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DOES ANYBODY REALLY KNOW WHAT TIME IT IS?

Introduction to Prophecy

Prophecy can be found in Scripture from Genesis to Revelation.

A major portion of both Testaments is devoted to prophecy, nearly one-third. Only four books, Ruth, Song of Solomon, Philemon and III John, contain no direct prophetical statements. Even Jude has prophecy (the shortest book in the Bible).

Old Testament – 6,641 verses of predictive material, over 28%. New Testament – 1,711 verses, about 21%.

The words translated “prophet” appear about 400 times in Scripture. A prophet is one who speaks for another. The prophet can be a “forth-teller” and a fore teller.”

Prophecy teaches us that God exists and that He is in control of history. God tells us the purpose for prophecy in Isaiah 46:9-10, “Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure…”

The Biblical test for the true prophet of God is 100% accuracy! – Deuteronomy 18:21-22, “And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD hath not spoken? When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.”

The different kinds of prophecy:

1. Predictive = foretelling the future. 2. Didactic = dealing with moral, ethical and theological truths.

Some guidelines:

We are to interpret passages in the most simple, direct and ordinary way, unless there is a reason to do otherwise. We should always be looking for the simple, straightforward meaning, first, comparing it to other similar passages.

No doubt symbolism is often used in Scripture, but there will always be a literal meaning. Repetitive patterns also bring clarification. Some language is obviously figurative: for example, Isaiah 11:1; Joel 2:31; Zechariah 4:7, etc. But again, any symbolic or figurative language always has a literal fulfillment. We need to identify figurative passages by following the ordinary rules of language and basic principles of Scripture so we can make a distinction between literal and non-literal events. Again, all symbolism points to a literal meaning.

Why write prophecy down? So there will not be any question on it, and it can be tested from generation to generation. Twice as many prophecies as were fulfilled at Christ’s First Coming await fulfillment at His Second Coming.

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The prophecies fulfilled in the First Coming and in the life of Jesus give evidence that the Bible is

like no other book. Prophecy tells us that there is an all-knowing God. He is not just the God of history, but the God of tomorrow and of Eternity.

II Peter 1:19-21, “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”

Revelation 19:10, “…for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”

Although we are discussing prophecy in general, our focus is going to be on the future, from today forward. We are going to look at the significant events that we expect to happen in what we believe chronological order. We will start right where we are today and concentrate in what we believe is to come. The theological term for the study of future things is “eschatology,” from the Greek “eschatos” – meaning “last, extreme.”

Can we trust the Bible?’

We must start our study somewhere and there are certain truths that we will take for granted and their proofs can be discussed at another time. We believe that God has provided everything He wants us to know about Him in Scripture. God caused the Bible to be written for He is the ultimate Author. “Biblical inspiration may be defined as God’s superintending of the human authors so that, using their own individual personalities and even their writing styles, they composed and without error, His revelation to His mankind in the words of the original manuscripts.” – Ron Rhodes

See II Timothy 3:16-17; II Samuel 23:2; Zechariah 7:12 and II Peter 1:21.

The human wills of the authors were not the originators of God’s message. “God moved, the prophet mouthed, God revealed, and man recorded.” – Norman Geisler

Jesus Himself configured the Divine Authority of Scripture. 1. Scripture is divinely authoritative (Matthew 4:4). 2. Scripture is imperishable (Matthew 5:17-18). 3. Scripture is infallible (John 10:35). 4. Scripture is inerrant (John 17:17). 5. Scripture is historically reliable (Matthew 12:40 and Matthew 24:37-39). 6. Scripture has ultimate supremacy (Matthew 15:3, 6, 9).

Erroneous Prophetic Ideas:

Replacement Theology: Argues that the Church has replaced Israel in God’s plan and that the promises made to Israel are fulfilled in the Church.

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Preterism: In this view, the biblical prophecies in the Book of Revelation, specifically chapters 6-18, and Christ’s Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 and 25 have already been fulfilled.

Hermeneutics is the “science” of biblical interpretation. How do we determine whether a passage should be taken literally or not? - When it is obvious, as in the case of John 10:9, “I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he

shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.”

- When the text itself authorizes the figurative sense, as in Galatians 4:24, “Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.”

- When the literal interpretation would contradict other truths inside or outside the Bible, as in

Revelation 7:1, “And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree.”

The Bible is filled with symbols and parables. Again, every symbol or parable will convey a literal

truth.

Reasons for a Literal Approach

It is the normal way to understand language.

The greater part of the Bible makes sense when taken literally.

This approach allows for an allegorical meaning when the text demands it.

All allegorical meanings depend upon a literal meaning.

It is the best way to check our own subjective nature!

This approach is in line with the idea of inspiration.

The Bible itself confirms a literal approach, for later texts take earlier texts literally: Adam, Noah, Jonah, Moses, etc. At Jesus’ First Coming, He literally fulfilled over 100 predictions, for example: Genesis 12:3; 49:10; Jeremiah 23:5, 6; Isaiah 7:14; Micah 5:2; Isaiah 40:3; Zechariah 9:9; Isaiah 53; Zechariah 12:10; Daniel 9:24-26; Psalms 2 and 16.

Jesus, Himself accepted a literal approach (Luke 4:16-21).

Jesus revealed that parables have a literal meaning (Matthew 13:18-23).

Jesus’ use of Scripture confirms a literal approach.

We not only use a literal approach to Scripture, but we must use sound interpretive principles:

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II Timothy 2:15, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

The plain sense: when the plain sense makes good sense, seek no other sense lest you end up with nonsense!

Assumptions: Submit all doctrinal assumptions to Scripture – our doctrinal opinions must be in harmony with Scripture and subject to correction by it.

Context: Every word is part of a sentence, every sentence a paragraph, every paragraph a book, every book is part of the whole of Scripture. The interpretation of a passage must not contradict the whole of Scriptural teaching.

Genre: The Bible contains history, prophecy, poetry, wisdom, drama, etc. All must be considered in interpretation. A parable should not be treated as history. A psalm or poetry will often use symbols and metaphors. For example: Is I Thessalonians 4:16-17 prophecy? Poetry? History? Drama? Etc.

Historical and Cultural Context: We need to understand the world of the biblical writers and the

ones who are the subjects of the texts.

Applications: One passage may apply to more than one event. Prophetic Scriptures may refer to two events that are separated by a significant amount of time. The time gap may not be recognized in the particular text. Many Old Testament passages prophesy events of the First and Second Coming of Christ together, for example, Zechariah 9:9-10: “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. And I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim, and the horse from Jerusalem, and the battle bow shall be cut off: and he shall speak peace unto the heathen: and his dominion shall be from sea even to sea, and from the river even to the ends of the earth.” Here we see the First Coming, Matthew 21, and the Second Coming, the Millennial reign of Christ.

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ISRAEL AND THE CHURCH

We occupy a unique place in world history. Many have given up the idea that God had something very special for the nation of Israel. For a variety of reasons, even many “orthodox” believers abandoned the idea that God would fulfill His unconditional promises to the nation of Israel.

Romans 11:25, “For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.”

Paul got it right. The Lord did not abandon His “elect,” the nation of Israel, but would continue to deal with them and fulfill His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to a believing remnant.

From the time that Israel rejected Christ, the nation experienced judicial blindness and a hardening of heart as a judgment of God. Israel sought a relationship with God, not based upon faith, but works (Galatians 2:16; 3:2, 5, 10). The Jews stumbled over the “stumbling stone” (Romans 9:31-33), Jesus Christ. Jesus did not match their pre-conceived ideas for a Messiah. They rejected Him on the whole. This rejection became a Gentile opportunity (Romans 11:11).

The “hardening” was only temporary. Israel will be restored by faith in their true Messiah. In the days to come, Israel will be attacked and persecuted once again. At that time the remnant will come to faith in Christ. Zechariah 12:10, “And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.”

This is the time of “Jacob’s trouble” (Jeremiah 30:7), the Great Tribulation of which Jesus spoke in Matthew 24.

Today we live in “the Church Age.” All believers, regardless of national or ethnic background, are joined together in “the body of Christ,” His Church (Galatians 3:28). All share “one Spirit, one Lord” (Ephesians 4:3-6). One becomes part of this Body, the Church, by faith in Christ (Acts 16:31; Ephesians 2:8-9).

The Church, the body of Christ, did not exist in Old Testament times. In the New Testament, the Church is clearly portrayed as distinct from Israel (Romans 9:6; I Corinthians10:32; Hebrews 12:22-24). The Church is not merely a continuation of the O. T. nation of Israel even though there are some similarities.

Israel is an earthly political entity (Exodus 19:5, 6). The Church is the invisible, spiritual body of Christ (Ephesians 1:3).

Israel was primarily composed of Jews (there were proselytes), the Church is made up of Jew and Gentile.

One becomes a Jew by physical birth. One becomes a member of the church through a spiritual birth (John 3:3).

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Every believer in the Church Age is in the Body of Christ - I Corinthians 12:13, “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.”

The Church is called a “mystery” (Colossians 1:25-27; Ephesians 3:4-9) that was not revealed in past generations. The mystery involved uniting Jew and Gentile believers in one spiritual body.

The Church is called a “new man” (Ephesians 2:15) built upon the foundation of the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:19-20).

OUR PRESENT AGE

Matthew 13 describes the course of the present age. The parables cover the time between Christ’s First and Second Comings. At this point in the Gospel, Israel has rejected Christ’s Messiahship in Matthew 11 and 12. The Jewish leaders not only rejected Christ, but accused Him of performing His miracles in the power of Satan – the famous “unpardonable sin.”

God’s Kingdom program was thereby altered - Its arrival delayed. Enter the importance of the parables of Matthew 13: - Parable of the Sower (1-23) - Parable of the Wheat and Tares (24-30, 36-45) - Parable of the Mustard Seed (31, 32) - Parable of the Leaven (33) - Parable of Hidden Treasure (44)

The Sower – This age will be characterized by the sowing of the Gospel on a variety of soils. There will thus be a variety of responses.

The Wheat and Tares – The Gospel will be imitated by false counter-sowing. A judgment will follow to separate the true believer from the false.

The Mustard Seed – The Kingdom will have a small beginning but it will grow to be very large.

The Leaven – Leaven typically represents evil or corruption in Scripture. If this interpretation is correct, the leaven tells us that false teaching will penetrate the Church and grow exponentially.

The Hidden Treasure – The incredible value of the true Kingdom. Those who see the true value will do anything possible to possess the treasure.

Granted, not all scholars see each of these interpretations exactly the same way. However, these concepts seem to be in harmony with the whole of the Gospel and Kingdom message.

Why so long?

God is patient. Time is meaningless to God who created time and dwells in Eternity. II Peter 3:9, The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

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I Timothy 2:4, Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. Matthew 7:13-14, Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

ISRAEL REBORN

The Church had all but given up on the idea that the nation of Israel would be restored. Although the early Church believed this to be true, the systematic allegorization of Bible texts and applications eroded away the concept of restoration. A significant portion of the Church even became anti-Semitic! Jews throughout history did little to counter the negative attitudes that were against them. They suffered incredible persecution all the way back to the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. by the Romans, and before!

There have always been “Zionists,” loosely defined, as those who believed in the unconditional promises of seed, blessing, land and kingdom to the nation of Israel. Many orthodox believers rejected the idea. Thus, the rise of A-millennialism. We could go all the way back to Origen, an influential writer, authority, scholar and theologian, for his ideas, trumpeted even today in many theological circles.

The regathering of Israel was predicted to take place centuries before it actually would. Ezekiel 36:10, And I will multiply men upon you, all the house of Israel, even all of it: and the cities shall be inhabited, and the wastes shall be builded: Ezekiel 36:24, For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land.

Israel had been in bondage to the Egyptians, Assyrians, and Babylonians. In time God delivered them. But never in biblical history was Israel delivered from all the countries.

May 14, 1948 Israel declared their independence. Coincidence?

Recent history would take us back to about 1880 to begin to see this predicted regathering that continues to this day!

Ezekiel 37 predicts this regathering. The chapter portrays Israel as becoming a living, breathing nation brought back from the dead. Ezekiel 37:11, Then he said unto me, Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel: behold, they say, Our bones are dried, and our hope is lost: we are cut off for our parts. 12 Therefore prophesy and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel. 13 And ye shall know that I am the LORD, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves, 14 And shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the LORD have spoken it, and performed it, saith the LORD.

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Ezekiel 37:21, And say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the children of Israel from among the heathen, whither they be gone, and will gather them on every side, and bring them into their own land: Ezekiel 37:25, And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt; and they shall dwell therein, even they, and their children, and their children's children for ever: and my servant David shall be their prince for ever. See also Ezekiel 36:24-28

After the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. by the Romans, the Jews were scattered throughout the

world without a political structure, without land that they claim to be their own. This regathering has set the stage for the last things, the “eschaton.”

Israel remains in unbelief as a whole. Although many Christians are pro-Israel, we must remember that on the whole, they have continued to reject Christ, hence, the judgment that will take place in “the Tribulation.” A remnant will be saved, not because the remnant is Jewish, but because the remnant represents a national awakening and acceptance of Messiah.

Israel must repent. The remnant will emerge. See Leviticus 26:40-42; Jeremiah 3:11-18; Hosea

5:15; Romans 11:25-27.

Eventually, in the Millennial Kingdom and reign of Christ, Israel will experience full possession of all that has been promised unconditionally to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. It will be a time of a “new covenant” with the nation of Israel (Jeremiah 31:31-34).

It is my opinion that the regathering of the Jews in Israel is absolutely necessary for key prophecies to be fulfilled and for the Tribulation to make sense.

Daniel 9:27, And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

Israel must be in its own land. A temple will be rebuilt and exist during the Tribulation (Matthew 24:15-16; II Thessalonians 2:4).

Armageddon appears to be the context within which Israel (the remnant) will be converted (Zechariah 12 – 13:1).

A great book on this subject: Has the Church Replaced Israel?, by Michael Vlach (2010), 224pp.

APOSTASY

There will be a great “falling away” from the truth of God’s Word, the consequences of which will be severe. Apostasy has been the history of Israel (Joshua 22:22; II Chronicles 33:19).

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I Timothy 4:1-2, Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; II Timothy 4:3-4, For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. See also II Timothy 3:1-8; Matthew 24:9-12.

WHAT ABOUT THE UNITED STATES?

Politically and humanly speaking, Israel would not exist today without the help and friendship of the United States. It may be that the United States’ continued cooling toward Israel will make Israel more and more vulnerable to its enemies. The Lord Himself will ultimately rescue Israel, not her political and military partners.

The weakening of the U. S. and its own moral and social problems seem to be systematically weakening our country, which may lead to an ultimate occupation with itself and isolationism. What may be the future for us is involvement in the great wars yet to come.

I love America, but Romans 1:18-28 applies to all. In my opinion the killing of 4,000 innocent unborn children every day of the year is America’s “fast track” to destruction. Americans are becoming desensitized to moral issues and immorality is running rampant.

The United States contains a large number and percentage of Christians. The Rapture of the Church

could and would further weaken the moral structure of the country, resulting in what could be a catastrophic implosion. The balance of political power will shift to Europe, a revived Roman Empire.

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THE RAPTURE

The word “rapture” does not appear in Scripture. Nonetheless, the word describes a yet future event for the Church. The word means to be “caught away.” It is a word that is used to describe the future translation of the saints of the Church to Heaven. Rapture – Latin – rapio; Greek – harpazo. Both mean “to be caught up, snatched up, or taken away.” The Rapture is an event in the futurist interpretation of Christian eschatology in which it is posited that Christians will be gathered together in the air to meet Christ at, or up to seven years prior to His return. The primary passage used to support this idea is I Thessalonians 4:15-17. There are two views among Christian denominations regarding the timing of Christ’s return (one event or two), and two views regarding the destination of the I Thessalonians aerial gathering.

One event or two?

Dispensationalist Premillennialists (such as many Evangelicals, especially in the United States) hold the return of Christ to be in two stages: The passage in I Thessalonians 4:15-17 is seen to be a preliminary event to the return described in Matthew 24:29-31. Although both describe a return of Jesus in the clouds with angelic activity, trumpets, heavenly signs, and a gathering of the saints, these are seen to be two separate events. The first event is to be unseen, the Rapture proper, when the saved are prophesied to be “caught up,” from whence the term rapture is taken. The ‘second coming’ is the public event when Christ’s presence is prophesied to be clearly seen as He returns to end Armageddon. The majority of dispensationalists hold that the first even immediately precedes the period of Tribulation.

Amillennialists (such as most Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, Anglicans, Lutherans, Presbyterians (PCUSA), and others) Postmillennialists (such as some Presbyterians, and others), and Historic Premillennialists (such as Calvinistic Baptists, and others) hold that the return of Christ will be a single, public event. All passages regarding the return of Christ, such as Matthew 24:29-31; I Thessalonians 4:15-17; II Thessalonians 2:1-3, Revelation 1:7, etc., describe the return of Jesus in the clouds amidst trumpets, angelic activity, heavenly signs, a resurrection, and a gathering of saints. Although some (such as some Amillennialists) take this event to be figurative, rather than literal, these three groups maintain that passages regarding the return of Christ describe a single event, and that the “word of the Lord” cited by Paul in I Thessalonians 4:15-17 is the Olivet Discourse which Matthew separately describes in Matthew 24:29-31. Although the doctrinal relationship of the Rapture and the Second Coming are the same in these three groups, Historic Premillennialists are more likely to use the term “Rapture” to clarify their position in distinction from Dispensationalism. I Corinthians 15:51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. I Thessalonians 4:13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

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14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words. John 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

The Bible gives us several clues that lead us to believe that this event will take place prior to the

Tribulation period. This means that the Church, the Body of Christ, will not suffer the judgments of Revelation Chapters 4-18. This even could happen at any time.

Reasons to Believe

Revelation 3:10, “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.”

The passage seems to refer to a specific time period, “the hour,” before the Tribulation of Revelation Chapters 4-18.

Throughout the Tribulation, saints are being killed (Revelation 6:9-11; 11:7; 12:11; 13:7; 14:13; 17:6; 18:24). If these are Church saints, they are not being kept safe and Revelation 3:10 is meaningless.

No Old Testament passage mentions the Church with reference to this time of Tribulation (Deuteronomy 4:29-30; Jeremiah 30:4-11; Daniel 8:24-27, etc.).

The Pre-Tribulation Rapture position best accounts for the great apostasy that follows the removal of the “restrainer” (II Thessalonians 2:3-7).

The Church is not appointed to wrath.

Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. I Thessalonians 5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

I Thessalonians says that Jesus delivers us from the wrath to come. Compare with I Thessalonians 4:16-17.

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Throughout Scripture God protects His people from judgment: Enoch, Noah, Lot, the spies who were helped by Rahab.

Can we compare I Thessalonians 4:16-18 with I Thessalonians 5:10-11?

Similarities between John 14:1-3 and I Thessalonians 4:13-18.

At the Rapture, Christ comes for His saints. In Revelation 19, He comes with His saints. A Mystery

I Corinthians 15:51 calls this event we call the Rapture “a mystery.” Like the Church, the Rapture is a mystery in the sense that it was not revealed in the Old Testament.

The “twinkling of an eye” – instantaneous.

The “voice of an archangel” – (I Thessalonians 4:16).

The “blessed hope” – Titus 2:13.

The resurrection body – Romans 8:22-23; Philippians 3:20; I John 3:2-3; I Thessalonians 4:13-18; I Corinthians 15:51-58.

The Rapture is Imminent

The term “imminent” means “impending” or ready to take place.” This means that nothing must be prophetically fulfilled before the Rapture can take place.

See I Corinthians 1:7; 16:22; Philippians 3:20; 4:5; I Thessalonians 1:10; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; I Peter 1:13; Jude 21.

The imminence of the Rapture may be seen to be implied in Romans 13:11-12; James 5:7-9.

No doubt that there are believers mentioned during the Tribulation (for example, Revelation 6:9-11). It would appear that they become believers after the Rapture takes place. They may come to faith in Christ as a result of all they witness and experience. They may be converts of the 144,000 mentioned in Revelation 7 and 14, or the two witnesses of Revelation 11. Imagine the instant departure of millions of people from society. People who remain will be compelled to do some serious soul searching!

- The Partial Rapture View – This is based upon the parable of the 10 virgins in Matthew 25:1-13. This is interpreted to mean that only faithful and watchful Christians will be raptured. The unfaithful will be left behind.

- The Pre-Wrath View – This view teaches that the Rapture occurs toward the end of the Tribulation before the great wrath of God falls in the last half of Daniel’s 70th Week (Daniel 9:25-27). The argument is based upon the fact that the Church will be delivered from the wrath to come (II Thessalonians 1:5-10), but the word “wrath” does not appear in Revelation until after the sixth seal (Revelation 6:12-8:1). Thus, the Rapture must take place between the sixth and seventh seals.

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The fact is that God’s wrath is poured out prior to the seventh seal (Zephaniah 1:15, 18; I Thessalonians 1:10; Revelation 6:17; 14:7, 10; 19:2).

It must be said that those who take an A-millennial positon on Eschatology essentially reject the idea of the Rapture as it is presented in these notes.

Results of the Rapture

We have spoken of the mystery of the Church, the mystery of the Rapture, and now the “mystery of iniquity” (II Thessalonians 2:7).

The Bible Knowledge Commentary says, “A mystery in the New Testament is a new truth previously unknown before its revelation in the present dispensation.”

This passage (II Thessalonians 2:3-8) indicates that the “man of sin” (the antichrist) cannot be revealed until “he that letteth…be taken out of the way.” This is commonly understood to be the Holy Spirit, although there are several other interesting opinions.

Theologians believe that there is only one person who is powerful enough to restrain Satan. That is God, Himself. Thus, the belief that this “restrainer” is the Holy Spirit.

When the Rapture occurs the Church will “be caught up…to meet the Lord in the air” (I Thessa-lonians 4:17). The Church is indwelt by the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 12:13). This means that if the Church is removed, the Holy Spirit will be out of the way. This allows for the rise of “the man of sin.”

After the Rapture, the Holy Spirit will continue to be active in bringing the unbeliever to salvation, but He will no longer “baptize” (immerse) them into the Church, the Body of Christ. The work of the Holy Spirit during the Tribulation is different in some way.

The evidence for Christ’s resurrection is overwhelming. Once He was resurrected, many witnesses came forward to testify of the validity of Christ’s resurrection (I Corinthians 15:3-8). Jesus’ resurrection insures our own. John 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

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THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST

We believe that the Judgment Seat of Christ will take place after the Rapture of the believers prior to

the Tribulation. Although there is no specific Scripture that says this, we have reasons to believe that this is true and will present them later.

All believers will one day stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ. The following passages refer to this event (Romans 14:8-10; II Corinthians 5:10; I Corinthians 3:11-15; 9:24-27). Romans 14:8 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. 9 For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. 10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. II Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. I Corinthians 3:11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. 14 If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

I Corinthians 9:24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

It is only reasonable to believe that all saved individuals enjoy the blessings of eternal life, yet, not

all receive the same reward or recognition. The mention of several crowns given for several different reasons in the New Testament (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10; I Peter 5:4; etc.) would lead us to believe in some system of reward.

The judgment will not take place in a corporate setting. It appears to be individual and personal. The purpose for the judgment is not to determine one’s eternal destiny, the believer is safe in Christ, but the judgment is based upon the quality of one’s attitude, motives and service for the Lord. Personal motives and intents will be weighed.

The concept of this judgment appears to follow the examination and rewarding of athletes at the end of competition. The judgment has to do with the reception or loss of rewards.

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The “bema seat” is an elevated platform. In ancient Athens, it was used as an orator’s platform. You

will find this in Judaism (synagogues), Ancient Greece, and Christianity (a raised platform where the Scriptures are read and clergy members are seated).

In I Corinthians 3:11-15 Paul lists several materials according to their combustibility: gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble. The idea is that the best works, properly motivated, will survive the refining fire. Those which are inferior will be consumed and destroyed by the flames. These “building materials” represent things we do with obedience and a Christ-honoring attitude.

Fire in Scripture often symbolizes the holiness of God: Leviticus 1:8; Hebrews 12:29. Our works will be tried in the fire of His holiness. Do our works, attitudes and motives glorify God? Those that do will survive the fire of the Judgment Seat of Christ.

Suffer Loss

All works, motives and attitudes will not stand. Certain rewards will be forfeited. There will be a

sense of shame and loss. I John 2:28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.

Stewardship

Every good gift is given to us by God, Himself. The Scriptures are clear when it comes to the believer’s responsibility to carefully handle and invest those gifts. The very character of our Christian lives will be seen without prejudice. I have no reason to believe that this will be a public examination. It isn’t a rehashing of all the sins of our lives. Actions will be weighted (Ephesians 6:7-8). Our thoughts and words matter.

After the Rapture?

Scripture does not indicate the specific time frame in which this judgment occurs. A number of passages lead us to believe that the Judgment Set of Christ and the Marriage Supper of the Lamb follow the Rapture of the Church. Question: Are these events removed from the dimension of time as we understand it to be?

Many believe that the 24 elders of Revelation 4:4, 10 represent believers, and they have crowns in their possession (James 1; II Timothy 4; I Peter 5). The Church does not appear after Chapter 3, and believers have crowns in Heaven in Chapter 4, leading us to surmise that the Judgment Seat of Christ has taken place. Revelation 4:10 says that the elders “cast their crowns” at Jesus’ feet. This would also explain that when the saints return with Christ at the Second Coming, they are adorned in “fine linen” (Revelation 19:8, 14) as the Bride of Christ.

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The Marriage of the Lamb

Jesus is often referred to as a “bridegroom” (Matthew 9:15; 22:2-14; 25:1-13; Mark 2:19-20; John 3:29, etc.). The Church is a “virgin” bride betrothed to her heavenly bridegroom (II Corinthians 11:2). Revelation 19:7-9 speaks of the marriage to come. Revelation 19:7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. 8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. 9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.

As individuals come to faith in Christ in this “Church Age,” they become part of the Body of Christ, the Church, the Bride of Christ.

The Bridegroom comes to claim His Bride at the Rapture of the Church. He has “prepared a place” for his Bride (John 14:1-3). The actual “marriage” takes place sometime after the Rapture and prior to the Second Coming of Christ.

Some believe that the actual wedding reception takes place on Earth during the 75-day interval between the end of the Tribulation and the beginning of the “honeymoon,” the millennial reign of Christ. See Daniel 12.

Israel Reborn – Apostasy – Rapture – Judgment Seat – Marriage of the Lamb – Marriage Supper

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EZEKIEL AND PROPHECY

The prophetical books of Scripture comprise about 25% of the Bible and are crucial for understanding God’s Word from a theological and historical perspective, yet, their messages and meaning evade more people than any other section of Scripture, primarily because of neglect.

Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel are considered to be the Major Prophets simply because of the lengths of their works compared to the Minor Prophets, e.g., Nahum, Amos, Malachi, etc. All are considered to be God’s Word and of equal value.

Ezekiel prophecies among the Jewish exiles in Babylon during the days of Judah’s (Southern Kingdom) decline and fall. The Babylonians besieged Jerusalem three times over a period of 20 years (606 BC, 597 BC, 586 BC). Ezekiel was taken to Babylon during the second siege. At this time Nebuchadnezzar carried off 10,000 hostages. Ezekiel was a young 25 year old man when taken to Babylon and 30 when he received his prophetical call (1:1-3).

Shortly after becoming a Christian in 1972, I was introduced to Hal Lindsay’s book, The Late Great Planet Earth, and a recording done by Dr. Jack Van Impe called “The Coming War with Russia.” Van Impe would say today that he sticks by the things that he said then, now.

Ezekiel was the focus of Van Impe’s message, chapters 37-39. Ezekiel is the title of the book and its author. His name is mentioned only twice in the Bible and only in Ezekiel (1:3; 24:24).

Theme

Ezekiel found it necessary to convince unbelieving Jews that there was no hope of immediate delivery from the Babylonians. It wasn’t until the news of the complete destruction of Jerusalem reached Babylon that their hopes were finally extinguished. However, Ezekiel comforted the people by assuring them of God’s covenant promise of future blessing and complete restoration. Here is where we find the prophetic value of the book as we look to our future.

Ezekiel records 10 signs, six visions, and six parables with apocalyptic passages scattered throughout the book.

Ezekiel is divided neatly into four sections: - The Commission (Chapters 1-3) - The Judgment of Judah (4-24) - The Judgment of the Gentiles (25-32) - The Restoration of Israel (33-48) It is within this fourth section that we find the prophetical information of particular interest. Ezekiel 36:24 For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land. 25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.

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26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. Ezekiel 36:33 Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day that I shall have cleansed you from all your iniquities I will also cause you to dwell in the cities, and the wastes shall be builded. 34 And the desolate land shall be tilled, whereas it lay desolate in the sight of all that passed by. 35 And they shall say, This land that was desolate is become like the garden of Eden; and the waste and desolate and ruined cities are become fenced, and are inhabited.

Central to the idea of the restoration of Israel is the vision of the valley of the dry bones found in

Chapter 37. This chapter and beyond outlines the clear steps to Israel’s future.

Just as sure as judgment has come to Israel (Chapters 4-24), comfort, consolation and blessing will come also (34-48). Israel will return to the Lord (36:8-38). Israel will be “reborn” (37:1-28). Israel will be attacked by Gog (38:1-16). The Judgment of God will follow (38:17-39:29). The Restoration of Israel and the Millennial Kingdom follow in Chapters 40-48.

It is my opinion that Israel is the key to understanding Biblical prophecy. The big question is, Does the nation of Israel have a biblical future or has the nation been swallowed up by the Gentiles of the world? Will God fulfill His promises to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob? Is the Church the “new Israel”? Has the Church absorbed all the promises to Israel? Has Ezekiel 36-39 been fulfilled in Israel’s past? Are these promises now for the Church? Are these promises figurative or literal? Do these chapters refer to something else entirely?

Ezekiel 36:24, 28, 35 – to whom do these verses apply?

Ezekiel 37:11, 12, 14, 21, 27, 28 – to whom do these verses apply?

Why is the ‘land” so important? (See 36:20, 24, 28, 34, 35; 37:12, 14, 21, 22, 25).

See also 38:8, 9, 11, 16 (2x), 18; 39:12, 13, 15, 16, 28 – “I have gathered them unto their own land…”

This “land” is vitally important. There is good reason to believe that this land is Eden of Genesis. It is the land to which Abraham was called. It is the land that was promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. It is the Promised Land of Israel and Joshua. It is the place of the Temple. It is the land where Christ was born and died. It is the land from which Christ ascended into Heaven and has promised to return. It is the land promised to Israel over which the world today struggles for possession and ownership. Coincidences?

The Invasion of Israel

It is clear that the nation of Israel will be in the land and dwelling in safety before the invasion of Ezekiel 38 & 39 – Ezekiel 38:8, “After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land that is brought back from the sword, and is gathered out of many people, against the mountains of Israel, which have been always waste: but it is brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them.”

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2600 years ago Ezekiel prophesied that Russia, Iran, Turkey, Sudan, Libya and others would come against “the land.” The goal – obliterate the nation of Israel.

The question: Has this peace, safety been achieved? Are we ready? There are differing opinions on this. Israel has been on high alert since May 1948 because of the danger of their Arab and Muslim neighbors. Israel has never been able to let their guard down. There is a peace promised Israel during the Tribulation, according to Daniel 9:27, “And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease…” Is the peace of Ezekiel 38:8 and Daniel 9:27, one in the same? Could this invasion by Gog and friends precede the actual tribulation? In other words, could there be some significant time between the Rapture and the beginning of the 7-year Tribulation? The answer to these questions and others will determine how all of this unfolds.

Thomas Ice and Ron Rhodes offer their opinions: - This invasion takes place after the Rapture but before the beginning of the Tribulation. - The world will be in chaos after the Rapture. Russia and her allies will seize the opportunity to

attack Israel. - After Russia and her friends are decimated, the door will open for anti-Christ and to a renewed

Roman Empire. - Here the anti-Christ could effect peace with Israel (Daniel 9:27). - Here a Jewish temple could be built. The strength and presence of Islam greatly hinders this

today. The anti-Christ could open the door for Israel. - We can account for the “seven years” of Ezekiel 39:9-10 this way. Israel destroys her enemies

of Ezekiel Chapters 38 and 39. For seven years (3 ½ preceding the Great Tribulation) and 3 ½ years after the beginning of the Great Tribulation, Israel enjoys peace at the hand of the anti-Christ. Then Matthew 24:15-21! Israel is betrayed and the anti-Christ sets himself up in the Jewish temple “as God” (II Thessalonians 2:4). This would necessitate a period of time between the Rapture and the actual beginning of the Tribulation, i.e., the total seven years.

The Northern Military Coalition

Tracing the history of the names provided in Ezekiel 38:1-6, we come up with an interesting confederation: - Magog – includes many of the former republics of the U.S.S.R - Meschech & Tubal – modern Turkey - Persia – Iran - Ethiopia – Sudan - Put – Libya - Algeria – Tunisia - Gomer – part of Turkey - Togarmah – Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan

Considering this list and our present world, political alignment is astounding!

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Already Taken Place?

Israel has never been invaded on the scale spoken of by the prophecy of Ezekiel 38 & 39. This was to take place in the “latter years” (38:8). The alignment described – has this every occurred? This would take place after the regathering of Israel (38:8, 12). Ezekiel 36 & 37 are being literally fulfilled. We can assume the same for 38 & 39. This appears to

be something never to have taken place, prophecy!

The Defeat of Gog

An earthquake (38:19, 20) Confusion and chaos – like Michmash or the Midianites in Judges by Gideon (38:21) Disease (38:22) Weather: rain, hail, fire (38:22) Graves in Israel (39:11-16) Seven years burning the refuse of war (39:9-10) With this power destroyed, it would open the door for a one world government, a European

coalition, and anti-Christ.

The Lord Is Glorified Ezekiel 38:23 Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD. Ezekiel 39:7 So will I make my holy name known in the midst of my people Israel; and I will not let them pollute my holy name any more: and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, the Holy One in Israel. Ezekiel 39:21 And I will set my glory among the heathen, and all the heathen shall see my judgment that I have executed, and my hand that I have laid upon them. 22 So the house of Israel shall know that I am the LORD their God from that day and forward.

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DANIEL’S SEVENTIETH WEEK THE TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE

THE GREAT TRIBULATION THE RISE OF ANTICHRIST

Daniel 9:24 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy. 25 Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times. 26 And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined. 27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

“Seventy Sevens of Daniel” Chart (from John Walvoord’s book, Every Prophecy in the Bible, p.249, of the “Prophecy in Daniel,” pp248-259; Chariot Victor Publishing, 1990,1999):

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DANIEL

The Book of Daniel is sometimes referred to as the “Apocalypse of the Old Testament.” The book teaches that kingdoms will come and go (Babylon, Persia, Greece, Rome), but God will establish His people, Israel forever.

The life of Daniel bridges the entire 70 year period of the Babylonian captivity (606-536 B.C.). Daniel was deported to Babylon as a young man, handpicked for governmental service in Babylon. Daniel became God’s mouthpiece to the Gentile and Jewish world declaring God’s present and eternal purposes.

Daniel means “God is my Judge.” Daniel’s name is changed after his move to Babylon to “Belteshazzar,” meaning “Bel protect his life.” Daniel’s wisdom and God-given interpretive abilities gave him favor, position and prominence among the Babylonians.

Daniel is one of the few Bible characters of whom nothing negative is said. Ezekiel mentions Daniel three times in his prophecy.

Daniel claimed to have written “Daniel” (12:4). Christ attributed a quote from 9:27 to Daniel the prophet in Matthew 24:15. Herein lies the importance of Daniel. Daniel 9:24-27 is a key passage in understanding Biblical prophecy.

The “Times of the Gentiles” (see Luke 21:24; Romans 11:25) began with the Babylonian captivity. Israel would suffer under Gentile dominion for many years. However, this arrangement is not permanent. A time would come when God would fulfill His promises to Israel and establish the Messianic Kingdom which would last forever.

Daniel’s prophecy of 70 Weeks (9:24-27) provides the chronological framework for these kingdom predictions. It seems clear that the first 69 Weeks (483 years) were fulfilled at the first coming of Christ. The belief follows that the last week, the 70th Week (seven years), has not yet been fulfilled because Jesus relates its events to His Second Coming (Matthew 24:6, 15). Some believe that these years were fulfilled in 70 A.D. at the destruction of Jerusalem at the hand of the Romans.

We believe that this 70th Week is the Tribulation, the “time of Jacob’s trouble” (Jeremiah 30:7), the time of the rise of the antichrist. The importance of this passage is seen in 9:26-27. The “prince” (small “p”), will make a “covenant” with Israel that will mark the beginning of the 70th week. In the middle of that week (after 3 ½ years) the “prince” (antichrist) will break the “covenant” and the time of the “Great” Tribulation (Matthew 24:21) will begin.

God’s prophetic clock began ticking when the command went out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem following its destruction by Babylon (Daniel 9:25). According to this verse, Israel’s timetable was divided into 70 groups of seven years – which equals 490 years.

Daniel 9:25 accounts for 483 years. The day Christ rode into Jerusalem to proclaim Himself to be the Messiah was 483 years. See Matthew 21. At that point God’s prophetic clock stopped. Daniel describes a gap between the 483 years and the final seven years (Daniel 9:26).

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The final week of seven years will begin for Israel when the antichrist confirms a seven year “covenant” (Daniel 9:27). The signing of this covenant will signal the beginning of the seven year Tribulation. The first 3 ½ years will be peaceful until the covenant is broken. The content of Revelation chapters 4-19 is largely comprises the events that will take place during this “Great Tribulation.”

The following are Alva McClain’s comments about the prophecy of Daniel 9:24-27 on pp.240-241 of Dwight Pentecost’s book, “Things to Come”: 1. The entire prophecy has to do with Daniels “people” and Daniel’s “city,” that is, the Nation of Israel and the city of Jerusalem (v.24). 2. Two different princes are mentioned, who should not be confused: the first is “Messiah the Prince” (v.25); and the second is described as “the prince that shall come” (v.26). 3. The entire time-period involved is exactly specified as “seventy weeks” (v.24); and these 70 Weeks are further divided into three lesser periods: first, a period of “seven weeks;” after that a period of “three score and two weeks;” and finally a period of “one week” (vs.25, 27). 4. The beginning of the whole period of the 70 Weeks is definitely fixed at “the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem” (v.25). 5. The end of the “seven weeks” and “threescore and two weeks” will be marked by the appearance of “Messiah” as the “Prince” of Israel (v.25). 6. At a later time, after the “threescore and two weeks” which follows the first “seven weeks” (that is, after 69 weeks), “Messiah the Prince” will be “cut off,” and “Jerusalem will again be destroyed” by the “people” of another “prince” who is yet to come (v.26). 7. After these two important events, we come to the last, or 70th Week, the beginning of which will be marked by the establishment of a firm “covenant” or treaty between the coming “prince” and the Jewish nation for a period of “one week” (v.27). 8. In the “midst” of this 70th Week, evidently breaking his treaty, the coming “prince” will suddenly cause the Jewish sacrifice to “cease” and precipitate upon this people a time of wrath and desolation lasting to the “full end” of the Week (v.27). 9. With the full completion of the whole period of the 70 Weeks, there will be ushered in a time of great and unparalleled blessings for the nation of Israel (v.24).

THE MAN OF SIN

Paul speaks of the antichrist in II Thessalonians as follows: II Thessalonians 2:3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.

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II Thessalonians 2:8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,

Passages that give us some idea of the kind of individual the antichrist will be: Daniel 8:23; 11:43; Revelation 13:16-17; 17:11-12. He is called a “beast” in Revelation 13:1-10.

The antichrist will speak boastful words (II Thessalonians 2:4) in directing attention to himself. The “false prophet” (Revelation 13:11-12) will direct the world’s worship to antichrist. There is much detail given in Revelation 13 about the “beast” (antichrist) and the “false prophet.”

ANTICHRIST

The word “antichrist” appears only in the Epistles of John (I John 2:18, 22; 4:3 and II John 7). The context of these passages – doctrinal error, the denial of the person of Christ. The emphasis is not on the future. To John, antichrist was already present. The question is what is the relation between the antichrist of John’s epistles and the beasts of Revelation?

The prefix “anti” can mean “instead of” or “against.” The context seems to indicate opposition. Antichrist denies that there is a Christ and affirms himself to be Christ. John’s concept of antichrist in his epistles is clarified by II Thessalonians 2:7, “For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.”

Looking to the beasts of Revelation 13 and 17, the first “beast” will be in direct opposition to Christ as one who falsely fulfills the covenant to give Israel their land, and the second “beast” will assume the place of leadership in the religious realm which rightly belongs to Christ. These beasts will seem to fulfill the promises made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. That is the only way that they could be duped into agreeing to these covenant arrangements. The antichrist will claim to be God. He will claim to be the promised Messiah.

The key to the beginning of the seven years of Tribulation, Daniel’s 70th Week, is the peace established by the antichrist for Israel.

See Revelation 11:7; 13:1-10; II Thessalonians 2:4, 7, 10.

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THE DAY OF THE LORD

The term “the Day of the Lord” is used in several senses in the Scriptures. Old Testament prophets used the term to describe an event that would be fulfilled in the near future. At other times they were referring to an event that would take place in the distant future. The immediate context would determine the usage.

In any case, the term the “Day of the Lord” is characterized by Divine intervention. God would supernaturally “visit” in order to bring judgment. The “Day of the Lord” is a time in which God invades history to actively control the happenings and events in a direct, personal, and immediate way.

In the New Testament the term is generally used with reference to the judgment that will climax at the end of the Tribulation (II Thessalonians 2:2; Revelation 16-18) as well as the judgments that will bring in the “new heaven and new earth” following the Millennium (Revelation 20:7-21:1; II Peter 3:10-13; Isaiah 65:17-19; 66:22).

Isaiah 34:1-10 describes this event, “for it is the day of the Lord’s vengeance, and the year of recompences for the controversy of Zion” (v.8). Here – the “controversy of Zion.” Note that the indignation of the Lord is upon all nations. This happened in the days of Noah. Those days have passed as Isaiah pens these words.

Read Joel 3:1-16; Zechariah 14:1-3, 12-15. We are told that the Messiah will come to wage war against these nations (Revelation 19:11-21).

In I Thessalonians 5:1-11 Paul reveals that this day is yet future. The context is clearly end times.

The event that sets all of this in motion is the antichrist’s signing of the “covenant” with Israel in Daniel 9:24-27.

THE JEWISH TEMPLES

The Jews were instructed to build a transportable tabernacle in which to meet and worship Jehovah following their escape from Egypt in the Book of Exodus. Much of the text in Exodus describes the plans for and the building of the Tabernacle. See Exodus 25-30; 35-40. King David, many years later, wanted to build a temple for the Lord. His son, Solomon, actually completed the task (I Kings 6-8; II Chronicles 3-4). This temple was destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians in 586 B.C.

A second temple was constructed following the Babylonian exile. This was a smaller structure compared to that of Solomon. The temple artifacts stolen by Nebuchadnezzar were returned with the help of Cyrus, King of Persia. The project stumbled forward slowly and was in no way comparable to that which preceded it. This temple lasted about 500 years and was desecrated by the Syrian king, Antiochus Epiphanes IV, in 165 B.C that led to the Jewish Maccabbean revolt.

Israel’s third temple was built by King Herod the Great when he made significant additions to the second temple. This project was begun in 19 B.C. and completed in 64 A.D. It was much larger than Solomon’s temple and measured 1,470 feet x 975 feet! This is the temple that existed during the ministry of Jesus and the apostles and was destroyed by the Romans in 70 A.D., six years after the project was completed.

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The Tribulation Temple. There is yet another temple to be built in Israel. There are a number of

important things that must be in place before this happens: - Israel must be back in the land (Ezekiel 36, 37). - It must be built by the middle of the seven year Tribulation. Jesus predicted the “abomination of

desolation,” i.e., the desecration of the temple by the antichrist (Matthew 24:15-16). - In Matthew 24:1-2 Jesus predicted the destruction of the current temple (Herod’s, 70 A.D.). Thus

this temple must be a fourth (Daniel 9:27; 12:11).

The Millennial Temple - Not to confuse things – there is another temple to be built after the Tribulation temple. See Ezekiel 40-48.

Daniel 9:27 gives us the distinct impression that sacrifices and offerings will be conducted in the Tribulation temple before the antichrist brings them to a halt midway through 70th Week of Daniel. After the antichrist breaks the covenant, he will assume religious power (that will accompany his political power) and he will cause the world to worship him! II Thessalonians 2:4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. Revelation 13:8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

It is not uncommon to hear reports of plans for the construction of this temple very soon. Remember,

it does not have to be finished until the middle of the seven year Tribulation.

SIGNS OF THE TIMES Matthew 24:3And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?

Jesus encouraged His followers to observe the signs of the times (Matthew 16:1-3).

The religious leaders of the day missed some of the most obvious signs that Jesus fulfilled in His

ministry. See Isaiah 11 and 35. Christians should be aware of what Scripture teaches concerning future events. The Jewish leaders neglected to do so and it cost them dearly! We ought to be aware of any possible correlation between world events and biblical prophecy. May 14, 1948 may be one of the most important dates in world history. We are not to be “date-setters,” but we are not to be ignorant either. Realized prophecy is the most powerful proof that the Bible is God’s Word. Be encouraged!

Signs in the Earth and Sky – See Matthew 24:3, 7; Luke 21:11.

Signs of Moral Decay – See II Timothy 3:1-5; Matthew 24:12, 37-39.

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America is engulfed in a moral crisis unchecked and this spells judgment for the homeland: abortion, same sex marriage, pornography, drug and alcohol abuse, fornication, adultery, STD’s, dissolution of the family unit, divorce, out-of-wedlock births. The goals of America are happiness and health, not holiness.

Religious Signs – See Matthew 24:3, 24; Mark 13:22; II Corinthians 11:4. False christs, prophets

and teachers, apostles, increasing apostasy.

I Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

II Timothy 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

Technological Signs

- Communications

Matthew 24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

- Economic control Revelation 13:16 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: 17 And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

- Weapons of mass destruction Revelation 8:7 The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up. Revelation 16:2 And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which worshipped his image.

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INTRODUCTION TO REVELATION

“Order of Events of Bible Prophecy” Chart from John Walvoord’s book, Every Prophecy in the Bible, from the chapter, “Prophecy in the Gospels,” p.385:

Introduction by Other Authors: • Introduction - Bruce Wilkinson – Walk Thru the Bible

“Just as Genesis is the book of beginnings, Revelation is the book of consummation. In it, the Divine program of redemption is brought to fruition, and the holy name of God is vindicated before all creation. Although there are numerous prophecies in the Gospels and Epistles, Revelation is the only New Testament book that focuses primarily on prophetic events. Its title means “unveiling” or “disclosure.” Thus, the book is an unveiling of the character and program of God. Penned by John during his exile on the island of Patmos, Revelation centers around visions and symbols in the resurrected Christ, who alone has authority to judge the Earth, to remake it, and to rule in righteousness. The title of this book in the Greek text is Apokalypsis Ioannou, “Revelation of John.” It is also known as the Apocalypse, a transliteration of the word apokalypsis, meaning “unveiling,” “disclosure,” or “revelation.” Thus, the book is an unveiling of that which otherwise could not be known. A better title comes from the first verse: Apokalypsis Iesou Christoue, “Revelation of Jesus Christ.” This could be taken as a revelation which came from Christ or as a revelation which is about Christ – both are appro-priate. Because of the unified contents of this book, it should not be called ‘Revelations.’”

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• Theme and Purpose – Bruce Wilkinson – Walk Thru the Bible “The purposes for which Revelation was written depend to some extent on how the book as a whole is interpreted. Because of its complex imagery and symbolism, it is the most difficult book to interpret, and there are four major alternatives:

(1) The symbolic or idealist view maintains that Revelation is not a predictive prophecy but a symbolic portrait of the cosmic conflict of spiritual principles. In this way the book is divorced from the realm of history and placed exclusively in the realm of ideas.

(2) The preterist view (the Latin word praeter means “past”) also denies the prophetic aspect of the Apocalypse, limiting it solely to the events of the First Century. It is a symbolic description of the Roman persecution of the church, emperor worship, and the Divine judgment on Rome.

(3) The historicist view approaches Revelation as an allegorical panorama of the history of the (Western) church from the First Century to the Second Advent. The lack of objective criteria combined with the changing historical climate from one generation to another has led to a wide range of conflicting interpretations within this school.

(4) The futurist view acknowledges the obvious influence that the First Century conflict between Roman

power and the Church had upon the themes of this book. But it also accepts the bulk of Revelation (chapters 4-22) as an inspired look into the time immediately preceding the Second Advent (the “Tribulation,” usually seen as seven years; chapters 4-18), and extending from the return of Christ to the creation of the new cosmos (chapters 19-22). According to this view, the Apocalypse centers around the Second Advent of Christ, who will return in power and glory as the Judge of all who rejected His offering of salvation. Futurists attempt to discern the literal meanings behind the symbolism of Revelation whenever this is permitted by the context or by comparison with other Scriptures.

“Generally speaking, proponents of the first three views are Post-millennial or A-millennial, while futurists are Pre-millennial. Post-millennialists believe the spread of the Gospel will lead to a golden age of peace on Earth that is followed by the return of Christ; A-millennialists believe that the Christian’s present heavenly position in Christ is the true “millennium,” not an earthly kingdom; and Pre-millennials believe that the six appearances of a “thousand years” (20:2-7) are to be taken literally as the duration of the earthly kingdom that Christ will establish between the Second Advent and the creation of “a new heaven and a new earth” (21:1).

“Advocates of all four interpretive approaches to Revelation agree that it was written to assure the recipients of the ultimate triumph of Christ over all who rise up against Him and His saints. The readers were facing dark times of persecution, and even worse times would follow. Therefore they needed to be encouraged to persevere by standing firm in Christ in view of God’s plan for the righteous and the wicked. This plan is especially clear in the stirring words of the epilogue (22:6-21). “The book was also written to challenge complacent Christians to stop compromising with the world. According to futurists, Revelation serves the additional purpose of providing a perspective on end-time events that would have meaning and relevance to the spiritual lives of all succeeding generations of Christians.”

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List of Pre-millennial Teachers

The following is a list of Bible teachers that generally subscribe to the “Futurist” position in the last couple of centuries of the Church Age:

C.I. Schofiled Hal Lindsey Lewis Sperry Chafer Jerry Falwell John Walvoord Norman Geisler Jack Van Impe Ron Rhodes Harold Willimington Chuck Swindoll Charles Feinberg Ed Hindson Ray Stedman Bruce Wilkinson J. Vernon McGee Charles Ryrie Dwight Pentecost Lehman Strauss M. R. DeHann David Jeremiah Finis J. Dake Peter Ruckman Clarence Larkin Tim LaHaye Jerry Jennings John MacArthur D. L. Moody J. N. Darby Chuck Missler Grant Osborne

Introduction to James Ramsey’s Commentary on Revelation

“…While all this is true, it is still more obviously true, that the greatest majority of Christians, and of students of the Bible, unduly neglect the prophecies. The historical books of the Old Testament are far less interesting than the evangelists of the New; so the doctrinal writings of the Old Testament have less to command the attention than the doctrinal instructions of the New. To the mass of Bible readers, the doctrinal and practical portions of the Scriptures have more interest than the prophetical. Another cause of the comparative neglect of the latter is found in the fact that they contain much that is peculiar and hard to be understood. They require more study, more strict and well-considered rules of interpretation, with more self-command and self-subjection to the laws of exegesis, which nothing but necessity will induce the student to adopt. The difficulty attending prophetic interpretation is sufficiently attested by the number of failures exhibited in its history. The views that have been given of the visions of Ezekiel, of Zechariah, of Daniel, and of the Apocalypse, are scarcely less numerous than are the authors who have attempted their exposition. It is no wonder, therefore, that those who do not feel any special vocation to the work show so little alacrity to enter upon a field which is strewn with the wrecks of the labors of their predecessors.”

Pre-millennialism Pre-millennialism in Christian end times theology is the belief that Jesus will literally and physically be on the Earth for His millennial reign at His Second Coming. Jesus’ return to the Earth will occur prior to the beginning of the Millennium, or 1,000 years (mille = 1,000; annum = year). Pre-millennialism is distinct from A-millennialism and Post-millennialism. - A-millenialism = non temporal or figurative - Post-millennialism = Second Coming follows the Millennium

Pre-millennialism is largely based upon a literal interpretation of Revelation 20:1-6.

Pre-millennialism is often used to refer specifically to those who adhere to the belief in an earthly millennial reign of Christ as well as a Rapture of the faithful coming before (dispensational) or after (historic) the Tribulation preceding the Millennium.

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Post-millennialism agrees with Pre-millennialism about the future earthly reign of Christ and a preceding time of tribulation, but maintains that there will be no Rapture of the faithful before the Tribulation. Terminology: Pre-millennialism has also been called Chiliasm or Millennarianism. The term Pre-millennialism did not come into general use until the mid-19th Century. The Patristic Age For the most part, Christian eschatology through the 2nd and 3rd Centuries was Chiliastic. Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Tertullian all made explicit references to the concept of a thousand year earthly kingdom at Christ’s Second Coming.

“The most striking point in the eschatology of the ante-Nicene age is the prominent chiliasm, or millenarianism, that is the belief of a visible reign of Christ in glory on Earth with the risen saints for a thousand years, before the general resurrection and judgment. It was indeed not the doctrine of the Church embodied in any creed or form of devotion, but a widely current opinion of distinguished teachers, such as Barnabas, Papias, Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Tertullian, Methodius, and Lactantius, while Caius, Origen, Dionysius the Great, Eusebius (as afterwards Jerome and Augustine) opposed it.” – Philip Schaff, History of the Christian Church

Irenaeus and others held to a sexta-/septa-millennial scheme, writing that the end of human history would occur after the 6,000th year. Early Pre-Millennialists include:

Irenaeus Methodius Justin Martyr Lactantius Papias Commodianus Tertullian Melito Hippolystus of Rome

Pre-Nicean Opposition

The first clear opponent of Pre-millennialism associated with Christianity was Marcion. He opposed the use of the Old Testament and the New Testament books not written by Paul.

Marcion abandoned: • The Incarnation • The Second Coming • The Validity of the Old Testament

Rising opposition to Pre-millennialism surfaced in the 3rd Century. Origen was the first to challenge the doctrine openly. Origen was a proponent of A-millennialism by use of allegorical interpretation. Origen completely spiritualized Christ’s Second Coming in his commentary on Matthew. Origen’s interpretation left no room for a literal millennium and his influence began to gain wide acceptance.

Dionysius of Alexandria stood against Pre-millennialism. Eusebius, who chronicled Dionysius’ influence, also had low regard to Chiliasm, particularly, Papias, whom Eusebius referred to as “a man of small mental capacity” because he had taken the Apocalypse (Revelation) literally.

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Middle Ages and Reformation

Alister McGrath says that “all medieval theology is Augustinian” to a greater or lesser extent.

Augustine (354-430) is called the Father of Roman Catholicism. His influence shaped not only the Middle Ages but also the Reformation. To understand what happened to Pre-millennialism in the Middle Ages (476-1517), it is imperative to understand Augustine and his theological foundation.

Augustine was a “dispensationalist” in that he divided history into two separate dispensations – first the Church Age, and then the Millennial Kingdom. Nevertheless, early in his ministry, he changed his mind and became A-millennial in his thinking.

One historian gave three reasons for his theological shift. • The Donatist Controversy • Eschatological Sensationalism • Preference for Allegorical Interpretation

Augustine was influenced by the popular allegorical interpretation of Scripture, particularly the Book of Revelation. Augustine was influenced by a Donatist lay theologian, Tyconius, whose own reading of the Apocalypse determined the Western Church’s exegesis for the next 800 years.

For Augustine – the Millennium of Revelation 20 became “symbolically representative of Christ’s present reign with the saints.”

Richard Landes observed – the 4th Century was a time of major shifting in Christian eschatology.

Augustine’s A-millennial view laid the eschatological foundation for the Middle Ages, which particularly abandoned Pre-millennialism. The Kingdom had come in the form of the reign of Christ in and through the Church.

During the Reformation, A-millennialism continued to be the popular view of the Reformers. The Lutherans rejected Chiliasm in The Augsburg Confession (Articles XVII), which condemned the Anabaptists and others who now scatter Jewish opinions.

Swiss Reformer, Heinrich Bullinger, condemned Millennarianism in the Second Helvetic Confession.

John Calvin wrote in Institutes that Millennialism is a “fiction” that is “too childish either to need or to be worth a refutation.” Calvin, with all of his many writings, never wrote a commentary on Revelation.

The Anglican Church originally formalized a statement against Millennarianism in the Anglican Articles. This is found in #41 drawn up by Thomas Cranmer (1553) when he described the Millennium as a “fable of Jewish dotage.” This was omitted in a later revision.

Anabaptists, Huguenots, and Bohemian Brethren were Pre-millennial. Michael Servetus, who opposed John Calvin, taught a Chiliastic view, though he was denounced as a heretic by the Reformers and executed in Geneva under Calvin’s authority.

Modern Era

Millennarianism gained acceptance among the Pietists of Germany during the 17th and 18th Century.

Increase Mather and Cotton Mather (Puritans) openly proclaimed belief in a literal Millennium. Their beliefs focused on a future conversion of the Jews and a literal kingdom.

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Between 1790 and the mid-19th Century, Pre-millennialism was a popular view among English evangelicals, even with the Anglican Church.

Throughout the 19th Century, Pre-millennialism continued to gain wide acceptance in both the U.S. and Britain, particularly among Irvingites, Plymouth Brethren, Christadelphians, Church of God and Seventh Day Adventists.

Many traditional denominations continue to oppose the concept. The Catechism of the Roman Catholic Church teaches A-millennialism – “already the saints reign with Christ.” The Lutherans, likewise, oppose.

One critic of Pre-millennialism says, “criticized roundly for naïve scholarship which confuses the poetic and inspirational prose of prophecy with fortune telling.”

Pre-millennialism is probably stronger today than at any other time in Church history.

Historic vs. Dispensational – Two Schools of Thought - Wikipedia

• Historic Pre-millennialism

“Historic or Classic Pre-millennialism is distinctively non-dispensational. This means that it sees no radical theological distinction between Israel and the Church. It is often Post-tribulational, meaning that the Rapture of the Church will occur after a period of tribulation. Historic Pre-millennialism maintains Chiliasm because of its view that the Church will be caught up to meet Christ in the air and then escort Him to the Earth in order to share in His literal thousand year rule. Proponents of the view include Charles Spurgeon and George Eldon Ladd, and the 19th century Lutheran theologian, G.N.H. Peters.”

• Dispensational Pre-millennialism

“Dispensational Pre-millennialism generally holds that Israel and the Church are distinct entities. It also widely holds to the Pre-tribulational return of Christ, which believes that Jesus will return to take up Christians into Heaven by means of a rapture immediately before a seven year worldwide Tribulation. This will be followed by an additional return of Christ with his saints (though there are post tribulation dispensationalists, such as Robert Gundry). Dispensationalism traces its roots to the 1830’s and John Nelson Darby (1800–1882), a Calvinist

theologian and a founder of the Plymouth Brethren. In the US, the dispensational form of Pre-millennialism was propagated on the popular level largely through the Scofield Reference Bible and on the academic level with Lewis Sperry Chafer’s eight volume Systematic Theology. More recently, dispensationalism has been popularized through Hal Lindsey's 1970s bestseller, The Late, Great Planet Earth and through the Left Behind Series by Tim Lahaye and Jerry Jenkins. Popular proponents of dispensational Pre-millennialism have been John F. MacArthur, Phil Johnson, Ray Comfort, Jerry Falwell, Todd Friel, Dwight Pentecost, John Walvoord (d. 2002), Tim Lahaye, Charles Caldwell Ryrie (in the notes for the Ryrie Study Bible) and Charles L. Feinberg. Craig Blaising and Darrell Bock have developed a form of dispensationalism that is growing in popularity known as Progressive Dispensation-alism. This view understands that an aspect of the eschatological kingdom presently exists, but must wait for the Millennium to be realized fully.”

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The Importance of Pre-millennialism – Normal Geisler “Pre-millennialism is the belief that Christ will physically return to Earth (Acts 1:6-11; Revelation 1:7), set up a throne in Jerusalem (Matthew 19:28), and reign over the whole earth for 1,000 years (Revelation 20:1-6). A-millennialism (no-millennium) denies this literal future reign of Christ and claims that Christ is currently reigning over the world spiritually. Postmillennialism holds that Christ is coming to earth after the Church brings in the kingdom by progressively Christianizing the world before Christ’s return….The Pre-millennial view is based on a consistent use of the literal historical-grammatical interpretation of Scripture.” 1. Without a Millennium, God Lost the Battle in History.

God started human history by creating human beings in a literal Paradise (Genesis 1-2). …But this Paradise was lost by sin…If the Paradise lost is never regained, then eventually God is the loser and Satan the winner…And if a literal Paradise is not restored, then God lost what He created… Hence, there must be a literal Paradise regained such as we have in the Pre-millennial view of the end of history. Otherwise, God did not reverse the curse and gain the victory over Satan, the damaged earth, and the fallen human race.

But God will regain the Paradise that was lost…by a literal resurrection and by the literal reign on earth of Christ. He will reign until death is actually defeated. But this will not be until the end of the millennium (Revelation 20:4-6) … only by a literal reign of Christ on Earth, such as the millennium shall be, will the true Paradise be restored.

2. Without A Millennium, History Has no Climax.

A linear view of history (that history is moving forward toward a final goal) is the result of the Judeo-Christian revelation. History is said to be His-story, for God has planned it and is moving it forward toward its End (Eschaton). But without a literal historical Millennium on Earth, there is no real End to history. According to a traditional A-millennial view, human history merely stops…It simply ends and then the eternal state begins…the Millennium is not the first chapter of Eternity; it is the last chapter of time…sin, suffering, and death will be finally overcome….So without a literal Millennium there is no real End to history.

3. Without a Millennium, God Would Break an Unconditional Land Promise to Abraham.

God promised the land of Canaan to Abraham and his descendants forever… everything west of the Jordan River from Egypt to Iraq…This land promise was also unconditional, “I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates...” (Genesis 15:9-18).

God’s promises don’t depend on our faith but on His faithfulness…But this land promise to Abraham has never yet been fulfilled…it will yet be fulfilled (Matthew 19:28; Acts 1:6-8; Romans 11) in the future in the thousand year reign of Christ (Revelation. 20:1-6). Even after the days of Joshua (21:43), the land promise was yet future (Jeremiah 11:5; Amos 9:14-15).

4. Without a Millennium, God would Break an Unconditional Throne Promise to

David.

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God promised David that he and his descendants would reign on a throne in Israel forever… “I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever…” (II Samuel 7:12-16). As seen in Psalm 89:28-37, this was an unconditional promise to David, “but I will not remove from him my steadfast love or be false to my faithfulness…”

However, no descendent of David is now, nor has been for over 2500 years, reigning on a literal throne in Jerusalem. But Jesus promised that Christ, a descendant of David, would do so in the future (Matthew 19:28).

5. Only Pre-millennialism Employs a Consistent Hermeneutic.

To deny Pre-millennialism is to deny the consistent application of the literal historical -grammatical interpretation of the Bible…the non-Pre-millennial view fails because: 1) It takes parts of the Bible literally but not all, 2) It takes part of the prophets literally (First Advent) but not all of the Second Advent texts, 3) It takes part of the Gospels literally…but not all of Jesus’ predictions…It takes part of a verse literally but not the rest.

In short, applying the same hermeneutic, which non-Pre-millennials apply to prophecy, to other parts of the Bible would deny the fundamentals of the Christian Faith…There are three kinds of fundamentals:

1) Doctrinal fundamentals …test of evangelical authenticity. 2) Epistemological fundamentals…Inspiration and inerrancy of Scripture…test of evangelical consistency. 3) Hermeneutical…test of evangelical consistency.

6. Pre-millennialism Adds Urgency to Evangelism.

Imminency of Christ’s return… believers should live in a constant sense of expectation…But there is a far greater sense of urgency if one believes it could be our last opportunity to reach anyone at any moment.

7. Pre-millennial Imminency Adds an Incentive for Holiness.

For no true believer wants to be caught in sin when Jesus returns…As Peter said, “The day of the Lord will come like a thief…what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness” (II Peter 3:10-11).

Answering Some Objections One mention in the Bible makes something true since God cannot err …the Greek word “millennium” occurs six times in the Bible…Pre-millennialism is not one of the essential salvation doctrines…if Genesis or the Gospels were allegorized…it would undermine the basic salvation essentials of the Faith too.

If the literal sense makes good sense, then seek no other sense, lest it result in nonsense…… A-millennial interpretations are inconsistent, for in the same passage (Revelation 20) they take one “resurrection” literally and the other one spiritually - “…and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Christ…and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years [at first resurrection] …the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished (at the second resurrection)… Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power (at the second resurrection) – (Revelation 20:4-6).

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The Prophecies about Israel are fulfilled spiritually by the Church - “replacement theology”…nowhere in the New Testament is the Church called “Spiritual Israel.” Galatians 6:16-18…Israel of God…the true circumcision…means literal Jews who have accepted Jesus as their Messiah.

The New Testament refers to a future literal kingdom for Israel…Nowhere, does the Bible affirm that God’s unconditional land and throne promises to Israel will be fulfilled by the Church.

It is of more than passing significance to note that few, if any, evangelical groups ever move from Pre-millennialism to liberalism. However, this is not true of A-millennial and Post-millennial views. So, it is not without good reason that Pre-millennialism is a safeguard against liberalism.” I. Authorship of the Book of Revelation

Four times the author is identified by name as John (1:1, 4, 9; 22:8). Both internal and external witness is strong in identifying him as the beloved Apostle, author of the Gospel of John and the Epistles of 1st, 2nd and 3rd John. It is interesting to note that John does not name himself in his Gospel or his Epistles, whereas he does here.

It must be noted that there are disagreements concerning the authorship of this book. Eusebius, the Church Father and historian, said that some other John wrote this book. Many schools and seminaries teach that John the Apostle did not write this book at all, but that John “the Presbyter” or John “the Elder” was the author.

II. Date of Authorship

John probably wrote the Revelation between 91 and 96 A.D., at the end of the reign of the Roman Emperor Domitian (81-96 A.D.). Domitian banished John to the isle of Patmos because of the “testimony of Jesus Christ” (Revelation 1:9).

God directed John to send his inspired manuscript to seven churches in western Asia Minor (Turkey). There were other churches in Asia Minor at this time, such as the church at Colosse (to whom Paul wrote his Epistle to the Colossians). But in the sovereign design of God, He chose these seven to be the recipients of these “original manuscripts.”

III. The Title of the Book

Our English title, Revelation, is taken from the first sentence of the book. The full title of the book is given in Revelation 1:1 as “The Revelation of Jesus Christ.” The Greek word for revelation is “apokalypsis,” which means “the unveiling or uncovering of something previously hidden.” From this Greek word, the Roman Catholic Church derived the transliteration “Apocalypse” and assigned this word as their title of the last book of the Bible.

This word is used in other verses of the New Testament about the Second Coming.

1 Corinthians 1:7 So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:

1 Peter 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

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2 Thessalonians 1:7,10 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angel...When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.

IV. Relation to Other Scriptures

The Book of Revelation is the natural climax and conclusion to all the other books of the Bible. Genesis is the book of beginnings, while Revelation is the book of consummation.

Allusions to Old Testament imagery and prophecy appear throughout Revelation, though there are no direct quotations as such. Of its 404 verses, it has been observed that 265 contain lines which embrace approximately 550 Old Testament references. As one writer has said, “This book is the work of a Jew saturated with Old Testament prophecy, under the guidance of the word of Jesus and the inspiration of God.”

See these chapters in the Old Testament for examples: Jeremiah 51; Daniel 7, 8, 10, 12; Isaiah 11, 44, 48, 49; Ezekiel 1; Zechariah 4. See also these prophetic chapters in the New Testament: Matthew 24; Mark 13; Luke 21.

Revelation is the key that opens up the Old Testament. V. Final Notations

Satan hates the books of Genesis and Revelation particularly. If he can discredit the validity of Genesis, he can eliminate the account of man’s creation, fall, and therefore his need for restoration and redemption in Jesus Christ. Similarly, if Satan can discredit The Revelation, he can rock the world to sleep, only to have it awake to its impending doom and damnation. Satan’s most effective weapon is to blind the minds of men as to his personal existence and his final judgment.

The book of Revelation is the only book of the Bible that gives clearly and in detail the end of Satan, the Church, the Jew, the Gentile, the Nations, and the Universe. The Revelation is not hard to understand - it is hard to believe. The great objection to the book of Revelation stems from the first six verses of Chapter 20 with regards to the Millennial Reign of Christ. If these verses say what they mean, and mean what they say, then there will be no “peace on earth, good will to men” as the world defines Luke 2:15 until the Lord Jesus Christ returns; and when He returns, He will reign with the saints over a literal, physical, visible, Davidic, Palestinian, Jewish, political Kingdom.

The prophetical implications of this book have brought about four major schools of biblical interpretation (known to theologians as “hermeneutics”). The first is the Pre-Millennial (futurist) school that teaches that Revelation 4-22 is yet future. The second is the Praeterist school that teaches that Revelation is already fulfilled, with the exception of the Second Advent and Judgment. The third is the Historical (historicist) school that seeks fulfillment in history after 70 A.D. The fourth is the Symbolic or idealist (see page 7).

These second and third systems of interpretation seek to date the writing of the Revelation during the reign of the Emperor Nero (66-69 A.D.), exactly where the Roman Catholic Church has always dated it. This would allow fulfillment of Revelation 17-18 to be found in pagan Rome. If the date is later, say 20 years later, Papal Rome becomes a candidate for fulfillment.

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There is also the “A-Millennial” view, which teaches that there will be no literal 1,000 year reign of Christ on the Earth following the Second Advent, and all the prophecies concerning the kingdom are being fulfilled in the inter-Advent period spiritually by the Church. And there is the “Post-Millennial” view, which holds that through preaching the Gospel that the whole world will be “Christianized” and brought to submission to the Gospel before the return of Christ. Yet another teaching is the “Non-Literal” view that denies that there will be a literal, bodily, personal, return of Christ and subsequent reign on the Earth. Revelation contains more details about end times than any other book in the Bible. Matthew through Acts – History – Past Romans through Jude – New Testament Doctrine – Present Revelation – Things to Come - Future