 24 Elders speak as given in the KJV. Let me give you the main passage in the KJV which seems to support view 2.

Rev 5:9-10 And they (the 24 Elders) sung a new song, saying, Thou (Jesus) are worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof; for thou wast slain, and has redeemed US to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; and hast made US unto our God kings and priests; and WE shall reign on the earth.

The Greek Texts which I have been told were used, at least in part, by the Translators of the KJV were the Texts of Stephens (1550) and of Elzevir (1624) which is sometimes also called the Textus Receptus.

However, it is said that most of the other versions of the English Bible, which we have today, are based on these and several other Greek texts, including Griesbach (1805), Lachmann (1842-50), Tischendorf, 8th ed (1865-72), Tregellen 1857-72), Alford (1862, 1870), Wordsworth (1870), and the Nestle-Aland Text.

With that in mind, let me show you how Rev 5:9-10 is translated by several other commonly used English translations of the Bible, many of which based their translations on those other Greek texts. I think you will find this very interesting. As you read each of these passages, note in the margin WHO the 'redeemed' are. Are they the 24 Elders? Or are they another group? Ok, here are the scriptures:

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Rev. 5:9-10 in various versions:

...................KJV

9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; 10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

..................ASV

9 And they sing a new song, saying, Worthy art thou to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou was slain, and didst purchase unto God with thy blood [men] of every tribe, and tongue, and people, and nation, 10 and madest them [to be] unto our God a kingdom and priests; and they reign upon earth.

.................BBE British

9 And their voices are sounding in a new song, saying, It is right for you to take the book and to make it open: for you were put to death and have made an offering to God of your blood for men of every tribe, and language, and people, and nation, 10 And have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they are ruling on the earth

.................DARBY

9 And they sing a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open its seals; because thou hast been slain, and hast redeemed to God, by thy blood, out of every tribe, and tongue, and people, and nation, 10 and made them to our God kings and priests; and they shall reign over the earth.

.................NASB

9 And they sang a new song, saying, "Worthy art Thou to take the book, and to break its seals; for Thou wast slain, and didst purchase for God with Thy blood [men] from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. 10 "And Thou hast made them [to be] a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth."

..................NAS Update

9 And they ^sang a new song, saying, "Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood [men] from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. 10 "You have made them [to be] a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth."

..................NIV

9 And they sang a new song: "You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. 10 You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth."

..................New King James

9 And they sang a new song, saying: "You are worthy to take the scroll, And to open its seals; For You were slain, And have redeemed us to God by Your blood Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, 10 And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth."

..................New RSV

9 They sing a new song: "You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were

slaughtered and by your blood you ransomed for God saints from {Gk [ransomed for God from]} every tribe and language and people and nation; 10 you have made them to be a kingdom and priests serving {Gk [priests to]} our God, and they will reign on earth."

..................RSV

9 and they sang a new song, saying, "Worthy art thou to take the scroll and to open its seals, for thou wast slain and by thy blood didst ransom men for God from every tribe and tongue and people and nation, 10 and hast made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on earth."

..................WEYMOUTH

9 And now they sing a new song. "It is fitting," they say, "that Thou shouldst be the One to take the book And break its seals; Because Thou hast been offered in sacrifice, And hast purchased for God with Thine own blood Some out of every tribe and language and people and nation, 10 And hast formed them into a Kingdom to be priests to our God, And they reign over the earth."

..................YLT Youngs Literal Translation

9 and they sing a new song, saying, `Worthy art thou to take the scroll, and to open the seals of it, because thou wast slain, and didst redeem us to God in thy blood, out of every tribe, and tongue, and people, and nation, 10 and didst make us to our God kings and priests, and we shall reign upon the earth.'

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Hmmmmm. Very interesting, isn't it? Most of the translations do not seem to suggest that the 24 Elders represent 12 OT Saints and 12 NT Saints or representatives of the Church. Rather, the 24 Elders seem to be a group of High Ranking Angels who are aware of the Church and are very interested in, but are not a part of, the Church. Hmmmmm.

But, we must move on. I keep trying to keep these lessons short! And they keep getting longer and longer. And, believe it or not, I have posted notes all over my study area which say KEEP IT SHORT! But, God's Word is sooooo rich! There is sooooo much He has told us and wants us to know. It is sooooo hard to keep it short. But, I will try. So, let's continue on.

In the last lesson, in Chapter 4, we saw God the Father on His throne in Heaven. He was being worshiped by 24 Elders and 4 Living Creatures.

Now, in Chapter 5, we see Jesus as the main Person being worshiped. And He was being worshiped by the 24 Elders and the 4 Living Creatures and many Angels and every creature'.... .

Do we see any group in Chapter 4 or Chapter 5 that is unequivocally the Church?

.........................Circle your answer................ YES.................. NO

Think about this: If you are a member of the Church and if you were / are present in chapters 4 and 5, as a part of the 'raptured' church, would you be silent when all this worshiping of God is going on? Would you let someone (the 12 NT Elders) do your worshiping for you as your representatives? Or would you want to Praise and Thank God yourself for all that He has done for you in saving you and redeeming you and in allowing you to be IN HIS PRESENCE in Heaven forever?

Hmmmmmm. Interesting. Hmmmmm.

How do we KNOW that it is Jesus Who is being worshiped in Chapter 5? Well, we know by the descriptions that are given of Him. Let's look at those now. Fill in the following blanks:

Jesus is the

5:5 Lion of _______________________________________

5:5 Root of _______________________________________

5:6 The ________________________ looking as if it had been __________________ .

Correct, Jesus is the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David. He is the Lamb Who was slain. He was slain for the purpose of redeeming us by paying the death penalty for our sins.

Why was Jesus the ONLY individual in heaven or on earth or under the earth Who was able to take and open the scroll and look inside it? Because He had (5:5) ____________________

and because he had been (5:9)_____________________________________________.

And what did Jesus' triumphing enable Him to be able to do?

5:2 Jesus is ______________ to break the ___________ and open the ______________

5:4 Jesus is ______________ to open the ____________ and _____________________

5:5 Jesus has ____________ and is able to _______________ and its _______________

5:9 Jesus is worthy to __________ the scroll and to open its __________________ .

5:9 With His blood, Jesus _________________________________________

from EVERY ___________________________________________________ .

And Jesus made these Whom He purchased to be a ____________ and _____________

to____________________. And this group of people will _______________________

Who or what is this group that Jesus has purchased from every tribe and language and people

and nation ...

Circle your answer:..........OT Saints....... Everyone....... The Church....... Angels........ Not sure

So, in Rev. 4, God is ( 4:10) ________________ because (4:11) _________________

___________________________________________________________________

And, in Rev. 5, Jesus is (5:14) ________________ because (5:9) ___________________

_____________________________________________________________________

Now, let's look at Chapter 6 and see what happens when Jesus takes the scroll (book) and breaks the first Six of the (5:5) ______ seals..

But first, before we see what happens, some of you are probably asking, What IS the scroll (book)? What is IN it? Why can't it be opened until all 7 seals are broken? And, when in time did or does Jesus take the Scroll and begin to open it? (Ie. when did or does or will He break or begin to break the first 6 seals as recorded in Chapter 6?)

Great questions! But, guess what! As you probably suspected, much controversy and debate also rages over the answers to those questions! And, since we are really trying to keep this course and this lesson BRIEF (can I hear you laughing?), we will not go into the controversy at great length. But, you did ask the questions. And you do need to at least know the various 'views' that are held concerning possible answers.

What IS the Scroll (book) and What is IN it?

There are MANY ideas about what this Scroll IS and concerning what is IN it. And, the fact that there are so many views shows us that this is another area in which no one can be dogmatic. But, among the many ideas, I will list a few. Some say that the Scroll is the:

1. A description of what is going to happen once the 7 seals are broken and contains the details of the events of the 7 Trumpets and 7 Bowls (Vials).

2. Title Deed of the Earth. Those who hold this view say that the Title Deed originally belonged to God but was given over to Satan at the time of the sin of Adam and Eve, which allowed Satan to become ruler of the Kingdoms of the World. But, Christ took the Title Deed back after paying the penalty for sin. Therefore, at His death and resurrection, Christ not only paid the death penalty for our sins but also, by so doing, triumphed over Satan and was, therefore, once again entitled to be the owner of the Title deed of the Earth and ruler of its inhabitants. Therefore, in Rev. 5:9, the 24 Elders and the 4 Living Creatures ..."sang a new song: You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. ...

3. The New Covenant with the Promises of God concerning His Kingdom and the judgment of those not in His Kingdom.

4. A Testament or Will

5. The Old Testament

6. The Old and New Testaments

and there are MANY other views as to WHAT this scroll is and what it contains.

Why can't the Scroll be opened until all 7 seals are broken?

Well, for one thing, this is the very nature and purpose of sealing a scroll. In Biblical times, when a very important contract, deed, or other important documents were intended to be protected from prying eyes, while being stored or taken to other places, they would be sealed by putting one or more strings (usually 3 to 7) around the document, and each string would be sealed by putting a round lump of wet clay or a large blob of hot wax on the knot of the string. Then an impression would usually be made on the lump of clay or hot wax to indicate the owner or mark of authority. Often the impression on the seal would also include the date it was sealed.. Once a document had been sealed in this way, it could not be opened and read by unauthorized individuals, because to open and read it would require breaking the seals. And also, ALL of the seals would have to be broken BEFORE the scroll could be unrolled and read.

There is even a scripture in the Old Testament which explains this:

Isaiah 29:11 For you this whole vision is nothing but words sealed in a scroll. And if you give the scroll to someone who can read and say to him, "Read this, please," he will answer, "I can't; it is sealed."

hmmmmmmmm

So, the purpose of sealing a scroll is to keep it from being opened or read UNTIL it is supposed to be opened and read by whomever is authorized. And, a scroll can't be opened and its contents can not be known until ALL of the seals are broken.

Very interesting. But, now, let's continue on in our 'brief' study of Revelation. Let's see what HAPPENS in Chapters 6 and 7 when Jesus breaks the first 6 seals on the scroll.

Read Chapters 6 and 7, and as you read, fill in the information, on the chart below, concerning what happens as each seal is broken. I will do the first one for you so you will have an idea of how to do this.

Seal........... What is seen.................................................. What happens

..1... WHITE HORSE with RIDER............................ rider is given a crown

........ rider holds a bow.............................................. rider rides out as a conqueror

.................................................................................rider is bent on conquest / conquering

..2

...3

...4

...5

...6

By the way, there is another 'great debate' concerning the identity of the Rider of the White Horse in the first seal. The most common suggestions concerning his identification are that he is:

1. The Antichrist

2. The Spirit of the Antichrist (because John 4:3 says: "...but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.")

3. Jesus

4. A Roman Emperor

5. Numerous other Rulers and or Military leaders down though the centuries have been suggested including Napoleon, Hitler, etc.

Again, no one really knows for sure or there would be a consensus instead of the 'great debate.'

There are 3 other passages in the New Testament, in Matthew, Mark and Luke, which seem to be talking about these SEAL EVENTS and about many of the other end time events recorded in the Book of Revelation. Matthew 24:1-51, Mark 13:1-37, and Luke 21:5-36 are the passages and they are essentially the same but were recorded by these 3 different writers. These passages are sometimes referred to as the Olivet Discourse because this was a discourse (talk) by Jesus to His disciples in about 33 AD while they were sitting on the Mount of Olives and looking across the Kidron Valley at the magnificent Jewish Temple (Herod's Temple). You will recall that in 70 AD this temple was destroyed by the Romans. This destruction is also prophesied by Jesus in this Olivet discourse concerning future events.

I am including the Mark passage for you. But, if you have time, read the other passages also.

As you read this Mark 13:1-37 passage, IF you see any references that seem to refer to one or more of the SEALS, make a notation in the margin as to which seal the verse or phrase might be referring. But, let me warn you, there are more events talked about than just the Seal events. Trumpet and Bowls also seem to be included. And, know that there are still 2 future 'comings' of the Lord Jesus. So, the references to the future return of the Lord Jesus may not be speaking of the 'rapture.' In fact, most of the references in this passage are actually referring to Jesus' visible return at the END of the Bowl (Vial) Judgments. Also, in some places in the Olivet Discourse, there seem to be interludes or explanatory verses which, if you are not careful, might confuse you if you are trying to put everything in an orderly sequence.

So, with that in mind, read Mark 13:1-37, and as you read, IF you see anything that MIGHT be referring to a SEAL event, underline, in BLACK, the word or phrase and put the number of the seal that it might be referring to in the Left hand margin. Also, underline or highlight, in ORANGE, the prophecy of the coming destruction of the Temple.

Mark 12:1-37

1 As He (Jesus) was leaving the temple, one of His disciples said to Him, "Look, Teacher! What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!" 2."Do you see all these great buildings?" replied Jesus. "Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." 3. As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John (yes, the same John who wrote Revelation and the Gospel of John), and Andrew asked Him privately, 4. "Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?" 5. Jesus said to them: "Watch out that no one deceives you. 6 Many will come in my name, claiming, `I am he,' and will deceive many. 7 When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 8 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains. 9 "You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues. On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. 10 And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. 11 Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit. 12 "Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. 13 All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. 14 "When you see `the abomination that causes desolation'{Daniel 9:27; 11:31; 12:11} standing where it {Or he; also in verse 29} does not belong--let the reader understand--then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 15 Let no one on the roof of his house go down or enter the house to take anything out. 16 Let no one in the field go back to get his cloak. 17 How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! 18 Pray that this will not take place in winter, 19 because those will be days of distress unequaled from the beginning, when God created the world, until now--and never to be equaled again. 20 If the Lord had not cut short those days, no one would survive. But for the sake of the elect, whom he has chosen, he has shortened them. 21 At that time if anyone says to you, `Look, here is the Christ {Or Messiah}!' or, `Look, there he is!' do not believe it. 22 For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform signs and miracles to deceive the elect--if that were possible. 23 So be on your guard; I have told you everything ahead of time. 24 "But in those days, following that distress, "`the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; 25 the stars will fall from the sky,and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.' {Isaiah 13:10; 34:4} 26 "At that time men will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. 27 And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens. 28 "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. 29 Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door. 30 I tell you the truth, this generation (Or race} will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 32 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard! Be alert {Some manuscripts alert and pray}! You do not know when that time will come. 34 It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with his assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. 35 "Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back--whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. 36 If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. 37 What I say to you, I say to everyone: `Watch!'"

<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

Wow! So much! There is so much in God's Word about the end times! And, alas, we just don't have time to go into it all. Indeed, a lifetime of study would really be needed and even that would only scratch the surface. But, let's just continue on and look at the 5th and 6th seals and then we will be finished for this lesson.

The Fifth Seal

What did John see when Jesus opened the 5th Seal? (6:9-11) ___________________

Yes, when Jesus opened the 5th Seal, John saw the souls of those who had been slain. He saw the souls of the many Martyrs.

Where were they? (6:9) ________________________________________________

Why were they there? What had happened to them? (6:9) ______________________

Why had they been slain? (6:9) ___________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

What did they say to God? (6:10) __________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

What were they given? (6:11) ____________________________________________

What were they told to do? (6:11) ________________________________________

Yes, they were given white robes and were told to wait (rest) a little longer until the number of their fellow servants and brothers who were to be killed as they had been was completed. Hmmmm. And, it is interesting to note that the word WAIT (REST) is #373 ANAPAUO and means " to cease, to give rest,quiet, recreate, refresh..." And BDB/Thayers Lexicon defines ANAPAUO as "1. to cause or permit one to cease from any movement or labor in order to recover and collect his strength. 2. to give rest, refresh, to give one's soul rest, take rest. 3. To keep quiet, of calm and patient expectation."

Do we know of any martyrs among the 7 churches? Circle your answer: ....YES......... NO

Who? __________ of the church of Smyrna and (2:13) __________ of the church of Pergamum

Do you think these two martyrs, Polycarp and Antipas, were among those under the altar and crying out that their blood be avenged? .....:..... YES.. ........ NO..... ..... DON'T KNOW

Were there other martyrs during the first century of the church and before the time of the writing of

the Book of Revelation? ........Circle your answer:......... YES.............. NO

Do you think they are among those under the altar? .....YES........ NO......... DON'T KNOW

Have there been martyrs during the past 2000 years?........ YES............. NO

Are they included in that number seen in the 5th seal?...... YES....... NO........ DON'T KNOW

Have there been martyrs in the 20th Century?........ YES............ NO

Are they among those under the altar crying out?........ YES......... NO........ DON'T KNOW

Do you think more martyrs will be added to this group in the future?... YES.... NO... NOT SURE

Was Abel a martyr? (Genesis 4:1-8)......... YES.......... NO........... NOT SURE

Were there martyrs in the OT who had been killed because of the Word of God and the testimony they maintained? Before you answer that question, you might want to read this passage from Hebrews 11. If you have time, you should read the entire chapter. But, these verses should help you with this answer..As you read of the martyrs in this passage, underline in RED, the phrase or phrases telling about them

HEBREWS 11:32 - 12:1

32 And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the prophets, 33 who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, 34 quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. 35 Women received back their dead, raised to life again. Others were tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection. 36 Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison. 37 They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated-- 38 the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground. 39 These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. 40 God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect. 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

Ok, Now I will ask you again, Were there martyrs in the OT who had been killed because of the Word of God and the testimony they maintained? .................YES.......... NO

Has their blood been avenged yet? Circle your answer: ..........YES......... NO

Has the blood of the N T Martyrs been avenged yet?............. YES.........NO

Has the blood of the martyrs of the past 2000 years including this century and even today, even

within the past 24 hours. been avenged yet?............................YES.........NO

When will their blood be avenged? _________________________________________

When do you think the martyred people under the throne had been slain? Circle your answer from the choices below, OR write in your thoughts in the blank space provided if none of these choices (which represent the various views) concur with your thoughts:

At various times going all the way back to Abel as the first martyr.
During the First 4 Seals only.
These are only Church martyrs so only since the time the church began until the Rapture
Sometime in the future and entirely during the 7 year period described in Revelation
From the time of Abel until the time of the Rapture of the Church
From the time of Abel until the time of the end of the 7 years described in Revelation
Not sure
_____________________________________________________________

Who do you think these people under the altar represent? Again, circle your choices from the choices below, OR write in your thoughts in the blank space provided if none of these views express your thoughts adequately.

Members of the Church who have been and will be martyred until the rapture.
Old Testament Saints who were martyred
The Apostles who were martyred
Old Testament Saints who were martyred
OT and NT people who were martyred
All martyrs killed from time of Christ until time of the rapture
All the people who will be killed during the 7 years.
All martyrs killed from the beginning of time until the time of the Final Judgment
Don't know
_______________________________________________________________

Hmmmm. This seal of the Martyrs is important and very significant. And I wish we could spend more time on this subject, but, again, this is supposed to be a brief study. So let's continue on. We will talk more about suffering and martyrdom in future lessons. But, for now, this will have to do.

The Sixth Seal

What happened when Jesus opened the 6th seal? (6:12-7:17) List what happened

Who are the people who are trying to hide in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains?

(6:15) List them here:

From Whom were they hiding? (6:16) _______________________________________

Why were they trying to hide from God and the Lamb? (6:16-17) __________________

____________________________________________________________________

Look again at 6:17. What was this terrible time of terror called? _________________

Yes, the kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty, and every slave and every free man hid or tried to hide from God and the Lamb (Jesus), because of the great earthquake and the events associated with it at the opening of the 6th Seal. They thought and said that "the great (megas) day of Their (God and the Lamb-Jesus) wrath (orge) has come (aorist indicative active)."

That is significant! So, Hold that thought. We will return to it in a future lesson and learn more about the WRATH of God.

But, for now, notice that at the 6th Seal, the WRATH of God seems to be beginning or about to begin! At least the people experiencing the earthquake events thought so. Hmmmmmm..

But, again, we must hurry on. So, let's close this lesson by considering that other question you asked earlier: When did or does or will Jesus take the Scroll and begin to open it?

In other words, Have the events in the Seals already occurred? Have some of them? Have all of them? Have any of them?

And, if any of them have occurred, when did they occur? When did they begin? How many have occurred?

Or if they haven't occurred, when will they begin? Are the seals the birth pangs'? Are the seals part of the 7 years events? Or do the 7 seals precede the events of the 7 years?

You want controversy? Stand back and watch "World War Three" over this one! Boy, is there controversy! I will list here some of the main views concerning the answers to those questions, and, of course, there are a whole lot more. But, these should keep you thinking for a while. And, this IS a very important thing to think about. So THINK and do not just accept someone's view because you like them or think they are great. Be a 'Berean' and check out each view and see if it lines up with scripture.

What is a Berean?

Well, Acts 17:11 explains about the Bereans and what they so correctly did. As you read this verse, underline what it is that the Bereans did.

Acts 17:10-11 As soon as it was night, the brothers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea (a town near Thessalonica). On arriving there, they (Paul and Silas) went to the Jewish synagogue. Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message (of Paul and Silas concerning the Gospel and Jesus and etc.) with great eagerness and EXAMINED THE SCRIPTURES EVERY DAY TO SEE IF WHAT PAUL SAID WAS TRUE.

Ok, now you know what it means to be a 'Berean.' And. you should also be one.

Know the Scriptures (Bible). Read it daily. And, don't believe anything just because some one TELLS you it is so. Check the Scriptures (the BIBLE) and see if what he or she is teaching agrees with what the Bible teaches! If it does, great! If it does not, then reject it! Why? Because only the Bible is the True Word of God! The Bereans even checked out Paul!! Imagine that!!!! Should we do anything less?

Anyway, here are some of the many 'views' concerning WHEN in time Jesus took or will take the scroll and begin to open it. Be a Berean and see if the Bible supports or fails to support these views. We will NOT try to defend any of these views. But, keep your eyes open as you go though the book of Revelation, and, as you read it and other Scriptures, notice which, if any, of these views are valid.

Various Popular Views concerning

WHEN Jesus took or will take the Scroll and begin to open it...

1. The opening of the first 5 seals took place at the time of-- or shortly after the death and resurrection of Jesus. Those who hold this view say that the opening of the seals could begin then because Jesus, in His death and resurrection, had triumphed over the devil, paid the sin debt to ransom sinners from sin, regained the authority to rule His Kingdom, and had regained the Title Deed of the earth. Therefore, in opening the first 5 seals, Jesus was beginning His final and eternal rule on earth.

2. The opening of the first 5 seals took place at the time of Pentecost, 50 days AFTER Christ's death and resurrection. The reasoning as to why this was possible is the same as in view 1, but having these events occur at the time of Pentecost coincides with many other significant time events in the past, such as the fact that the giving of the Law to Moses occurred 50 days after the Passover and Exodus from Egypt. Also, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the time of Pentecost would coincide with the riding out of the spirit of the Antichrist on the White horse.

Those who hold views 1 and 2 believe that Christ broke the first 5 seals in rapid sequence (perhaps in a few minutes) and then stopped breaking the seals after opening the 5th seal. Therefore, we are now 'holding at the 5th seal,' the seal of the Martyrs and all of the events released in the first 5 seals are still in effect and continuing.

The rider of the White horse, whom they usually say is the Spirit of the Antichrist as noted in I John 4:3, is still riding and conquering in various places and ways around the world. The Rider of the Red horse is still continuously taking peace from the earth and making men slay each other. The Rider of the Black horse is still producing famine at various places on the earth. The Rider of the Pale Horse is still killing people by sword, famine, plague, and wild beasts. And the Martyrs are still being increased in number daily. Beginning with the Apostles and many others who were martyred in the first century, there have been many Martyrs for Christ in every Century. Indeed, reports today state that there have been more martyrs in the 20th century than in ALL the others combined!

Therefore, those who hold views 1 or 2 say we are 'holding at the seal of the Martyrs' until all the martyrs in this dispensation have been martyred. Then, the 6th and 7th seals will be broken.and events will begin to rapidly (shortly) come to pass.

Those who hold the views 1 and 2 say that the final 7 years BEGIN with the blowing of the First trumpet and the events of the 7 Trumpets and the 7 Bowls are included in and fulfilled during the final 7 years of this stage of History.

According to views 1 and 2, The 6th seal has not yet been broken but is the next one to be broken and could happen at any instant. After the breaking of the 6th seal, things will begin to happen very rapidly and the breaking of the 7th seal and events of the 7 Trumpets and Bowls will all occur within the brief span of time of 7 years once the 6th seal is broken.

Views 1 and 2, therefore are both pre-tribulation (pre 7-Year, pre-wrath) views.

3. NONE of the seals, trumpets or Bowls have occurred yet and are all still in the future and could begin at any moment. Those who hold this view say that Jesus has not yet broken any seal but, at the breaking of the First Seal, the final 7 years will begin and all 7 seals, 7 trumpets, and 7 bowls occur within the 7 years. Those who hold this view usually believe the Rider on the White horse is the Antichrist, and not the spirit of the Antichrist. Some, however, say that the Rider is Christ Himself.

This is also a pre-tribulation (pre 7-year, pre-wrath) view, but the tribulation begins at a different time.

With views 1 and 2, the 7 Year Tribulation begins with the First Trumpet.

With View 3, the 7 Year Tribulation begins with the First Seal..

4. ALL of the seals, trumpets, and bowls have already occurred long ago. Most who hold this view say that ALL of the events were fulfilled in the first and second centuries AD, though some have the events lasting a few centuries longer. They also usually believe that the Rider on the White horse was a Roman Emperor.

5. NONE of these things (seals, trumpets, bowls) will ever happen. Instead of thinking that these are actual and literal events, those who hold this view say that the events described in Revelation are only intended to teach us spiritual truths and to show us that God and good ultimately triumph over the devil and evil. Those who hold to this view do NOT interpret Revelation literally but rather, they interpret it Spiritually.

6. And... there are many other views and variations of the above views.

We will briefly mention some of these various views again later in this course, and at that time I will also give you their 'official' names. But for now, just know that there are many different views as to the timing of the events in Revelation.

But, regardless of which, if any, of these views is correct, we do know that the Book of Revelation says that there IS a Scroll and that Jesus IS worthy to open it and that it will be one day completely OPEN and ALL of the events described in the book of Revelation WILL one day be fulfilled.

God has given us the Book of Revelation and the entire Bible because He wants us to know that He IS God and IS in control and DOES demand justice. Yes, He WILL forgive those who DO turn from their sinful ways and accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior and serve Him only. However, since He is a JUST God (God of Justice), He will NOT forgive those who do not turn from their sinful ways of serving self and the devil. As we have said before, "....choose you this day whom you will serve....(Joshua 24:25)"

If you choose to serve God, you will live with Him forever in Heaven.

If you choose to serve yourself, your job, your friends, money, the Antichrist, or ANYTHING other than God, you have actually chosen to serve the Devil, and you will experience eternal punishment and unforgiveness.

It is your choice. Choose wisely.

So, this book of Revelation and indeed the entire Bible is NOT a myth. It is not just 'nice thoughts.' It is not just 'suggestions.' It is the Divine Word of God. "All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man (or woman) of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16).

That, also, is the purpose of this course. This and every study of God's Word should be done with the purpose and goal that we be taught, rebuked, corrected, trained, and equipped. Be a Berean. Check everything out. And, when God confirms or reveals truth to you, pay attention, hear it, heed it, and Obey it. Serve God! Serve only God!

Now, as you think on all these things, perhaps, like a Berean, you want to stop and check some of them out and pray and reflect on what you have read and heard and studied. So, let's stop now while you do that..And we will continue our study in the next lesson. See you there.

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