An Exposition of Biblical-Prophetic Interpretation on Rev. 4-8

AN EXPOSITION OF BIBLICAL-PROPHETIC INTERPRETATION

Seven Seals

Revelation 4-8 - Part 1

The Open Door and the Book with the Seven Seals

The Investigation Judgment in Progress

INTRODUCTION:

Jesus said, “I am the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” John 14:6. Jesus is the TRUTH. The CENTRALITY OF GOD IN OUR LIVES is to LOVE the TRUTH revealed. God will not do anything, unless He reveals the secret through His servant – the Prophet (Amos 3:7). The light of TRUTH will shine through His “wise and faithful servants” Mat. 24:45 who will bring a message as Meat in Due Season. Let us present the TRUTH as it is in Jesus, “line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little” 9T 240. “We may look back through the centuries and see the living stones of which it is composed gleaming like jets of light through the darkness of error and superstition. Throughout eternity these precious jewels will shine with increasing luster, testifying to the power of the truth of God. The flashing light of these polished stones reveals the strong contrast between light and darkness, between the gold of truth and the dross of error.” {AA 598.2}

When a brother receives new light upon the Scriptures, he should frankly explain his position, and every minister should search the Scriptures with the spirit of candor to see if the points presented can be substantiated by the inspired word. "The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth." 2 Timothy 2:24, 25. {CET 203.3}

Argument is good in its place, but far more can be accomplished by simple explanations of the word of God. The lessons of Christ were illustrated so clearly that the most ignorant could readily comprehend them. Jesus did not use long and difficult words in His discourses; He used plain language, adapted to the minds of the common people. He went no farther into the subject He was expounding than they were able to follow Him. {GW 169.3}.

Aim of This Exposition:

To shed light on the subject of the investigative judgment which was shown to John after his letter to the 7 churches in Asia.

Prayer Thought:

“It is necessary that our unity today be of a character that will bear the test of trial. . . . We have many lessons to learn, and many, many to unlearn. God and Heaven alone are infallible. Those who think that they will never have to give up a cherished view, never have occasion to change an opinion, will be disappointed. As long as we hold to our own ideas and opinions with determined persistency, we cannot have the unity for which Christ prayed.” {CET 203.2}

Before we deal with the simple explanation (Ev. 482.2) of Revelation 4-8, let us consider three guiding principles which may be instrumental to understand the subject.

Guiding Principles in Understanding the Biblical-Prophetic Revelation

1. The Continuity of Events written in epistolary, apocalyptic and prophetic genres (style of expressing oneself in writing). Note: After addressing his (John) “epistolary” (means carried on as letters) or his letter to the 7 churches of Asia (with apocalyptic-warning and prophetic-events in the future) See. Rev. 1:11. John then describes a series of prophetic visions. But we will consider Revelation 4-8 which depicts an investigative judgment in process {CTr 314} (It will be discussed later in Part 2 of this Exposition!

2. The Symbolic language can only be understood by those “wise”, “diligent”, “directed”, “inspired” and “faithful” servants of God who bring the “Meat in Due Season”.

a. WISE – "Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the loving kindness of the Lord." [Psalm 33:5; 107:43.] {CE 56.1}

Note: Please read the whole passage!

"The wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand." Daniel 12:4, 10….{DA 234.4}

Note: Please read the whole paragraph for contextual consideration.

“IF THE GIFTS WERE NECESSARY TO PRESERVE THE UNITY OF THE PRIMITIVE CHURCH, HOW MUCH MORE SO TO RESTORE UNITY NOW! AND THAT IT IS THE PURPOSE OF GOD TO RESTORE THE UNITY OF THE CHURCH IN THE LAST DAYS, IS ABUNDANTLY EVIDENT FROM THE PROPHECIES. WE ARE ASSURED THAT THE WATCHMEN SHALL SEE EYE TO EYE, WHEN THE LORD SHALL BRING AGAIN ZION. ALSO, THAT IN THE TIME OF THE END THE WISE SHALL UNDERSTAND. WHEN THIS IS FULFILLED THERE WILL BE UNITY OF FAITH WITH ALL WHOM GOD ACCOUNTS WISE; FOR THOSE THAT DO IN REALITY UNDERSTAND ARIGHT, MUST NECESSARILY UNDERSTAND ALIKE. WHAT IS TO EFFECT THIS UNITY BUT THE GIFTS THAT WERE GIVEN FOR THIS VERY PURPOSE?” {EW 140.1}

Note: Please read the context – ROSWELL F. COTTRELL {EW 143.2} Illuminated his understanding of the Prophetic Revelations!

"Who is wise, and he shall understand these things?

Prudent, and he shall know them?

For the ways of the Lord are right,

And the just shall walk in them:

But the transgressors shall fall therein."

Hosea 14:9. {PK 118.1}

a. Diligent - “Thousands of men who minister in the pulpit are lacking in the essential qualities of mind and character because they do not apply themselves to the study of the Scriptures. They are content with a superficial knowledge of the truths of God's word, and they prefer to go on losing much in every way rather than to search DILIGENTLY for the hidden treasure.” {GW 249.3}

“One who revealed these mysteries to John will give to the DILIGENT searcher for truth a foretaste of heavenly things. Those whose hearts are open to the reception of truth will be enabled to understand its teachings, and will be granted the blessing promised to those who "hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein." {AA 584.2}

Note: Please see the context – EGWhite writing about Revelation and Daniel as complement to each other (Prophecy=Revelation)

b. Directed – “Satan Controls Mind Not Directed by Holy Spirit. --Few believe that humanity has sunk so low as it has or that it is so thoroughly bad, so desperately opposed to God, as it is. "The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be" (Romans 8:7). {1MCP 22.2}

Warning for those who are not DIRECTED!

Those Who Know the Truth Are Special Targets. --Satan is stealthily working to confuse the minds of those who know the truth by bringing in misleading sentiments and misleading examples. Unless they repent and are converted, those who are living divided lives, professedly serving the Lord but at the same time scheming to carry out their own plans--plans which retard the very work which Christ gave His life to accomplish--will be deceived by the enemy of souls.--Lt 248, 1907. {1MCP 22.6}

Note: Please read the context - Chapter 3 of 1MCP – Danger in Psychology – The use of human mind – intellect!

c. Inspired – “Truth is inspired and guarded by God; and it will triumph over all opposition.” {AA 11.3}

“He taught that the word of God was to be understood by all. He pointed to the Scriptures as of unquestionable authority, and we should do the same. The Bible is to be presented as the word of the infinite God, as the end of all controversy and the foundation of all faith.” {COL 39.1}

“Many professed ministers of the gospel do not accept the whole Bible as the inspired word. One wise man rejects one portion; another questions another part. They set up their judgment as superior to the word; and the Scripture which they do teach rests upon their own authority. Its divine authenticity is destroyed. Thus the seeds of infidelity are sown broadcast; for the people become confused and know not what to believe. There are many beliefs that the mind has no right to entertain. In the days of Christ the rabbis put a forced, mystical construction upon many portions of Scripture. Because the plain teaching of God's word condemned their practices, they tried to destroy its force. The same thing is done today. The word of God is made to appear mysterious and obscure in order to excuse transgression of His law. Christ rebuked these practices in His day. He taught that the word of God was to be understood by all. He pointed to the Scriptures as of unquestionable authority, and we should do the same. The Bible is to be presented as the word of the infinite God, as the end of all controversy and the foundation of all faith.” {COL 39.1}

d. Faithful - “God Promises to Strengthen Memory of His Servants--The Lord will strengthen the memory of the one who is speaking in His name. He will bring to the mind the words necessary for the occasion, that portion of His Word which will be meat in due season for the people. To His faithful servants God will be tongue and utterance. The Holy Spirit will make the word effective, to convict and convert souls. The seed sown will fall into good ground and will spring up to bring forth fruit unto life eternal. . . . [1 Corinthians 9:24-27 quoted.] {10MR 298.1}

“The Lord is giving me the most precious presentations of what He desires to do for those who will to do the will of God. "Who then is a FAITHFUL and WISE SERVANT, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them “MEAT IN DUE SEASON”? Blessed is that servant, whom his Lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods. But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth" [Matthew 24:45-51]. We have a most sacred commission.” {18MR 162.2}

e. The Truth about God’s Judgment in the Heavenly Sanctuary is for all human beings not just for the New Testament Era.

“Christ walks in the midst of the golden candlesticks. Thus is symbolized His relation to the churches. He is in communion with His people. . . .Although He is High Priest and MEDIATOR IN THE SANCTUARY above, yet He walks up and down in the midst of the churches on earth. . . . {CTr 314.4}

Notice the next statements!

Again, as the Holy Spirit rested upon the prophet, he sees a door opened in heaven, and hears a voice calling him to look upon the things which shall be hereafter. And he says, “Behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone.” Ministering angels were around about Him, waiting and eager to do His will, while the rainbow of God’s promise, which was a token of His covenant with Noah, was seen by John encircling the throne on high—a pledge of God’s mercy to every repentant, believing soul. It is an everlasting testimony that “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” It declares to the whole world that God will never forget His people in their struggle with evil.—Manuscript 100, 1893. {CTr 314.5}

It is a clear indication that Rev. 4-8 portrays an investigative judgment in the process!

MR No. 667 - Prophetic Interpretation

The Book With Seven Seals Contains the History of the World.-- "And I saw in the right hand of Him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof? And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon" (Revelation 5:1-3). {9MR 7.1}

In heaven the semblance of a rainbow encircles the throne and overarches the head of Christ. The prophet says, "As the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness round about [the throne]. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of Jehovah." Ezekiel 1:28. The revelator declares, "Behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. . . . There was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald." Revelation 4:2, 3. When man by his great wickedness invites the divine judgments, the Saviour, interceding with the Father in his behalf, points to the bow in the clouds, to the rainbow around the throne and above His own head, as a token of the mercy of God toward the repentant sinner. {PP 107.1}

Note: the highlighted phrase is it not clear indication that it is a scene of INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT?

Behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne . . . and there was a rainbow round about the throne. Revelation 4:2, 3…. It is the mingling of judgment and mercy that makes salvation full and complete. It is the blending of the two that leads us, as we view the world's Redeemer and the law of Jehovah, to exclaim, "Thy gentleness hath made me great" (2 Samuel 22:36). We know that the gospel is a perfect and complete system, revealing the immutability of the law of God. . . . Mercy invites us to enter through the gates into the city of God, and justice is sacrificed to accord to every obedient soul full privileges as a member of the royal family, a child of the heavenly King. {AG 70.4} Note: the highlighted words indicates that God’s people are still in the process of their salvation – They will be judged (wicked-rejected or saint-accepted) As recorded in the book with the Seven Seals COL 294

“Thus the Jewish leaders made their choice. Their decision was registered in the book which John saw in the hand of Him that sat upon the throne, the book which no man could open. In all its vindictiveness this decision will appear before them in the day when this book is unsealed by the Lion of the tribe of Judah.” {COL 294.1}

A great work can be done by presenting to the people the Bible just as it reads. Carry the Word of God to every man's door, urge its plain statements upon every man's conscience, repeat to all the Saviour's command, "Search the Scriptures." Admonish them to take the Bible as it is, to implore divine enlightenment, and then, when the light shines, to gladly accept each precious ray, and fearlessly abide the consequences.--Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 388. {ChS 144.2}

Present the Bible Just as It Reads.--The light of truth is shedding its bright beams upon the world through missionary effort. The press is an instrumentality by which many are reached whom it would be impossible to reach by ministerial effort. A great work can be done by presenting to the people the Bible just as it reads. Carry the word of God to every man's door, urge its plain statements upon every man's conscience, repeat to all the Saviour's command: "Search the Scriptures." Admonish them to take the Bible as it is, to implore divine enlightenment, and then, when the light shines, to gladly accept each precious ray and fearlessly abide the consequences.--5T 388. {PM 283.1}

Revelation 4-8 - Part 2

The Open Door and the Book with the Seven Seals

The Investigation Judgment in Progress

The Ministers should present the TRUTH in a clear, simple manner. {GW 170}

The Fundamental Rules in Biblical-Prophetic Revelation

These fundamental rules were taken from the bible as its own interpreter.

1. Rev. 1:3 – “Blessed [is] he that READETH, and they that HEAR the words of this prophecy, and KEEP those things which are written therein: for the time [is] at hand.”

Let everyone who has been blessed with reasoning faculties take up the Bible and search its pages, that he may understand the will of God concerning him. In this Book divine instruction is given to all. The Bible is addressed to everyone--to every class of society, to those of every clime and age. Everyone should read the Bible for himself. Do not depend on the minister to read it for you. The Bible is God's Word to you. And Christ has made this Word so plain that in reading it, no one need misunderstand. Let the humble cottager read and understand the Word given by the wisest Teacher the world has ever known, and among kings, governors, statesmen, there is none greater than He. {ST, July 11, 1906 par. 6}

2. Tim. 3:16, 17 – “All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”

3. Isa. 28:13 - But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, [and] there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.

4. Isa. 8:20 - To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, [it is] because [there is] no light in them.

5. Please read Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers

Background:

John wrote letters to the 7 churches in Asia, namely; Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Rev. 1:11 EGWhite says that 7 signifies completeness (AA 585). A complete history of the churches in the New Testament era and predicts the characteristics of Christian churches in the future.

Revelation 1:1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified [it] by his angel unto his servant John: What was the things which must come shortly? The fulfillment of first church – Ephesus in chapter 2:1-7 not Rev. 4:1 because it says, “After this I looked” note: the 7 churches had already been shown – it does not says, After THESE, KJV says, After “THIS” it only points to the one church (Laodicea) preceding the event in verse 1, a door [was] opened in heaven: It denotes that the event in Chapters 4, 5 predicted here (the open door in the Most Holy Place – in the investigative judgment, Dan, 7:9) would be fulfilled in 1844 (EW 42). Take note: the last church spoken of before John saw, a door opened in heaven is Laodicea – It came from two Greek words, ‘Laos’ which means people, ‘dicea’ means judgment – meaning people declaring judgment – it connotes a time where God’s judgment is at hand – 1844 as the year of Great Disappointment which our pioneers understood as a cleansing of the sanctuary (Dan. 8:14) on earth, but Hiram Edson and Ellen G. White had been shown a vision that it was not the earth but the Most Holy Place opened for an investigative judgment.

Inspiration says, “The fifth chapter of Revelation needs to be closely studied. It is of GREAT IMPORTANCE to those who shall ACT A PART IN THE WORK OF GOD for these last days.” There are some who are deceived. They do not realize what is coming on the earth. Those who have permitted their minds to become beclouded in regard to what constitutes sin are fearfully deceived. Unless they make a decided change they will be found wanting when God pronounces judgment upon the children of men. They have transgressed the law and broken the everlasting covenant, and they will receive according to their works. {9T 267.1}

Notice the nature and scenes of the vision, there’s a GREAT IMPORTANCE to really understand the representations, keys that unlock the symbolic language (9MR 7). What are the keys to understand the scene depicted in vision?

1. One sitting on the throne (v. 2) same as shown to Daniel 7:9 – the throne cast down and the Ancient of days did sit – represents the Father, the Judge! Daniel had seen it as it was prophesied but John had seen as it was revealed to be fulfilled hereafter (1:19) ‘a door opened in heaven’ (v.1).

2. A rainbow around the throne (v. 3) representing God’s promises (Gen. 9:12-15; COL 148) and token of His covenant to Noah – it is a pledge of God’s mercy (Ed. 178; DA 83) to repentant, believing soul (CTr 314.5). Note: It’s a judgment in progress/process!

3. The 24 Elders (v. 4) representing the Jury – in any court proceedings there are jury selected convened to render an impartial verdict. In this case John had seen a vision to happen hereafter (Rev. 1:19) not before he was exiled but somewhere in the future. The 24 elders are from among those who ascended with Christ clothed in white raiment – purified and they had crowns of gold on their heads – denoting authority who had past the trials and sufferings on earth and are able to attend the investigative judgment. Please read: Mat. 27:51-53; DA 785-6; EW 184.

4. The 7 lamps of fire burning before the throne (v. 5) representing the completeness (AA 585) of truth (Ps. 119:105), the churches throughout all ages. EGWhite commented on this vision, “Christ walks in the midst of the golden candlesticks. Thus is symbolized His relation to the churches. He is in communion with His people. . . .Although He is High Priest and Mediator in the sanctuary above, yet He walks up and down in the midst of the churches on earth. . . . {CTr 314.4} It’s a crystal clear indication to prove that it is an investigative judgment scene.

5. The 7 Spirits (v. 5) – This shows that the Holy Spirit has been guiding the churches from the very beginning by revealing light and truth to God’s servants in each generation. Read COL 127 Read the context.

6. The sea of glass (v. 6) – In prophetic symbol, sea denotes endlessness, glass as crystal which means pure/eternal, so, together it represents life eternal. There’s an eternal life offered as reward to those saints.

7. The four beasts full of eyes before and behind (v.6) – They represents the saints, the defendants, those to be judged. Rev. 5:8-9. Only human beings have been redeemed. The saints are not physically there, yet are represented there symbolically as beasts (EW 54, 92) in the same way that the beast of Daniel and Revelation symbolizes nations.

a. First beast was like a Lion – being the king of the jungle – represents the first period of the history of the world (9MR 7) before the ceremonial system, from Adam to Moses.

b. Second beast like a Calf – it represents the period of the ceremonial system (Moses to the Cross) - the ceremonial system ended in Christ crucifixion.

c. Third beast had a face as a man – Christ as the son of man (AA 55.1) in the New Testament times – representing the third beast – from the cross to the harvest period.

d. Fourth beast was like a flying eagle – The eagle is considered as the “king of the skies” and messenger of the highest gods. With its keen eyes symbolized courage, perspicacity, strength and immortality. Take note the word ‘FLYING’. Therefore, it represents a period when the saints (church) is to be translated (the 144,000 and the Great Multitude). The harvest of the first fruit and the second fruit – the first and second fruit period.

8. The four beast had each of them six wings (v. 8a) – wings in this vision could not represent strife or swiftness because all of them had. It only represent periods of time when the judgment begins, which is clearly identified in the sixth period of the history of the world (1844) – when the sixth seal was unlock.

9. They were Full of Eyes within (v. 8b) – Eyes give light to the body providing sight. Thus it shows that God’s people have had sufficient light in every age (COL 127.4 – new development of truth, a message of God to the people of that generation).

10. A Book written within and on the backside, sealed with Seven Seals (5:1) The Book With Seven Seals Contains the History of the World.-- "And I saw in the right hand of Him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof? And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon" (Revelation 5:1-3). {9MR 7.1}

There in His open hand lay the book, the roll of the history of God's providences, the prophetic history of nations and the church. Herein was contained the divine utterances, His authority, His commandments, His laws, the whole symbolic counsel of the Eternal, and the history of all ruling powers in the nations. In symbolic language was contained in that roll the influence of every nation, tongue, and people from the beginning of earth's history to its close. {9MR 7.2} This roll was written within and without. John says: [Revelation 5:4, 5, 8-14; 6:8-11; Revelation 8:1-4; quoted.] {9MR 7.3}

Note the highlighted quotes: Facts in relation to the Book with the Seven Seals

1. History of the WORLD,

2. History of God’s Providences,

3. Prophetic History of nations and the church,

4. divine utterances,

5. His authority,

6. His commandments,

7. His laws,

8. the whole symbolic counsel of the Eternal, and

9. the history of all ruling powers in the nations

10. the influence of every nation, tongue, and people from the beginning of earth's history to its close.

With these in mind, could we say that the Seven Seals begin in the First Century – Christian Era or beginning with Adam until the end of World’s History.

This paper will prove that it didn’t started in the Church of Ephesus – 31-100 A.D.

Knowing that verse 2-4, John wept much because nobody in heaven, on earth, or under the earth was worthy and able to open and loose the seal, but verse 5, exclaimed, “weep not behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

The Book which only the Lamb is worthy to open – it is called the Book of the Lamb – the Book of life. The Book that decides every man’s destiny (Rev. 13:8; 20;12; 21:27; 22:19; Exo. 32:33).

That’s the scene shown to John in Patmos, a very significant truth for those who will be investigated first the dead (1844) then closes to the living. The judgment reviews every case beginning with Adam through each successive generation and closes with the living (GC 482-3).

Note: When the book was taken from the hand of one sitting on the throne, the four beasts and twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb – acknowledging him as the advocate, they have harps and golden vials full of odours – representing the prayers of the saints. They sung a new song – a song of thanksgiving for the lamb who is able to open the book that they may be vindicated/judged. They are representing the redeemed of every kindred, tongue and people, and nation, saved by the blood of the Lamb who was slain (5:10)

11. Stood a Lamb as it had been slain (5:6a) – Representing Jesus (John 1:29) our advocate (lawyer) and substitutionary offering, also as a priest, a lamb bleeding – denoting that it is a scene of a heavenly court – the MOST HOLY PLACE where the investigative was cast down as Daniel saw it (Dan. 7:9) but John had been shown the whole proceedings.

12. Lamb having seven horns (5:6b) – Jesus having complete authority and power (Mat. 28:18)

13. Lamb having seven eyes (5:6c) – Jesus has complete vision – knowledge – the attribute of Christ (Ps. 139:12. Zech. 4:10)

14. The Seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth (5:6d) – denoting God’s activity or work in all ages (John 14:26).

15. The Many angels round about the throne (5:11-12) – the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands – singing songs of praise, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. These angels are witnesses of the judicial proceedings in heaven. “The witnesses, angels who record and testify to all events from Adam down to the end of time” GC 482-3

Revelation 1:19 Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter;

It was used by some theologians to say that the vision shown to John in chapter 4 and 5 is applied to the Early Christian church but notice the passage and I quote, “Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter”. It was seen by John in vision then he wrote those things! And the things which are – events at present (time of John), and the things which shall be hereafter! SO, there are three phases, 1. things seen in the past, 2. things which are in the present, and 3. things hereafter. God reveals to John what has been in the past, in the present and in the future.

The Opening of the Book with the Seven Seals

Chapter 6 of Revelation records the Lamb opened the seven seals. What are these seals? When Do the Seals Begin? The seven signifies completeness (AA 585) If the Book contains the History of the World – it must therefore starts with Adam. The seven seals begin with those who first lived upon the earth, and closes with the living. Therefore, it covers the entire providence of God for the salvation of every human creature. (GC 482-3)

In the investigative judgment, the Book with the seven seals will be unsealed. These seven seals are the complete records of those who will be investigated starting with the first man who lived on earth and closes to the living. This Book with Seven Seals is the same as the book of Life. Therefore the unveiling of the seals must be the revelation of the lives of all those who are entered the service of God. The first person would have to be Adam. It cannot then start in the New Testament period as it is generally taught in the church.

The setting of the Seven Seals is in the context of the judgment (CTr 314.4) and the investigative judgment includes all of the world’s history – not just the New Testament.

In the opening of the seals, the four beasts are in charge of inviting John to come and see – He saw 4 different horses in different colors, WHITE, RED, BLACK and PALE. The different colors denotes, a degeneration and worsening of men’s condition in the History of the World.

The FIRST SEAL (6:2)

1. The first beast invited John to come and see, then He saw a WHITE HORSE with a CROWNED RIDER who had a BOW. It reveals those who first lived upon the earth – particularly the one who had been commanded to reproduce the human race – thereby conquer it and subdue the earth. The symbol use here, white signifies the earth in a pure and sinless state. The rider is represented by Adam who had given the dominion over God’s creation (Gen. 1:26, 28) as he was crowned King in Eden (Con. 10.3; 1BC 1082.2; RH February 24, 1874 No. 1, par. 4). The bow represents an instrument where the earth will be conquered – Eve was use in this symbolism which the Bible compared children to arrows (Ps. 127:4; Gen. 3:20).

These were the first ones to be judged in 1844 when Jesus our High Priest took the Book of Life (Book with Seven Seals) and began the investigative judgment for the dead.

The SECOND SEAL (6:3)

1. The second beast invited John to come and see, and he saw a RED HORSE who had power to take peace from the earth – kill one another and was given a great sword. This symbolism denotes the period in which murder and war broke out among the nations. RED is a symbol of curse, bloodshed. Abel was the first victim of bloodshed. This condition climaxed just after the flood and the Babel disaster with its confusion of languages. Note: To “take peace from the earth (verse 4), implies that there was peace before the time of the RED HORSE. This again proves that the first seal must have begun with Adam when the earth was pure and at peace. There was no peace on earth at the time of the New Testament era, the time generally taught to be the beginning of the seven seals – this is an error.

Facts to consider why the first seal didn’t starts at the Ephesus 31-100 AD:

a. 56-58 AD = Nero burned the streets of Rome and charged it to the Christians. The Christians were persecuted during this period of time – first century. EGWhite recorded an account which pictures the experience of Christians during the Ephesian Church, she wrote, “After a time the unbelieving Jews conceived the idea of fastening upon Paul the crime of instigating the burning of Rome,… through their efforts, Paul was again arrested, and hurried away to his final imprisonment. AA 489.1

b. 69-79 AD = Besphasian – the Destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD.

c. 81-96 AD = Domitian – John was exiled at Patmos of Malta.

d. 96-117 AD = Trajan – Semeon Barcocba – “Son Star” Barcochiba 800 children burned.

No peace on earth during the first church Ephesus.

Therefore, the SECOND SEAL reveals the lives of those who lived particularly during the time just after the flood. Remember, the seals overlap. So, after Adam and Eve, the world gradually became “RED” that is, cursed with wars and murders until it peaked with the birth of the nations at the Tower of Babel.

The THIRD SEAL (6:5)

1. The third beast invited John to come and see, and he saw a BLACK HORSE and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. Black Horse Spiritual darkness--idolatry. This is the time when the knowledge of God was nigh obliterated. In fact, we have record of only Abraham and lot who served God.

Balances Trading, commercialism -- led by the Phoenicians. Tyre and Sidon, were the chief centers of commerce --Isa. 23:8. The Phoenicians were known as the “busy bees of the ancient world.”

John mentioned these important symbolisms:

a. A measure of Wheat (6:6a) SEE MATT. 20: 8 -16 – Jesus taught them about how God hires His servants - the study of the 11th hour for a penny and All other workers received a penny (eternal life). measures of Barely. The last workers worked for only one parabolic hour. All other workers worked for three parabolic hours.

The first workers complained that they should have received more. The 11th hour workers received their penny first even though they were hired last.

b. For a Penny (6:6b) represents ETERNAL LIFE --SALVATION (Only human beings receive salvation as a reward for labor here on earth)

Wheat 144,000 & GREAT MULTITUDE (GM)--who were hired last.

Barley JEWS --who were hired first

One measure The ONE HOUR (Matt. 20:6,12) -- the length of time the 11th hour workers labored.

Three measures The THREE HOURS (Matt. 20: 1-3) --symbolizing the work of the Jews.

NOTE:: The REWARD was given to the 11th hour workers FIRST-- showing that the 144,000 will receive (penny) eternal life or SALVATION BEFORE THE JEWS AND the other laborers. Thus, the voice (God) said, “ONE measure of WHEAT [first] for a penny and Three measures of BARLEY [last].” Jesus said, the “last shall be first and the first last.” Matt. 20:16

c. Hurt not the …(6:6c) No interference with the Holy Scriptures that which was then being Oil and the Wine written by Moses. (GC V)

d. Oil and Wine (6:6d) are symbols of spiritual food -- Jesus said that His words are “Spirit and Life” John 6:63. See also Ps. 45:7; Zech. 4:12.

NOTE: It is during the time of the black horse (third seal) that God called Israel, the time when

Moses began to write the Bible. Thus it was appropriate for God to announce protection for the Scriptures.

The third seal reveals the time when mankind well-nigh lost the knowledge of God -- the time God called Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Israel -- the time men introduced commerce -- the time the Bible was introduced.

The FOURTH SEAL (6:7)

1. The FOURTH SEAL (6:7) The fourth beast invited John to come and see, and he saw a PALE HORSE.

Pale horse signifies disintegration, undistinguishable or Non-descript color. Same period as the Non-descript beast of Dan. 7:7,8 -- the period of the ancient Roman government. The color denotes a mixture of paganism and Christianity.

a. His name that sat on him was DEATH and HELL (6:8a) this represents Persecution -- Rome killed thousands and thousands of people, especially the Christians.

b. Power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth (6:8b) This represents the Fourth part of Rome was allowed to persecute the Christians for a fourth part of the earth. After which its power was to wane. The earth is to be 6,000 years old. To get a fourth part you must.

Divide four into 6,000 (6,000/4=1500). Beginning from the crucifixion (31AD) add 1500, which will bring you to 1530 AD-- the date of the Augsburg Confession--the separation of Lutherans from Catholicism.

c. To kill with sword, and with hunger, and death, and with the beast of the world (6:8c). This period also shows the event during the dark ages, persecution of the Christian and the rise of Protestantism and many martyrs were killed.

The FIFTH SEAL (6:9)

1. The FIFTH SEAL (6:9) John saw under the altar SOULS OF THEM that were SLAIN FOR THE WORD OF GOD -- already dead at the time of the opening of the fifth seal. These were martyrs from the preceding period (4th seal). Their untimely deaths demanded justice.

a. Altar (6:9a) An altar signifies a renewal of faith, worship -- a reformation. Even in our churches we use the expression an “altar Call” -- ”come down to the altar.” Therefore, the altar must symbolize the PROTESTANT REFORMATION, which began the downfall of Rome-- the beginning of a spiritual renewal.

b. The Testimony which they held (6:9b) – Inspiration says, “The protest of Bible truth will be no longer tolerated by those who have not made the law of God their rule of action. Then will the voice be heard from the graves of martyrs, represented by the souls which John saw slain for the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ which they held; then the prayer will ascend from every true child of God, “It is time for thee, Lord, to work, for they have made void thy law.” {TSA 52.2}

c. And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How Long . . . (6:10) The answer that they should “rest for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren that should be killed as they were should be fulfilled”, is evidence that the persecution and martyrdom of the 4th seal were to overlap the fifth seal and the judgment was not to begin until after the persecution had ceased completely. That is, although the reformation brought the decline of Rome (the papacy), some of God’s people were still to be martyred for their faith up to the complete fall of the papacy. Then the Judgment of the dead would begin.

d. And White Robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled. (6:11) They are accounted worthy of eternity.

The SIXTH SEAL (6:12, 13)

1. The SIXTH SEAL (6:12, 13) When the Lamb open the sixth seal, there was a great earthquake, and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood, and the stars of heaven fell unto the earth.

a. Earthquake Lisbon: Nov. 1, 1755 (GC 304)

b. Sun, Moon May 19, 20, 1780 (GC 306)

c. Falling Stars Nov. 13, 1833 (GC 333)

The SEVENTH SEAL (8:1)

1. The SEVENTH SEAL (8:1) This seal is also generally taught to be the second coming. However, the following will prove that this is the opening of the judgment of the living in Heaven. The SIXTH SEAL CLOSES WITH THE JOL ON EARTH, but the SEVENTH SEAL OPENS WITH THE JOL IN HEAVEN, which is after the slaughter of Ezekiel Nine and continues during the loud cry to the final close of probation.

NOTE: The JOD involves only cleansing the books in Heaven since those on trial are not alive. However, the JOL involves two parts--the cleansing of the books in Heaven and the cleansing of the church on earth.

Is The Half Hour Of Silence The 2nd Advent Of Christ?

7.1. THE JUDGMENT IS STILL IN PROGRESS since Jesus is still in the Sanctuary opening the seventh seal, which means that he is still investigating the names of those during this period.

7.2. CHRIST IS STILL A BLEEDING LAMB.

7.3. AN HALF HOUR OF SILENCE IMPLIES THAT THERE IS AFTER THE HALF HOUR WHAT EVER WAS GOING ON BEFORE MUST CONTINUE--The Judgment. Therefore, the half an hour divides the judgment into two sections-- the JOD and the JOL.

7.4. THE PRAYERS OF THE SAINTS ARE OFFERED UP BEFORE GOD. This indicates that probation is still open since you cannot offer prayers after Jesus’ 2nd advent--there will be no need.

7.5. THE ANGEL CAST DOWN FIRE TO THE EARTH. Fire is a symbol of THE HOLY SPIRIT. (Acts 2:1-4). No one will need the outpouring of the Holy Spirit after the second coming of Christ.

7.6. THE VOICES, THUNDERINGS, LIGHTINGS, RETURN, SHOWING THAT THE JUDGMENT STARTED AGAIN. Compare with Rev. 4:5. The voices must represent the speaking of the beasts, elders, angels, etc. When God speaks it is like thunderings and lightnings. The voices clearly indicate that judgment continues AFTER THE HALF HOUR OF SILENCE.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE HALF HOUR OF SILENCE?--The Purification of the Church.

The silence reveals that the Judgment must have ceased for a time. The only event which would cause silence during the judgment is the purification of the church- -Eze. 9. It is the only time we know from both the Bible and the Testimonies that Jesus will interrupt his mediatorial work.

Read 5 Test. 690--This passage must be fulfilled during probationary time because it mentions: “. . .the unfolding of truth. . .” Truth only unfolds while probation still lingers. Furthermore, it states that “the Lord Jesus shall rise up FROM HIS MEDIATORIAL WORK. . .” This would indicate that He will interrupt his work of atonement.

HOW LONG IS THE HALF HOUR OF SILENCE?--About Seven Days--One Week.

Using PROPHETIC TIME (A day=a year).

One day=24 hours

One year=360 days

360/24=15

15=1 hour

15/2=1/2 hour =7.5 days (ABOUT a week).

Thus the purification of the church -- Ezek. 9, will last about a week.

SUMMARY:

The seventh seal reveals that the JOL in Heaven will begin after the half hour of silence--purification of the church. The half an hour of silence, therefore, divides the investigative judgment into two parts: the JOD and the JOL.

CONCLUSION:

The study of the seven seals reveals that God’s professed people have been on trial since 1844. This court case is the greatest and most important in the history of earth and the Universe. Each individual and generation is investigated with terrible exactness. It especially, and more importantly, reveals that the Judgment in the SDA Church will mark the opening of the Judgment for the living. Thus we see, that soon we will have to stand before the never erring Judge and give an account for our deeds--not physically, but our records will testify to whether we are worthy through the merits of Christ to be sealed, allowing the slaughtering angels to pass by and have our names retained on the Book of Life. Thus, we determine our own destiny by either holding on to our sins or repenting of them.

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