The Book of Revelation: A Study Guide With Introductory Comments, Summaries, and Review Questions

The Book Of Revelation
A Study Guide With Introductory Comments, Summaries, And Review Questions
This material is from ExecutableOutlines.com, a web site containing sermon outlines and Bible studies by Mark A. Copeland. Visit the web site to browse or download additional material for church or personal use. The outlines were developed in the course of my ministry as a preacher of the gospel. Feel free to use them as they are, or adapt them to suit your own personal style. To God Be The Glory! Executable Outlines, Copyright Mark A. Copeland, 2007
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Table Of Contents
Introduction Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven 3 12 17 22 27 30 34 38 41 45 49 52 Chapter Twelve Chapter Thirteen Chapter Fourteen Chapter Fifteen Chapter Sixteen Chapter Seventeen Chapter Eighteen Chapter Nineteen Chapter Twenty Chapter Twenty-One Chapter Twenty-Two 57 61 65 69 72 76 81 86 91 95 100
This study guide was developed in preparation for teaching adult Bible classes. The objectives for each section are usually things I plan to emphasize during the class. I have found that summarizing and outlining helps me to better understand the Word of God. It is a practice I highly recommend to others. I generally delete the answers to the review questions before printing the material and giving it to the students. But that you might know what answers were intended by the questions, I have included them in these guides.
Mark A. Copeland

Introduction
AUTHOR
John, identified as one who bore witness to the word of God, and to the testimony of Jesus Christ (1:1-2). While debated by some, he was most likely the apostle John, brother of James, and author of the gospel of John and three epistles. His authorship of this book is supported by the testimony of Justin Martyr (165 A.D.), Clement of Alexandria (220 A.D.), Hippolytus (236 A.D.), and Origen (254 A.D.).
THE UNIQUE NATURE OF THE BOOK

Revelation is certainly different from other books of the New Testament. It is also very different from any kind of writing that is familiar to most people today. Unfortunately, this has caused some people to shy away from the book; or on the other hand, to misuse it in propagating wild and fanciful theories. Most people conclude it is just too mysterious to understand. But it was actually written to make things clearer! The word revelation in the Greek is apokalupsis, which means an uncovering or unveiling. It is therefore a book designed to uncover or unveil, not conceal. Part of the challenge in understanding the book is that it is written in a style not familiar to modern man. It is an example of what is called apocalyptic literature which was quite popular from 200 B.C. to 200 A.D. As such, it was a type of literature well known to the Jews and Christians of the first century church. Features of apocalyptic literature include the use of highly symbolic or figurative language (cf. signified, 1:1). It was normally written in times of persecution, usually depicting the conflict between good and evil. There are other examples of apocalyptic literature in the Bible. In the Old Testament, for example, the books of Ezekiel, Daniel, and Zechariah each contain elements of this style of writing. In the New Testament, Matthew 24 contains apocalyptic elements.
THE DIFFICULTY IN UNDERSTANDING THE BOOK

The early church likely did not have the problem understanding the book we do today. They were well acquainted with the style of apocalyptic literature. They were living at a time when the symbols of the book were likely familiar to them (similar to how a picture of a donkey fighting an elephant would be understood by us as depicting conflict between the Democratic and Republican parties). In fact, I believe the book was originally intended to be understood by a casual hearing, as implied by the opening beatitude: Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near. (1:3) This verse suggests a setting in which one is reading while others listen. The listeners were expected to understand enough to be blessed by what they heard.
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Our difficulty with this book is due to our unfamiliarity with apocalyptic literature as a method of communicating a message. We are also far removed from the historical and cultural context of the times which would make the symbolism easier to understand. To properly interpret the book, we must try to understand the historical context in which it was written. We must also interpret it in a manner that would have been meaningful to those to whom it was first addressed.
DIFFERENT VIEWS OF INTERPRETATION

Different views of interpreting the book generally fall into four categories: The preterist view - The book refers to events that were fulfilled in the first century A.D., or shortly thereafter. It was written primarily to encourage the original readers. Its value for today would therefore be didactic (teaching the value of faithfulness to God). The historicist view - The book provides a panoramic view of the future of the church from as it goes through history. This view finds in the book such events as the rise of Catholicism, Islam, the Protestant reformation, world wars, etc., ending with the return of Christ. As such it would encourage Christians no matter when they lived. The futurist view - Apart from the first few chapters, the book depicts events which immediately precede the second coming of Christ. Therefore most of the book has yet to be fulfilled (or is being fulfilled now), and its value is primarily for Christians who will be living at the time Jesus returns. The idealist view - The book does not deal with any specific historical situation. Instead, it is simply enforcing the principle that good will ultimately triumph over evil. As such the book is applicable to any age.
PREFERRED METHOD OF INTERPRETATION

I believe a proper interpretation of the book incorporates some of all these views. In my estimation, the preterist view has the most merit for the following reasons: The book was written specifically to seven churches in Asia (modern Turkey) - 1:4 Its purpose was to uncover or reveal things which must shortly come to pass - 1:1, 3; 22:6,10 John was told, Do not seal the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand - 22:10 Compare the last two points with Daniel 8:26, where Daniel was told to seal up his vision, for it refers to many days in the future. Yet we know that his vision was fulfilled within several hundred years. John, however, was told do not seal what he had seen, for the time is at hand. How could this be, if the bulk of Revelation refers to what has yet to occur almost two thousands later? This is a problem I see with the futurist view, which places primary fulfillment of the book thousands of years since its completion. Place yourself in the position of those Christians in the churches of Asia in the first century. They were told that the things described in the Revelation would shortly come to pass, which should comfort
The Book Of Revelation 4
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them. But according to the futurist view, it has been nearly 2000 years and much of the book has yet to be fulfilled! That would be like someone today writing that something is soon coming to pass, when in reality it will be 4000 A.D. before it does! How would a book depicting events to occur thousands of years in the future comfort those who were suffering in the first century A.D.? This is not to say there are no futurist elements in the book. I understand chapters 20-22 to deal with the ultimate destiny of the redeemed, which would have been of great interest and comfort to the Christians suffering in the first century. My approach to the book, therefore, will be primarily from the preterist viewpoint, with occasional elements from other viewpoints.
THE DATE OF THE BOOK

Dating when the book was written is not without controversy. When one dates the book will certainly have a bearing upon one's interpretation of the book, especially if one follows the preterist view. Two dates are usually proposed: An early date, around 64-68 A.D., during the reign of the Roman emperor, Nero A late date, around 95-96 A.D., during the reign of emperor Domitian The external evidence (evidence outside the book itself) is inconclusive. In support for the late date, appeal is often made to a statement of Iraneaus who lived in the late 2nd century A.D. His statement is rather ambiguous, however, and can be understood in several ways (see Redating The New Testament, by John A. T. Robinson, for a detailed examination of Iraneaus' quotation). In support of the early date, the Syriac version of the New Testament (dating back to the 2nd century A.D.) says the book was written during the reign of Nero. The Muratorian Fragment (170-190 A.D.) and the Monarchian Prologues (250-350 A.D.) claim that Paul wrote to seven churches following the pattern of John's example in Revelation, placing the book of Revelation even before some of the Pauline epistles (cf. Expositor's Bible Commentary, Vol. 12; p. 406). Because of the contradictory nature of the external evidence, I place more weight on the internal evidence (evidence from within the book itself). I believe the book itself supports a date of 70 A.D., before the destruction of Jerusalem and during the reign of Vespasian. This evidence includes the following: In 11:1-14 the temple, which was demolished in August of 70 A.D., is still standing. Advocates of the late date naturally understand this passage in a strictly figurative sense. While somewhat figurative, the allusion to the crucifixion of our Lord (11:8) compel us to think of the historical Jerusalem (Philip Schaff). In 17:9-11, we find mention of EIGHT kings. If these kings are emperors of Rome, then starting with Augustus the first FIVE were: Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius and Nero (who died June 9, 68 A.D.). Nero's death left the empire in an uproar. This may be the deadly wound in 13:3,12,14. Three men (Galba, Otho, and Vitellius) tried vainly to consolidate power over the empire, but it was Vespasian who restored order in 70 A.D. Thus, the deadly wound was healed, and Vespasian
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would be the SIXTH king (or the one is in 17:10). This would make Titus the SEVENTH emperor and Domitian the EIGHTH. Notice carefully, that in 17:8,11 John was told that the beast is not. It was, and is about to come (ASV), but at the time the Revelation was being given, the beast IS NOT! If we understand (as I do) that the beast represents imperial Rome as personified in its emperors Nero and Domitian, then Revelation could NOT have been written during the reigns of either Nero or Domitian! The condition of persecution that had been experienced already by those in the book are similar to that mentioned by Peter. He wrote to the Christians in Asia Minor also, just a few years before (cf. 1 Pe 1:1). They were undergoing persecution similar to that described in Re 2 & 3 (cf. 1 Pe 1:6; 4:12; 5:9); i.e., persecution by the Jews with the help of Roman authorities, something that had been going on since the days of Paul's first missionary journey. Therefore I suggest that the internal evidence indicates that the Revelation was given during the reign of VESPASIAN, the SIXTH emperor, while the beast is not. This would place the date of the book around the spring of 70 A.D. (as suggested by Philip Schaff, History Of The Church, Vol. I). A date between the death of Nero in 68 A.D. and the fall of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. was also favored by F. J. A. Hort, J. B. Lightfoot, and B. F. Westcott (John A. T. Robinson, Redating The New Testament, p. 224). Referring to Philip Schaff, who at one time held the late date, I find his following quotation to be of interest: The early date is best suited for the nature and object of the Apocalypse, and facilitates its historical understanding. Christ pointed in his eschatological discourses to the destruction of Jerusalem and the preceding tribulation as the great crisis in the history of the theocracy and the type of the judgment of the world. And there never was a more alarming state of society. The horrors of the French Revolution were confined to one country, but the tribulation of the six years preceding the destruction of Jerusalem extended over the whole Roman empire and embraced wars and rebellions, frequent and unusual conflagrations, earthquakes and famines and plagues, and all sorts of public calamities and miseries untold. It seemed, indeed, that the world, shaken to its very center, was coming to a close, and every Christian must have felt that the prophecies of Christ were being fulfilled before his eyes. It was at this unique juncture in the history of mankind that St. John, with the consuming fire in Rome and the infernal spectacle of the Neronian persecution behind him, the terrors of the Jewish war and the Roman interregnum around him, and the catastrophe of Jerusalem and the Jewish theocracy before him, received those wonderful visions of the impending conflicts and final triumphs of the Christian church. His was truly a book of the times and for the times, and administered to the persecuted brethren the one but allsufficient consolation: Maranatha! Maranatha! (History of The Christian Church, Vol. I, pp. 836-837)
Mark A. Copeland
THE PURPOSE OF THE BOOK

Its purpose is clearly stated at the beginning and end of the book (cf. 1:1,3; 22:6,10): TO REVEAL THINGS WHICH MUST SHORTLY COME TO PASS In particular, it is a revelation from Christ Himself of the judgment to come upon those who were persecuting His people (cf. 6:9-11; 16:5-7). This judgment was directed especially toward two enemies: Babylon, the harlot (cf. 17:6; 18;20,24; 19:2) - Many think the harlot is the city Rome, but I lean toward the view it was Jerusalem. If so, then Revelation describes the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy found in Mt 23:29-39; Lk 21:20-22. The beast which supported the harlot (cf. 17:7-13) - I take the beast to be the Roman empire when led by her persecuting emperors (e.g., Nero, Domitian), which at first supported the harlot in her persecution of God's people, then turned on her (cf. the destruction of Jerusalem, 70 A.D.). Again, I would suggest that the purpose of the book is to reveal how Christ was going to bring judgment on Jerusalem and Rome for rejecting God and persecuting His people. This judgment occurred with the destruction of Jerusalem in the fall of 70 A.D., and with the final cessation of persecution by Rome in 313 A.D. when Constantine became an emperor supportive of Christianity. As stated by Philip Schaff: Undoubtedly he had in view primarily the overthrow of Jerusalem and heathen Rome, the two great foes of Christianity at that time. In fulfilling this purpose, the book is designed to warn and comfort. For erring disciples, it is a book of warning (repent or else, cf. 2:5,16). For faithful disciples, it is a book of comfort (blessed are those who overcome, cf. 1:3; 2:7; 3:21; 14:13; 22:14).
KEY VERSE: Revelation 17:14

These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful.
OUTLINE
INTRODUCTION (1:1-20) 1. Introduction and benediction (1-3) 2. Greetings to the seven churches of Asia (4-6) 3. Announcement of Christ's coming (7) 4. The Lord's self-designation (8) I. A GENERAL OVERVIEW OF THE CONFLICT (1:9-11:19) A. VISION OF CHRIST AMONG THE LAMPSTANDS (1:9-20)
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B. LETTERS TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES (2:1-3:22) 1. The church at Ephesus (2:1-7) 2. The church at Smyrna (2:8-11) 3. The church at Pergamos (2:12-17) 4. The church at Thyatira (2:18-29) 5. The church at Sardis (3:1-6) 6. The church at Philadelphia (3:7-13) 7. The church at Laodicea (3:14-22) C. THE THRONE SCENE (4:1-5:11) 1. God on the throne (4:1-11) 2. The Lamb worthy to open the seven-sealed scroll (5:1-14) D. THE OPENING OF THE SEVEN SEALS (6:1-8:1) 1. First seal: The white horse and its rider (6:1-2) 2. Second seal: The red horse and its rider (6:3-4) 3. Third seal: The black horse and its rider (6:5-6) 4. Fourth seal: The pale horse and its rider(s) (6:7-8) 5. Fifth seal: The martyrs under the altar (6:9-11) 6. Sixth seal: Cataclysmic disturbances (6:12-17) 7. Interlude: Sealing of the 144,000 on earth, and the great multitude in heaven (7:1-17) 8. Seventh seal: Silence in heaven (8:1) D. THE SOUNDING OF SEVEN TRUMPETS (8:2-11:19) 1. Seven angels prepare to sound their trumpets (8:2-6) 2. First trumpet: Third of vegetation destroyed (8:7) 3. Second trumpet: Third of sea creatures and ships destroyed (8:8-9) 4. Third trumpet: Third of rivers and springs become bitter, many men die (8:10-11) 5. Fourth trumpet: Third of sun, moon, and stars struck, affecting day and night (8:12) 6. Three-fold woe announced (8:13) 7. Fifth trumpet (first woe): Locusts from the bottomless pit, sent to torment men (9:1-12) 8. Sixth trumpet (second woe): Four angels with an army of two hundred million, killing a Third of mankind (9:13-21) 9. Another interlude (10:1-11:14) a. The angel with the little book (10:1-11) b. The two witnesses (11:1-13) 10. Seventh trumpet (third woe): The victory of Christ and His kingdom proclaimed (11:14-19) II. A CLOSER LOOK AT THE CONFLICT (12:1-22:5) A. THE GREAT CONFLICT (12:1-14:20) 1. The Woman, the Child, the Dragon, and the rest of the Woman's offspring (12:1-17) 2. The beast from the sea (13:1-10) 3. The beast from the land (13:11-18) 4. The Lamb and the 144,000 on Mount Zion (14:1-5) 5. Proclamations of three angels (14:6-13) 6. Reaping the earth's harvest, and the grapes of wrath (14:14-20)
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B. THE SEVEN BOWLS OF WRATH (15:1-16:21) 1. Prelude to pouring out the seven bowls of wrath (15:1-8) 2. First bowl: Sores on those who worshipped the beast and his image (16:1-2) 3. Second bowl: Sea turns to blood, all sea creatures die (16:3) 4. Third bowl: Rivers and springs turn to blood (16:4-7) 5. Fourth bowl: Men are scorched by the sun (16:8-9) 6. Fifth bowl: Pain and darkness upon the beast and his kingdom (16:10-11) 7. Sixth bowl: Euphrates dried up, three unclean spirits gather the kingdoms of the earth for the battle at Armageddon (16:12-16) 8. Seventh bowl: Great earthquake, the great city divided, Babylon is remembered, cataclysmic events (16:17-21) C. THE FALL OF BABYLON, THE HARLOT (17:1-19:10) 1. The scarlet woman and the scarlet beast (17:1-6) 2. The mystery of the woman and beast explained (17:7-18) 3. The fall of Babylon the great proclaimed and mourned (18:1-24) 4. The exaltation in heaven over the fall of the great harlot (19:1-5) 5. The announcement of the marriage supper of the Lamb (19:6-10) D. THE DEFEAT OF THE LAMB'S ENEMIES (19:11-20:15) 1. Christ the victorious warrior and King of kings (19:11-16) 2. The beast, his armies, and the false prophet (land beast) are defeated (19:17-21) 3. Satan is bound for a thousand years, while those martyred reign with Christ (20:1-6) 4. Satan released to deceive the nations once more, but is finally defeated once for all (20:7-10) 5. The final judgment (20:11-15) E. THE ETERNAL DESTINY OF THE REDEEMED (21:1-22:5) 1. The new heaven and new earth, the New Jerusalem, God dwelling with His people (21:1-8) 2. The New Jerusalem described (21:9-27) 3. The water of life, the tree of life, and the throne of God and the Lamb (22:1-5) CONCLUSION (22:6-21) 1. The time is near, do not seal up the book (22:6-11) 2. The testimony of Jesus, the Spirit, and the bride (22:12-17) 3. Warning not to tamper with the book, and closing prayers (22:18-21)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE INTRODUCTION

1) What is this book called? (1:1) - The Revelation of Jesus Christ 2) Who is the author of this book? (1:1-2) - John, who had born witness to the word of God and testimony of Jesus Christ 3) What is the meaning of the Greek word (apokalupsis) translated revelation? - An uncovering, an unveiling
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4) What style of literature is the book of Revelation? - Apocalyptic literature 5) What are some of the typical features of such literature? - Highly symbolic; depicting conflict between good and evil 6) What is important to know to properly interpret the book? - The historical context in which it was written 7) What are the four major views of interpreting the book? - The preterist - The historicist - The futurist - The idealist 8) Which view is suggested in this introduction? - The preterist, with a little borrowed from the other views as well 9) What dates are usually suggested for the book? - An early date (64-68 A.D.), during the reign of Nero - A late date (95-96 A.D.), during the reign of Domitian 10) Which date is suggested in this introduction? (and by Schaff, McGuiggan, and others) - The spring of 70 A.D., during the reign of Vespasian 11) What is the purpose of the book? (1:13; 22:10,16) - To reveal things which must shortly come to pass 12) Who do I propose to be the two major enemies used by Satan as described in this book? - Jerusalem (i.e., Babylon, the harlot) - Rome (i.e., the beast which supported the harlot) 13) What is the key verse which summarizes the book? - Revelation 17:14
BIBLIOGRAPHY
The Avenging Of The Apostles & Prophets, Arthur Ogden (Ogden Publications, 1985) The Book Of Revelation, Jim McGuiggan (Montex, 1976) The Book Of Revelation, Foy E. Wallace, Jr. (Wallace Publications, 1966) History Of The Christian Church, Vol. I, Philip Schaff (Eerdmans, 1910, 1985) Interpreting Revelation, Merill C. Tenney (Eerdmans, 1957) The Lamb And His Enemies, Rubel Shelly (20th Century, 1985)
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More Than Conquerors, William Hendricksen (Baker Book House, 1971) Redating The New Testament, John A. T. Robertson (Westminster Press, 1976) Revelation, Alan Johnson (Expositor's Bible Commentary, Zondervan, 1981) Revelation, Leon Morris (Tyndale New Testament Commentaries, Eerdmans, 1984) Revelation, Robert Harkrider (Truth Commentaries, Guardian Of Truth, 1997) Revelation: An Introduction And Commentary, Homer Hailey (Baker, 1979) Worthy Is The Lamb, Ray Summers (Broadman Press, 1951)
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Chapter One
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To note that the Revelation was written to churches of things that would soon take place 2) To appreciate the implications of what is said about Jesus, both in the greeting by John and in the words of Jesus Himself
SUMMARY
The Revelation of Jesus Christ begins with a clear statement of origin and purpose. Given to Jesus by God to show His servants things which must soon take place, it is designed to bless those who read, hear and keep the words of the prophecy (1-3). John then addresses the seven churches in Asia (western Turkey), offering grace and peace from each member of the Godhead with descriptive terms which become more significant later in the epistle (4-6). His greeting is followed with a declaration concerning the Lord's coming, and a self-designation as expressed by the Lord Himself (7-8). At this point John explains how he was commissioned to record the Revelation. While on the island of Patmos (likely in exile for preaching the word of God), he was in the Spirit on the Lord's day when he heard a loud voice behind him. The voice identified itself as the Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last, and then charged him to write what he saw to seven churches in Asia (9-11). Turning to see the voice, John saw seven golden lampstands and in their midst the Son of Man. Describing the awesome appearance of the Son of Man and his own reaction, John then records how Jesus comforted and then charged him to write what he has seen and will see (12-19). The chapter ends with the Lord's explanation that the seven stars in His right hand represent the angels (messengers?) of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands signify the seven churches themselves (20).
OUTLINE
I. INTRODUCTION (1-8) A. INTRODUCTION AND BENEDICTION (1-3) 1. Introducing the Revelation of Jesus Christ (1-2) a. Which God gave Him to show His servants b. Regarding things which much shortly take place c. Sent and signified by His angel d. To His servant John, who bore witness... 1) To the word of God 2) To the testimony of Jesus Christ 3) To all things that he saw 2. The benediction (3) a. Blessed is he who reads and those who hear this prophecy b. Blessed are those who keep those things written in it, for the time is near
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B. GREETINGS TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES (4-6) 1. From John, to the seven churches in Asia (4a) 2. With grace and peace (4b-6) a. From Him who is and who was and who is to come b. From the seven Spirits who are before His throne c. From Jesus Christ 1) The faithful witness 2) The firstborn from the dead 3) The ruler over the kings of the earth 4) Who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood 5) Who made us kings and priests to His God and Father -- To Whom be glory and dominion forever and ever! C. ANNOUNCEMENT OF CHRIST'S COMING (7) 1. He is coming with clouds 2. Every eye will see Him, and they also who pierced Him 3. All the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him -- Even so, Amen (so be it) D. THE SELF-DESIGNATION (8) 1. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End 2. Who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty II. THE VISION OF THE SON OF MAN (9-20) A. JOHN'S CIRCUMSTANCES LEADING UP TO THE VISION (9-10a) 1. Their brother and companion (9a) a. In tribulation b. In the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ 2. On the island called Patmos (9b) a. For the word of God b. For the testimony of Jesus Christ 3. In the Spirit on the Lord's Day (10a) B. WHAT HE HEARD BEHIND HIM (10b-11) 1. A loud voice, as of a trumpet (10b) 2. Saying to him... (11) a. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last b. What you see, write in a book c. Send it to the seven churches which are in Asia... C. WHAT HE SAW, AND HIS REACTION (12-17a) 1. Turning to see the voice, he saw... (12-16) a. Seven golden lampstands b. In the midst of the seven lampstands, One like the Son of Man 1) Clothed with a garment down to the feet, girded about the chest with a golden band 2) His head and hair white as wool, white as snow
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3) His eyes like a flame of fire 4) His feet like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace 5) His voice as the sound of many waters 6) In His right hand, seven stars 7) Out of His mouth, a sharp two-edged sword 8) His countenance like the sun shining in its strength 2. Seeing Him, John fell at His feet as dead (17) D. THE LORD'S WORDS TO JOHN (17b-20) 1. Do not be afraid (17b-18) a. I am the First and the Last b. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. c. I have the keys of Hades and of Death. 2. Write... (19) a. The things which you have seen b. The things which are c. The things which will take place after this 3. The mystery of the seven stars...and the seven golden lampstands a. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches b. The seven lampstands...are the seven churches
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - Introduction (1-8) - The vision of the Son of Man (9-20) 2) What was Jesus intending to show His servants? (1) - Things which must shortly take place (cf. 1:3; 22:6,10) 3) How is John described in verse 2? - As one who bore witness to the word of God, to the testimony of Jesus Christ, and to all things that he saw 4) Who is this book designed to bless? Why? (3) - Those who read and hear the words of this prophecy, and keep the things written in it - For the time is near 5) To whom was the book addressed? (4,11) - Seven churches in Asia - Churches in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea 6) How is God described in the greeting from John? The Holy Spirit? (4) - Who is and who was and who is to come - The seven Spirits who are before His throne (cf. 4:5; Zech 4:1-6) 7) How is Jesus Christ described by John in this greeting? (5-6) - The faithful witness
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- The firstborn from the dead - The ruler over the kings of the earth - Who loved us - Who washed us from our sins in His own blood - Who has made us kings and priests to His God and Father 8) What is said about the coming of Christ? (7) - He is coming with clouds - Every eye will see Him, and they also who pierced Him - All the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him 9) How does the Lord designate Himself? (8) - I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End - Who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty 10) How does John identify himself to His readers? (9a) - Your brother and companion tribulation - In the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ 11) Where and when did John receive the Revelation? (9b-10) - On the island of Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus - While in the Spirit on the Lord's Day 12) What did he hear a loud voice say? (11) - I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last - What you see, write in a book and send it to the seven churches in Asia... 13) When he turned to see the voice, what did he see? (12-13) - Seven golden lampstands, and in their midst One like the Son of Man 14) How does John describe the Son of Man? (13-16) - Clothed with a garment down to the feet - Girded about the chest with a golden band - Head and hair white as wool, white as snow - Eyes like a flame of fire - Feet like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace - Voice as the sound of many waters - In His right hand, seven stars - Out of His mouth, a sharp two-edged sword - Countenance like the sun shining in its strength 15) What was John's reaction when he saw Him? What was he first told? (17) - Fell at His feet as dead - Do not be afraid 16) How does the Son of Man identify Himself? (17-18) - I am the First and the Last - I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore
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- I have the keys of Hades and of Death 17) What is John told to write? (19) - The things which you have seen - The things which are - The things which will take place after this 18) What is the explanation of the seven stars and seven golden lampstands? (20) - The seven stars are the seven angels (messengers?) of the seven churches - The seven lampstands are the seven churches (in Asia)
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Chapter Two
1) To examine the first four of seven letters to the churches in Asia 2) To glean what we can about the condition of each church: their strengths and weaknesses, the warnings and promises given 3) To note that the fulfillment of most promises will be described later in the visions to come
SUMMARY
In this chapter John is instructed to write to four churches in Asia: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, and Thyatira. The Lord generally follows the same format: His self-designation, commendation, condemnation and related warning, exhortation and promise. Each letter closes with the admonition, He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. This suggests the letters were not just for the personal benefit of the churches addressed. The church at Ephesus is commended for its steadfastness, especially against false apostles. But while standing for the truth, they had lost their first love. Exhorted to repent and be restored by doing the first works, they are warned that their lampstand would be removed if they did not repent (1-7). The church at Smyrna is commended for being rich despite their tribulation and poverty. Unlike most churches, there are no words of condemnation directed toward it. While they would experience a little persecution, they are exhorted to remain faithful to death (8-11). The church at Pergamos is also praised for its steadfastness, but faulted for allowing false teachers in their midst. The Lord threatens to come and fight with the sword of His mouth if there is no repentance (12-17). The church at Thyatira is also commended, for their last works are more than their first. But they too have a false teacher and followers which jeopardize the condition of the church. Despite giving this Jezebel time to repent, she has not and so the Lord intends to make her and her followers an example before the other churches (1829). I find noteworthy the connection between these letters with what was seen in chapter one, and what will be seen in succeeding chapters. In most cases the Lord's self-designation borrows something from the vision of the Son of Man in chapter one, which relates somehow with the particular message in which it is found. Also, we will see how most of the promises to those who overcome will be fulfilled in the unfolding of the visions that begin in chapter four.
OUTLINE
I. LETTER TO THE CHURCH IN EPHESUS (1-7) A. THE LORD'S SELF-DESIGNATION (1) 1. He who holds the seven stars in His right hand
Mark A. Copeland
2. Who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands B. COMMENDATION (2-3,6) 1. For their works, labor and patience a. They cannot bear those who are evil, having tested those who say they are apostles but were liars b. Their perseverance, patience and labor for His name's sake, not growing weary 2. They hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, as does the Lord C. CONDEMNATION AND WARNING (4-5) 1. Condemnation a. The Lord has something against them b. They have left their first love 2. Warning a. Remember from where they have fallen b. Repent and do the first works c. Or the Lord will come quickly and remove their lampstand from its place D. EXHORTATION AND PROMISE (7) 1. Hear what the Spirit says to the churches 2. To him who overcomes, He will give to eat from the tree of life in the midst of the Paradise of God II. LETTER TO THE CHURCH IN SMYRNA (8-11) A. THE LORD'S SELF-DESIGNATION (8) 1. The First and the Last 2. Who was dead, and came to life B. COMMENDATION (9a) 1. For the works, tribulation, and poverty 2. But they are rich C. EXHORTATION AND PROMISE (9b-11) 1. The Lord knows those who claim to be Jews but are a synagogue of Satan 2. Do not fear what they are about to suffer a. The devil is about throw some into prison, that they may be tested b. They will have tribulation ten days 3. Be faithful unto death, and He will give them a crown of life 4. Hear what the Spirit says to the churches 5. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death III. LETTER TO THE CHURCH IN PERGAMOS (12-17) A. THE LORD'S SELF-DESIGNATION (12) 1. Who has the sharp two-edged sword B. COMMENDATION (13)
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1. He knows their works, and where they dwell, where Satan's throne is 2. For holding fast to His name 3. For not denying His faith even when Antipas was killed among them C. CONDEMNATION AND WARNING (14-16) 1. Condemnation a. They have those who hold the doctrine of Balaam 1) Who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before Israel 2) To eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality b. They have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which He hates 2. Warning a. Repent or He will come to them quickly b. He will fight against them with the sword of His mouth D. EXHORTATION AND PROMISE (17) 1. Hear what the Spirit says to the churches 2. To him who overcomes, He will give... a. Some of the hidden manna to eat b. A white stone with a new name written on it which no one knows except he who receives it IV. LETTER TO THE CHURCH IN THYATIRA (18-29) A. THE LORD'S SELF-DESIGNATION (18) 1. The Son of God 2. Who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet like fine brass B. COMMENDATION (19) 1. For their works, love, service, faith, and patience 2. Their last works are more than the first C. CONDEMNATION AND WARNING (20-24) 1. Condemnation a. They allow that woman Jezebel 1) Who calls herself a prophetess 2) To teach and beguile His servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols b. Whom the Lord had given time to repent of her sexual immorality, but she did not 2. Warning a. He will cast her into a sickbed b. Those who commit adultery with her will have great tribulation, unless they repent c. He will kill her children with death; and the churches will know that He searches the minds and hearts d. He will give to each one according to their works e. For those in Thyatira who do not follow her doctrine, or have not known the depths of Satan, as they call it, He places on them no other burden E. EXHORTATION AND PROMISE (25-29)
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1. Hold fast what they have till He come 2. To him who overcomes and keeps His works until the end... a. He will give power over the nations, just as He received from the Father b. He will give the morning star 3. Hear what the Spirit says to the churches

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - Letter to the church in Ephesus (1-7) - Letter to the church in Smyrna (8-11) - Letter to the church in Pergamos (12-17) - Letter to the church in Thyatira (18-29) 2) What pattern is generally followed in these letters to the churches? - Self-designation, commendation, condemnation and warning, exhortation and promise 3) What is generally the basis for the Lord's self-designation in these letters? (1,8,12,18) - The description of the vision of the Son of Man in chapter one 4) For what does the Lord commend the church in Ephesus? (2-3,6) - Their works, labor, patience - Testing those who claimed to be apostles, but were liars - Persevering and laboring for His name's sake, not growing weary - Hating the deeds of the Nicolaitans 5) For what does the Lord condemn them? (4) - Losing their first love 6) What solution does Jesus give for restoring their first love? (5) - Remember from where they have fallen - Repent and do the first works 7) What warning does Jesus give the church in Ephesus? (5) - Repent or else He will come quickly and remove their lampstand from its place 8) For what does the Lord commend the church in Smyrna? (9) - Their works, tribulation, and poverty (but they are rich) 9) Who was guilty of blasphemy in Smyrna? (9) - Those who say they are Jews, but are a synagogue of Satan 10) Why were they not to fear what they were about to suffer? (10) - Their tribulation will be short (ten days) - If they are faithful unto death, Jesus will give them a crown of life 11) For what does the Lord commend the church in Pergamos? (13) - Their works, holding fast to His name, not denying His faith even when Antipas was killed
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12) What is said about where they dwell? (13) - Where Satan's throne is, where Satan dwells 13) For what does the Lord condemn them? (14-15) - Having those who hold the doctrine of Balaam - Having those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans 14) What warning does Jesus give the church in Pergamos? (16) - Repent or else He will come quickly and fight against them with the sword of His mouth 15) For what does the Lord commend the church in Thyatira? (19) - Their works, love, service, faith and patience - Their last works being more than the first 16) For what does the Lord condemn them? (20) - Allowing Jezebel to teach and beguile His servants to commit sexual immorality and to eat things sacrificed to idols 17) What does the Lord say regarding the woman who calls herself a prophetess? (21-23) - He gave her time to repent, but she did not - He will cast her into a sickbed, and those with her into great tribulation unless they repent - He will kill her children with death 18) What exhortation does He give the church at Thyatira? (25) - Hold fast what they have till He come 19) What exhortation is given at the end of each letter? (7,11,17,29) - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches 20) List the promises given in this chapter to those who overcome (7,11,17,26-28) - To eat from the tree of life which is in the midst of the Paradise of God - Not be hurt by the second death - Some of the hidden manna to eat - A white stone, on which a new name is written which no one knows but him who receives it - Power over the nations, as He received from His Father - The morning star
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Chapter Three
1) To examine the last three of seven letters to the churches in Asia 2) To glean what we can about the condition of each church: their strengths and weaknesses, the warnings and promises given
SUMMARY
The Lord continues His letters to the churches in Asia, with this chapter containing those written to Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. The church in Sardis is rebuked for having a name that they are alive, when in reality they are dead. With their works not perfected before God, they are exhorted to be watchful and to strengthen the things which remain. They are also told to remember how they had received and heard in the past, to hold fast and repent. Otherwise, the Lord will come upon them as a thief in the night. Notice is taken, however, of a few in Sardis who had not defiled their garments and are still worthy, who are promised to walk with the Lord in white (1-6). The church in Philadelphia is promised an open door that none can shut because they had kept the Lord's word and not denied His name. Their enemies, those who claim to be Jews but are not, will be made to worship before them, and the church will be kept from the trial that was about to test those on the earth. With an announcement of His quick coming, they are exhorted to hold fast what they have that none take their crown (7-13). The church of the Laodiceans is then described as lukewarm, for which the Lord threatens to spew them out of His mouth. While claiming to be rich, they are blind to their true condition. Therefore the Lord counsels them to buy from Him those things they truly need. His strong words are indicative of His love for them, and the fact that He stands ready to re-enter their hearts if they will open to Him (14-22). As before, each letter ends with wonderful promises to those who overcome. In most cases, the manner in which the promises are to be fulfilled is illustrated in the visions to come.
OUTLINE
I. LETTER TO THE CHURCH IN SARDIS (1-6) A. THE LORD'S SELF-DESIGNATION (1a) 1. He who has the seven Spirits of God - cf. Isa 11:1-2; Zech 4:1-10; Re 1:4; 4:5 2. ...and the seven stars B. CONDEMNATION AND WARNING (1b-3) 1. Condemnation a. They have a name that they are alive, but they are dead
Mark A. Copeland
b. Their works have not been found perfect before God 2. Warning a. Be watchful and strengthen the things which remain and are ready to die b. Remember how they had received and heard c. Hold fast and repent d. If they don't watch, the Lord will come upon them as a thief C. COMMENDATION (4) 1. There are few names in Sardis who have not defiled their garments 2. They shall walk with Him in white, for they are worthy D. PROMISE AND EXHORTATION (5-6) 1. He who overcomes... a. Shall be clothed in white garments b. The Lord will not blot his name from the Book of Life c. The Lord will confess his name before My Father and His angels 2. Hear what the Spirit says to the churches II. LETTER TO THE CHURCH IN PHILADELPHIA (7-13) A. THE LORD'S SELF-DESIGNATION (7) 1. He who is holy, He who is True 2. He who has key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens - cf. Isa 22:22 B. COMMENDATION (8) 1. The Lord has set an open door before them and none can shut it 2. For they have a little strength, have kept His word, and not denied His name C. PROMISE AND EXHORTATION (9b-11) 1. Concerning the synagogue of Satan (who claim to be Jews, but are not)... a. He will make them come and worship before their feet b. He will make them know that He has loved those in Philadelphia 2. Because the church has kept His command to persevere... a. He will keep them from the hour of trial b. Which is coming to test those who dwell on the earth 3. Behold, He is coming quickly! a. Hold fast what they have b. That no one may take their crown 4. He who overcomes, the Lord will... a. Make him a pillar in the temple of His God, and he shall go out no more b. Write on him: 1) The name of His God 2) The name of the city of His God, the New Jerusalem which comes down out of heaven from His God 3) His new name 5. Hear what the Spirit says to the churches
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III. LETTER TO THE CHURCH IN LAODICEA (14-22) A. THE LORD'S SELF-DESIGNATION (14) 1. The Amen, the Faithful and True Witness 2. The Beginning of the creation of God B. CONDEMNATION AND WARNING (15-20) 1. Condemnation a. They are neither cold or hot 1) He wished they were cold or hot 2) But because they are lukewarm, He will spew them out of His mouth b. They are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked 1) Though they say they are rich, wealthy, and in need of nothing 2) Therefore He counsels them... a) To buy from Him: 1/ Gold refined in the fire, that they may be rich 2/ White garments, that their nakedness be not revealed b) To anoint their eyes with eye salve, that they might see 2. Warning a. As many as He loves, He rebukes and chastens; therefore be zealous and repent b. He stands at the door and knocks; if any will hear Him and open the door, He will come in and dine with him C. PROMISE AND EXHORTATION (21-22) 1. To him who overcomes... a. The Lord will grant to sit with Him on His throne b. Just as He overcame and sat down with His Father on His throne 2. Hear what the Spirit says to the churches

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - Letter to the church in Sardis (1-6) - Letter to the church in Philadelphia (7-13) - Letter to the church in Laodicea (14-22) 2) For what does the Lord condemn the church in Sardis? (1-2) - They have a name that is alive, but they are dead - Their works have not been found not perfect before God 3) What does the Lord exhort those at Sardis to do? (2-3) - Be watchful, and strengthen the things that remain and are ready to die - Remember how they had received and heard - Hold fast and repent 4) What warning is given to them? (3) - If they do not watch, He will come upon them as a thief
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5) What did the Lord find commendable at Sardis? What did the Lord promise them? (4) - They had a few people who had not defiled their garments - They shall walk with Him in white, for they are worthy 6) What did the Lord promise to those who overcome? (5) - They shall be clothed in white garments - He will not blot their names from the Book of Life - He will confess their names before His Father and the His angels 7) What had the Lord done for those in Philadelphia? Why? (8) - Set before them an open door which none could shut - They had a little strength, had kept His word, and not denied His name 8) What was the Lord going to do to those who claimed to be Jews but were actually the synagogue of Satan? (9) - Make them come and worship at the feet of those in Philadelphia - Make them know that Jesus had loved them 9) What did the Lord say He would do for those in Philadelphia? Why? (10) - He would keep them from the hour of trial that was coming upon the earth - Because they kept His command to persevere 10) What warning and exhortation does He then give? (11) - Behold, I come quickly! - Hold fast what you have, that none may take your crown 11) What promise does the Lord give to him who overcomes? (12) - To make him a pillar in the temple of His God - To write on him the name of His God - To write on him the name of the city of His God, the New Jerusalem - To write on him His new name 12) For what does the Lord condemn those at Laodicea? (15-16) - They are lukewarm, neither cold nor hot 13) What does the Lord say He would do because of their lukewarmness? (16) - Spew them out of His mouth 14) What had they claimed? What was their true condition? (17) - To be rich, wealthy and in need of nothing - Wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked 15) What does the Lord counsel them to do? (18) - To buy from Him gold refined in the fire, that they might be rich - To buy from Him white garments to cover their nakedness - To anoint their eyes with eye salve, that they might see 16) What justification does the Lord give for such a strong rebuke? (19)
Mark A. Copeland
- As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten 17) What does He say to such Christians? (19,20) - Be zealous and repent - He stands at the door and knock; those who hear and open the door, He will dine with them 18) What will be granted to him who overcomes? (21) - To sit with the Lord on His throne - Even as the Lord overcame and sat with His Father on His throne 19) What exhortation is given at the end of each letter in this chapter? (6,13,22) - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches
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Chapter Four
1) To consider the implication of the vision of God on His throne 2) To note that this vision along with the one in chapter five will set the stage for what follows
SUMMARY
The visions of Revelation now begin in earnest. Upon seeing a door standing open in heaven and hearing a trumpet-like voice promising to show him of things which must take place, John is transported to the throne room of God. He describes what he sees and hears with vivid and colorful imagery. The One on the throne radiates like white and red sparkling stones and is surrounded by an emerald rainbow. The colors may reflect the characteristics of God, such as His holiness, righteousness, justice, and mercy (1-3). John takes special note of twenty-four elders clothed with white robes and crowns of gold, sitting on thrones around the throne of God. Summers and Hailey suggest that they depict the twelve patriarchs of Israel and the twelve apostles, who represent the redeemed of both covenants now united in Christ. Note that in 5:8-9 they do seem to speak in behalf of the redeemed (4). From the throne proceed lightnings, thunderings, and voices, which may illustrate the divine power and judgments coming from God. Before the throne are seven lamps of fire, explained as the seven Spirits of God. This likely symbolizes the Holy Spirit in His work of illumination and revelation of God's word to man (Summers). A sea of glass like crystal is also before the throne, perhaps symbolizing the transcendence of God that presently separates God and His people (5-6a). Then there are four living creatures, similar in some respects and yet different in others, united in their constant praise of God for His eternal holiness. Though not exactly like the cherubim seen by Ezekiel (cf. Ezek 1, 10), they appear to serve similar functions. Hailey suggests they may be a special order of heavenly beings, perhaps the highest and closest to the throne, who serve God's majestic will (6b-8). As the four living creatures praise Him who sits on the throne, the twenty-four elders join in by falling down, casting their crowns before the throne, and praising God as the Eternal Creator (9-11). This scene, along with the one in chapter five, appears designed to set the stage for what follows. At the outset, we are shown the first guarantee of ultimate victory: God is on His throne! (Summers) The praise offered by the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders reinforce the truth that the One on the throne (and therefore in ultimate control) is none other than the Lord God Almighty, Eternal and Holy, the Creator who holds all things together. He is therefore worthy of glory, honor and power! He is the one to revere, not man!
OUTLINE
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I. THE THRONE SCENE (1-8) A. JOHN TAKEN TO HEAVEN (1) 1. After seeing the Lord and hearing the letters addressed to the seven churches 2. Upon seeing a door standing open in heaven, and hearing a trumpet-like voice a. Being told Come up here b. In which he will see things which must take place after this B. HE DESCRIBES THE THRONE SCENE (2-8) 1. The One on the throne a. Like a jasper (sparkling white) b. And a sardius stone (fiery red) in appearance c. With an emerald rainbow (various shades of green) around the throne 2. The twenty-four elders a. Sitting on twenty-four thrones around the throne b. Clothed in white robes c. With crowns of gold on their heads 3. Other elements around the throne a. Lightnings, thunderings, and voices proceeding from the throne b. Seven lamps (the Seven Spirits of God) burning before the throne c. A sea of glass, like crystal, before the throne d. Four living creatures in the midst and around the throne 4. The four living creatures a. Unique characteristics 1) The first was like a lion 2) The second was like a calf 3) The third had a face like a man 4) The fourth was like a flying eagle b. Similar characteristics 1) Each had six wings 2) Full of eyes in front and back, around and within 3) Do not rest day or night, praising the holiness of the Eternal God II. GOD PRAISED AS THE CREATOR (9-11) A. PROMPTED BY THE LIVING CREATURES (9) 1. Whenever they give glory, honor, and thanks 2. To Him who sits on the throne, the Eternal One B. OFFERED BY THE TWENTY-FOUR ELDERS (10-11) 1. Who fall down before Him who sits on the throne 2. Who worship Him who lives forever 3. Who cast their crowns before the throne 4. Who proclaim God worthy to receive glory, honor, and power a. For He created all things b. And by His will they exist and were created

Mark A. Copeland
1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The throne scene (1-8) - God praised as the Creator (9-11) 2) When the Lord has finished with His letters to the churches, what does John see? (1) - A door standing open in heaven 3) What does John hear? What is he told he will see? (1) - A voice like a trumpet, saying Come up here... - Things which must take place after this 4) What is the first thing he notices? (2) - A throne set in heaven, and One sitting on the throne 5) How does John describe the appearance of the One on the throne? (3) - Like a jasper (sparkling white like a diamond) and a sardius stone (fiery red) 6) What is the color of the rainbow around the throne? (3) - Like an emerald (various shades of green) 7) What is around the throne? (4) - Twenty-four elders with crowns of gold, clothed in white robes, siting on thrones 8) What proceeds from the throne? (5) - Lightnings, thunderings, voices 9) What stands before the throne? (5) - Seven lamps of fire burning (the seven Spirits of God) 10) What lies before the throne? (6) - A sea of glass like crystal 11) What is seen in the midst and around the throne? How are they described? (6-8) - Four living creatures - One like lion, one like a calf, one with a face like a man, and one like a flying eagle - They have all have eyes in front and back, around and within, and six wings 12) What do they proclaim without rest, day and night? (8) - Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come! 13) Whenever the four creatures offer glory, honor, and thanks to God, what happens? (9-10) - The twenty-four elders fall down before God on the throne - They worship Him, casting their crowns before the throne 14) Why do the twenty-four elders deem God worthy of glory, honor, and power? (11) - He created all things, and by His will they exist
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Chapter Five
1) To examine what is revealed about the Lamb (Jesus) and what He has accomplished through His death 2) To consider the impact this scene would have had upon the persecuted Christians in Asia
SUMMARY
The scene that began in chapter four continues. Whereas the theme of chapter four can be stated as God is on His throne!, the theme of this chapter may be called Worthy is the Lamb! John's attention is drawn to a scroll in the right hand of God. Written on the inside and on the back, it is sealed with seven seals. A strong angel proclaims Who is worthy to open the scroll and to loose its seals? and at first there seems to be no one in heaven and earth deemed worthy to open the scroll or look at it. This prompted John to weep (1-4). But one of the twenty-four elders tells him not to weep for One described as the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David (cf. Gen 49:9-10; Isa 11:10) has prevailed so to be able to open the scroll and loose its seals. In the midst of the throne and of the living creatures and the elders, John sees a Lamb standing as though slain (i.e., Jesus - cf. Jn 1:29), with seven horns and seven eyes. The seven eyes are explained as the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth (cf. Zech 4:10). As seen before (cf. 1:4; 3:1; 4:9) they represent the Holy Spirit, while the seven horns are indicative of great strength (cf. Deu 33:17; 1 Sam 2:10). The Lamb is then seen as taking the scroll out of God's right hand (5-7). Taking the scroll prompts the four living creatures and twenty-four elders to fall down before the Lamb. Each possessing a harp (perhaps symbolizing praise, Hailey) and golden bowls of incense which depict the prayers of the saints, they sing a new song praising the Lamb as worthy to take the scroll. They proclaim His worthiness on the basis of being slain and redeeming by His blood those from every nation who are made kings and priests to God who shall reign on the earth (cf. 1:5-6; 1 Pe 2:9). The voices of many thousands of angels around the throne then join in with their praise of the Lamb who was slain as worthy to receive power, riches, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and blessing. Finally, every creature in heaven, earth, and sea join in with praise for both Him who sits on the throne (God) and the Lamb. To which the four living creatures say Amen! and the twenty-four elders fall down and worship (814). This awesome scene should certainly encourage the faithful Christian. As stated by Summers: Such a scene was calculated to bring new courage and new hope to the hearts of John's first readers, the persecuted Christians of Asia; it brings the same cheer to
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Christian hearts in any age. Believing in the power of God (ch. 4) and the redeeming love of God (ch. 5), there is no enemy or force of evil which Christians need to fear. They can enter the conflict or endure the evil knowing that God is still on his throne; he has not laid aside his scepter; he has not abandoned his throne to any other. And what does the scroll represent? As Shelly says in his commentary: This scroll is the book of the destiny of mankind. In it could be found the fate of the suffering saints, the outcome of Rome's (and I would add Jerusalem's, mac) machinations against the church, and an outline of the future from John's time through the resolution of the particular battle raging between his brethren and Satan's forces. The things revealed in the subsequent visions of the Revelation were bound up in this scroll. I.e., the scroll reveals how God would manifest his righteous indignation upon those who rejected His Christ and persecuted His people. Also, how the suffering saints would eventually overcome. As long as the scroll was sealed, the workings of God was still a mystery. But as the seals are broken (6:1-8:1), we have: the Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants -- things which must shortly take place. (1:1)
OUTLINE
I. THE SCROLL AND THE LAMB (1-7) A. THE SCROLL IN GOD'S RIGHT HAND (1-4) 1. Written on the inside and on the back, sealed with seven seals 2. The proclamation by the strong angel a. Who is worthy? b. To open and the scroll and to loose its seals? 3. The initial response a. No one, in heaven, on the earth, under the earth! b. No one, able to open the scroll, or to look at it! 4. John's reaction: So I wept much, because no one was found worthy... B. THE ONE WORTHY TO OPEN THE SCROLL (5-7) 1. Comforting words of the elder to John a. Do not weep b. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David c. He has prevailed 1) To open the scroll 2) To loose its seven seals 2. John's description of the Lamb a. Standing in the midst of the throne, the four living creatures, and the elders b. A Lamb as though it had been slain 1) Having seven horns 2) With seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent into all the earth c. Who takes the scroll out of God's right hand
Mark A. Copeland
II. THE LAMB IS PRAISED (8-14) A. BY THE FOUR LIVING CREATURES AND TWENTY-FOUR ELDERS (8-10) 1. Each having: a. A harp b. Golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints 2. They sang a new song... a. The Lamb is worthy! 1) To take the scroll 2) To open its seals b. Because: 1) He was slain 2) He has redeemed them to God by His blood out of every tribe, tongue, people and nation 3) He has made them kings and priests to God, to reign on the earth B. BY THOUSANDS UPON THOUSANDS OF ANGELS (11-12) 1. Their voices heard around the throne, along with the living creatures and the elders 2. Saying with a loud voice: a. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain b. To receive power, riches, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and blessing C. TOGETHER WITH HIM WHO SITS ON THE THRONE (13-14) 1. John now hears those in heaven, on earth, under the earth, and in the sea saying: a. Blessing and honor and glory and power... b. Be to Him who sits on throne, and to the Lamb, forever and ever! 2. Upon which: a. The four living creatures said Amen! b. The twenty-four elders fell down and worshipped Him who lives forever and ever

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The scroll and the Lamb (1-7) - The Lamb is praised (8-14) 2) What did John see in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne? (1) - A scroll written inside and on the back, sealed with seven seals
3) What did a strong angel proclaim with a loud voice? (2) - Who is worthy to open the scroll and to loose its seals? 4) How did John react when it seemed there was no one worthy to open the scroll? (3-4) - He wept 5) What did one of the twenty-four elders then say to John? (5)
Mark A. Copeland
- Do not weep - Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and it seven seals 6) What did John see? (6) - A Lamb as though it had been slain, with seven horns and seven eyes 7) Where was the Lamb? What did He do? (6-7) - In the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures and the elders - He took the scroll out of Him who sat on the throne 8) What happened when the Lamb had taken the scroll? (8-9a) - The four living creatures and twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb - They each had a harp, and golden bowls of incense (which are the prayers of the saints) - They sang a new song 9) What did they proclaim in this new song? (9) - The Lamb was worthy to take the scroll and open its seals 10) Why did they deem the Lamb worthy? (9-10) - For He was slain and redeemed them to God by His blood - He has made them kings and priests to God 11) What did John then see and hear? (11) - The voice of thousands of angels around the throne, the living creatures and the elders 12) What were they saying? (12) - Worthy is the Lamb who was slain - To receive power, riches, wisdom, strength, honor, glory and blessing 13) What does John hear next? (13) - Every creature in heaven, on and under the earth, and in the sea - Offering blessing, honor, glory and power to both Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb 14) What happens then? (14) - The four living creatures said Amen! - The twenty-four elders fell down and worshipped Him who lives forever and ever
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Chapter Six
1) To consider what may be the meaning of the different seals and their symbols
SUMMARY
In this chapter the Lamb looses six of the seven seals on the scroll. I view the first four seals as revealing forces God would use to bring judgment upon the oppressors of His people (1-8). Notice what is said about the different riders: ...a crown was given to him... (the rider on the white horse) ...it was granted to the one...there was given to him... (the rider on the red horse) ...a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying (the rider on the black horse) ...power was given to them... (riders on the pale horse - Death and Hades) Who had the power to give a crown, or to grant such authority? Who in the midst of the four living creatures might have spoken? Who had the power to give to Death and Hades? When we consider that Jesus is the ruler of the kings of the earth (1:5), that He has the keys of Hades and of Death (1:18), and that He was in the midst of the four living creatures (5:6), it seems apparent that the answer is Christ! I.e., the horses and their riders were acting upon the authority and power given them by Christ. Therefore I suggest the following explanations for the first four seals: The white horse and its rider - Represents military conquest, such as God used to bring judgment upon Assyria (Isa 10:5-7,12-13,15-16) and Babylon (Isa 13:17-20). Here, the rider with the bow depicts a Parthian warrior, renown for their use of the bow as a weapon, and who were dreaded enemies of the Romans. The red horse and its rider - Represents civil war, in which people would kill one another, such as God used in His judgment against Egypt (Isa 19:1-4). The black horse and its rider - Represents famine, where necessities (wheat and barley) would be scarce, while luxuries (oil and wine) might be in abundance but of little interest to the hungry. God had used famine in His judgment upon Israel (cf. Jer 14:11-12). The pale horse and its riders (Death and Hades) - Represents death brought about by the sword, hunger, death (pestilence), and beasts of the earth. Such severe judgments God had brought upon Jerusalem in the past (cf. Ezek 5:17; 6:12; 14:21).
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With the fifth seal, we are told why God would bring such judgments. Souls have been slain for the word of God and their testimony, and when the time is right the judgments will begin. In the meantime, the souls of the slain are comforted with white robes and told to rest (9-11). The sixth seal describes cosmic disturbances and the despair of those trying to hide from God's wrath. Is this scene depicting the end of time (cf. 2 Pe 3:7-12)? The language is reminiscent of that used to describe God's judgment upon Babylon (Isa 13:1-22) and Samaria (Hos 10:7-8). Jesus used similar language to warn the people of His day of the impending destruction of Jerusalem (Lk 23:28-30). Therefore I tend to view it as referring to the judgment coming (perhaps in the form of natural calamities) upon those who persecuted God's people in the first century, and how the guilty will not be able to escape in the day of the Lamb's wrath (12-17).
OUTLINE
I. THE FOUR HORSES AND THEIR RIDERS (1-8) A. FIRST SEAL - RIDER ON THE WHITE HORSE (1-2) 1. The Lamb opens the first seal 2. One of the four living creatures says Come 3. John sees a white horse and its rider a. The man had a bow b. A crown was given to him c. The man went out conquering and to conquer B. SECOND SEAL - RIDER ON THE RED HORSE (3-4) 1. The Lamb opens the second seal 2. The second living creature says Come 3. John sees a fiery red horse and its rider a. The rider was granted to take peace from the earth, and for people to kill one another b. A great sword was given to him C. THIRD SEAL - RIDER ON THE BLACK HORSE (5-6) 1. The Lamb opens the third seal 2. The third living creature says Come 3. John sees a black horse and its rider a. A pair of scales is in the hand of the rider b. A voice in the midst of the four living creatures says A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine. D. FOURTH SEAL - RIDER ON THE PALE HORSE (7-8) 1. The Lamb opens the fourth seal 2. The fourth living creature says Come 3. John sees a pale horse and its rider a. On the horse sits Death, and Hades followed with him b. Power was given to them over a fourth of the earth c. Power to kill with the sword, with death, and by beasts II. THE SOULS UNDER THE ALTAR (9-11)
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A. THE FIFTH SEAL - SOULS UNDER THE ALTAR (9-10) 1. The Lamb opens the fifth seal 2. John sees under the altar those who had been slain a. For the word of God b. For the testimony they held 3. They cried with a loud voice: a. How long, O Lord, holy and true b. Until you judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth? B. THEIR CONSOLATION (11) 1. A white robe was given to each of them 2. They were told to rest a little while longer, until both their fellow servants and brethren would be killed III. COSMIC DISRUPTIONS IN THE DAY OF THE LAMB'S WRATH (12-17) A. THE SIXTH SEAL - COSMIC DISRUPTIONS (12-14) 1. The Lamb opens the sixth seal 2. Cataclysmic events occur: a. A great earthquake b. Sun becomes black as sackcloth of hair c. Moon became like blood d. Stars fall to the earth, like ripe figs shaken from a tree by a mighty wind e. Sky receded as a scroll when rolled up f. Every mountain and island moved out of its place B. THE REACTION OF MANKIND (15-17) 1. Great and small, slave and free, hid themselves in the caves and rocks of the mountains 2. They cry out to the mountains and rocks: a. Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! b. For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The four horses and their riders (1-8) - The souls under the altar (9-11) - Cosmic disruptions in the day of the Lamb's wrath (12-17) 2) Who opens each of the seals in this chapter? (1,3,5,7,9,12) - The Lamb 3) What is seen when the first seal is opened? What was given to him? (1-2) - A rider with a bow on a white horse - A crown, who then goes forth conquering
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4) What is seen when the second seal is opened? What was given to him? (3-4) - A rider on a red horse - Authority to take peace from the earth, that people should kill one another - A great sword 5) What is seen when the third seal is opened? What is heard? (5-6) - A rider with a pair of scales in his hand on a black horse - A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine. 6) What is seen when the fourth seal is opened? What was given to them? (7-8) - Death riding on a pale horse, followed by Hades - Power over a fourth of the earth, to kill with the sword, with hunger, with death, and by the beasts of the earth 7) What is seen when the fifth seal is opened? What are they saying? (9-10) - Souls under the altar who had been slain for the word of God and for their testimony - How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth? 8) How are they consoled? (11) - A white robe to each of them - Told to rest a little while longer, until the number of their fellow servants and brethren who will be killed was completed 9) What is seen when the sixth seal is completed? (12-14) - A great earthquake, sun becomes black, the moon becomes like blood, the stars of heaven fall to the earth, the sky is receded as a scroll, every mountain and island moved out of their 10) What do the people on earth try to do? What do they say? (15-17) - Hide themselves in the caves and rocks of the mountains - Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! - For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?
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Chapter Seven
1) To identify the two groups in the two visions seen in this chapter 2) To note how these visions would comfort those who must pass through the great tribulation
SUMMARY
Between the sixth and seventh seals, there is an interlude in which John sees two visions. They may be designed to answer the question raised at the end of the previous chapter: For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand? (6:17) Yes, who will be able to stand? In the first vision John sees four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the winds from blowing on the earth, sea, or on any tree. An angel arises from the east having the seal of the living God, who cries out to the other four angels not to harm the earth, etc., until the servants of God have been sealed on their foreheads. John then hears the number of those who are sealed. They are 144,000 of all the tribes of the children of Israel, with 12,000 from each tribe. Of interest is the fact that Ephraim and Dan are not mentioned, while Levi and Joseph are counted as tribes. This suggests to many that the 144,000 of Israel is symbolic (1-8). The second vision reveals a large innumerable multitude of all nations standing before the throne and the Lamb. Clothed with white robes and palm branches in their hands, they cry out Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb! They are joined in their praise by angels, the elders, and four living creatures. John is then told by one of the elders that those arrayed in white robes have come out of the great tribulation, with their robes washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. Before the throne of God, they serve Him day and night in His temple. Future blessings are then described: God will dwell among them, they shall be free from hunger, thirst, and the heat of the sun. The Lamb will shepherd them and lead them to fountains of living waters, and God will wipe all tears from their eyes (9-17). What do the two visions represent? I believe the 144,000 sealed on earth represents the church militant, i.e., the redeemed on earth. While they may be on the earth when God's judgment and wrath is outpoured, they are sealed and thereby spared from God's wrath (cf. Ezek 9:1-11). This does not mean they will not suffer tribulation, for while they may escape God's wrath they may still face the efforts of Satan (12:17; 13:7ff). But the second vision provides hope for those who must pass through the great tribulation. Provided they have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb, they are assured that they will serve God in His temple in the intermediate state (between death and the resurrection). They are also promised future blessings in the eternal state (after the resurrection and judgment, cf. 7:16-17 with 21:1-4). Thus the great multitude in heaven represents the church triumphant, i.e., the redeemed in heaven. It is the church militant and then triumphant that will be able to stand in the day of God's wrath!
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OUTLINE
I. THE 144,000 SEALED ON EARTH (1-8) A. THE ANGELS RESTRAINED (1-3) 1. John saw four angels at the four corners of the earth a. Holding the four winds of the earth b. That the winds would not blow on the earth, sea, or any tree 2. John saw another angel ascending from the east a. Crying with a loud voice to the four angels granted to harm the earth and sea b. Instructing them not to harm the earth, sea, or trees until the servants of God were sealed on their foreheads B. THE 144,000 SEALED (4-8) 1. John heard the number of those sealed 2. Those sealed were 12,000 each of the tribes of Israel: a. Judah g. Simeon b. Reuben h. Levi c. Gad i. Issachar d. Asher j. Zebulun e. Naphtali k. Joseph f. Manasseh l. Benjamin II. THE GREAT MULTITUDE IN HEAVEN (9-17) A. JOHN SEES A GREAT MULTITUDE (9-12) 1. Which none could number, from all nations, tribes, peoples and tongues 2. Standing before the throne and before the Lamb a. Clothed with white robes b. With palm branches in their hands 3. Crying with loud voices: Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb! 4. Angels, the elders, and the four living creatures also join in with praise a. Falling on their faces before the throne and worshipping God b. Ascribing blessing, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and might to God B. THE GREAT MULTITUDE IDENTIFIED (13-17) 1. Asked by one of the elders, John puts the question back to him 2. The elder identifies the great multitude: a. Those who come out of the great tribulation b. Who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb c. Who are before the throne of God and serve Him day and night in His temple 3. The elder describes their future blessedness: a. The One on the throne will dwell with them b. They shall not hunger nor thirst anymore; the sun nor any heat shall strike them c. The Lamb will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of water d. God will wipe away every tear from their eyes
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1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The 144,000 sealed on earth (1-8) - The great multitude in heaven (9-17) 2) What does John see next? (1) - Four angels at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds from harming the earth, sea and any tree 3) What did an angel ascending from the east cry out? (2-3) - Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads. 4) Who and how many were sealed? (4) - 144,000 of the tribes of Israel 5) In the list of those sealed, what two tribes of Israel are missing? (5-8) - Ephraim and Dan 6) What two names are used for tribes which were not normally listed among the twelve tribes of Israel? (5-8) - Levi (the priestly tribe which did not receive a land inheritance) - Joseph (the father of Manasseh and Ephraim, whose two sons made up two tribes) 7) After the 144,000 are sealed, what does John see next? (9-10) - A great multitude of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues - Standing before the throne and the Lamb - Clothed with white robes and palm branches in their hands - Ascribing salvation to God on the throne and to the Lamb 8) Who else joins in with praise to God? (11-12) - Angels, the elders, the four living creatures 9) Who does the elder identify as the great multitude? (13-14) - Those who come out of the great tribulation, who have washed the robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb - Who are before the throne of God and serve Him day and night in His temple 10) What future blessings are they promised to receive? (15-17) - The One on the throne will dwell with them - They shall not hunger nor thirst anymore; neither the sun nor any heat shall strike them - The Lamb will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of water - God will wipe away every tear from their eyes
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Chapter Eight
1) To review the opening of the seventh seal, the angel with the golden censer, and the sounding of the first four trumpets 2) To offer an explanation concerning the significance of these visions
SUMMARY
Following the interlude of the previous chapter, in which reassuring and comforting scenes concerning the saints were seen, the seventh seal is now opened. For about a half hour, there is silence in heaven (1). In contrast to all that happened before, the silence must have been striking! Possibly it signifies the awe in heaven for what has already been revealed, or for what is about to be revealed. When God acts, those on earth should be in awe (cf. Hab 2:20; Zeph 1:7; Zech 2:13); should we not expect a similar reaction from His creatures in heaven? Seven angels are then seen standing before God to whom were given seven trumpets. Before they sound the trumpets, another angel with a golden censer comes and stands before the altar. To this angel was given much incense to offer along with the prayers of the saints upon the golden altar before the throne. The smoke of the incense and the prayers of the saints ascended before God from the angel's hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. Noises, thunderings, lightnings and an earthquake followed, and the seven angels with the seven trumpets prepared to sound (2-6). This scene appears to suggest that the sounding of the seven trumpets and the things to follow is God's response to the prayers of the saints. It is reminiscent of what Jesus taught in His parable of the persistent widow: And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? (Lk 18:7). As the first four angels sound their trumpets in turn, the environment in particular is impacted: The first trumpet - Hail and fire, mingled with blood, are thrown to earth; a third of the trees and all the green grass were burned up (7). The second trumpet - Something like a great burning mountain is thrown into the sea, turning a third of it into blood; a third of the sea creatures died, and a third of the ships were destroyed (8-9). The third trumpet - A great burning star named Wormwood falls on a third of the rivers and springs of water; a third of the waters became wormwood (a bitter wood) and many men died from the bitter water (10-11).
Mark A. Copeland
The fourth trumpet - A third of the sun, moon, and stars are struck, so that a third of them were darkened; thus a third of the day and night did not shine (12). The first four trumpets may signify natural calamities that God would use in His judgment against those who oppressed His people. That only a third is affected, along with the symbolism of the trumpets, suggests that the purpose of these judgments would be to warn people, giving them time to repent before God's full wrath is poured out (cf. the bowls of wrath, 16:1-21). Before the final three trumpets sound, an angel (some manuscripts suggest an eagle) flies through the midst of heaven with loud voice proclaiming a three-fold woe on the inhabitants of the earth (13). While the first four trumpets appear bad enough, the worst is yet to come!
OUTLINE
I. THE SEVENTH SEAL - SILENCE IN HEAVEN (1) A. THE LAMB OPENS THE SEVEN SEAL (1a) B. SILENCE IN HEAVEN FOR ABOUT HALF AN HOUR (1b) II. PREPARATION FOR THE SOUNDING OF THE SEVEN TRUMPETS (2-6) A. SEVEN ANGELS PREPARED (2) 1. Seven angels who stand before God 2. To them were given seven trumpets B. THE ANGEL WITH THE GOLDEN CENSER (3-6) 1. Came and stood before the altar 2. Was given much incense to offer... a. With the prayers of all the saints b. Upon the golden altar before the throne 3. The smoke of the incense and the prayers of the saints... a. Ascended before God b. From the angel's hand 4. The angel took the censer... a. Filled it with fire from the altar b. Threw it to the earth -- Accompanied by noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake 5. The seven angels with the seven trumpets then prepared themselves to sound III. THE FIRST FOUR TRUMPETS (7-12) A. THE FIRST TRUMPET: VEGETATION STRUCK (7) 1. Hail and fire, mingled with blood, thrown to the earth 2. A third of the trees burned up, and all green grass burned up B. THE SECOND TRUMPET: SEAS STRUCK (8-9) 1. Something like a great burning mountain thrown into the sea
Mark A. Copeland
2. A third of the sea became blood; a third of the creatures in the sea died; a third of the ships destroyed C. THE THIRD TRUMPET: RIVERS AND SPRINGS STRUCK (10-11) 1. A great burning star fell on a third of the rivers and springs of water 2. Named Wormwood, a third of the waters became wormwood; many men died from the bitter water D. THE FOURTH TRUMPET: HEAVENS STRUCK (12) 1. A third of the sun, moon, and stars struck 2. A third of them were darkened, so that third of the day and night did not shine IV. THREE-FOLD WOE ANNOUNCED (13) A. AN ANGEL (EAGLE?) FLYING THROUGH HEAVEN (13a) B. PRONOUNCING A THREE-FOLD WOE (13b) 1. Woe, woe, woe to the inhabitants of the earth 2. Because of the remaining blasts of the trumpet of the three angels who are about to sound!

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The seventh seal - silence in heaven (1) - Preparation for the sounding of the seven trumpets (2-6) - The first four trumpets (7-12) - Three-fold woe announced (13) 2) What happened when the Lamb opened the seventh seal? (1) - There was silence in heaven for about half an hour 3) What did John see next? (2) - Seven angels standing before God, to whom were given seven trumpets 4) What did another angel do? What was given him? Why? (3-4) - Come stand before the altar with a golden censer - Much incense - To offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar before the throne 5) What did the angel then do with the censer? What then happened? (5-6) - Filled it with fire from the altar and threw it to the earth - There were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake - The seven angels with the seven trumpets prepared to sound 6) Describe what happened when the first angel sounded (7) - Hail and fire, mingled with blood, were thrown to the earth - A third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass
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7) Describe what happened when the second angel sounded (8-9) - Something like a great burning mountain was thrown into the sea - A third of the sea became blood, a third of the sea creatures died, and a third of the ships were destroyed 8) Describe what happened when the third angel sounded (10-11) - A great burning star (named Wormwood) fell from heaven on a third of the rivers and springs of water - A third of the waters became wormwood, many men died from the bitter water 9) Describe what happened when the fourth angel sounded (12) - A third of the sun, moon, and stars were struck - A third of them were darkened, and a third of the day and night did not shine 10) What did John next see and hear? (13) - An angel (eagle?) flying through the midst of heaven - Pronouncing a three-fold woe upon the inhabitants of the earth because of the three remaining trumpets about to sound
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Chapter Nine
1) To review the sounding of the fifth and sixth trumpets 2) To offer an explanation concerning the significance of these visions
SUMMARY
Following the ominous warning of the angel (eagle) in the previous chapter, the fifth angel sounds his trumpet. John sees a star fallen from heaven, to whom is given the key to the bottomless pit. As the pit is opened, smoke arises that darkens the sun and air. Then locusts with power like scorpions came out of the smoke, to whom was given power to harm only those who did not have the seal of God on their forehead. Their power was limited only to torment, not kill, and only for five months. Even so, men wished they could die. John describes the appearance of the locusts, and identifies their king as the angel of the bottomless pit whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon and in Greek is Apollyon, both meaning destruction. Thus ends the first woe, with two more to come (1-12). When the sixth angel sounds his trumpet, John hears a voice from the four horns of the golden altar before God. It tells the sixth angel to release four angels who have been bound at the river Euphrates. These angels had been prepared for the hour, day, month and year, to kill a third of mankind. At this point John hears the number of an army of two hundred million horsemen. Describing the colorful breastplates of those on the horses, he also relates how the lion-like heads of the horses blew fire, smoke and brimstone which killed a third of mankind. They also did much harm with serpent-like tails. Despite these two woes, the rest of mankind did not repent of their idolatry, murders, sorceries, sexual immoralities and thefts (13-21). As one can imagine, attempts to interpret these visions have been many and some quite fanciful. Together with the first four trumpets, I suggest the fifth and sixth trumpets signify tools at God's disposal to bring wrath upon the persecutors of His people. Though allowed to go only so far, Satan's influence can have the effect of weakening a nation from within. There is also the threat of external invasion by enemy forces. Therefore I concur with Summers and others that the vision of locusts from the bottomless pit symbolizes the hellish rottenness and internal decadence that would weaken the Roman empire from within. The two hundred million horsemen symbolizes external invasion as another instrument God would use. Together with natural calamities, (depicted in the first four trumpets), these three instruments combined to bring down the Roman empire. As Christians in John's day were oppressed by what seemed to be invincible opponents, visions like these would remind them that those who do not have the seal of God on their forehead would be susceptible to God's wrath.
OUTLINE
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I. THE FIFTH TRUMPET: LOCUSTS FROM THE BOTTOMLESS PIT (1-12) A. THE STAR FALLEN FROM HEAVEN (1-2) 1. With the sounding of the fifth trumpet... a. John saw a star fallen from heaven to the earth b. To whom was given the key to the bottomless pit 2. When the bottomless pit was opened... a. Smoke like that of a great furnace arose out of the pit b. The sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke B. THE LOCUSTS AND THEIR POWER (3-10) 1. Out of the smoke locusts with great power came upon the earth a. Power like scorpions b. Commanded not to harm the grass, any green thing, or any tree 2. The extent and nature of their power a. Could harm only those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads b. Could not kill, but only torment them for five months c. Men will seek death, but death will flee from them 3. The locusts described a. Their shape like horses prepared for battle b. On their heads were crowns of something like gold c. Their faces were like those of men d. Their hair was like women's hair e. Their teeth was like lions' teeth f. With breastplates like those of iron g. The sound of their wings like chariots with many running horses h. With tails like scorpions, and stings in their tails (though limited in power) C. THE KING OVER THEM (11-12) 1. The angel of the bottomless pit 2. Whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek, Apollyon -- The first of three woes is past; two more to come II. THE SIXTH TRUMPET: THE TWO HUNDRED MILLION ARMY (13-21) A. THE FOUR ANGELS BOUND AT THE EUPHRATES (13-15) 1. With the sounding of the sixth trumpet... a. John heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar before God b. Speaking to the sixth angel who had the trumpet c. Telling him to release the four angels bound at the river Euphrates 2. The four angels released... a. Who had been prepared for the hour, day, month, and year b. Who were to kill a third of mankind B. THE ARMY OF TWO HUNDRED MILLION HORSEMEN (16-19) 1. John heard the number of them 2. What he saw in the vision... a. Those on the horses had breastplates of fiery red, hyacinth blue, sulfur yellow
Mark A. Copeland
b. The horses had heads like those of lions c. Out of their mouths came fire, smoke, and brimstone 3. The power of this great army... a. A third of mankind killed by the fire, smoke, and brimstone b. The power to harm is in their mouth and tails like serpents' heads C. THE FAILURE OF THE SURVIVORS TO REPENT (20-21) 1. Those not killed did not repent of their idolatry 2. Nor did they repent of their murders, sorceries, sexual immoralities, or thefts

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The fifth trumpet: locusts from the bottomless pit (1-12) - The sixth trumpet: the two hundred million army (13-21) 2) When the fifth angel sounded his trumpet, what did John see? (1) - A star fallen to heaven to whom was given the key to the bottomless pit 3) What came out of the pit when it was opened? (2-3) - Smoke which darkened the sun and air; locusts with power like scorpions 4) What were the locusts allowed to harm? (4) - Only those men who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads 5) What other limitations was placed upon their power (5-6) - Could not kill, but only torment for five months 6) How are the locusts described? (7-10) - Their shape like horses prepared for battle - On their heads were crowns of something like gold - Their faces were like those of men - Their hair was like women's hair - Their teeth was like lions' teeth - With breastplates like those of iron - The sound of their wings like chariots with many running horses - With tails like scorpions, and stings in their tails (though limited in power) 7) Who was their king? What was his name in Hebrew and Greek? (11) - The angel of the bottomless pit - In Hebrew, Abaddon; in Greek, Apollyon 8) What did John hear when the sixth trumpet sounded (13-14) - A voice from the four horns of the golden altar before God - Telling the sixth angel to release the four angels bound at the river Euphrates 9) What were the four angels released to do? (15) - To kill a third of mankind
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10) What did John hear next? (16) - The number of the army of horsemen: two hundred million 11) What were the colors of the breastplates of those on the horses? (17) - Fiery red, hyacinth blue, sulfur yellow 12) What were the heads of the horses like? What came out of their mouths? (17) - Like the heads of lions - Fire, smoke, and brimstone 13) Who was killed by the smoke, fire, and brimstone? (18) - A third of mankind 14) Where was the power to do harm in the horses? (19) - In their mouths and in their tails 15) Of what did those who were not killed not repent? (20-21) - Idolatry, murders, sorceries, sexual immorality, theft
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Chapter Ten
1) To examine the first vision in the interlude between the sounding of the sixth and seventh trumpets 2) To offer an explanation concerning the significance of this vision
SUMMARY
Just as there was an interlude between the sixth and seventh seals that included two visions designed to comfort the saints, so we find an interlude between the sixth and seventh trumpets with three visions that would have similar effect. Chapter ten contains the first vision in this second interlude, in which John describes a mighty angel coming down from heaven and standing with his right foot on the sea and his left on the land. Of particular note is a little book in the angel's hand. When the angel cried out with lion-like voice, seven thunders uttered their voices, but John is forbidden by a voice from heaven to write the things which the thunders uttered. At this point the mighty angel swears by God that there will be delay no longer, for when the seventh angel sounds his trumpet the mystery of God will be finished, as God declared to His servants the prophets (1-7). Then the voice from heaven tells John to take the book from the angel. As he does so, the angel tells him to eat the book, with a warning that while it will be sweet as honey in his mouth, it will make his stomach bitter. When John eats the book, he is told that he must again prophesy about many peoples, nations, tongues and kings (8-11). The significance of eating the little book is clear enough, for it symbolizes John mastering the contents of the message (cf. Ezek 2:1-3:11). As to its contents, it may pertain to the prophecies of chapters 1222, which certainly contains prophecies of peoples, nations, kings, etc. While the sounding of the seventh trumpet would indicate the mystery of God was finished as declared to the Old Testament prophets (cf. My servants the prophets, Zech 1:6), John would expand upon the revelation of that mystery by recording what will be seen starting in chapter 12. The significance of the seven thunders may forever remain an enigma. Summers believes that John was forbidden to record their utterances because there would be delay no longer and the time for warning was over. Hailey suggests that it may indicate that God has many unrevealed weapons in His arsenal of judgments to be used at His discretion, and that man cannot know all of God's ways. This vision appears designed to impress upon John that with the sounding of the seventh trumpet his work will not be over. Indeed, in chapters 12-22 we shall see a closer look at the conflict.
OUTLINE
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I. THE MIGHTY ANGEL WITH THE LITTLE BOOK (1-7) A. THE ANGEL, THE BOOK, AND THE SEVEN THUNDERS (1-4) 1. John describes another mighty angel coming down from heaven a. Clothed with a cloud b. A rainbow on his head c. His face like the sun d. His feet like pillars of fire e. A little book in his hand f. His right foot on the sea, his left foot on the land g. Who cried out with a loud voice, as when a lion roars 2. When the angel cried out, seven thunders uttered their voices a. John prepared to write what he heard b. But a voice from heaven instructs him to seal up the things uttered by the seven thunders, and not write them B. THE ANGEL AND HIS OATH (5-7) 1. John sees the angel lift his hand to heaven 2. The angel swears by God that there will be delay no longer a. For in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, the mystery of God would be finished b. As God declared to His servants the prophets II. JOHN EATS THE LITTLE BOOK (8-11) A. JOHN IS INSTRUCTED TO EAT THE BOOK (8-9) 1. The same voice from heaven instructs him to take the book from the angel's hand 2. He is told to eat the book, which will be sweet as honey in his mouth, but will make his stomach bitter B. JOHN EATS THE BOOK (10-11) 1. Taking it from the angel's hand, he ate it 2. It was sweet as honey in his mouth, but his stomach became bitter 3. He is told: You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, tongues, and kings.

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The mighty angel with the little book (1-7) - John eats the little book (8-11) 2) How does John describe the mighty angel which comes down from heaven? (1-2) - Clothed with a cloud - A rainbow on his head - His face like the sun - His feet like pillars of fire - A little book in his hand - His right foot on the sea, his left foot on the land
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- Who cried out with a loud voice, as when a lion roars 3) When the angel cried out, what happened? (3) - Seven thunders uttered their voices 4) What did John start to do? What was he told? (4) - To write what he heard - To seal up and not write what the seven thunders uttered 5) What did the mighty angel swear by God? (5-7) - That there should be delay no longer - That in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, the mystery of God would be finished, just as God declared to His servants the prophets 6) What is John then told to do? (8) - To take the book from the mighty angel 7) What is he told to do with the book? What did he do with the book? (9-10) - To eat the book - He ate the book, which was sweet as honey in his mouth, but made his stomach bitter 8) What was he then told? (11) - He must prophecy again about many peoples, nations, tongues, and kings
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Chapter Eleven
1) To examine the remaining visions in the interlude between the sounding of the sixth and seventh trumpets, and what happens when the seventh trumpet sounds 2) To offer explanations concerning the significance of these visions, and to summarize what we have seen in the first half of the book of Revelation
SUMMARY
As the interlude between the sixth and seventh trumpets continues, two more visions are seen. The first involves John himself as he is given a reed and told to measure the temple of God, the altar, and those worshipping there. He is instructed, however, not to measure the court outside the temple, for it has been given to the Gentiles who will tread underfoot the holy city for forty-two months (1-2). This vision may illustrate that while the church will undergo great persecution, and outwardly appear to be trodden underfoot, its inner spirit will not be harmed. Then there is the vision of the two witnesses, which falls into three sections. With power they prophesy 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth. Identified as the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the throne of God, they have the power to devour with fire from their mouths those who wish to harm them. They also have power to stop the rain during the days of their prophesying, to turn water to blood, and to strike the earth with plagues (3-6). But when their testimony is completed, the beast from the bottomless pit makes war with them and kills them. For three and half days their bodies lies in the street of the great city that is spiritually called Sodom and Egypt (where Jesus was crucified). Those who had been tormented by the two prophets rejoice, make merry and exchange gifts (7-10). However, after three and a half days they are raised to life and ascend into heaven, bringing great fear on those who saw them. In the same hour a great earthquake occurs in which a tenth of the city fell and 7000 men were killed. The rest were afraid and gave glory to God (11-13). The two witnesses are certainly reminiscent of Moses and Elijah, but I do not believe they portend two literal persons. Rather, they represent the witness of the church, with the number two signifying the strength of their witness (e.g., two or more witnesses). As suggested by Hailey, the first period may be the apostolic age during which the witnesses could not be destroyed. When their testimony is completed, there will be a time of persecution by the beast and those of the great city (who will be identified later). Ultimately, however, the witnesses (i.e., the church) will be victorious, symbolized by their resurrection and ascension to heaven. The interlude ended, it is time for the third woe, and the final trumpet. As the seventh angel sounded, loud voices in heaven proclaimed The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever! The twenty-four elders then fell on their faces and worshiped God, giving thanks to Him for having taken His great power and reigned. While the nations were angry, His wrath has come. So has the time for the dead to be judged, for His servants the
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prophets and the saints to be rewarded, and for the destruction of those who destroy the earth. Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, with the ark of the covenant in the temple, accompanied by lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake and hail (15-19). With the seventh trumpet we reach the climax of the first half of the Revelation, in which we have been shown an overall look at the conflict. In general terms, the conflict between the Lamb and His enemies has been described, without really mentioning who those enemies are. What has been stressed is that the wrath of God and His Lamb was coming! Through the visions of the seven seals and seven trumpets we learn of the arsenal at God's disposal: military conquest, civil war, famine, pestilence, natural calamities, internal and moral decay, external invasion. Just as God used such instruments in His dealings with the nations in the Old Testament, so His Son would use His power to reign over the nations with a rod of iron (cf. 1:5; 2:27; 3:21). We have also seen visions designed to comfort the saints being oppressed by their enemies. God has taken notice of their suffering, and while persecution may temporarily be their lot, victory will ultimately be theirs! Even those who suffer death at the hands of their enemies are promised salvation and the blessing of being in the presence and care of the Lord. But nothing can totally stop their witness, and nothing can keep God from remaining true to His covenant with them!
OUTLINE
I. MEASURING THE TEMPLE OF GOD (1-2) A. THE COMMAND TO MEASURE THE TEMPLE AND ITS OCCUPANTS (1) 1. John is given a reed like a measuring rod 2. Told to measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship there B. THE COMMAND NOT TO MEASURE THE OUTER COURT (2) 1. Told not to measure the court outside the temple 2. For it has been given to the Gentiles, who will tread the holy city under foot forty-two months II. THE TWO WITNESSES (3-14) A. PROPHESYING FOR 1260 DAYS (3-6) 1. Two witnesses given power to prophesy, clothed in sackcloth 2. Identified as the two olive trees and two lampstands standing before God 3. Those trying to harm them are devoured by fire from their mouths 4. Having power: a. To shut heaven so no rain falls during their prophesying b. To turn water to blood c. To strike the earth with plagues as they desire B. KILLED AND DEAD FOR THREE AND A HALF DAYS (7-10) 1. Their testimony finished, the beast will kill them a. The beast that ascends from the bottomless pit b. Who will make war against them and overcome them 2. Their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city
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a. Spiritually called Sodom and Egypt b. Where our Lord was crucified 3. The peoples, tribes, tongues, and nation who dwell on the earth a. Will see their bodies three and a half days b. Will not allow them to be put into graves c. Will rejoice over them, make merry, and exchange gifts, because the two prophets had tormented those who dwell on the earth C. RAISED AND ASCENDED TO HEAVEN (11-14) 1. After three and a half days, the breath of life from God entered them 2. They stood, and great fear fell on those who saw them 3. A loud voice from heaven tells them to Come up here 4. They ascend to heaven in a cloud as their enemies saw them 5. In that same hour there was an earthquake a. A tenth of the city fell b. Seven thousand men were killed c. The rest were afraid and gave glory to the God of heaven 6. The second woe is past; the third woe is coming quickly III. THE SEVENTH TRUMPET: THE KINGDOM PROCLAIMED (15-19) A. VICTORY PROCLAIMED (15) 1. The seventh angel sounded his trumpet and there were loud voices in heaven 2. Saying, The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever! B. THE TWENTY-FOUR ELDERS WORSHIP GOD (16-18) 1. The elders fell on their faces and worshiped God 2. Giving thanks to the Lord God Almighty, the One who is and who was and who is to come 3. Because He has taken His great power and reigned 4. The nations were angry, and His wrath has come 5. The time has come a. That the dead should be judged b. That His servants the prophets, the saints, and those who fear His name, should be rewarded c. That He should destroy those who destroy the earth C. THE TEMPLE OF GOD OPENED IN HEAVEN (19) 1. The temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple 2. There were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - Measuring the temple of God (1-2) - The two witnesses (3-14) - The seventh trumpet: the kingdom proclaimed (15-19)
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2) What was John given and told to measure? (1) - A reed like a measuring rod; the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship there 3) What was he told to leave out? Why? (2) - The court outside the temple - It has been given to the Gentiles who will tread the holy city underfoot for forty-two months 4) What were the two witnesses to do? (3) - Prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth 5) How are they identified? (4) - As the two olive trees and two lampstands standing before God 6) What happens to those who try to harm them during this time of prophesying? (5) - They are devoured by fire from their mouth 7) What power do these two witnesses have? (6) - To shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy - To turn water to blood - To strike the earth with plagues, as often as they desire 8) What will happen when they finish their testimony? (7) - The beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war with them and kill them 9) Where will their dead bodies lie? (8) - In the street of the great city spiritually called Sodom and Egypt, where Jesus was crucified 10) How long will people see their dead bodies? (9) - Three and a half days 11) How will those on the earth react to their deaths? Why? (10) - They will rejoice, make merry, exchange gifts - Because the two prophets had tormented them 12) What happened to the two witnesses after three and a half days? (11-12) - The breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet - A loud voice from heaven called them to come up and they ascended to heaven in a cloud 13) What happened in that same hour? (13) - A great earthquake, in which a tenth of the city fell and seven thousand men were killed - The rest were afraid and gave glory to God 14) What was heard when the seventh angel sounded his trumpet? (15) - Loud voices in heaven saying The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever! 15) What did the twenty-four elders do? (16)
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- Fell on their faces and worshiped God 16) For what did they give thanks? (17) - The Lord God Almighty took His great power and reigned 17) As expressed in their praise, what had come? (18) - His wrath - The time of the dead, that they should be judged - That He should reward His servants the prophets and the saints - That He should destroy those who destroy the earth 18) What was then opened in heaven, and what was seen in it? (19) - The temple of God; the ark of the covenant 19) What then followed? (19) - Lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail
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Chapter Twelve
1) To note the primary force behind the persecution that was about to come upon the early Christians 2) To appreciate why the persecution of the early church was so intense
SUMMARY
With this chapter we learn that Satan was the primary force behind the persecution that was about to befall God's people. We are told of his failed attempt to prevent the male Child from being born and assuming His rightful place of authority as ruler of the nations (1-6). An effort to usurp that authority by waging war in heaven is thwarted, resulting in the devil and his angels being cast to earth. That prompts a loud voice in heaven to proclaim that salvation, strength, the kingdom of God and the power of His Christ has come. Because the accuser (i.e., the devil) has been cast down, those in heaven who overcame by the blood of Jesus and their testimony, and who did not love their lives to the death, could rejoice. But woe is proclaimed to those on the earth, because now the devil has come down to them and he knows his time is short (7-12). At first the dragon's efforts are directed toward the woman who gave birth to the child. However, she is given wings to fly to her place in the wilderness where she is nourished for a time, times, and half a time (1,260 days, cf. v.6). Even the earth helped the woman, so enraging the dragon that he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, identified as those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ (13-17). While the identities of the male child and the dragon are rather evident, who is the woman and the rest of her offspring? I suggest the woman represents the spirit of faithfulness in God's messianic community (perhaps best exemplified by Mary) who kept covenant with God. Called the daughter of Zion in prophecy (cf. Mic 4:10; 5:2ff; Isa 66:7ff), she produced not only Christ, but His disciples as well (her offspring, 12:17). Like the temple of God representing the inner spirit of the church which cannot be harmed (cf. 11:1), the spirit of faithfulness cannot be destroyed by Satan. But just as the holy city being trod under foot for forty-months represented the outward persecution of the church (cf. 11:2), so the devil would persecute the woman's offspring, i.e., the disciples who were still on the earth. Thus the chapter reveals why a period of great tribulation was about to come upon Christians (cf. 2:10). Satan was frustrated by being thwarted at every turn. Cast down to the earth, he would attempt to destroy the disciples of Jesus. The instruments he would use are introduced in the next chapter.
OUTLINE
I. THE WOMAN, THE CHILD, AND THE DRAGON (1-6)
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A. THE WOMAN WITH CHILD (1-2) 1. A great sign appeared in heaven, in which woman is clothed: a. With the sun b. With the moon under her feet c. A garland of twelve stars on her head 2. Being with child, she cried out in labor and pain to give birth B. THE DRAGON READY TO DEVOUR THE CHILD (3-4) 1. Another great sign appeared in heaven: a great, fiery red dragon a. With seven heads, ten horns, seven diadems on the heads b. With a tail which threw a third of the stars of heaven to the earth 2. Standing before the woman, ready to devour the child as soon as it is born C. THE OUTCOME OF THE CHILD AND THE WOMAN (5-6) 1. The male child is born a. Who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron b. Who was caught up to God and His throne 2. The woman fled into the wilderness a. Where she has a place prepared by God b. Where she is fed for 1,260 days II. SATAN THROWN OUT OF HEAVEN (7-12) A. A WAR IN HEAVEN (7-9) 1. Between Michael and his angels, and the dragon and his angels 2. The dragon and his angels did not prevail a. No place was found for them in heaven any longer b. The dragon and his angels were cast to the earth c. The dragon identified 1) That serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan 2) Who deceives the whole world B. A LOUD VOICE IN HEAVEN (10-12) 1. Proclaiming victory for Christ and His brethren a. Salvation, strength, the kingdom of God, and the power of Christ have come 1) For the accuser of the brethren has been cast down 2) Who had accused them before God day and night b. How the brethren overcame the accuser: 1) By the blood of the Lamb 2) By the word of their testimony 3) They did not love their lives to the death 2. A call to rejoice, along with a warning a. For those in heaven, rejoice! b. For the inhabitants of the earth and sea, woe! 1) For the devil has come down to them having great wrath 2) Knowing that he has only a short time
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III. THE FAILED ATTEMPT TO PERSECUTE THE WOMAN (13-17) A. THE DRAGON'S ATTEMPT TO PERSECUTE THE WOMAN (13-16) 1. Cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male child 2. But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle a. That she might fly into the wilderness to her place b. Where she is nourished for a time, times, and half a time c. Safe from the presence of the serpent 3. The serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman a. Hoping to cause her to be carried away b. But the earth helped the woman by opening its mouth and swallowing up the flood B. THE DRAGON'S INTENT TO PERSECUTE HER OFFSPRING (17) 1. Enraged with the woman he cannot reach, the dragon goes to make war with the rest of her offspring 2. The rest of her offspring identified: a. Those who keep the commandments of God b. Those who have the testimony of Jesus Christ

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The woman, the child, and the dragon (1-6) - Satan thrown out of heaven (7-12) - The failed attempt to persecute the woman (13-17) 2) What great sign appeared in heaven? (1-2) - A woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a garland of twelve stars - Being with child, she cried out in labor and in pain to give birth 3) What other sign then appeared in heaven (3-4) - A great fiery read dragon, with seven heads, ten horns, and seven diadems on his heads - Whose tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth - Who stood before the woman, ready to devour her child as soon as it was born 4) What child was born? What happened to the child? (5) - A male child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron - He was caught up to God and His throne 5) What happened to the woman? (6) - She fled to the wilderness, where she had a place prepared by God - She was fed for 1,260 days 6) What happened in heaven? Who did not prevail? (7-8) - War broke out between Michael and his angels and the dragon and his angels - The dragon and his angels
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7) Who was this dragon? What was done with him and his angels? (9) - The serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world - They were cast out of heaven 8) What did a loud voice proclaim in heaven about Christ and the dragon? (10) - Salvation, strength, the kingdom of God, and the power of His Christ has come - The accuser of our brethren, who accused them before God day and night, has been cast down 9) How had the brethren overcome the dragon? (11) - By the blood of the Lamb - By the word of their testimony - By not loving their lives to the death 10) What are those who dwell in heaven told? (12) - To rejoice 11) Why was woe proclaimed to the inhabitants of the earth and sea? (12) - For the devil with great wrath has come down to them - For he knows he only has a short time 12) Cast down to the earth, who did the dragon persecute next? (13) - The woman who gave birth to the male child 13) What was given the woman? Why? (14) - Two wings of a great eagle - To fly into the wilderness to her place, from the presence of the serpent 14) How long was she nourished? (14) - A time, times, and a half of time 15) How did the serpent try to persecute the woman? Who helped her? (15-16) - By spewing water out of his mouth, to carry her away by the flood - The earth, by opening its mouth and swallowing up the flood 16) Enraged by his inability to persecute the woman, who did the dragon go to make war with next? (17) - The rest of her offspring - Those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ
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Chapter Thirteen
1) To notice two beasts Satan would use in making war against the saints 2) To offer an explanation consistent with the context in which the Revelation was written as to the identity of the two beasts
SUMMARY
This chapter reveals two agents the dragon (Satan) would use in carrying out his war against the people of God. The first is the beast from the sea. Described by John as having seven heads and ten horns, there were ten crowns on his horns and on his heads a blasphemous name. The beast was like a leopard, with feet like a bear and a mouth like a lion. One of the heads of the beast appeared mortally wounded, but was healed. To this beast the dragon gave his power, his throne, and great authority, and all the world marveled and worshiped the beast. Given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies against God, His name, His tabernacle, and those dwelling in heaven, the beast was also granted to make war against the saints for forty-two months. All on the earth worshiped him, except those whose names were in the Lamb's Book of Life. With this description of the beast and his activities, John gives a word of caution to the saints (1-10). John then saw the beast from the land, having two horns like a lamb and speaking like a dragon. With the same authority as the first beast, this second beast causes all to worship the first by deceiving them with great signs. Telling them to make an image to the first beast, he was given power to make the image speak and put to death those who would not worship it. This second beast also causes all to receive a mark on their right hands or on their forehead, without which they cannot buy or sell. John then adds a word of wisdom, in which he tells those with understanding to calculate the number of the beast, which is the number of a man: 666 (11-18). The identity of the first beast from the sea becomes clearer when we get to chapter seventeen. I agree with those who say this beast from the sea is the Roman Empire, especially as personified in its persecuting emperors. The beast from the earth or land may represent the Roman Concilia, a committee that was set up in Asia Minor where the seven churches were located to enforce emperor worship at the time the Revelation was given (Summers). The significance of 666 should not be underestimated, as John encourages those with understanding to calculate the number. Unfortunately, through many ingenuous and fanciful ways people have come up with the number to represent just about anyone (e.g., Nero, the Pope, Hitler). Keeping the context of the Revelation and its time in view, the number 666 may refer to Lateinos (which in Greek can be
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calculated to 666); and in turn points to the ruler of the Latin or Roman empire (Schaff, History Of The Christian Church, Vol. 1, p. 177). Taken more symbolically, the number may simply signify evil raised to its highest power (Hailey, Summers) as was the case in emperors like Nero and Domitian.
OUTLINE
I. THE BEAST FROM THE SEA (1-10) A. THE BEAST DESCRIBED (1-3a) 1. Seen by John as rising up out of the sea 2. Having seven heads, ten horns, with ten crowns on his horns, and on his heads a blasphemous name 3. Like a leopard with feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion 4. His power, throne, and great authority given him by the dragon 5. One of his heads was mortally wounded, but healed B. THE ACTIVITY INVOLVING THE BEAST (3b-8) 1. All the world marveled and followed the beast a. Worshipping the dragon who gave authority to the beast b. Worshipping the beast because of his apparent invincibility 2. What the beast was given a. A mouth speaking great things and blasphemies b. Authority to continue (make war) for forty-two months 3. With this authority: a. He blasphemed God, His name, His tabernacle, and those dwelling in heaven b. He was granted to make war with the saints and overcome them c. He was given authority over every tribe, tongue, and nation d. All who dwell on earth would worship him, unless their names are in the Book of Life of the Lamb C. A NOTE OF CAUTION (9-10) 1. If anyone has an ear, let him hear 2. He who leads into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be killed with the sword 3. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints II. THE BEAST FROM THE LAND (11-18) A. THIS BEAST DESCRIBED (11) 1. Seen by John as coming up out of the earth 2. With two horns like a lamb, but speaking like a dragon B. THE ACTIVITY OF THIS BEAST (12-17) 1. He exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence 2. He causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast a. Performing great signs, making even fire come down from heaven b. Deceiving the world by the signs 3. He tells the world to make an image to the first beast
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a. To which he is granted power to give breath b. So the image could both speak and cause those who do not worship it to be killed 4. He causes all to receive a mark on the right hand or on their foreheads a. Without which none can buy or sell b. Which is the name of the beast, or the number of his name C. A NOTE OF WISDOM (18) 1. Let those with understanding calculate the number of the beast 2. For it is the number of a man: His number is 666

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The beast from the sea (1-10) - The beast from the land (11-18) 2) What physical characteristics of the beast from the sea are mentioned by John? (1-3) - Having seven heads, ten horns upon which are ten crowns - Upon his heads a blasphemous name - Like a leopard, with feet like a bear and a mouth like a lion - One of the heads with a mortal wound that had been healed 3) What did the dragon give the beast from the sea? (2) - His power, his throne, and great authority 4) How did the world respond to the beast from the sea? (3-4) - They marveled and followed the beast - They worshiped the beast 5) What else was given to the beast from the sea? (5) - A mouth speaking great things and blasphemies - Authority to continue (make war) for forty-two months 6) When he opened his mouth, what did the beast blaspheme? (6) - God's name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven 7) What was granted to the beast from the sea? (7) - To make war with the saints and to overcome them - Authority over every tribe, tongue, and nation 8) Who would worship this beast from the sea? (8) - All who dwell on the earth, except those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life 9) What note of caution is given at this point? (9-10) - If anyone has an ear, let him hear - He who leads into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be killed with the sword - Here is the patience and faith of the saints
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10) What were the physical characteristics of the beast from the land? (11) - Had two horns like a lamb, and spoke like a dragon 11) What did the beast from the land do? (12-14) - Exercise all the authority of the first beast in his presence - Cause the earth and those in it to worship the first beast - Perform great signs, even making fire come down from heaven - Deceives those on the earth by the signs, telling them to make an image to the first beast 12) What was granted to the beast from the land? (15) - Power to give breath to the image of the first beast - So that the image would both speak and cause those who would not worship it to be killed 13) What did the beast from the land require all to receive? Why? (16-17) - A mark on their right hand or on their foreheads - So no one could buy or sell unless they had the mark or name of the beast, or the number of its name 14) What note of wisdom is given at this point? (18) - Let those with understanding calculate the number of the beast - It is the number of a man; his number is 666
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Chapter Fourteen
1) To examine the series of scenes depicted in this chapter 2) To appreciate how they would have provided comfort to the Christians of John's day
SUMMARY
Following the troubling description of the beasts in the previous chapter, this chapter provides scenes which appear designed to reassure the saints to remain faithful to God. First there is the Lamb and 144,000 having the Father's name written on their foreheads, standing on Mount Zion. Singing a new song before the throne, the four living creatures, and the elders, the great company is described as male virgins, redeemed from the earth as firstfruits to God and to the Lamb. They follow the Lamb wherever He goes, and are without fault before the throne of God (1-5). I suggest this is a picture of the saints triumphant in heaven. Both the number and descriptive terms are symbolic, illustrating the blessedness promised for those who will persevere in their faithfulness to God. Next comes three angels and their proclamations. The first angel and his proclamation may indicate that the gospel will continue to be spread (despite the efforts of the dragon and the beasts). People should therefore fear God and worship Him (not Caesar), for the hour of God's judgment has come (67). The proclamation of the second angel announces the fall of Babylon, described later in great detail (8). The third angel proclaims the terrible judgment and eternal torment to befall those who worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark (9-11). The three proclamations are then followed by an explanation that the patience of the saints consists of keeping the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, with a voice from heaven telling John to write of the blessedness of those who die in the Lord (12-13). The chapter concludes with a depiction of two harvests. The first shows the Son of Man on a white cloud reaping the harvest of the earth (14-16). The second depicts an angel reaping the grapes of the vine of the earth, which are then thrown into the great winepress of the wrath of God, producing a river of blood almost two hundred miles long (17-20). These two harvests may be different ways of describing the same judgment about to come upon those who follow the beast, or the first may depict that Jesus will safely harvest His own while God's wrath is being poured out on His enemies. I do not believe either represents that which will occur when Jesus comes at the end of time (though they may certainly foreshadow that great event). Instead, like the angelic proclamations they reassured the Christians of John's day that God's hour of judgment was soon to come upon their enemies (e.g., the Roman empire).
OUTLINE
I. THE 144,000 ON MOUNT ZION (1-5)
Mark A. Copeland
A. STANDING WITH THE LAMB (1) 1. 144,000 together with the Lamb on Mount Zion 2. With the Father's name written on their foreheads B. SINGING A NEW SONG (2-3) 1. John heard a voice from heaven a. Like the voice of many waters b. Like the voice of loud thunder 2. John heard the sound of harpists playing their harps 3. The 144,000 sang a new song a. Before the throne, the four living creatures and the elders b. Which none could learn except the 144,000 redeemed from the earth C. DESCRIBED MORE FULLY (4-5) 1. They are virgins, who had not defiled themselves with women 2. They follow the Lamb wherever He goes 3. They were redeemed from among men, the firstfruits to God and to the Lamb 4. They are without fault before the throne of God, with no guile in their mouths II. THREE ANGELIC PROCLAMATIONS (6-13) A. THE FIRST PROCLAMATION (6-7) 1. By an angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel a. To preach to those who dwell on the earth b. To every nation, tribe, tongue, and people 2. Saying with a loud voice... a. Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come b. Worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water B. THE SECOND PROCLAMATION (8) 1. By another angel which followed the first 2. Saying... a. Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city b. Because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication C. THE THIRD PROCLAMATION (9-11) 1. By a third angel which followed the first two 2. Saying with a loud voice... a. If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand... b. He himself shall also drink of the of wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation c. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone... 1) In the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb 2) The smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever 3) They have no rest day or night -- Who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name
Mark A. Copeland
D. A WORD OF WISDOM AND A BEATITUDE (12-13) 1. Here is the patience of the saints: those who keep... a. The commandments of God b. The faith of Jesus 2. A voice from heaven saying... a. Write: 'Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. b. Yes, says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them. III. THE TWO HARVESTS (14-20) A. REAPING THE EARTH'S HARVEST (14-16) 1. The Son of Man sitting on a white cloud a. With a golden crown on His head b. With a sharp sickle in His hand 2. An angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice... a. Thrust in Your sickle and reap b. For the time has come for You to reap, for the harvest of the earth is ripe 3. He who sat on a cloud thrust in His sickle on the earth, and it was reaped B. REAPING THE GRAPES OF WRATH (17-20) 1. An angel came out of the temple in heaven, also having a sharp sickle 2. Another angel, having power over fire, cried with a loud voice to the angel with the sickle... a. Thrust in your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of vine of the earth b. For her grapes are fully ripe 3. So the angel... a. Thrust his sickle into the earth b. Gathered the vine of the earth c. Threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God 4. The winepress was trampled outside the city a. Blood came out of the winepress b. Up to the horses' bridles, for 1600 furlongs

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The 144,000 on Mount Zion (1-5) - Three angelic proclamations (6-13) - The two harvests (14-20) 2) What does John see standing on Mount Zion? (1) - The Lamb and 144,000 with His Father's name on their foreheads 3) What does John hear? (2) - A voice from heaven, like that of many waters and loud thunder - The sound of harpists playing their harps
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4) What were the 144,000 singing, and where? (3) - A new song - Before the throne, the four living creatures and the elders 5) Who could learn the song? (3) - Only the 144,000 who were redeemed from the earth 6) How are the 144,000 described? (4-5) - They were not defiled with women, i.e., they were virgins - They follow the Lamb wherever He goes - Redeemed from among men, they were the firstfruits to God and to the Lamb - In their mouth was no guile, for they are without fault before the throne of God 7) What did the first of three angels have? What did it say? (6-7) - The everlasting gospel to preach to those on the earth - Fear God and give Him glory, for the time of His judgment has come; worship Him 8) What did the second angel say? (8) - Babylon is fallen, because she made the nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication 9) What did the third angel say? (9-11) - Those who worship the beast and his image, and receives the mark on his forehead or on his hand, shall drink of the wrath of God and be tormented with fire and brimstone forever 10) What does John say is the patience of the saints? (12) - Those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus 11) What did a voice from heaven say? What did the Spirit say? (13) - Write: 'Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now.' - Yes, that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them. 12) In the first of two harvests, who did the harvesting and what was reaped? (14-16) - One like the Son of Man sitting on a white cloud, with a golden crown on His head and a sharp sickle in His hand - The earth 13) In the second harvest, who did the harvesting and what was reaped? (17-18) - An angel which came out of the temple which is heaven - The vine grapes of the earth 14) What was done with the grapes? What was produced? (19-20) - They were thrown into the great winepress of the wrath of God and trampled - Blood came out of the winepress, up to the bridles of horses and for 1600 furlongs
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Chapter Fifteen
1) To see how the stage is set for the final outpouring of God's wrath on the beast and upon those who followed him 2) To note the comforting scene of those victorious over the beast praising God for His righteous judgment
SUMMARY
With the main adversaries identified (the dragon, the sea beast, the land beast, and Babylon) and the people of God reassured of ultimate victory (chs. 12-14), the full out-pouring of God's wrath is about to be shown. Chapter fifteen is a prelude to the seven bowls of wrath described in the next chapter. We are introduced to seven angels who have the seven last plagues in which the wrath of God is complete (1). Before the seven angels are given their bowls, however, John sees those victorious over the beast standing on a fiery sea of glass having harps of God. Singing the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb, they praise God for His righteous judgments (2-4). This scene is reminiscent of the Israelites praising God for their victory over the Egyptians after crossing the Red Sea (cf. Exo 14:3015:21). The seven angels with the seven plagues then proceeded out of the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven, clothed in bright linen and chests girded with gold bands. One of the four living creatures gave them seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God. At that point the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and His power, preventing anyone from entering the temple until the seven plagues were completed (5-8). Perhaps this scene was designed to convey that the time of God's longsuffering was over, and the outpouring of His wrath was the result of fulfilling the covenant He had with His people. God is about to avenge His saints!
OUTLINE
I. PRELUDE TO THE SEVEN BOWLS OF WRATH (1-4) A. A GREAT AND MARVELOUS SIGN IN HEAVEN (1-2) 1. John sees seven angels a. Having the seven last plagues b. In which the wrath of God is complete 2. John sees a sea of glass mingled with fire, and a great multitude a. It is those who have the victory over the beast, his image, his mark, and the number of his name b. They are standing on the sea of glass, with harps of God
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B. SINGING THE SONG OF MOSES AND OF THE LAMB (3-4) 1. The multitude is singing the song of Moses, and the song of the Lamb 2. A song which praises the Lord God Almighty, King of the saints a. For His great and marvelous works b. For the truth and justice of His ways c. For He is worthy of reverence and glory d. And all nations shall come and worship before Him, for the manifestations of His judgments II. SEVEN ANGELS AND SEVEN BOWLS OF WRATH (5-8) A. THE SEVEN ANGELS (5-6) 1. The temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven is opened 2. Out come the seven angels having the seven plagues a. Clothed in pure bright linen b. Having their chests girded with golden bands B. THE SEVEN GOLDEN BOWLS (7-8) 1. One of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels: a. Seven golden bowls b. Full of the wrath of God who lives forever 2. The temple was filled with smoke a. From the glory of God and from His power b. No one was able to enter the temple until the seven plagues were completed

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - Prelude to the seven bowls of wrath (1-4) - Seven angels and seven bowls of wrath (5-8) 2) What great and marvelous sign did John see in heaven? (1) - Seven angels having the seven last plagues, in which the wrath of God is complete 3) Who was standing on a sea of glass mingled with fire? What were they doing? (2-3) - Those who have the victory over the beast, his image, mark, and number of his name - Singing the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb 4) For what were they praising the Lord God Almighty? (3-4) - His great and marvelous works - His just and true ways - His holiness - The manifestation of His judgments 5) What did John see after these things? (5-6) - The temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven opened - Out of which came the seven angels with the seven plagues
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6) What did one of the four living creatures give to the seven angels? (7) - Seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God 7) What happened to the temple at that point? (8) - It was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power - Preventing anyone from entering the temple till the seven plagues were completed
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Chapter Sixteen
1) To observe what happens when the seven bowls of wrath are poured out 2) To note upon whom these bowls are poured, and why
SUMMARY
In this chapter the full outpouring of wrath upon the enemies of God is depicted. The seven angels with the seven bowls pour out the seven last plagues (15:1). Notice that these are not partial judgments, as with the seven trumpets described earlier (chs. 8-11). In the pouring out of these plagues the wrath of God is complete (15:1). In the first four bowls, God's wrath is poured out on the earth, the sea, the rivers and springs, and the sun. Affected by these plagues are those who had the mark of the beast and who worshiped his image. God's judgment upon them is proclaimed righteous and just, because they had been guilty of shedding the blood of saints and prophets. Amazingly, their response is to blaspheme God, and refuse to repent and give Him glory (1-9). The fifth bowl is poured out on the throne of the beast and his kingdom, resulting in darkness. The painful suffering of the wicked continue, as does their blasphemy and refusal to repent of their deeds (10-11). The sixth bowl is poured out on the river Euphrates, preparing the way for the kings from the east. John then saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet. Described as the spirits of demons, they perform signs and gather the kings of the earth to the place called Armageddon, for the battle of the great day of God. At this point Jesus speaks both a warning and blessing, for those who watch and keep their garments will be blessed, as He is coming as a thief (12-16). The seventh bowl is poured out and a loud voice from the temple in heaven cries out, It is done! The declaration is followed by thunderings, lightnings, and a great earthquake. The great city was divided into three parts, and cities of the nations fell. Great Babylon was remembered by God, to give her the cup of the wine of His wrath. Every island fled away, the mountains were not found, and great hail from heaven fell upon men. The latter caused men to blaspheme God (17-21). Chapters 17-19 will elaborate upon the judgments upon the beast, the false prophet, and Babylon, identifying them in more detail, and describing their ultimate downfall. The import of chapter 16 appears to be that the judgments upon them will be final and just, for even with these outpourings of wrath there is no willingness on the part of the beast and those who worship him to repent of their evil deeds!
OUTLINE
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I. THE PRONOUNCEMENT (1) A. BY A LOUD VOICE FROM THE TEMPLE (1a) B. TO THE SEVEN ANGELS TO POUR OUT THE BOWLS OF WRATH (1b) II. THE SEVEN BOWLS OF WRATH (2-21) A. FIRST BOWL: TERRIBLE SORES (2) 1. The bowl is poured out upon the earth 2. Loathsome and foul sores came upon those who had the mark of the beast and who worshipped his image B. SECOND BOWL: SEA OF BLOOD (3) 1. The bowl is poured out on the sea, turning it to the blood of a dead man 2. Every living creature in the sea died C. THIRD BOWL: RIVERS AND SPRINGS OF BLOOD (4-7) 1. The bowl is poured out on the rivers and springs, turning them to blood 2. The angel of the waters declares God's justice a. His judgments are righteous b. For it is just due upon those who shed the blood of saints and prophets 3. Another voice from the altar also proclaims God's judgments as true and righteous D. FOURTH BOWL: MEN SCORCHED (8-9) 1. The bowl is poured out on the sun, giving the fourth angel power to scorch men with fire 2. Men were scorched with great heat a. They blasphemed the name of God who had power over these plagues b. They did not repent or give glory to Him E. FIFTH BOWL: PAIN AND DARKNESS (10-11) 1. The bowl is poured out on the throne of the beast, his kingdom became full of darkness 2. Men gnawed their tongues because of the pain a. They blasphemed God b. They did not repent F. SIXTH BOWL: KINGDOMS GATHERED AT ARMAGEDDON (12-16) 1. The bowl is poured out on the great river Euphrates a. Its water was dried up b. Preparing the way for the kings of the east 2. Three unclean spirits like frogs appear a. Out of the mouths of the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet b. Which are spirits of demons, performing signs c. Who gather the kings of the earth to the battle of that great day of God Almighty 3. Jesus offers both a warning and a blessing a. He is coming as a thief b. Blessed is he who watches and keeps his garments, lest he walks naked and others see his shame
Mark A. Copeland
4. The unclean spirits gather the kings of the earth to the place called Armageddon G. SEVENTH BOWL: GREAT EARTHQUAKE; THE GREAT CITY DIVIDED AND BABYLON REMEMBERED; CATACLYSMIC EVENTS (17-21) 1. The bowl is poured out on the air a. Followed by a loud voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, declaring, It is done! b. There were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and a mighty earthquake unlike any before 2. The great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell 3. Great Babylon was remembered, to receive the cup of the wine of the fierceness of God's wrath 4. Great cataclysmic events occur a. Every island fled away and the mountains were not found b. Great hail fell upon men, and they blasphemed God because of the hail

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The pronouncement (1) - The seven bowls of wrath (2-21) 2) What did a loud voice from the temple say to seven angels? (1) - Go and pour out the bowls of the wrath of God on the earth 3) Upon what was the first bowl poured out? What happened? (2) - The earth; foul and loathsome sores came upon those who had the mark of the beast and worshiped his image 4) Upon what was the second bowl poured out? What happened? (3) - The sea; it became blood as of a dead man; every living creature in the sea died 5) Upon what was the third bowl poured out? What happened? (4) - The rivers and springs of water; they became blood 6) Why did the angel of the waters proclaim God's judgments as just? (5-6) - Because they had shed the blood of saints and prophets 7) Upon what was the fourth bowl poured out? What happened? (8-9) - On the sun; men were scorched with great heat 8) Despite these judgments, how did men respond? (9) - They blasphemed the name of God, and did not repent and give God glory 9) Upon what was the fifth bowl poured out? What happened? (10) - On the throne of the beast; his kingdom became full of darkness, and people gnawed their tongues because of the pain 10) What again is said about the response to these judgments? (11)
Mark A. Copeland
- They blasphemed God because of their sores and pain, and did not repent of their deeds 11) Upon what was the sixth bowl poured out? What happened? (12) - On the river Euphrates; it was dried up, so the way of the kings from the east might be prepared 12) What did John see next? (13) - Three unclean spirits like frogs coming of the mouths of the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet 13) What were these, and what was their mission? (14) - Spirits of demons, performing great signs - To gather the kings of the earth to the battle of the great day of God Almighty 14) What warning and beatitude did Jesus give at this point? (15) - Behold, I am coming as a thief - Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame 15) Where were the kings of the earth gathered? (16) - To the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon 16) Upon what was the seventh bowl poured out? What happened? (17) - The air; a loud voice from the temple of heaven, from the throne, proclaimed, It is done! 17) What then occurred? (18-21) - There were noises, thunderings, lightnings, a mighty earthquake - The great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell - Great Babylon was remembered before God, to give her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath - Every island fled away, and the mountains were not found - Great hail from heaven fell upon men 18) How did people respond to the plague of the hail? (21) - They blasphemed God, because the plague was exceedingly great
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Chapter Seventeen
1) To appreciate the importance of this chapter in interpreting the book of Revelation 2) To note the significance of the fact that the beast is not when the Revelation was given 3) To ascertain the identity of the great harlot and the scarlet beast
SUMMARY
This is a key chapter, for the mystery of the great harlot and the beast is explained, and one's understanding of this chapter will affect their interpretation of the rest of the book. John is carried away into the wilderness where he is shown the great harlot Babylon, with whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication and the inhabitants of the earth were drunk with the wine of her fornication. She is seen sitting on a scarlet beast with seven heads and ten horns. She is dressed in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, precious stones and pearls. In her hand is a gold cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. On her forehead is written: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH Seeing the woman drunk with the blood of the saints (Old Testament saints?) and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus, John marvels with great amazement (1-6). The angel then proceeds to tell John the mystery of the woman and the beast that carries her. He begins with the beast first, described as one who was, is not, and is about to come (NASB). This beast will ascend out of the bottomless pit (cf. Re 11:7) and go to perdition (cf. Re 19:20). The seven heads of the beast represent seven mountains upon which the woman sits. There are seven kings, five of whom have fallen, one is, and the other has yet to come. The beast is then described as the eighth king, though of the seven. The ten horns represent ten kings who give their power and authority to the beast, make war against the Lamb, and eventually turn on the harlot herself. The harlot is finally described as that great city (cf. Re 11:8;14:8; 16:19) which reigns over the kings of the earth (7-18). As indicated in the introductory material, my understanding of this book focuses on the fact that John is given this revelation at a time when the beast is not (Re 17:8,11). Whatever explanation one gives for the beast, it did not exist at the time of the Revelation! It had existed, and was about to come, but at the time John was shown the vision, it is not.
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One plausible explanation is that the seven (actually eight) kings represent Roman emperors, starting with Augustus. This would make Nero the fifth king, whose death in 68 A.D. left the empire in an uproar and may be the deadly wound referred to Re 13:3,12,14. Discounting Galba, Otho, and Vitellius whose insignificant reigns were short-lived during the turmoil, the sixth king (one is) would be Vespasian who restored order to the empire. This would make Titus the seventh emperor and Domitian the eighth. The beast that was, and is not, and will ascend therefore depicts the persecuting Roman emperor, seen first in the person of Nero (the beast who was) and later in the person of Domitian (the beast who will ascend). The ten kings who gave their power and authority to the beast appear to be vassal kings that supported the emperor in times of persecution. The identity of the harlot is still an open question in my own mind. Many understand her to represent the commercial and immoral spirit of Rome (not the literal city itself, for she was never destroyed as described in later chapters) which was instrumental in opposing the people of God. There is much to be said for this view. Re 17:2,18; 18:3,9,11 certainly seem to fit Rome. However, I lean toward the view that the harlot represents Jerusalem, often supported in her persecution of the church by the Roman empire but then destroyed herself by Rome in A.D. 70. It is interesting to compare such verses as Re 17:6; 18:20,24; 19:2 with Jesus' statements in Mt 23:31-39. As foretold by Jesus in both Matthew and Revelation, God was about to avenge His apostles and prophets on this city who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her (Re 18:20; Mt 23:37). While the identity of the beast, the kings, and the harlot might be unclear in the minds of some, the outcome of the conflict described in this chapter is certain. In what may be described as the theme of this book, we are told that: These will make war with Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful. (Re 17:14) Comforting words indeed to those early Christians who were persecuted by both the Roman emperor and unbelieving Jerusalem!
OUTLINE
I. THE SCARLET WOMAN AND THE SCARLET BEAST (1-6) A. JOHN IS APPROACHED BY AN ANGEL (1-2) 1. One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls 2. Who offers to show him the judgment of the great harlot a. Which sits on many waters b. With whom kings of the earth have committed fornication c. With whom inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication B. JOHN IS SHOWN THE SCARLET WOMAN ON THE SCARLET BEAST (3-6) 1. He is carried away by the angel in the Spirit into the wilderness 2. There he sees a woman sitting on a scarlet beast a. The scarlet beast
Mark A. Copeland
1) Full of names of blasphemy 2) Having seven heads and ten horns b. The woman 1) Arrayed in purple and scarlet 2) Adorned with gold, precious stones, and pearls 3) In her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication 4) On her forehead the name written: a) MYSTERY b) BABYLON THE GREAT c) THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH 5) Drunk with: a) The blood of the saints b) The blood of the martyrs of Jesus 3. He marveled with great amazement when he saw her II. THE MYSTERY OF THE WOMAN AND BEAST EXPLAINED (7-18) A. THE ANGEL OFFERS TO EXPLAIN THE MYSTERY (7) 1. Asking John why he marveled 2. Saying that he will tell him the mystery a. Of the woman b. Of the beast with seven heads and ten horns that carries her B. THE BEAST EXPLAINED (8-14) 1. The beast that John saw: a. Was, is not, and will ascend out of the bottomless pit and go to perdition b. Will be marveled by those by those whose names are not written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world when they see it 2. The mind which has wisdom: a. The seven heads are seven mountains upon which the woman sits b. There are also seven kings 1) Five have fallen, one is, the other has yet to come 2) When the seventh comes, he must continue a short time c. The beast that was, and is not, is himself the eighth 1) He is of the seven 2) He is going to perdition (destruction) d. The ten horns are ten kings 1) Who have received no kingdom as yet 2) But receive authority for one hour with the beast 3) Who are of one mind, and give their power and authority to the beast e. These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them 1) For He is Lord of lords and King of kings 2) Those with Him are called, chosen, and faithful C. THE WOMAN EXPLAINED (15-18) 1. The waters upon which she sits are peoples, multitudes, nations and tongues 2. The ten horns (ten kings) on the beast
Mark A. Copeland
a. Will hate the harlot 1) Make her desolate 2) Eat her flesh and burn her with fire b. For God has put it into their hearts to fulfill His purpose 1) For them to be of one mind 2) To give their kingdom to the beast -- Until the words of God are fulfilled 3. The woman John saw is that great city which reigns over the kings of the earth

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The scarlet woman and the scarlet beast (1-6) - The mystery of the woman and the beast explained (7-18) 2) What did the angel tell John he would be shown? (1) - The judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters 3) How does the angel describe this woman? (2) - With whom the kings of the earth committed fornication - The inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication 4) List the description of the woman as seen by John (3-6) - Sitting on a scarlet beast with seven heads and ten horns, full of names of blasphemy - Arrayed in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, precious stones and pearls - A golden cup in her hand, full of abominations the filthiness of her fornication - Written on her forehead: Mystery, Babylon the Great, the Mother of Harlots and of the Abominations of the Earth - Drunk with the blood of the saints and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus 5) What was John's reaction to seeing the woman? (6) - Marveled with great amazement 6) What does the angel offer to tell John? (7) - The mystery of the woman and of the beast that carries her 7) How is the beast described? (8) - He was, is not, and is to come - He will ascend out of the bottomless pit and go to perdition - Those whose names are not written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world will marvel 8) What does the seven heads of the beast represent? (9-10) - Seven mountains on which the woman sits 9) What is said of the seven kings? (10) - Five have fallen, one is, and the other has not yet come - When the seventh king comes, he must continue a short time
Mark A. Copeland
10) What is said of the beast that was and is not? (11) - He will be the eighth king - He is of the seven - He is going to perdition 11) What do the ten horns represent? (12) - Ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet - Who receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast 12) What else is said of the ten kings and the beast? (13-14) - The kings of are of one mind and will give their power and authority to the beast - They will make war with the Lamb 13) Why will the Lamb overcome the beast and the ten kings? (14) - He is Lord of lords and King of kings - Those with Him are called, chosen, and faithful 14) What do the waters upon which the harlot sits represent? (15) - Peoples, multitudes, nations, tongues 15) What will the ten horns (kings) do to the harlot? (16) - Hate the harlot, make her desolate and naked, eat her flesh and burn her with fire 16) Why will they do this? (17) - For God has put it into their hearts to fulfill His purpose and fulfill His words 17) How is the woman finally described? (18) - That great city which reigns over the kings of the earth
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Chapter Eighteen
1) To note the pronouncement and depiction of the fall of Babylon, the great city 2) To observe the reasons why Babylon would receive such terrible judgment 3) To ascertain the identity of Babylon, the great harlot
SUMMARY
In this chapter we find the fall of Babylon the great proclaimed, and the great mourning over her by those in the world. The fall of Babylon is proclaimed by an angel with great authority, who illuminated the earth with his glory. The reasons for her fall include how the nations and kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and how the merchants have become rich through her abundance. Meanwhile, a voice from heaven calls for the people of God to come out of her lest they receive the plagues to come upon her. Her judgment will involve death, mourning, famine, and utter destruction by fire, for it is the Lord God who judges her (1-8). The fall of Babylon is mourned by the kings of the earth who committed fornication with her, and the merchants and sea-traders who had become rich by her. They all cry out Alas, alas, that great city... as they observe her judgment. They bemoan that in just one hour her riches came to nothing and she has become desolate. On the other hand, heaven itself, along with the apostles and prophets, are called to rejoice, because God has avenged them on her (9-20). Finally, a mighty angel throws a large stone into sea to depict with what great violence Babylon will be thrown down. The sounds and sights of music, crafts, even weddings will be gone. The fall of Babylon is justified, for her merchants were great, by her sorcery the nations were deceived, and in her was found the blood of prophets, saints, and all those slain on the earth (21-24). What is this chapter describing? If the date of the book suggested in the introduction is correct (spring, 70 A.D.) , and Jerusalem is indeed the harlot, then this chapter likely refers to the destruction by the Romans in August, 70 A.D. This would be in harmony with 17:16, where those who first supported the harlot eventually turned on her. So it was with Jerusalem, who depended upon the approval of the Roman authorities to persecute the church, and later became the object of Roman persecution herself. Very fitting is the depiction of Jerusalem as a harlot, for she who should have been a great spiritual city had become a great commercial center by virtue of the roads that passed through her between Europe, Asia and Africa. Her spiritual adultery was also manifested by rejecting the many prophets and apostles sent to her (cf. Mt 23:31-39 with Re 17:6; 18:20,24; 19:2).
OUTLINE
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I. THE FALL OF BABYLON PROCLAIMED (1-8) A. BY AN ANGEL FROM HEAVEN (1-3) 1. John sees an angel coming down from heaven a. Having great authority b. Illuminating the earth with his glory 2. The angel cries mightily with a loud voice a. Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen b. She has become... 1) A dwelling place of demons 2) A prison for every foul spirit 3) A cage for every unclean and hated bird c. With her... 1) The nations have drunk of the wine of her fornication 2) The kings of the earth have committed fornication 3) The merchants of the earth have become rich B. BY A VOICE FROM HEAVEN (4-8) 1. Calling God's people to come out of her a. Lest they share in her sins and her plagues b. For her sins have reached to heaven and God has remembered her iniquities 2. Calling for judgment to be rendered her a. Render her just as she rendered them b. Repay her double according to her works c. In the cup she has mixed, mix double for her d. To the degree she glorified herself and lived luxuriously... 1) Give her torment and sorrow 2) For she says in heart that she is a queen and will not see sorrow as a widow e. Her plagues will come in one day... 1) Death, mourning, and famine 2) Utterly burned with fire -- For great is the Lord God who judges her II. THE FALL OF BABYLON MOURNED (9-20) A. BY THE KINGS OF THE EARTH (9-10) 1. Those who committed fornication and lived luxuriously with her 2. They shall weep and lament when they see the smoke of her burning 3. They shall stand afar off for fear of her torment, saying... a. Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! b. For in one hour your judgment has come. B. BY THE MERCHANTS OF THE EARTH (11-17a) 1. They shall weep and mourn over her 2. For no one buys their merchandise anymore 3. All that they longed for, both rich and splendid, they shall find no more 4. The merchants shall stand at a distance for fear of her torment, weeping and wailing... a. Alas, alas, that great city that was clothed in fine linen, purple, and scarlet, and adorned
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with gold and precious stones and pearls! b. For in one hour such great riches came to nothing. C. BY THE TRADERS AND TRAVELERS ON THE SEA (17b-19) 1. They stood at a distance, crying when they saw the smoke of her burning, What is like this great city? 2. Throwing dust on their heads, they cried out, weeping and wailing... a. Alas, alas, that great city, in which all who had ships on the sea became rich by her wealth! b. For in one hour she is made desolate. D. BUT NOT BY THE HOLY APOSTLES AND PROPHETS (20) 1. They are to rejoice over her 2. For God has avenged them on her III. THE FALL OF BABYLON JUSTIFIED (21-24) A. THE FALL OF THE GREAT CITY ILLUSTRATED (21-23a) 1. By a mighty angel... a. Who took a stone like a great millstone and cast it into the sea b. Who then proclaims Thus with violence the great city Babylon shall be thrown down, and shall not be found anymore. 2. Neither shall be heard or seen in her... a. The sound of harpists, musicians, flutists, and trumpeters b. A craftsman of any craft c. The sound of a millstone d. The light of a lamp e. The voice of bridegroom and bride B. THE FALL OF THE GREAT CITY JUSTIFIED (23b-24) 1. For her merchants were the great men of the earth 2. For by her sorcery all the nations were deceived 3. For in her was found the blood of prophets and saints, and of all who slain on the earth

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The fall of Babylon proclaimed (1-8) - The fall of Babylon to be mourned (9-20) - The fall of Babylon justified (21-24) 2) Who proclaims the fall of Babylon? (1-2) - An angel with great authority, whose glory illuminated the earth 3) What is said concerning the nations, kings and merchants in regards to Babylon? (3) - The nations have drunk of the wine of her fornication - The kings have committed fornication with her - The merchants have become rich through the abundance of her luxury
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4) What does a voice from heaven implore the people of God? Why? (4-5) - Come out of her, lest they share in her sins and receive of her plagues - Her sins have reached to heaven and God has remembered her iniquities 5) To what degree will Babylon be judged? (6-7) - Just as she did to others - Double according to her works - To the degree she lived in glory and luxury, she will suffer torment and sorrow 6) What plagues will come to her in one day? Her ultimate end? (8) - Death, mourning, and famine - Utterly burned with fire 7) What first group is described as mourning the fall of Babylon? (9) - The kings of the earth who committed fornication and lived luxuriously with her 8) What will they say as they see the smoke of her burning from a distance? (10) - Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! - For in one hour your judgment has come. 9) What second group is described as mourning the fall of Babylon? Why? (11) - The merchants of the earth - No one buys their merchandise anymore 10) What will they say as they stand afar off, weeping and wailing? (16-17a) - Alas, alas, that great city that was clothed in fine linen, purple, and scarlet, and adorned with great gold and precious stones and pearls! - For in one hour such great riches came to nothing. 11) What third group is described as mourning the fall of Babylon? (17b) - Every shipmaster, all who travel by ship, sailors, and sea-traders 12) What do they say as they see the smoke of her burning? (18-19) - What is like this great city? - Alas, alas, that great city, in which all who had ships on the sea became rich by her wealth! - For in one hour she is made desolate. 13) Who is told to rejoice over the fall of Babylon? Why? (20) - Heaven, and the holy apostles and prophets - For God has avenged them on her 14) What did a mighty angel do and say? (21) - Throw a great millstone into the sea - Thus with violence the great city Babylon shall be thrown down, and shall not be found anymore. 15) What did the angel say would not be seen or heard in Babylon anymore? (22-23a)
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- The sound of harpists, musicians, flutists, and trumpeters - Craftsmen, or the sound of a millstone - The light of a lamp, or the voice of bridegroom and bride 16) What two reasons are given for her downfall? (23a-24) - By her sorcery all the nations were deceived - In her was found the blood of prophets, saints, and of all those slain on the earth
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Chapter Nineteen
1) To note the great joy in heaven over the fall of Babylon, and the excitement over the preparation for the marriage of the Lamb and His wife 2) To see the great victory Christ would have over the beast, the false prophet, and their armies
SUMMARY
This chapter illustrates the ultimate defeat of the enemies of God's people. John hears a great multitude in heaven rejoicing over the fall of Babylon. The multitude is joined by the twenty-four elders and four living creatures, and a voice from the throne calling upon all God's servants to praise Him (1-5). John then hears heaven rejoicing in preparation for the marriage of the Lamb. His wife has made herself ready, and she is adorned in fine linen, signifying the righteous acts of the saints. John is then told to write that those invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb are truly blessed. John falls down to worship the one speaking to him, but is immediately rebuked and told to worship God (6-10). The scene quickly changes as John sees heaven opened and Christ the warrior king on a white horse, followed by the armies in heaven on white horses. Described in terms reminiscent of His appearance in the first three chapters, He is ready to strike the nations and rule them with a rod of iron, even as He treads the winepress of the fierce wrath of Almighty God. As inscribed on His robe and His thigh, Jesus is truly King of kings and Lord of Lords (11-16). With an angel standing in the sun and inviting the birds to gather for the supper of the great God, John then sees the beast and his forces gathered to make war against Christ and His army. But immediately the beast and the false prophet (the earth beast of 13:11-18) are captured and cast alive into the lake of fire. Their armies are killed with the sword proceeding from the mouth of Christ, and all the birds were filled with their flesh (17-21). This chapter appears designed to reinforce the idea that Christ in His kingly rule will defeat those who have been persecuting His people. Just as Babylon the harlot would be destroyed, so the beast and false prophet would be overcome. If the latter two represent the Roman empire in its persecution against the church, this section with its vivid imagery would have been fulfilled by 313 A.D. when Constantine brought an end to Roman persecution.
OUTLINE
I. HEAVEN REJOICES OVER THE FALL OF BABYLON (1-5) A. A GREAT MULTITUDE IN HEAVEN (1-3) 1. Praising God, attributing salvation, glory, honor, and power to Him
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2. Declaring His judgments on the great harlot as true and righteous a. For she corrupted the earth with her fornication b. He has avenged the blood of His servants which she shed 3. Praising God, for her smoke rises up forever and ever B. THE TWENTY-FOUR ELDERS AND FOUR LIVING CREATURES (4) 1. Falling down and worshipping God who sits on the throne 2. Saying Amen, Alleluia! C. A VOICE FROM THE THRONE (5) 1. Calling upon all God's servants and those who fear Him 2. Calling upon both small and great to praise God II. HEAVEN REJOICES IN PREPARATION FOR THE MARRIAGE OF THE LAMB (6-10) A. A GREAT MULTITUDE IN HEAVEN (6-8) 1. Sounding like many waters and mighty thunderings a. Praising the Lord God Omnipotent for His reign b. Calling to be glad and rejoice and give God glory 2. For the marriage of the Lamb has come a. His wife has made herself ready b. She was arrayed in fine linen, which is the righteous acts of the saints B. A FELLOW SERVANT (9-10) 1. Telling John to write: Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb! 2. Proclaiming: These are the true sayings of God. 3. When John fell at his feet to worship him, he is rebuked a. See that you do not do that! b. I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. c. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. III. CHRIST THE WARRIOR KING ON A WHITE HORSE (11-16) A. HIS AWESOME DESCRIPTION (11-13) 1. As heaven opened, John sees Him sitting on a white horse a. He is called Faithful and True b. In righteousness He judges and makes war 2. As seen by John: a. His eyes were like a flame of fire b. On His head were many crowns c. He had a name written that no one knew but Himself d. Clothed with a robe dipped in blood e. His name is called The Word of God B. HIS GREAT RULE AND REIGN (14-16) 1. Followed by the armies of heaven
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a. Clothed in fine linen, white and clean b. Sitting on white horses 2. From His mouth, a sharp sword to strike the nations a. He Himself will rule the nations with a rod of iron b. He Himself treads the winepress of Almighty God's fierceness and wrath 3. On His robe and thigh a name written: King of kings, and Lord of lords IV. THE FALL OF THE BEAST, THE FALSE PROPHET, AND THEIR FORCES (17-21) A. THE DECLARATION OF AN ANGEL (17-18) 1. John sees an angel standing in the sun, crying with a loud voice 2. Speaking to all the birds that fly in the midst of heaven: a. Come and gather together for the supper of the great God. b. ...eat the flesh of kings...captains...mighty men...horses...all people, free and slave, both small and great B. THE END OF THE BEAST AND FALSE PROPHET (19-21) 1. John saw the beast, the kings of the earth and their armies, gathered to make war against Him who sat on the horse and His army 2. John saw the beast and false prophet captured a. The false prophet who worked signs in the presence of the beast b. By which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast and worshiped his image -- Both were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone 3. The rest of their forces were killed a. With the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse b. All the birds were filled with their flesh

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - Heaven rejoices over the fall of Babylon (1-5) - Heaven rejoices in preparation the marriage of the Lamb (6-10) - Christ the warrior king on a white horse (11-16) - The fall of the beast, the false prophet, and their forces (17-21) 2) What did John hear a great multitude in heaving saying? (1) - Alleluia! Salvation and glory and honor and power belong to the Lord our God!
3) Why are God's judgments on the harlot proclaimed as true and righteous? (2) - She has corrupted the earth with her fornication - She has shed the blood of His servants 4) What else does this great multitude in heaven say? (3) - Alleluia! Her smoke rises up forever and ever!
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5) Who else joins end with a cry of Amen! Alleluia!? (4) - The twenty-four elders and the four living creatures 6) What does a voice from throne proclaim? (5) - Praise our God, all you His servants and those who fear Him, both small and great! 7) What did the voice of a great multitude cry out next? (6-7) - Alleluia! For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns! - Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready. 8) In what was the Lamb's bride adorned? (8) - Fine linen, clean and bright (the righteous acts of the saints) 9) What was John then told? (9) - Write: 'Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!' - These are the true sayings of God. 10) As John fell down to worship the one who spoke to him, what was he told? Why? (10) - See that you do not do that! - I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. - Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. 11) List the descriptive features of the One sitting on a white horse (11-16) - He was called Faithful and True, in righteousness He judges and makes war - His eyes were like a flame of fire, on His head were many crowns - He had a name written that no one knew except Himself - He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood - His name is called The Word of God - He was followed by the armies of heaven, clothed in white linen and on white horses - Out of His mouth goes a sharp sword with which He should strike the nations - He will rule the nations with a rod of iron - He treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of God - On His robe and thigh was a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS 12) What did an angel standing in the sun say to the birds? (17-18) - Come and gather together for the supper of the Great God - That you may eat the flesh of mighty men...horses...those who sit on them...all people, free and slave, both small and great. 13) What did John see next? (19) - The beast, the kings of the earth and their armies, gathered to make war against Him who sat on the white horse and His army 14) What happened to the beast and the false prophet? (20) - They were captured and cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone 15) What happened to the rest of their armies? (21)
Mark A. Copeland
- They were killed by the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Christ - All the birds were filled with their flesh
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Chapter Twenty
1) To consider the binding, future release and ultimate defeat of Satan 2) To examine the thousand year reign described in this chapter, and those who will reign with Christ during this time 3) To note the criteria of the final judgment, and the importance of the Book of Life
SUMMARY
Previous chapters have illustrated the defeat of agents used by Satan to persecute God's people. One by one we have seen the fall of Babylon, the beast, the false prophet, and the armies they had gathered. What about Satan, the dragon who gave authority to the beast in his efforts to wage war against the saints (12:17-13:7)? And what of those killed by the agents of Satan? This chapter reveals the binding of Satan for a 1000 years. It most likely depicts a long period of time in which Satan is no longer able to deceive the nations as he did during the time of the Roman empire (cf. 13:14; 20:3). It began following the end of Roman persecution and would continue for some time in the future. During this period, John see souls reigning with Christ, who were beheaded for their faithfulness to Jesus and the word of God. No mention is made of reigning on the earth, so my conclusion is that they reign with Christ in heaven during this period (cf. 2:26-27; 3:21). This first resurrection may be a special blessing for the martyrs of Christ during the intermediate state (between death and the bodily resurrection at the end of time), while 7:9-17 may describe the intermediate state for the average Christian. Truly those who had been beheaded for the witness of Christ are blessed and holy (1-6)! After the 1000 years are over, Satan is released for a short time where he once again seeks to deceive the nations to persecute the people of God (cf. 13:14; 20:3,8,10). The mention of Gog and Magog is likely an apocalyptic reference to forces of evil at Satan's disposal during this time, not any particular nation or nations. But the final attempt of Satan is quickly thwarted by the Lord, and the devil is cast into the lake of fire, where the beast and false prophet were (cf. 19:20). If any section of Revelation pertains to the time just prior to the Lord's final coming, I believe it is this one. The description is brief, for the book was written for the benefit of Christians in Asia Minor about things to shortly come to pass (cf. 1:1-4; 22:6,10). These Christians would not experience this last attempt of Satan. But to assure them (and us!) that Satan would ultimately be defeated, we have the description found in these few verses (7-10). The chapter closes with a description of the final judgment. Before the great white throne and Him who sat on it, all the dead are judged. Books are opened, including the Book of Life, and judgment is based upon their works. None escape the judgment, for the sea, Death, and Hades give up all the dead
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that are in them. Death and Hades are cast into the lake and fire, described as the second death. The same end is given to those whose names were not written in the Book of Life (11-15).
OUTLINE
I. THE THOUSAND YEAR REIGN (1-6) A. SATAN BOUND FOR 1000 YEARS (1-3) 1. John sees an angel come down from heaven a. Having the key to the bottomless pit b. With a great chain in his hand 2. The angel binds Satan for a thousand years a. Casting him into the bottomless pit, shutting him up and setting a seal on him b. So that he should deceive the nations no more for a thousand years -- But afterward he will be released for a little while B. SAINTS REIGN WITH CHRIST FOR 1000 YEARS (4-6) 1. John sees souls upon thrones, to whom judgment was committed a. Who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and the word of God b. Who had not worshiped the beast or his image c. Who had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands 2. These souls lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years a. The rest of the dead not live again until the thousand years were finished b. This is the first resurrection 1) Blessed and holy are those who have a part in the first resurrection 2) Over such the second death has no power 3) They shall be priests of God and of Christ 4) They shall reign with Christ a thousand years II. SATAN'S FINAL ATTEMPT AND DEFEAT (7-10) A. HIS RELEASE FROM PRISON (7-8) 1. After the thousand years were completed 2. He will go out to deceive the nations a. Those in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog b. To gather them to battle B. HIS FINAL ATTEMPT AND DEFEAT (9) 1. To have the nations surround the camp of the saints and the beloved city 2. But fire from God out of heaven devoured those Satan had deceived C. HIS ETERNAL TORMENT (10) 1. The devil who deceived the nations was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone 2. The same place where the beast and the false prophet are 3. They will be tormented day and night forever and ever III. THE FINAL JUDGMENT (11-15)
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A. THE ONE ON THE GREAT WHITE THRONE (11) 1. John sees a great white throne and Him who sat on it 2. Before Whose face the earth and heaven fled away so no place was found for them B. THE JUDGMENT OF THE DEAD (12-13) 1. John sees the dead, small and great, standing before God 2. Books were opened, including the Book of Life a. The dead were judged according to their works b. The dead were judged by the things written in the books 3. All the dead were judged, each according to his works a. For the sea gave the dead who were in it b. For Dead and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them C. THE LAKE OF FIRE (14-15) 1. Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire (which is the second death) 2. Anyone not found written in the Book of Life were cast into the lake of fire

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The thousand year reign (1-6) - Satan's final attempt and defeat (7-10) - The final judgment (11-15) 2) What did John see coming down from heaven? (1) - An angel, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand 3) What did the angel do to Satan? (2-3) - Laid hold of him and bound him for a thousand years - Cast him into the bottomless pit and set a seal upon him 4) Why did the angel do this to Satan? (3) - So that he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years were completed 5) What souls did John see sitting on thrones? (4) - Those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God - Who had not worshiped the beast or his image - Who had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands 6) How long did they live? With whom did they reign? (4) - A thousand years; Christ 7) What is this reigning with Christ called? Why are those who have a part considered blessed and holy? (5-6) - The first resurrection - Over such the second death has no power, and they shall be priests of God and Christ and reign with Him a thousand years
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8) What happens when the thousand years have expired? (7) - Satan will be released 9) What will he do? (8-9) - Deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth to gather them for battle - To surround the camp of the saints and the beloved city 10) What will happen before they succeed? (9) - Fire from God out of heaven will devour them 11) What will happen to the devil? (10) - He will be cast into the lake of fire, where the beast and false prophet are - They will be tormented day and night forever and every 12) What does John see next? What about the earth and the heaven? (11) - A great white throne and Him who sat on it - They fled away; no place was found for them 13) Who does John see standing before the throne? What was opened (12) - The dead, both small and great - Books, including the Book of Life 14) How were the dead judged? (12) - According to their works - By the things which were written in the books 15) Who had given up the dead? (13) - The sea, Death and Hades 16) What is the lake of fire called? Who was cast into it? (14-15) - The second death - Death and Hades, and anyone not found written in the Book of Life
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Chapter Twenty-One
1) To consider the eternal destiny of the redeemed, in terms depicting fellowship with God and protection by God 2) To be amazed at the glory of the holy city, the New Jerusalem, the Lamb's wife, as revealed to John
SUMMARY
Following the Judgment scene at the end of the previous chapter, the eternal destiny of the redeemed is now revealed. The motif of a new heaven and new earth, along with the New Jerusalem, is used to provide great hope and comfort to Christians. This is certainly nothing new, for both the Old and New Testaments provided similar pictures to increase anticipation of the future (cf. Isa 65:17-25; 66:22-24; He 11:10,13-16; 13:14; 2 Pe 3:13). In each case, the eternal destiny of God's faithful is described in terms that provided the greatest meaning and encouragement to the people of that dispensation. Here we see the destiny of the redeemed in terms depicting fellowship with God and protection by God. John first sees all things made new. There is a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and first earth are no more (cf. 20:11). He sees the holy city, New Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God. A loud voice from heaven declares that God will dwell with His people and be their God. God, who is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, will comfort His people by removing all that causes pain, and provide the fountain of the water of life freely to him that thirsts. While those who overcome inherit all things and enjoy the blessings of being God's children, the wicked and unfaithful have their part in the lake of fire and brimstone (cf. 19:20; 20:10,14-15) which is defined as the second death (1-8). One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls (cf. 15:7; 16:1) then carries John to a great and high mountain, to show him the bride, the Lamb's wife. This is none other than the great city, the New Jerusalem, which is seen descending out of heaven from God. It is a city having the glory of God, and the bulk of the chapter describes its prominent features. A great and high wall surrounds the city. Standing about 72 yards high and made of jasper, the wall has twelve pearly gates upon which are the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, with an angel at each gate. The wall has twelve foundations, made of precious stones, upon which are the names of the twelve apostles. The city itself, made of pure gold like clear glass, is 1500 miles long in its length, breadth, and height. The street of the city is also pure gold, like transparent glass (9-21). The glory of the holy city is described further by noting that there is no temple, for God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. There is no need for the sun or moon, for the glory of God and the Lamb illuminate the city. Its gates are never shut, there is no night there, and the nations of the saved along with the kings of the earth bring their honor and glory into it. Only those written in the Lamb's book of life enter this glorious city, ensuring that it remains free from any abomination and defilement (22-27).
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OUTLINE
I. ALL THINGS MADE NEW (1-8) A. THE NEW HEAVEN AND NEW EARTH (1) 1. John sees a new heaven and a new earth 2. The first heaven and earth had passed away, and there was no sea B. THE NEW JERUSALEM (2) 1. John saw the holy city coming down out of heaven 2. It was prepared as a bride adorned for her husband C. THE PROCLAMATION FROM HEAVEN (3-4) 1. The tabernacle of God is with men a. He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people b. God Himself will be with them and be their God 2. God will wipe away every tear from their eyes a. There shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying b. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away D. THE PROCLAMATION FROM THE ONE WHO SAT ON THE THRONE (5-8) 1. Behold, I make all things new a. Write, for these words are true and faithful b. It is done! 2. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End a. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts b. He who overcomes shall inherit all things 1) I will be his God 2) He shall be My son 3. But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars... a. Shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone b. Which is the second death II. THE NEW JERUSALEM (9-21) A. JOHN IS SHOWN THE HOLY CITY (9-11) 1. By one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls filled with the last plagues a. Who offered to show John the bride, the Lamb's wife b. Who carried him away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain 2. He sees the great city, the holy Jerusalem a. Descending out of heaven from God b. Having the glory of God c. With light like a jasper stone, clear as crystal B. THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CITY AND ITS WALL (12-21) 1. It had a great and high wall with twelve gates a. With twelve angels at the gates
Mark A. Copeland
b. With the names of the twelve tribes of Israel c. With three gates each on the east, north, south, and west d. With twelve foundations, on which were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb 2. The measurement of the city, the gates, and the wall a. The angel had a golden reed to measure them b. The city is laid out as a cube, its length, breadth, and height are each 12,000 furlongs c. The wall is one hundred and forty-four cubits 3. The construction of the city, the wall, its foundations, and the gates a. The wall was of jasper; the city was pure gold, like clear glass b. The twelve foundations of the wall were adorned with precious stones: 1) Jasper 5) Sardonyx 9) Topaz 2) Sapphire 6) Sardius 10) Chrysoprase 3) Chalcedony 7) Chrysolite 11) Jacinth 4) Emerald 8) Beryl 12) Amethyst c. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate one pearl d. The street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass III. THE GLORY OF THE HOLY CITY (22-27) A. ILLUMINATED BY THE PRESENCE OF GOD AND THE LAMB (22-23) 1. Its temple are the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb 2. It is illuminated by the glory of God and the Lamb B. ENHANCED BY THOSE WHO ENTER IT (24-27) 1. The nations of the saved shall walk in its light 2. The kings of the earth bring their glory and honor into it 3. Its gates shall not be shut at all by day, and there is no night there 4. The nations shall bring their glory and honor into it a. Nothing that defiles, causes an abomination or a lie, shall enter it b. Only those written in the Lamb's book of Life enter it

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - All things made new (1-8) - The New Jerusalem (9-21) - The glory of the holy city (22-27) 2) What did John see? (1) - A new heaven and new earth 3) What happened to the first heaven and first earth? What of the sea? (1) - They had passed away; it was no more 4) What did John see coming down out of heaven from God? (2) - The holy city, New Jerusalem, prepared as bride adorned for her husband 5) What is said about the dwelling of God? (3)
Mark A. Copeland
- The tabernacle of God is with men - He will dwell with them and they shall be His people - God Himself will be with them and be their God 6) What will God do? What shall be no more? (4) - Wipe away every tear from their eyes; death, sorrow, crying, pain 7) What did the One on the throne say to John in verse 5? - Behold, I make all things new - Write, for these words are true and faithful 8) What did He say in verse 6? - It is done! - I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End - I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts 9) What is promised to those who overcome? (7) - He shall inherit all things - I will be his God and he shall be My son 10) Who shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone? What is this called? (8) - The cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, all liars - The second death 11) Who offered to show John the bride, the Lamb's wife? (9) - One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls 12) Where is John taken, and what does he see? (10) - To a great and high mountain - The great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God 13) What was the general description of the city? (11) - It has the glory of God - Her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal 14) What surrounded the city? (12) - A great and high wall with twelve gates 15) What stood at each of the gates? What was written on the gates? (12) - An angel; the names of the twelve tribes of Israel 16) How many foundations did the wall have? What was written on the foundations? (14) - Twelve; the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb 17) What was the length, breadth, and height of the city? (16) - 12,000 furlongs (about 1500 miles)
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18) How tall was the wall? (17) - 144 cubits (about 72 yards) 19) What was the construction of the wall? Of the city? (18) - The wall was of jasper - The city was of pure gold, like clear glass 20) What were the foundations of the city adorned with? (19) - All sorts of precious stones 21) What were the twelve gates? What was the street of the city? (21) - Twelve pearls, each gate of one pearl - Pure gold, like transparent glass 22) Why was there no temple in the city? (22) - The Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple 23) Why was there no need for the sun or moon to shine in it? (23) - The glory of God illuminated it, and the Lamb is its light 24) Who shall walk in its light? Who shall bring their glory and honor into it? (24) - The nations of those who are saved - The kings of the earth 25) What shall not be shut at all day? What about at night? (25) - The city's gates - There shall be no night there 26) Who will by no means enter the city? Who will enter the city? (27) - Anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie - Only those who are written in the Lamb's Book of Life
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Chapter Twenty-Two
1) To consider the eternal destiny of the redeemed, in terms depicting provision from God 2) To note that things revealed in this book were soon to take place 3) To heed the promises and warnings given as the book concludes
SUMMARY
In the previous chapter John described the glory of the New Jerusalem as the eternal destiny of the redeemed was revealed. In the first six verses of this chapter, John's vision of the glorious future for the people of God is completed with a brief description of the river of life, the tree of life, and the throne of God and of the Lamb. With the river of life proceeding from the throne, and the tree of life bearing fruit every month along with its healing leaves, the picture is one of provision from God. Eternal fellowship with God, stressed in the previous chapter (cf. 21:3-4,7), is emphasized again with the promise of seeing His face and having His name on one's forehead. With no more curse (cf. Gen 3:1719), the redeemed shall serve God and the Lamb on the throne. There is no night nor need for the sun, for the Lord God gives them light (cf. 21:23). The redeemed will also reign forever and ever (1-5). The remainder of this chapter contains the grand conclusion of this wonderful book. The angel who showed John the holy city stressed that the events described in this book were soon to take place, such that John is not to seal the book (cf. 22:6,10; contrast this with Dan 8:26). Jesus Himself states three times that He is coming quickly (cf. 22:7,12,20), which I take to refer to His coming in judgment as described throughout this book (cf. 3:10-11). With a reminder of the blessedness of those who do His commandments, Jesus, who is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last, the Root and Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star, declares that He sent His angel to testify of these things to the churches. The Spirit and the bride join in with an invitation to let those who thirst come to drink of the water of life freely. The book ends with a fearful warning not to add to or take away from the book, a final promise of the Lord's coming, and a two-fold prayer calling for the Lord Jesus to come, and for His grace to be with all the brethren (6-22).
OUTLINE
I. THE RIVER, THE TREE, AND THE THRONE (1-5) A. THE RIVER OF LIFE (1) 1. John sees a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal 2. It proceeds from the throne of God and of the Lamb B. THE TREE OF LIFE (2) 1. On either side of the river was the tree of life
Mark A. Copeland
2. The tree bore twelve fruits, yielding fruit every month 3. The leaves were for the healing of the nations C. THE THRONE OF GOD AND OF THE LAMB (3-5) 1. There shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it 2. His servants shall serve Him a. They shall see His face b. His name shall be on their foreheads 3. There shall be no night there a. They need no lamp nor light of the sun b. For the Lord God gives them light 4. They shall reign forever and ever II. THE GRAND CONCLUSION (6-21) A. THE TIME IS NEAR, DO NOT SEAL THE BOOK (6-11) 1. John is told by the angel that these words are faithful and true a. The Lord God has sent His angel to show His servants the things which must shortly take place b. The Lamb proclaims: Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book. 2. John attempts to worship the angel a. He falls down at the feet of the angel who showed him these things b. The angel forbids him 1) The angel is his fellow servant, and of his brethren the prophets and of those who keep the words of this book 2) John is to worship God 3. John is told not to seal the words of the prophecy of this book a. For the time is at hand b. Let he who is unjust be unjust still, the filthy be filthy still c. Let he who is righteous be righteous still, the holy be holy still B. THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS (12-17) 1. His first declaration: a. Behold, I am coming quickly b. My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work c. I am the Alpha and the Omega d. The Beginning and the End, the First and the Last 2. The promise: a. Blessed are those who do His commandments (or wash their robes) 1) That they may have the right to the tree of life 2) That they may enter through the gates into the city b. Those outside the city 1) Are dogs, sorcerers, sexually immoral, murderers, and idolaters 2) Whoever loves and practices a lie 3. His second declaration: a. I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches b. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.
Mark A. Copeland
4. The invitation: a. The Spirit and the bride say Come! b. Let him who hears say Come! -- Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely C. A WORD OF WARNING (18-19) 1. Do not add to the words of this book, or God will add to him the plagues written in it 2. Do not take away from the words of this book, or God will take away his part from: a. The Book (or Tree) of Life b. The holy city c. The things written in this book D. CLOSING PROMISE, FINAL PRAYERS (20-21) 1. The promise of Him who testifies to these things: Surely I am coming quickly. 2. John's two prayers: a. Concerning his Lord: Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! b. Concerning his brethren: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

1) What are the main points of this chapter? - The river, the tree, and the throne (1-5) - The grand conclusion (6-21) 2) What does John see proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb? (1) - A pure river of water of life, clear as crystal 3) What is on either side of the river? (2) - The tree of life 4) How many fruits did the tree bear and when? What were the leaves for? (2) - Twelve fruits, each yielding its fruit every month - The healing of the nations 5) What no longer existed? What was in the city instead? (3) - There shall be no more curse - The throne of God and of the Lamb 6) What is said concerning the servants of God and of the Lamb? (3-5) - His servants shall serve Him; they shall see His face - His name shall be on their foreheads; they shall reign forever and ever 7) What is said of night and the light of the sun? (5) - There shall be no night there - They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light 8) What is John told about the things which he has seen? (6) - These words are faithful and true
Mark A. Copeland
- The Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show His servants the things which must shortly take place 9) What promise and assurance is given in verse 7? - Behold, I am coming quickly! - Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book. 10) What did John try to do when he heard and saw these things? (8) - Fall down and worship before the feet of the angel who showed them to him 11) What did the angel tell John? (9) - See that you do not do that. - I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren the prophets, and of those who keep the words of this book. - Worship God. 12) What is John told regarding the prophecy of this book? Why? (10) - Not to seal the words of the prophecy of this book - For the time is at hand 13) What is said of the unjust and filthy? The righteous and holy? (11) - Let them be unjust and filthy still - Let them be righteous and holy still 14) What promise and assurance is given in verse 12? - Behold, I am coming quickly - My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work 15) How does Jesus describe Himself? (13) - I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last. 16) What blessedness is promised to those who do His commandments (some manuscripts say wash their robes)? (14) - They will have the right to the tree of life - They will enter the through the gates into the city 17) What is outside the city? (15) - Dogs, sorcerers, sexually immoral, murderers and idolaters - Whoever loves and practices a lie 18) Why had Jesus sent His angel? (16) - To testify these things in the churches 19) How does Jesus describe Himself? (16) - I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star. 20) Who extends the invitation to Come!? Who else is to extend this invitation? (17) - The Spirit and the bride
Mark A. Copeland
- Him who hears 21) To whom is this invitation extended? What is offered? (17) - To him who thirsts - To take the water of life freely 22) What warning is given to those who hears the words of the prophecy of this book? (18-19) - If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues written in the book - If anyone takes away from the words of this book, God will take away his part from the Book (or Tree) of Life, the holy city, and the things written in this book 23) What promise is given by Him who testifies of these things? (20) - Surely I am coming quickly. 24) What two prayers does John express as he closes the book? (20-21) - Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! - The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
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The Book of Revelation: A Study Guide With Introductory Comments, Summaries, and Review Questions

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The Book Of Revelation

A Study Guide With Introductory Comments, Summaries, And Review Questions