From: PENDITA@aol.com Date: Sat, 25 May 2002 10:48:44 EDT Subject: Seals 1 To: PENDITA@aol.com X-Mailer: AOL 4.0 for Windows 95 sub 113 REGARDING YOUR QUESTION Dear Daniel: THE OPENING OF THE SEVEN SEALS. 1. The seven seals are eventful times that are designed for the end of the age. Their opening may be evidenced by the consequence of events that are to be experienced by the earth and its inhabitants. Each seal will all span a period of time. The earliest opened will be in effect for a longer period of time than those which will be opened later. When a seal is opened it does not require an immediate fulfillment. The conclusion and the expanse of time involved in the completion of the seals we will see later. THE FIRST SEAL. The Lamb is the one who has the authority to open them. The Lion of Judah, the root of David has prevailed and has triumphed winning the ability to open them. Rev.5:1 It would appear that there would be opposition to their being instituted. Understandably so for they will bring this age to its conclusion. John heard that voice of thunder, these are seals of power and intensity in their completion. Rev. 6:1 WHITE. The color of purity. It is taken from the Greek word, leukos or light. There is no more beautiful example in scripture than that of the Lord Jesus as He stood on the Mt of Transfiguration. Here, He was transfigured before them. The true God/man seen, with the divine nature of the Almighty shining through and from within His body. His face shining bright and clear like the sun. His clothing becoming white as the light. Mt. 17:2 Shining EXCEEDING WHITE AS SNOW. Dazzling white. NIV. A purity that exceeds the ability of any bleach on earth to whiten. Mk. 9:3 While He was praying the appearance of His countenance was altered. His raiment, glistering, as bright as a flash of lightning. NIV. Luke 9:29 That is extremely exciting for it gives us a glimpse of Christ in His glory. REVELATION WHITE. WHITE HAIR LIKE WOOL. Rev. 1:14 Very fitting for the Lamb of God. OVERCOMER to receive a WHITE stone. Rev. 2:17 CERTAIN SAINTS clothed in WHITE. Rev. 3:4-5 SAINTS exhorted to BUY WHITE raiment. Rev. 3:18 WHITE RAIMENT worn by the twenty-four elders. Rev. 4:4 WHITE ROBES worn by martyrs. Rev. 6:11 WHITE ROBES worn by the multitudes in heaven. Rev. 7:9 WHITE ROBES worn by tribulation martyrs. Rev. 13-14 THE WHITE CLOUD of the harvest. Rev. 14:14 SEALS 2. REVELATION WHITE HORSES. A WHITE HORSE SEEN IN HEAVEN. The very situation and location of this horse will strongly testify that this is the language of the symbol. It is indicative of power and authority. The rider is the important element of what is seen here. He is called Faithful, trustworthy, loyal, incorruptible, steady. He is also called, True, for He is the way, the truth and the life. His warfare is with justice and righteousness. There is no injustice in any thing that he does. All that Faithful and Truth can convey communicates to us the marvelous nature and being that is His makeup. Can there be any doubt but what the rider is the Lord Jesus? Rev. 19:11 His name is called the WORD OF GOD. Rev. 19:14 THE ARMIES OF HEAVEN. Like wise mounted as their General on WHITE HORSES, follow Him. The are dressed in the finest of linen that is WHITE, pure and clean. They belong to Him. They are made like unto Him bearing His righteousness and holiness. Rev. 19:14 THE RIDER OF THE WHITE HORSE AT THE OPENING OF THE SEAL. With the multiplicity of testimony that we have noted from the book of Revelation, it is extremely difficult to attribute this vision to anything other than that which pertains deep and positive spiritual rudiments. This is a powerful manifestation of the Spirit in mighty outpouring. It will culminate in a perfect church, the Bride of Christ. This seal was most certainly opened around the turn of the last century and has resulted in the Spirit Filled message being taken to the uttermost parts of the earth. We are not finished. There is a grand finale yet to come. A last day revival that will sweep multitudes into the kingdom of God. I remember a day when my Pastor, W.H. Offlier stood almost alone in such a doctrine. The doctrine of that day was, only eight, just a few, like in the days of Noah. What a dismal teaching that was. How definitely it has been proven to be wrong. I thank the Lord for truth received. Our anticipation was directed toward a last day revival and we see it today. We are only in the beginnings of what the Lord will accomplish before He returns. There is a principle found in the stories of the manifestation of the wrath of God. He visits first in mercy affording men the opportunity to repent. THE FIRST SEAL, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit was approximately in the year nineteen hundred to nineteen six. In those days there was a stir amongst churches labeled Holiness. Then, of course the manifestations of the Spirit in Kansas and California which really became the fountain head of current day Pentecost. This seal will be in effect until the beginning of the tribulation period. The Holy Spirit will be the with which the Bride of Revelation twelve will be carried into the wilderness. Rev 12 The Spirit will definitely be removed. 2 Thes. 2:7 SEALS 3 SPIRITUAL IMPLEMENTS OF WAR. The rider of the white horse is in possession of a bow. The bow represents the Word of the Lord in the hands of the Holy Spirit, a very effective weapon. Hab. 3:9 The conviction of the Spirit and the Word is a very wonderful thing, for it leads us to repentance. Among the saved, who has not felt the piercing arrows of the Word striking deep within revealing the improprieties of our lives. Ps. 30:2 THE CROWN. Winners receive a crown. A prize, a symbol of honor. A badge of royal status. The crown indicates a person of high and noble standing. Before entering into battle He was presented with a crown. A sure sign that He would not know defeat. HE WENT FORTH. Commissioned of the Son who promised that He would send another comforter, like Himself. One who would take the Spiritual Life giving things of Christ and make them known. Sent to abide forever. Jn. 14:16 How far did the Word spread in those days under the unction of the Spirit? According to the Apostle Paul it went into all the earth and the ends of the world. Rom. 10:18 CONQUERING AND TO CONQUER. Triumphantly, Triumphant. Victoriously, Victorious. Undefeatable and undefeated. This cannot be said of the antichrist, whom some believe this person to be. But wait, see, he is defeated by a group of saints. Even while he will be in the prime of his power and kingdom. These victorious people overcome, the beast, his image and his mark and the number of his name. How frustrating that will be for him. Always someone spoiling his plans. Rev. 15:2 Very obvious that he will not conquer these folks. This rider represents the last day outpouring of the Holy Ghost with the best and greatest yet to come. THE DATES. All the dates that we will be considering are approximate. The times are in His hands. Signs and wonders will help us to acknowledge that circumstances and current conditions fit the occasion and fulfillment of the seals. Where exactly we are in the calendar of the Lord cannot be pin pointed. However, by observation and revelation in the Word we can tell the seasons. This is most certainly the season of the moving of the Spirit. It would appear that the year nineteen hundred would be a good date to consider, give or take a few years. We do know that beginning in the year nineteen o six there were exceptionally strong indications that the First Seal was indeed opened. The impact and authority of this seal will continue until the beginning of the tribulation period and not beyond that moment of time. Unfortunately, some stubborn saints, will go into the tribulation. Where they will be without the Holy Spirit and will either surrender to the antichrist or be killed. Be filled with the Spirit. SEALS 4 THE HORSE OF BLOOD. Time for the second seal to be opened. The horse is identified as , fire like or flame colored. The flames of fire and exploding shells. NIV. Rev. 6:3 This is the seal of combat and deep rooted hostilities. In nineteen fourteen what is known as World War one involved all of Europe and eventually the USA. This was, supposedly a war to end all wars. This could give us a period of fourteen years between the opening of the seals. The spirit of division, separation and enmity loosed on the earth. Can any doubt that we are living in the throes of a wild beast that has been loosed on the earth. Rather than trying to list the nations where there is war, or the threat of war and revolutions, or insurrection, rebellion, revolution and bloodshed of every description it would be easier to make a list of where this is not happening. How very, very short it would be. We live in an angry world. It manifests itself in the home, on the highways, in the schools, on the job and where ever man is found. The spirit of today is kill, murder, assassinate just as long as blood is shed. Rev. 6:4 POWER TO REMOVE PEACE FROM THE EARTH. After the first world war the League of Nations was established to keep peace among the nations. It failed. After World War Two, the United Nations came into existence. Judge for yourself how successful that has been. Rev. 6:4 This is the age of which Jesus was speaking when He spoke of wars and the constant rumor of war. Saber rattling is a constant sound in our world. Only now it is the rocket and nuclear threat. . Mt. 24:6 But the end is not yet, there are still events that have to transpire before the second Coming of Christ. Christians will learn to live by the power and peace of the Lord in these last days. Jesus gave the assurance of peace. John 14:27 THEY SHALL KILL ONE ANOTHER. If our hope is in the things of this world then the outlook is bleak. There is no hope for a change. The seal is opened and its effect and power will continue in increasing volume. Peace has been snatched from the grasp of men. Their best efforts end in failure. What an awesome statement; . Super powerful in every way. A mighty weapon that has already resulted in the slaying of millions in our generation. Jesus said that these events are the beginning of sorrows. Mt. 24:8 In spite of the dismal outlook presented by the opening of this seal and the knowledge that it will not get better as time passes. We are exhorted to lift up our heads and realize that our redemption is close at hand. Lk. 21:28 The greater the darkness of this world becomes the brighter will the light of the path of the just become, consummating in the great manifestation of light in that day of perfection. Prov. 4:18 The woman of Revelation twelve will be clothed and surrounded by the fullness of the living God, who is light. SEALS 5 AN OPENED THIRD SEAL. The seal of hunger and famine. Rev. 6:5 Note the condition of those under famine. Skin black, hot {feverish from famine}, or shriveled, all because of the terrible famine. Lam. 5:10 If there is a sequence in the opening of the seals it would appear to be fourteen years. Nineteen hundred - Revival. Nineteen fourteen -- war. Nineteen twenty-eight, great depression, hunger. Famine and hunger persist even until today. Many nations of the world are in a famine situation. Jesus stated that this too would be a last day sign. Mark 13:8 There is a period of time between the loosing of the seals and consequential events and the complete fulfillment of the seals all occurrences which will cover a span of years. For example, these seals are unquestionably unsealed and the powers and forces unleashed by them will increase consistently until their climax. War and famine are compatriots, one creating the other. FOOD AND WATER RATIONED. The scales in the hands of the rider denote the fact that these necessitates of life will be in short supply. Rev. 6:5 Here in Seattle, noted for its rain, we were asked to conserve on water last year. Consequently, water rates went up and instead of going down, now that there is sufficient water, the price is going up. Why? Because the water utility did not make enough money last year so suffered a loss that must now be made up. The same with electricity. Rising prices create financial difficulties. Which in turn, leave less money for the purchase of food. It is indeed, a vicious circle. Certain areas of our world are already living under such circumstances. Countries and organizations are seeking to alleviate the suffering of these countries but there never seems to be enough. Both the measurement and cost factors can cause a situation leading up to a famine that can have an effect on both the poor and the rich. If the supply is not there, it cannot be purchased. A days wages is depicted as being necessary to purchase food sufficient to feed a family. Wheat, was the leading food for those who had the funds with which to purchase it. Barley the food of the poor. Rev. 6:6 There are other prophetic statements that foretell the development of this kind of a situation. The supply was to cease, causing ration to take place in Jerusalem. They were to sparingly eat their bread with anxiety and drink rationed water with despair. Eze. 4:16 If they disobeyed the Lord, their bread supply was to be cut off and even that which they ate did not satisfy. Lev. 26:26 Not a pleasant out look for his world. In the midst of this catastrophe there is a special work of the Lord for His people. The black horse plague will not be allowed to touch the oil and the wine. The oil, the Spirit filled. The wine, those filled with the joy of the Lord. Elijah, in famine was fed in a very special way. 1 Ki. 17:4 He went to the East, toward the sun rising in accordance with the Word of the Lord, to the East side of Jordan. To Cherith, meaning a cut or a covenant. The Lord kept covenant with him. 1 Ki. 17:15 He hid himself in a ravine, where the ravens, commanded by the Lord brought him food, twice a day. 1 Ki. 17:6 SEALS 6 THE END OF ONE SOURCE, THE BEGINNING OF ANOTHER. When the brook dried up the Lord opened another unlikely source. I Ki. 17:7 The Lord works in a way contrary to our expectation to show His ability to meet the demand. The WORD of the LORD came to Him. There is no better way to know the will of the Lord than the Word of the Lord. Elijah is sent to Zarephath {refinement, from a root meaning to melt, make pure or purge}. 1 Ki. 17:9 The Lord knows what actions are necessary for our refinement and cleansing. Usually it is in the fiery trial. 1 Pet. 4:12 The Lord appointed a widow woman to care for Elijah. 1 Ki. 17:9 He requested bread and water. v. 10-11 and discovered her lack of provisions. v.12 She had but two sticks with which to make a fire and cook their meal. TWO STICKS. Upon two sticks, Ezekiel wrote the names of Judah and his associates who were Israelites on one stick. The other was named after Joseph and Ephriam and the Israelites associated with them. Eze. 37:16 These two in the hand of Ezekiel were to be joined together and become one in his hand. v.17 This is a prophecy of a work that the Lord will perform in the last days. Both nations are to be gathered together to become one nation. More importantly, they are to have ONE KING over them. v. 21-22 They will be a people of holiness for the Lord will cleanse them. They will then be called the people of the Lord. v. 23 David {JESUS} will be their king. ONE SHEPHERD. Eze. 37:24 JESUS is the GOOD SHEPHERD. John 10:11 ONE fold and ONE SHEPHERD. John 10:16 JESUS IS THE GREAT SHEPHERD Heb. 13:20 JESUS IS THE SHEPHERD AND BISHOP of our souls. 1 Pet. 2:25 JESUS IS THE CHIEF SHEPHERD who shall soon appear. 1 Pet. 5:4 The Lord will covenant with them, an everlasting covenant, a covenant of peace. The sure mercies of David. Isa. 55:3 The sanctuary of the Lord to be among them. God will indeed be their God and they shall be His people. Jehovah, will sanctify Israel. Eze. 37:26-28 The covenant that is built on those elements that are better. A better covenant with better promises. Heb. 8:6 The true covenant, the only sure covenant is that which is sealed by the blood of atonement. The blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Heb. 10:29 The prophecy given by Ezekiel is declaring the great last day revival that will bring to Christ all who will accept Him. All must come the same way. Jesus said; I am the way. All must enter in through one door. Jesus said; I am the door. There is only one covenant that the Lord will acknowledge today and that is the New Covenant of which Christ is the only mediator. When Jesus came the first time their anticipation was that He would establish a kingdom for Israel and that they would rule. Unfortunately, many in our day are expecting a natural, worldly kingdom for the end time. It will be a Spiritual, everlasting kingdom. Not a political kingdom. SEALS 7 THREE AND ONE HALF YEARS OF BLESSING. All because of her kindness in response to the man of God. The widow had little and was about to fix the meal of death when Elijah appeared on the scene. His first request was for water . Then for a small cake of bread . May we always have a hunger for things spiritual. Her commitment to the Prophet of the little that she had was to result in a sufficiency for as long as the drought was on. A little oil and a little flour. 1 Kin. 17:12-16 The miraculous supply never failed. The Bride will have the best supply ever in the wilderness. Our God will supply all your needs. Phil. 4:19 THE FOURTH SEAL. THE SEAL OF DEATH. Death by whatever means. Death rides throughout the world. Rev. 6:8 This is to be a fourfold mode of taking the lives of mankind. This horse is shown as having a rider whose name is Death and Hell followed with him. Once again, if the sequence in the opening of the seals stands at fourteen years, this seal would have been opened in 1942. Keep in mind that the seals once opened have a period of time allotted them before they climax. Death and Hell will have power and authority and will effect one-fourth of the population of the earth. THE SWORD, or war, rebellions, riots, insurrections, now acts of terrorism. All methods of warfare that produce slaughter and death are to be included in the fulfillment of this seal. Murders are often committed with weapons that are used in war. How can it be denied that we are now living under an opened fourth seal? HUNGER, while today the lack of food reaching certain areas of our world where famine exists. The future fulfillment of this phase of the fourth seal will be because of a great failure of crops in the food producing areas of the world. Sometimes it is drought, floods, crop failure, insects all these are having an effect on the availability of food in the world. Remember, that under the third seal the price of food stuffs increased. We are seeing this develop now. Once there is a crop shortage and inevitably the price is raised, when the crops come in again the price stays up. Consistently the cost of living increases. WITH DEATH, It is morbid but a fact of life that death prevails. Diseases are taking a great toll. HIV and aids are running rampant in some areas of our world, even causing the death of children who were infected by their parents. Strange and unusual diseases, of which little is known and there is no known cure. Transportation is a great boon to our modern day life. Yet cars, trains, buses, ships, boats and airplanes all are a cause of death that would not exist if it were not for our use of them. BEASTS OF THE EARTH, amazingly here too, we find an increase of people who are killed by the wild, even venomous animals of the earth. Might we include here, the beast like nature of man as he violates those of his own species? In view of all this please do not forget the command to Rev. 6:8 There is a Divine provision and protection. SEALS 8 THE FIFTH SEAL, THE SEAL OF MARTYRDOM. This group who will give their lives for the cause of Christ are certainly a part of the fulfillment of the previous seal. A point of interest here. Five is the number of the atonement, the shed blood of Jesus. He bore five major wounds. The shedding of the blood of these martyrs is not for atonement but because they have been redeemed by the precious blood of Christ. How significant that they are found here connected with the fifth seal. Rev. 6:9 Jesus spoke of religious persecution by religionists. Killing with the thought that they are doing a service to God. John 16:2 The reason for their slaying is the Word of God. They maintained their trust in and doctrine of the Word of the Lord. There was no compromise on their part. Like wise, their testimony continuing to glorify the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. They will be faithful unto death. UNDER THE ALTAR. The residue of the blood of atonement was to be poured out at the base of the altar. Lev. 8:15 These are people whose souls are under the altar, under the atonement. The soul or animal life is in the blood. Blood is the life giving element to the flesh. It maintains the functions of the body necessary to its health and well being. Man is triune, body, soul and spirit. The blood of the animal that was slain was to be covered with dust. Blood was not to be eaten. All flesh that was used for food was to be drained of its blood. Lev. 17:13-14 This commandment was carried over from the Law into grace. It is still in effect. Acts 15:28-29 The blood of mankind spilled by another has the element of crying for revenge as was the case with Abel. Gen. 4:10 The Lord has established a day wherein He will judge those who have shed the blood of others. Isa. 26:21 Their cry is one of revenge for the spilling of their blood. They called out with a loud voice to the holy, true and just Lord. They were well acquainted with Him and followed closely after Him. THE CLOTHING OF ALL REDEEMED SAINTS. White robes were issued to each and every one of them. Rev. 6:11 It is sign of their value as ascribed by the Lord. It is a witness and testimony of a life of holiness. It is also an evidence of their walk with the Lord. Rev. 3:4 They are overcomers. Their names cannot be blotted out of the book of Life. {If it were not possible that a name may be blotted out of the book of Life, there would be no necessity of such a statement}. Their names are to be acknowledged before the Throne of the Lord. Rev. 3:5 From the manifest sheer volume it is obvious that this is the uniform of the redeemed. Rev. 7:9 These are they who have been washed in the blood of the Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ. They have been sanctified as well as justified by the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the workings and moving of the Holy Spirit in their lives. 1 Cor. 6:11 A martyr is indeed a hardy spirited person. Their faith and confidence in the Lord is unblemished and full. Their reward is great and eternal. SEALS 9 CLOTHED IN THE LIGHT OF THE LORD. The word white in the Greek is from luke (“light”) or white. White is a symbol of purity and is significant in relationship, to this clothing worn by the multitudes of heaven. Of greater importance is the power that creates the appearance of this beautiful garb. Once again, let us consider the Lord Jesus as he was transfigured on the mountain top. His face shone as the sun, brilliant and beautiful. His raiment as WHITE as the LIGHT, (Phos. to shine or make manifest, especially by rays, luminousness (in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative. Strong). Natural, concrete and literal are excellent words with which to describe this heavenly light that was so beautifully manifest in the garment of Christ and will be in the garments of the saints. Mat. 17:2 THE CONSTITUTION, the very sum and substance of the Lord is LIGHT. 1 John 1:5 There is absolutely no, nor could there be any darkness in Him. He is LIGHT, period. That is it, nothing more to be considered. The conclusion of the matter. The saints have been called out of darkness in to HIS MARVELOUS LIGHT. A light that is so wonderful that it is an astonishment. 1 Pet. 2:9 The Lord uses light as a cloak and a garment. Within and without He is LIGHT>. Ps. 104:2 The saints are the benefactors of the inheritance of the kingdom of light. They share and share alike the glories of that eternal New Heavens and New Earth. Col. 1:12 The dwelling place of the Lord immortal is in unapproachable light. In order to live in that light one must be filled and clothed with that same light. 1 Tim. 6:16 When John saw the Lord Jesus on the isle of Patmos, he saw one whose countenance {literally, His whole being} was shinning as the sun in full strength. Rev. 1:16 Paul, at the time of his conversion saw a light that blinded him. A light, shining from heaven, that was over and above the brightness of the shining of the sun, blazing (NIV) around them. Acts 26:13 OH, the glory, the brilliancy, the out raying of the Lord, of the home that He has prepared for us and the glorified saints of light who will occupy the same. The beauty, the majesty, the excellency of all that is involved in that eternal, everlasting light beggars description. Of a truth eye has not seen, ear has not heard nor has it entered into the heart of men that which the Lord has prepared for those who love Him. 1 Cor. 2:9 BUT GOD HAS REVEALED THEM UNTO US BY HIS SPIRIT. We too often are content to stop with verse nine and miss the blessing of revelation. 1 Cor. 2:10 The Lord wants us to know what He has prepared for His people and will show us if we will listen. We have not yet exhausted the revelations of the written Word. The mysteries of the Word are not to remain hidden for He has given to us the privilege of knowing all of His plans and purposes. We are not left to walk in darkness nor ignorance but it is His will that He reveal and share with those who walk in His light the great and marvelous things that are in our future. Study to show yourself approved unto the Lord. SEALS 10 THE MOUNTAIN INCIDENT AS RELATED BY MARK. Though not an eye witness, Mark wrote under the inspiration of the Spirit, therefore would give a factual report. His clothing was seen as shining, gleaming or flashing intensely. That is greatly exciting. Heaven the place of light. Filled with beings who are aglow, shining, glittering completely filled with the glory of the Eternal. Dazzling white, whiter than any bleach could possibly bleach them. That is a whiteness that is supernatural and most certainly spiritual. A purity that only belongs to the heavenly. Mark 9:3 THE LITTLE SEASON. These who are crying out for vengeance are pretribulation martyrs. Rev. 6:11 They are instructed to rest or be patient until the full complement of those designated for the death of a martyr should be accomplished. There is an invitation. given by the Lord for those who will, to enter into the place prepared by the Lord during the tribulation or the time of the manifestation of His indignation. Isa. 26:20 The only time element mentioned in the book of Revelation for the tribulation period is three and one half years. , the Bride of Christ in Revelation twelve is sequestered, in the wilderness, cared for and fed for a time (one year), a times (two years) and half a time (one half a year) or for a total of three and one half years. Rev. 12:14 This is the full extent of the tribulation period. , which is without the temple, or surrounding the temple. The court is a type of the nation of Israel. The Gentiles, namely the antichrist and his followers, will trample the city of Jerusalem for forty-two months or three and one half years. Rev. 11:2 The month measurement is also used to denote the period of time that the king of propaganda, the antichrist will reign. Rev. 13:5 Note, they are HIS witnesses, or witnesses of the person and being of the Lord. They manifest the power of the Lord, in Jerusalem, for one thousand two hundred and sixty days or three and one half years. Rev. 11:3 The same day measurement is used for the time the Bride will spend in the wilderness. Rev. 12:6 These three measurements of time all relate to the one and same period of time. Depicting three different situations that are in effect at one and the same time. TRIBULATION MARTYRS. Those not having met the requirements necessary to be in the bride will quickly know the wrath of the antichrist. War will be perpetrated against them. They will be overcome. What a pity, these who had the same opportunity as the bride to go into the wedding, miss it because of a lack of preparation, dedication and surrender to the will of the Lord. They are the unwise virgin class of Mat. 25: 1-12 So close to that great moment where the church will become His bride yet, did not make it. They heard the same midnight cry as the wise but procrastinated doing what they knew to be necessary. They were not ignorant. A spirit of lethargy prevailed amongst them. They felt that they were just as good as the wise. Do not be fooled, be prepared, always! A SEALS FOLLOW UP CLIPPED FROM THE NEWS IN JUST ONE WEEK. IS THE FOURTH SEAL, THE SEAL OF DEATH A CONSEQUENCE IN OUR MODERN WORLD? RUSSIA. At least one hundred nine killed by floods. CHUUK, MICRONESIA. At least thirty nine killed by landslides due to typhoon. AFGHANISTAN. Forty killed by stray bomb. BANGUI, Central African Republic. Twenty three killed in Boeing 707 that crashed two miles short of the runway. Two injured. UEBERLINGEN, Germany. Fifty two children from Russia killed in mid-air crash. INDONESIA. Twenty six school children killed when bus left the road. UNITED NATIONS. A report on AIDS. CHRISTIAN TV. Daily, four to five thousand babies are aborted in the US alone. RUSSIA. Vaccinations started for anthrax due to floods uncovering cattle buried and infected with anthrax. Forty percent of the USA is in a drought. Ethiopia, China, Africa all report drought conditions. SEALS 11 THE GREAT MULTITUDE. Their place in heaven is before the throne of the Lord. This is indicative of the value placed upon them by the Lord. The fact that it is such a of the redeemed is almost frightening for these are martyrs. For their number to be innumerable reveals that there will be a vast amount of people who die for Christ in the end of the age. Rev. 7:9 They are impacted by the fifth seal. They come from every corner of the earth. No nation will be free from the persecution that will increase in these last days. The only escape is to be in the Bride and go with her into the wilderness. Rev. 12:14 They are wearing the finery of the redeemed, clothed in white linen which is the righteousness of the saints. Rev. 19:8 They are a happy, rejoicing people for they are waving palm trees before the throne of the Lord. The use of palm branches originates from the Feast of Tabernacles and is significant of triumph, peace and righteousness. Neh. 8:15 Ps. 92:12 The numerology of this episode is interesting; there are four {the number of the earth} means used to identify the origin of this multitude. Rev. 7:9 There are eight {number of resurrection} words or sayings that are used in order to magnify and glorify the Lord. Rev. 7:11 WHERE HAVE THESE COME FROM? The asking of a question by one who understood. That their origins might be revealed. They have come out of, or have entered by the way of the great tribulation. They are a blood washed number who have paid the price of martyrdom for their belief that Jesus is the Messiah, perhaps dying as soon as they professed their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is obvious that there will be a vast multitude come to Christ at this time and in this manner. Rev. 7:14 During the great tribulation period the antichrist will be in absolute charge and will quickly eradicate all who believe and accept the witness of the two witnesses, Moses and Elijah {the Law and the Prophets}. Nevertheless, Knowing that they face immediate death, they will reject the ways of the antichrist and proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord. A SYNOPSIS OF THE CONDITIONS OF THE GREAT TRIBULATION. The Holy Spirit will no longer be moving among men as now. There will be no New Birth, no infilling of the Spirit. He will carry and go with the church into the place prepared by the Lord for the duration of the great tribulation. The Holy Spirit, at his present time, is hindering and withholding the forces of evil. The Holy Spirit will soon be removed allowing the forces of darkness complete control. 2 Thes. 2:7 {The one who holds it back (powers of evil) will continue to do so till he (the Holy Spirit) is taken out of the way. NIV}. How will the martyrs be saved? In the same manner as during the ministry of the Lord Jesus. Those who believed in Jesus were saved by their faith. John 3:15 The three and one half year ministry was a transition period, from Law to Grace. It was the first half of the seventieth year of the prophecy of Daniel. Dan. 9:27 THE SEALS 12 SYNOPSIS OF TRIBULATION, CONTINUED. As we have already seen the extent of the great tribulation is 1260 days, 42 months or 3 1/2 years. That is the same as the last half of the seventieth week of the message given to Daniel. The seventieth week belongs to Israel. It involves the three and one half year ministry of the Lord Jesus, to Israel, which was the first half of the seventieth week. Plus, the three and one half year ministry of the two witnesses in Jerusalem, to Israel during the great tribulation. Their testimony of Christ as Messiah will be the only voice of the Lord heard in the world. They, no doubt, will be a part of every newscast, every day on TV around the world. Their actions and judgments will be closely followed. This is the last half of the seventieth week. WORSHIP DURING THE TRIBULATION. The antichrist, sitting in the temple of God will require all worship to be directed toward him. He will present himself as God. 2 Thes. 2:4 Incidentally, the reference to a temple of God is not a particular building but to a human body. 1 Cor. 3:16 This would strongly indicate that the antichrist at one time had been a spirit filled person and a part of the body of Christ in these last days. The examples given in the Word show that the greatest enemy to the believer is from the inside, such as Judas. THE MARK, the image, the name or the number of the antichrist will be forced upon the inhabitants of the world. NOTICE, that refusing to accept this mark is certain death. Rev. 13:15-16 The acceptance of the stamp of the antichrist will seal the eternal destiny of the recipient. Once having been marked there is no possibility of salvation for that person. Rev. 14:10 These will be moments of momentous decisions for the people of the earth. Death physically for those who will not accept the mark. Death, spiritually for those who do accept it. The insertion of chips for identification purposes or records, such as medical, are not the mark of the antichrist. However, it is certainly a forerunner and does manifest the possibility of a mark being stamped. Over the years we have seen many world leaders declared to be the antichrist. Books have even been written concerning them, showing from scripture {?} why they were the antichrist. Various acronyms used by governments have been proclaimed as the mark of the beast. While sensational, to say the least, none have proven to be the fulfillment of the prophecy of the Revelation. What has been prophesied will take place at the time allotted by the Lord, not before nor after, but in His perfect timing. The Lord is in absolute control. The two witnesses who will declare that Jesus is the Christ will minister in Jerusalem. Their works will replicate the former miracles for which they are well known. They will be completely untouchably by the forces of the antichrist for as long as the Lord allows their ministry to continue. They are identifiable by their works and also by two men who repeatedly appear in the life time of Jesus but are not identified until the mount of transfiguration where they are named to be Moses and Elijah. Mt.17:3 SEALS 13 FEARSOME AND AWESOME EVENTS SCHEDULED. Horrendous catastrophes will take place under an opened sixth seal. The seals, when opened do not require an instant fulfillment of all that will happen. They will cover a period or season of time. Just to experience the first event mentioned under the opening of the sixth seal will be fearsome, there will be more to follow. Rev. 6:12 This will be a big and unusual earthquake but there are more to follow. Jesus used earthquakes as one of the signs of His Second Coming. They will take place all over the earth. These earthquakes will not be confined to areas of the earth that are earthquake prone but will happen in areas that have not had an earthquake. Mt. 24:7 Reading the occurrences of this seal we can understand why such extreme, heart rendering fear will grip the inhabitants of the earth, under such terrible consequences. Lk. 21:26 Earthquakes of great strength will announce certain vital incidents throughout the tribulation period. The introduction of the seven angels with the seven trumpets, {the seventh is the Last Trumpet}, will be accompanied by one of those massive earthquakes. Rev. 8:5 The annunciation of the kingdoms of this world becoming the kingdoms of our Lord Jesus Christ at the sounding of the Last Trumpet, Rev. 11:15 will again bring to pass the phenomena of a world shaking earthquake. Rev. 11:19 At the ascension of the two witnesses, Moses and Elijah, there is once again an exceedingly great earthquake. Rev. 11:13 Then at the very climax of the tribulation when the seventh and last vial of judgment is poured out on the earth the greatest of all earthquakes will take place. Rev. 16:18 This one will completely alter the topography of the earth. No one will be able to identify any continent, country or city after this earth destroying, devastating earthquake. Rev. 16:20 Consider how utterly impossible it is for any sinner to live through this and find his way into the Millennial Age. If the quake does not bring utter destruction, what accompanies it will. Great blocks of ice falling from the sky, at one and the same time, as the earthquake, weighing some one hundred twenty-five pounds. What a smashing time that will be. Rev. 16:21 It is here that the inhabitants of the earth seek out their shelters that they might hide themselves from the face of the occupant of the throne and from the wrath of the LAMB. They will cry out for their shelters to fall in upon them, preferring death to having to face the judge of the whole earth. Rev. 6:15-16 What exactly do the inhabitants of the earth face at this time? Jesus is coming in flaming fire seeking vengeance on the ungodly. Punishing them with everlasting punishment while they are shut out {NIV} from the presence of the Lord and from the majesty of His kingdom and power. 2 Thess. 1:7-9 There is absolutely no way for sinners to escape all the fore going and in any way take up residence in the Kingdom of our Lord here on earth. There will be no sin, sickness or death during the Thousand years of the Kingdom on earth. Satan will be incarcerated. Sinners will not exist, nor could they, nor would they want to be in that glorious Kingdom. SEALS 14 EVENTS THAT PRECEDE THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST. There will be a series of events transpiring during the tribulation period which will warn of the impending moment of the Coming of Christ. Because the Lord is a God of mercy, He will first send a mighty out pouring of His Spirit upon the peoples of the earth. While we have seen the Spirit of Revival in the earth for scores of years, the climax in a tremendous move of the Holy Ghost is yet to come. This has to be the next wonder on the calendar of God. These most assuredly are the last days. The Lord will fulfill His promises. If ever there was a generation that needed a revival, it is this one. The Lord always visits with mercy prior to judgment. Acts 2: 17-18 SIGNS THAT ARE TO BE FULFILLED. These things shall take place <> the great and notable day of the Lord. When we place first things first the order of events will then fall into their rightful place. Acts 2:20 Strange and unusual symbols to be manifest in the heavens associated with unusual signs in the earth, such as blood, fire and billows of smoke. These are not natural occurrences but supernatural warnings of the impending judgments to come. Acts 2:19 Of greater impact will be the moment that the Lord will chose to cause the sun to become darkened and the moon turned into blood. There is no way that we can even begin to imagine the depths of fear and consternation in the hearts of men by such consequences. THE GREAT DAY OF HIS WRATH. The climax of the sixth seal will immediately precede the moment of the return of the Lord Jesus. All men will recognize the fact of the arrival of that day. Every effort of men in human society is listed as having one purpose and that is to hide from the wrath of the Lamb. Their fear will supersede any fear that has ever been felt by men on earth. It will be one horrendous moment. Rev. 6:17 At the end of the measure of time allotted to the fulfillment of the sixth seal are these cataclysmic signs that are to be evidenced along with the great earthquake. THE SUN to become as black as sackcloth or mohair. This will be true darkness. The color black is worn as a sign of mourning. In a prophecy given to Jeremiah the Lord said that He would not repent nor turn back from accomplishing this time of darkness. Jer. 4:28 There are many statements in this Fourth chapter of Jeremiah that are comparable to this event, such as the earth emptied, mountains moved and cities destroyed. Jesus gave the time of the fulfillment of this awesome sight as being <> after the tribulation. Mt. 24:29 It is stated in Mark to be AFTER that tribulation. Mark 13:24 This is but one of a number of powerful indications that the Second Coming of Christ is at the close of the great tribulation period. We are exhorted to study to be approved of the Lord into rightly dividing the Word of God. Laying aside the traditions of men and earnestly pursuing the truth of this matter will reap great benefits. SEALS 15 THE MOON BECAME AS BLOOD. A positive and definite sign of the coming of the Lord Jesus. What an awesome sight to look up into the heavens and to behold an orb of blood, called the moon. Rev. 6:12 Why blood? Natural life, the life of the flesh is in the blood. Our blood stream flowing through us maintains natural health and life. Lev. 17:11 Inherent within blood is a cry for vengeance when it is shed in murder or manslaughter. Note the blood of righteous Abel crying for retaliation. Gen. 4:10 Under the opening of the Fifth seal we noted a number of people who were seeking revenge against those who had killed them. Rev. 6:10 The great city Babylon is destroyed because in her was to be found the blood of prophets and saints and the blood of ALL who were slain on the earth. That would certainly include the blood of the Lord Jesus. Rev. 18:24 They have shed blood, the Lord will give them a frightening sign of the consummation of the age. WHY THE MOON? Along with the sun, the moon was given for signs. {‘owth; a signal, a flag, a beacon, a mark or a miracle. From a root word, to come}. For seasons, the moon was used to determine the feasts of Israel. The moon is a type of Jesus. Every month it gives witness and testimony to the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. It waxes full and dominates the night sky. Then it wanes into darkness only to come forth again. It is a dead body. Christ died for us. It does not have light in itself but reflects the light of the sun. Christ came in the light and glory of the Father, reflecting the glory of God. The moon is pock marked. The visage of Christ was marred more than that of any man. The moon controls the tides of the seas and of the earth (a type of the masses of humanity). Christ is over all. The ultimate witness and testimony of the moon will be that of the innocent blood that was shed on this earth. It shines in the darkness of night. Jesus is the light that lightens the darkness of our lives. A moon covered with blood must take place BEFORE the Second Coming of Christ. Acts 2:20 Joel 2:31 Jesus placed these events to be IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE TRIBULATION. The sun will be darkened, the moon will not give light. Mt. 24:29 Mark 13:24 Isaiah made it very plain that the day of the Lord would be one day of massive judgment on this earth. He proclaimed it to be a cruel, a terrible, day of the manifestation of wrath and the righteous burning anger of a just and merciful God. The Lord is always just and visits in mercy before judgment. He will not tolerate the rejection of His Son. Those who are sinners and living at this time will be absolute reprobate. They will have lived under the influence of the antichrist and will have completely given themselves to him. The earth will be emptied and made desolate by the Coming of Christ. All and every sinner will be decimated from off the earth. There is no possibility of any sinner living through the catastrophe that will take place at that period of time. Isa. 13:9 SEALS 16 THE STARS OF HEAVEN. In the scenario which we are considering the stars are destined to fall from heaven to the earth. Rev. 6:13 To begin with, every star is a sun. In comparison to multitudes of the stars our sun is a dwarf, there many which are multiplied times larger. If our sun were to fall from the sky it would overwhelm the earth, we are in comparison to its size but a speck. So obviously, most any star falling to the earth would completely annihilate it. Scientists, tell us of exploded and exploding stars. These create particles, large and small which are found throughout space. In our galaxy we have much of this kind of space debris. Periodically we are able to visibly view meteors that move through space. Recently one surprised us, they called it a near miss, even though it was multiplied thousands of miles from earth. These we are told, are the remnants of exploded stars. Unquestionably this is what is referred to. We call them falling stars, do we not? Even small pieces of this space rubble would create havoc on earth. There can be no question but what this portion of prophecy will be fulfilled just as is declared. SIGNS WARNING OF THE SECOND COMING. After the signs, the Son of man coming in a cloud, with power and great glory. Luke 21:27 The evidence of the Word of the Lord places the Second Coming of Christ at the close of the tribulation period. These signs precede His return. For over sixty-three years I have heard men preach on the imminent return of Christ, saying that it could be today. But it was not, nor will it be until the prophecies of the BOOK are fulfilled. < For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle>. 1 Cor. 14:8 The WORD of the Lord does not emit uncertain sounds but fully reveals the events that lead up to His Coming. Among the cataclysmic signs will be the darkening of the light giving celestial bodies. Job, particularly mention the sealing off, or cessation of light from the stars. Job 9:7 There is a special warning sent forth to the youth to while there is yet time, and that time of darkness has not yet appeared. How interesting, the last statement of our scripture. a last day revival and then the return of Christ with the clouds. Ecc. 12:2 Of this we may be certain, our Christ is full of mercy. Prior to judgment He visits in love and compassion. Rest assured, from the Word of God we know that the day of His coming is not a casual thing. Too many have been lulled into thinking that they will be able to get by in that day. Sorry, not so. The Lord will visit with judgment the evil and the wicked of this world for the unrighteousness and sin that they have committed. The arrogant and the proud (reference to the antichrist) will be brought to an end and made to cease. Isa. 13:11 All this will take place when the Lord Himself turns out the lights of the universe. Can you imagine the gross, absolute darkness and the fear that will be in the hearts of men under such conditions. Even those who do not fear darkness will know the fear of all fears in that day. SEALS 17 THERE SHALL BE SIGNS IN THE SUN. Just the usual activity on the surface of the Sun is of great interest. Just this week on the News there were some terrific pictures of tremendous activity on the face of our Sun. It is a living, blazing Star. All Stars are Suns. Jesus said there would be signs in the Sun announcing His Second Coming. Lk. 21:25 The signs will be from one extreme to another. From spectacular liveliness on its surface to total and complete darkness. Absolutely no light from the sun. Darkness at its greatest. A darkness like in Egypt, total darkness, a darkness that may be felt. Ex.10:21 The misery, the pain and anguish of this darkness is beyond the imagination. It will be gross darkness, a darkness of great gloom. In the midst of all this, the glory of the Lord will be seen. They will go from one fear to another. The fear of awesome darkness to the fear of the majestic light of the Lord. Isa. 60:2 THE LIGHT GIVING BODIES CREATED FOR A SPECIFIC PURPOSE. They were placed there, for SIGNS, for seasons and the telling of time. The earth is completely under their control. We cannot exist apart from the light they give. From the very beginning the sun is given as a sign. Gen. 1:14 The greater LIGHT was given to RULE, to dominate, to govern the day. Gen. 1:16 The earth and its inhabitants are in complete dependence to the light and rule of the sun. LIGHT is the very nature and being of God. HE IS LIGHT. There can be no darkness in him of any sort or measure. All light in our universe emanates from one source and that is the Lord. Outside of Him light does not exist. 1 Jn. 1:5 When the light giving bodies no longer are in existence, the Lord is still there as the everlasting light and glory. In creation, He took of Himself and created the sun and the stars, placing His light upon them. The light that He is has always been. It is as eternal as the Lord for light cannot be separated from Him. It is what He is. That same LIGHT dwelt within the Son of God. That light is the light of the world. Those who follow Him walk in that same light. The light of eternal life. Jn. 8:12 LIGHT and LIFE cannot be separated. There could be no life anywhere in the universe without light. Light and life are inseparable. There can be no spiritual; life without the light of the Lord Jesus shinning into our hearts. Jn.1:4 The responsibility of maintaining the glow of that light in this world has been passed on to the church. Mt. 5:14 The church bears a great responsibility to carry that light unto the lost of this world. In relationship to the Second Coming of Christ we are to be an enlightened people. Not walking in darkness or missing the plan of the Lord for His day, but being children of light, we understand what the Lord has proposed for these last days. Understanding the truth. Not having to adjust our doctrine every time we prophesy an event and it does not take place. We are children of truth. 1 Thes. 5:5 SEALS 18 HE IS THE FATHER OF LIGHTS. Not only is He LIGHT. He has Fathered all light. Natural and spiritual. Bringing both into existence for the benefit of mankind. The gifts, whereby He benefits His own, are not only good, they are perfect {maturity, of full age}. He will accomplish maturity in His church through the light of the Word. He is steadfast, unswerving in all of His purposes. He will attain His goal and bring forth a perfect Bride. James 1:17 The characteristics of light are interesting. It is the only constant in the universe. It never changes. It is the only true substance that can be trusted to be always the same. Light is both material and immaterial. Under certain circumstances it is known to bend proving that it is physical. Yet it is not visible. We see by light but we do not see the substance of light. Therefore it is nonphysical or spiritual. Light when it is viewed through a prism reveals a spectrum that has three major or primary colors. Yellow, red and blue. Three colors, blended into light. A type of the Triunity of God. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, the LORD JESUS CHRIST. Because the Godhead is LIGHT, the very nature of LIGHT represents the GODHEAD or the TRIUNITY of GOD. Color is not in the materials of color that are observed by the human eye. Color is in light and is manifest by the refraction of light off of certain objects. The prism will also show seven prismatic colors, ranging from extreme red to extreme violet. Seven is the Divine number of completion or fullness. Standing before the throne of LIGHT there are the seven Spirits of God. Or the sevenfold Spirit of God {Amp}. As in the spectrum the seven colors amalgamates into one another as a unit. So the Holy Spirit is seven fold. The seven attributes of the Spirit are seen in Isa. 11:2 Light travels at a speed of 186,282,396 miles per second or 299,792,458 kilometers per second. Einstein in his theory of relativity, stated that if man could travel at the speed of light he would remain the same age. Which is exactly what the child of God does at their departure from this earth. We step into eternity and become ageless. No more birthdays. VEGETATION, PLANTS AND TREES. Sustenance for every living creature that the Lord was to create. Here, once again it is the sun that maintains all kinds of plant life. Through the process of photosynthesis the sun motivates the leaves and blades to produce the life giving elements that maintain life. Gen. 1:11-12 He is the very fountain of all that can be called living. Grass or tree. Man or beast. Physical or spiritual. All life is in existence because of Him. Not only by creation but also by maintenance. It is in His light that we see the God, that is light. Ps. 36:9 Light is not God, but GOD IS LIGHT. Behold the LIGHT of the world. SEALS 19 GOD IS LIGHT. A plain statement of fact. Light is one of the characteristics of the Lord. Light expresses exactly what He is. There is no possibility of darkness in Him. He is the only source of light. 1Jn. 1:5 Paul said; All life is supported by light. , again were it not for light, we could not move about for we could not see to do so. While it was not so in his day. Our ability to move around the world is possible because of fossil fuels, which exist because of light. . That is, hope or existence. We can live on this earth because of the light that is God. Acts 17:20 It is also interesting to note that on the first day of creation the Lord created light for this world. He took of His own nature and made it to be foremost on this planet. His works are wrought in the light. After light, He created all that we enjoy today. Gen. 1:3 THE INVISIBLE MADE VISIBLE. Light is invisible. We do not see it as it pours forth from the sun. Yet because it exists we have the ability to see. How true the scripture, < In your, {GOD}, light we see light. Ps. 36:9 What could not possibly be seen becomes highly visible, in light. Light also has the ability to pass through a solid, your windows. The New Jerusalem, the Bride appeared to John to be a precious brilliant stone, clear as crystal. But blazing with the glory of the Almighty. The city is transparent and shining brilliantly. What a sight, the city of light. Rev. 21:11 The dwelling place of the Lord is light. Light that is unapproachable for mankind. 1 Tim. 6:16 The Lord enshrouds Himself with light. Ps. 104:2 He lives in light. Light emanates from Him. Truly He is light. The light of the world. The light of all life, natural and spiritual. The light that gives life. John 8:12 GOD IS A CONSUMING FIRE. Once again, one of those earthly, common elements so well known that will reveal the nature and being of God. God is a fire, a conflagration of exceeding great proportions. Heb. 12:29 Fire is not God but it has pleased the Lord to reveal Himself in fire or as the appearance of a blazing fire. A fire so real that those who saw it dare not approach it. The glory of the Lord had the likeness of fire on mount Sinai. Ex. 24:17 When He manifests Himself in judgment it is said that a fire goes before Him and that He travels surrounded by a raging tempest or an exceedingly great storm. God in this fashion must be an awesome and fearsome sight to behold. Recall the worst storm that you have ever been in, that is by comparison, nothing. Ps. 50:3 The complaining of the children of Israel, against the Lord, brought about the severe judgment of fire upon them. Some were killed and consumed by that fire. It was only after Moses prayed that the fire of the Lord ceased amongst them. Num. 11:1-2 All complainers should read this portion of scripture and take heed to the experience of the Israelites. It might stop some of the complaining that exists from time to time. SEALS 20 BAPTIZED WITH FIRE. John the Baptist acknowledged the baptism of repentance. Then he prophesied of a baptism of the Holy Ghost and fire that Jesus was to bestow upon them. Mt. 3:11 Jesus reiterated this promise to them stating, that in a few days they would receive that baptism. Acts 1:5 When the feast of Pentecost had arrived and on the day of Pentecost they were gathered together. There was a beautiful atmosphere for it is recorded that not only were they in one place but the were also in one accord. That unity of heart and purpose was vital to what they were about to experience. The sound of a great and mighty wind and commotion was heard. Their personal contact was with the tongues of fire that settled on each of them. The fire of the Lord became real to them, for it was and is a baptism of fire. Why should we be into receiving a substitute of any kind. Acts 2:1-3 All were filled, all spoke with tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Tongues is not what they were seeking. They were waiting for a baptism, that was to be a baptism of fire. The burning purging power of the fire of the Almighty. Tongues is secondary and is the result, the sign of having been filled. Unfortunately, many seek tongues and come short of having been purged by the fire of God. A baptism of fire will alter lives, just speaking in tongues will not. There must be a deep rooted experience that changes the life of the recipient. Acts 2:4 INSTANCES OF THE REVELATION OF THE LORD BY FIRE. An unconsumed bush that was on fire. The revelation of the angel {ambassador, messenger, prophet or teacher}. The angel of Jehovah is a theophany of the Lord Jesus. Moses received his commission here. Ex. 3:2 They were led out of Egypt by the fire and the cloud. Which was the presence of the Lord with them, guiding and protecting them on the journey. Ex. 13:21 The manifestation of the fire that does not consume was seen by Israel again when Moses visited with the Lord on mount Sinai. The glory of the Lord which was visible to them was described as a roaring, mighty, devastating fire, yet it did not destroy the vegetation. Ex. 24:17 That same glorious, holy fire continued on the Tabernacle during all their journeying. They were constantly assured of the presence of the Lord with them, in the cloud and in the fire. Ex. 40:38 The fire burning on the brazen altar was a fire kindled by God Himself. A fire proceeded from the Lord to consume the sacrifice. Lev. 9:24 That fire was to be kept burning night and day. Lev 6:13 When Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal to prove the authenticity of their god by the test of fire. It was the true God, Jehovah who answered by fire. Not only did the Lord devour by fire the sacrifice and the wood but the stones, the dust and consumed completely the water that had been poured on the sacrifice. 1 Kings 18:38 The Lord when He makes Himself known does it in a complete fashion. In a manner which leaves no doubt that He is the Lord and reigns supremely in heaven and on earth. He answered by fire establishing beyond a shadow of doubt that He is all powerful. SEALS 21 THE THRONE OF FIRE. This is the revelation of the Almighty. A manifestation of a burning, flaming fire is fitting for the God who is a flaming fire. What else would we expect. Dan. 7:9 What a lustrous display of the glory of the Lord. Fire is not God but our God is a flaming fire. The dwelling place of the Lord is in fire and everlasting burning and who will dwell in such circumstances? Isa. 33:14 The answer is, the righteous, the pure in heart, those who perform the will of the Lord. Fire sanctifies, it purifies, it burns up the dross, it consumes the superfluous. Isa.33:15 THE VISION AND EXPERIENCE OF EZEKIEL. The word of the Lord came to him and the hand of the Lord was upon him. A good situation for a magnificent revelation. A whirlwind {ruach, spirit}, like a tornado or a hurricane. It would be expected that the strongest and the most powerful would be manifest. It was accompanied by an immense cloud. Eze. 1:4 His way, or mode of life is in the whirlwind {Strongs. Cuwphah, hurricane} or storm {Strongs, searah, a hurricane}, the clouds, nimbus or thundercloud. The Lord uses the most mighty and forceful as symbol of His Majesty. Nahum 1:3 The fire enfolding or whirling and twisting as is common to flames. It is an active, glowing display of fire. The whole was surrounded by a brilliant light, the nature and character of the Lord. The NIV adds to the cloud. What an awesome sight. In the midst or center of all this terrific activity there appeared the color of amber or glowing metal. THE MAN ON THE THRONE OF GLORY AND MIGHT. Over and above the heads of the four living creatures was seen the throne. This throne is as none others. Its beauty, its architecture, its resplendence surpasses any thing that man could conceive, much less create. This is a living, vital throne, filled and surrounded with activity. A source of great display of light and glory. Eze. 1:26 Isaiah, too, saw the Lord sitting on His throne. It was an exalted throne that was lifted up on high, loftily reaching into the space above it. Exalted above any existing authority or that ever could be. This throne is the ultimate of command for time and eternity. The train or hem of His robe filled the temple. Reminiscent of the robes worn by the High Priests where the bells and the pomegranates represent the Holy Spirit. The house of the Lord will be completely and thoroughly filled with the glory and might of the Spirit. The golden bells with their accompanying sound portray the evidence of the infilling of the Spirit, that is, tongues as on the day of Pentecost. The pomegranates, because of their multiplicity of seeds, represent the fruitfulness of the Spirit. Blue is the color of the Spirit. Purple speaks of royalty. Scarlet characterize the blood of atonement spilt for mankind on the cross. Ex. 28:33 Heaven will always display the work of redemption wrought by the Lord Jesus. The blood of Jesus Christ the Son of God will be on prominent display in the throne of the living God. The cost was too great to ever be forgotten. Rev. 5:6 SEALS 22 THE THRONE OF SAPPHIRE. Sapphire, basically meaning to mark, record, recount or scribe. To relate or celebrate. The names written in the book of life are inscribed here. The floor under the feet of the God of Israel was as clear as the sky and was of sapphire. Ex. 24:10 The throne and the expanse that was above the throne was of sapphire. Eze. 10:1 On the breastplate of judgment it was the fifth stone named. The number of atonement. Ex. 28:18 In a reference to the Bride, her foundations are to be of sapphires. How fitting, the same stone as the floor of heaven. Isa. 54:11 Rest assured that all that we see here relating to the throne will be of extreme beauty. THE APPEARANCE OF A MAN UPON THE THRONE. Ezekiel saw a man, a human being, a man of comeliness in appearance and handsome. Nevertheless a man. What an interesting situation. The man who will sit upon the throne of David. The one who is the BRANCH of righteousness. Brought into existence to be the King of the kingdom of God. Reigning in wisdom while executing judgment and justice in the earth. That is, during the millennial reign of Christ. All who are in that kingdom are saved and dwell in security. He is easily identified as THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. One of the compound names of Jehovah. Jer. 23: 5-6 Jesus, the Son of the Highest is designated to occupy the throne of David. Lk. 1:31-32 The victorious segment of the body of Christ are invited to sit with Him in His throne. What a glorious privilege. That would make the Bride to be a Queen. Jesus states that it is His throne, and rightly so. But, it is also His Fathers throne. In other words it is the throne of God. Rev. 3:21 Unmistakably it is one huge, grand and glorious throne. JESUS AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD. It was prophesied and destined that Jesus would sit at the right hand of God. Ps. 110:1 Lk. 20:42 Jesus was exalted, lifted up on high by the right hand of God, to the right hand of God. Acts 2:33 In His exalted position He is, as the man of the right hand, acting as the one mediator between God and man. 1 Tim. 2:5 Situated at the right hand of God, He is THE INTERCESSOR. Rom. 8:34 Jesus is the Great High Priest who is seated at the right hand of the Majesty, the Greatest or God. Heb. 8:1 Surely, the witness of the Word of the Lord is sufficient to make us know that there is but one who has died, and was raised from the dead and is now the only one who represents sinful man before the throne of God. In His heavenly position, Jesus, the Son of God, is filled with and is displaying the brightness and the radiance of the glory of God. Words are difficult to come by to convey the brilliance and the resplendence of this glory. Perhaps, it can best be understood by the tremendous light that Saul saw. Brighter, greater more resplendent than the sun at its brightest, that is the glory of the Lord. Acts 26:13 The glory of the Lord is the greatest light in the universe, outshining all other bodies of light. Lord, fill us with your glory. SEALS 23 THE LORD GOD IS A SUN. This is a statement of fact. The presence of God illuminates the whole area of His vicinity. The sun that gives us light and life is a star. All the stars of our universe are suns. Some are six hundred thousand time brighter than our sun. God shines with a greater brilliance than all of His creation. Antares, a bright star visible in the southern sky in the summer time, is four hundred million miles wide. It would take a jet plane traveling at the speed of one thousand mile per hour forty-six years to pass over its surface. We live in a vast universe and our God is in control of it all. Ps. 84:11 The sun is not God, even such a thought is ridiculous, but the glory of God is sunlike, bright and brilliant. THE SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. The arrival of the Sun of righteousness. The day of judgment and retribution. A prophecy of the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus. Mal. 4:2 Please note the context in which this verse is set. The Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven. Something that is revealed is an object that is seen, manifest or is disclosed. Jesus will be revealed from heaven with His strong and mighty angels at which time He will come in as a blazing, flaming fire, exterminating the ungodly who have rejected the Lord. They will be banished from His presence and from the glory of His power into everlasting destruction. 2 Thes. 1:7-9 We all recognize the truth of the scriptures concerning His Coming as a thief. Please note the total destruction destined for this earth and its inhabitants when HE COMES AS A THIEF. There will be one massive celestial explosion at which time the heavens and their contents, the atmosphere and the created stars will explode with an immense roar. The elements, the building blocks of all that exists or is material, or in other words the atomic structure of creation will breakup and melt because of the intense heat. The earth will be laid bare and all the works of men will be destroyed. No country or city will remain after such a horrendous visitation of destruction. 2 Pet. 3:10 It must also be noted here, that the Apostle makes reference to the COMING of that day. The word COMING that is used is the Greek word, pariousia, coming or rapture. 2 Pet. 3:12 Here he will reiterate his statements referring to the destruction of the heavens and their desolution and the breaking up of the atomic building blocks of all things that exist. THE VISIT OF THE DAYSPRING. The birth of the Lord Jesus was the visitation of the rising sun or the dayspring. His intent was that the light, the glory of His Father should not only visit this earth but also be revealed to all, thus bringing peace of heart. Lk. 1:78-79 It is fitting that we give avid attention to the , the Word of the Lord. Knowing that Christ in our lives is the elimination of the darkness of sin. The dawning of the day of light and the reception of the morning star into our hearts. 2 Pet. 1:19 Jesus is that bright and morning star. Remember, all stars are suns. Rev. 22:16 The overcomer will receive the morning star. Rev. 2:28 Let the light of that star of glory arise and shine in His fullness in your heart. SEALS 24 HIS STAR. The mouth of a false prophet, a hireling, speaking truth. This indeed is an unusual situation but the whole story shows the ability of God to thwart the vain efforts of men against Him or His people. The coming of a star, a flaming fire or prince out of Jacob. The establishment of a Scepter {branch or scion, a clan or tribe }, all in reference to the Lord Jesus. He was to be victorious. Num. 24:17 HIS STAR was to be an attraction to the nations of the world. They would come to the brightness of His dawning. Isa. 60:3 The prophecy of Baalam is well understood when we turn to the Book of the Revelation. It is here that Jesus identifies Himself as the bright or the radiant star. The blazing, glowing, bright, magnificent star that brought light to the world. The morning star. the dawning of a new age, the breaking forth of the light that was to lead to life eternal. Rev. 22:16 THE LEADING OF HIS STAR. Wise men will always follow His Star. How did the wise men know that Jesus, the King of the Jews had been born? Only by divine revelation. These wise men were not astrologers, necromancers nor magicians. God cannot nor will He violate His Word. Those in Israel who would resort to such persons committed an abomination before the Lord. Deut. 18:11-12 Isa. 8:19-20 It is incongruent that the Lord would call such condemned individuals to attest to the fact of the birth of His Son. We note that Daniel and his companions were listed among the magi or astrologers of that day. However there was a vast difference as to the source of their wisdom. These wise men, coming to visit the Christ child were from the East or sunrising. Why were the magi of Herod not aware of this if it was to be revealed to men of that sort? It was not general knowledge among them. The wise men were men that had Godly wisdom and revelation. < WE HAVE SEEN HIS STAR >. They recognized it when others did not. They came to worship, they were spiritual men. Men belonging to the kingdom of God. Mt. 2:2 This star was an unusual star for it had not appeared nor was it shining until the moment they saw it. Herod sought the exact time of its appearance. Mt. 2:7 The star proceeded to lead the wise men until it came to the precise place where the young child was situated. Mt. 2:9 Why did Herod or his wise men not follow the star, when he was so desperate to find this one whom he considered a competitor? It is possible, yes very likely, that the star was not visible to them, but only to those delegated by the Father to visit His Son. A star, a sun, a blazing light of the glory of God directed them to see and worship Christ. Obviously, the star that led them was not an ordinary star, not one of the heavenly bodies of light that shine from night to night. It was HIS STAR, not another. When Jesus was proclaimed to be THE BRIGHT AND MORNING STAR, what else would be expected when the LIGHT OF THE WORLD had come into the world. The SUN of righteousness. THE VISIBLE GLORY OF THE INVISIBLE GOD. SEALS 25 THE VISIBILITY OF THE INVISIBLE. That which is not seen, is seen, in that which has been created. How many invisible things are there in our world? Part of the make up of every human being on earth, is their spirit. Invisible, but if we are without a spirit, we are dead, and the spirit has departed. We do not see the air we breath, but we know immediately if it absent. When this message leaves this machine, the way in which it travels is not visible, but eventually it will appear on your screen or monitor. The transportation of light from the sun is not visible as it travels to earth, yet we can see its influence. Oddly enough, space through which light travels is dark; we see light when it strikes an object such as the moon or earth. We do not see radio or TV waves coming into our home but when the set is turned on we know that they are there. There are many things that are invisible, yet they play a major part in our lives. Making it very plain to us that though something is invisible, it very definitely exists. Rom. 1:20 SEEING THE INVISIBLE. That which is visible is temporal, enduring but for a moment or season. How many things around us fit into this category, flowers, pets even persons whom we know and love are all transitory and fade away much too quickly. We, however, look on those things which are not seen, for instance the working of the Spirit of God in our life. While we do not see Him, we are well aware of the results of His presence in our lives. Therefore we look to the things which are invisible, but eternal and everlasting. 2 Cor. 4:18 GOD, THE INVISIBLE ONE. He is immortal, He is immortality itself, for He, and He alone possesses immortality. He is eternal and everlasting, never dying, ever living. He is the sum and substance of all that is or can be conveyed in the term, immortal. In this case immortality is a person and He is that person. His dwelling is in unapproachable light, for He Himself is light. Light is a living and life giving thing. Light maintains natural and spiritual life here on our planet. Without it there would be no life of any sort. The Lord is the essential quality of light. In this one feature alone, He the invisible one, becomes highly visible. 1 Tim. 6:16 AS THE UNSEEN HE IS:- The eternal King, the King of eternity for He is eternity personified. Apart from Him there can be nothing eternal. It is He who rules and maintains things eternal. He is, everlasting and cannot age nor die. The unseen, yet always existing. The wise God, the God of infinite wisdom, who is wisdom personified. He is to be honored and glorified by the everlasting praises of the redeemed of all ages. 1 Tim. 1:17 Possessing the nature and character that make up His personality, it is an amazing thing that He would love us as much as He does. But because HE IS LOVE, He has loved mankind with an everlasting love. We are unworthy, yet He loves us. SEALS 26 THE LORD REVEALED IN TYPE AND SYMBOL, IN CREATION. The first day of creation was the day when light, as it is known to the inhabitants of this earth, was created. Gen. 1:3 Because GOD IS LIGHT, 1 John 1:5, light is from everlasting to everlasting. It always has existed just as God has. The Lord took of His own nature and made it to be something useful and necessary to this earth and its inhabitants. At this time there was no sun, moon or stars. On the fourth day the Lord made light bearing bodies that were to be placed in the heavens. Two great lights were created, both of which were to have dominion or were to rule. They are to rule or govern the particular area of the day or night assigned to them. He likewise created the stars. Their purpose was to give light to the earth, and to rule. Three distinct sources of light are named but all have one area of true harmony, they all bear light. They are distinct, but their work is identical. Gen. 1:16-18 THE LIGHT BEARING BODIES USED AS SYMBOLS. It was in the second dream of Joseph that the light bearing bodies were use to symbolize his parents and his brothers. The sun was interpreted as being Jacob, his Father. The moon, to be his Mother. The stars to symbolize his brothers. Gen. 37:10 Applying this method of interpretation to the created bodies of light we would designate the Sun to typify the Father. The Moon, the Lord Jesus while the Stars would indicate the Holy Spirit. THE SUN. The Father, the greater light of the day. Day and night to cease to exist, but the LORD < Jehovah > to be what He always has been the everlasting light and the glory in the midst of His people. The sun of the people of the LORD, never to set again. No night there, but everlasting light will abound. Isa. 60:19-20 THE MOON. The Son, the reflection, the exact image and replica of the Father. Giving light to the darkness of night. The true light shining in the midst of the blackness and darkness of sin. Rebecca is used for generally it is the woman who travails in giving birth. In the spiritual realm it was Christ who travailed. Isa. 53:11 We see Christ, in the garden praying and in great travail of soul, so much so, that great drops of blood fell from His body. That is the extremity of travail. Luke 22:44 THE STARS. Typical of the Holy Spirit and the Spirit filled saints of the Most High. The redeemed of the Lord who show the way of righteousness to the multitudes of the earth to shine as the stars. Dan. 12:3 The sun, moon and stars are used as being significant of the varying stages of glory in the resurrection. 1 Cor. 15:41 The Lord in creation has included a great variety. No two people have the same finger prints, DNA, voice pattern nor eye design. Indeed, we are fearfully and wonderfully made. He is the God of infinite variety. SEALS 27 THE SPEAKING HEAVENS. The starry heavens declare the glory of their creator. Ps. 19:1-3 Once again we are faced with the immense variety to be found in the creation of the Lord. The Hubble telescope is revealing the wonders of the heavens, their glory and majesty. Humanity is sending radio waves into the heavens trying to contact what is not there, that is, other humans. Remember Adam was the first man. Scientists are in tune with and listening to the universe. There are all manner of radio waves coming to earth, from space, but no clear message. However, the light of the stars do convey an understanding of: . , is another message that is conveyed to us by the light of the star. , is also understood from its light. The color will also reveal its temperature, as well as its composition {elements} and its weight and size. The word in the Hebrew bears the connotation, to score with a mark so as to tally or record. God has recorded the number of the stars where man has not yet found the boundary of the universe in which we live. Who but He could number the billions of galaxies each with billions of stars in them. Aha, but He has gone one step beyond that and named them all. Ps. 147:4 He took Abraham out under the stars and told Him to number them, that was before a polluted atmosphere and perhaps God enabled his vision to see beyond the usual ability of the human eye. The Lord promised that the descendants of Abraham would be as multitudinous as the stars of the heavens. Actually the Lord challenged him to number them, if he could. Gen. 15:5 Men are constantly intrigued and challenged by what is seen in the heavens above. So much is known about them and yet so little. Much of the knowledge of the universe is built on conjecture and is frequently changed. The Lord is enthroned above the circle of the earth, He has made the heavens as a curtain spread out and as a tent in which to dwell. Isa. 40:22 Look up and ask, where did all these come from in their intrinsic beauty and limitless variety. Each of them He calls by name and in their consistency He is the one that maintains them by His strength and power. Isa. 40:26 What a thrill it is to contemplate the heavens above and realize that all these are the work of the Lord in His creation. He has established every galaxy and star to continue in their set orbit. They are the work of His fingers. Ps. 8:3 God spoke them into existence, for they were created by the Word of the Lord. By the breath of His mouth, they were brought forth. His breath is life itself. Ps. 33:6 Why is it that when we are surrounded by things that have been created by the intelligence of men such as automobiles, TVs, computers, houses and buildings, etc, we deny an intelligence that is immensely greater than ours the ability to create all that we see around us. Did automobiles just happen? Or did someone make the first one. Did computers just happen, or did someone manufacture them? Did our homes just spring up around us or was there a carpenter? Perhaps we should deny that some craftsman developed these things and say they just happened, from a cloud of gas. Where did the gas come from? SEALS 28 THE LIGHT OF LIFE. As with the natural, so with the spiritual, no light no life. Life is totally dependent on light. The Light of God whether it originates from the Sun {material} or from the Son {spiritual} is the light of the world. Following Jesus assures one of that life that begets and sustains life. Jn. 8:12 . Source. < Light our bridge to the stars >. Rublowsky < The actual mechanism by which the atom radiates light and by which light is propagated through space remains one of natures mysteries>. < Introduction to light >. Lincoln Barnett. THE SOURCE. < Every good gift and every perfect (free, large, full) gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of all (that gives) light, in (the shining of) Whom there can be no variation (rising or setting) or shadow cast by His turning (as in an eclipse). James 1:17 Amplified Version Light (Gr. phos, to shine). Luminous in the widest sense, natural, artificial, literal and figurative. Science: < Light is a luminous emanation, probably of force, {If they only knew}, from certain bodies, which enable the eye to discern form and color >. No variation, no parallax. Which in Astronomy is the apparent displacement of a star from its position. No rising, not setting, no eclipse, always shining, never dark or turned off. True science does not contradict the Word but proves its veracity. THE RIGHTEOUS TO MANIFEST THAT SUN LIKE GLORY. Love is always the motivating factor of any display of the glory of the Lord. Those who are righteous and love Him are to shine forth as the rising of the sun. Judges 5:31 The life of the child of God to be clearer, brighter than the noonday (Hebrew, tshor, a light, double dual light, i.e. noon). Dual light, the double portion or full measure. The brilliancy of very God Himself to shine in His people. Shine forth, Hebrew, to fly away, the bride of Rev. 12. The dawning of a new day, the day of the light and glory of the Lord. Job 11:17 The wise, the spiritual to gleam with the brilliancy of the Lord. Those who instruct and guide into the way of righteousness blaze forth as the stars eternally. Dan. 12:3 The Bride described as appearing as the glow and light of the dawn. As beautiful and fair as the moon. As pure and clean as the blazing sun, filled and glowing in the glory of the Most High. As frightful as the army of the Lord seen in Joel and the book of Revelation. Conquering and going forth to conquer. SOS. 6:10 There is a reason for the Bride, the Woman of revelation twelve, to be depicted as being clothed with the sun. Like her Lord she will be clothed with that sun like glory of the Lord. SEALS 29 THE SON IS LIKENED UNTO A SUN. As the sun disperses the darkness of the night, so the SON eliminates the darkness of sin in the life of that person who will call upon Him. The shining forth, the brilliancy of the righteousness of the Lord. Accompanied by healing and spiritual growth, both of which are direct results of His righteousness being displayed in us. Mal. 4:2 As natural life is sustained by the shining of the sun, so spiritual life is entirely dependent on the light of life, the sun of righteousness, which is the Lord Jesus. Jn. 1:4 He is the < dayspring > from on high. The visitation of the dawn or the springing forth of a new day. Jesus created something wonderful that had never before been available. The ability to receive and walk in the light of the Lord. Dayspring, (Greek, anatole and in Hebrew, zemach or branch). Isaiah proclaimed that the Branch of the LORD would be outstandingly beautiful and a thing of splendor because of the glory of the Lord. Isa. 4:2 Jesus is that springing forth of righteousness that is of the lineage of David. Jer. 23:5 The servant of the Lord whom He would cause to come forth was to be the BRANCH or the shoot or sprout. The beginnings of a new race. The redeemed of the Lord. Zech. 3:8 The Branch that will have the complete anointing of the Spirit upon Him. A righteous and true judgment brought into existence through Him. He will judge the unrighteous and smite the earth with His judgments. He is the true light of God Shinning into every life, either in forgiveness or judgment. Isa. 11:1-5 The man whose name is the BRANCH has been designated as the builder of the true Temple of the LORD. Not only will He be the builder but He will be clothed with the majesty, the grandeur, the beauty, the excellence as He will be the King upon His throne. He is also the priest on His throne. A dual office belongs to Him. Christ is both the King and the Priest. Between these two offices He will develop a kingdom of peace and harmony. Zech. 6:13 THE WITNESS AND TESTIMONY OF AN EYEWITNESS. The Apostle Peter was one of those who was privileged to stand with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration. They heard the voice of the Father and beheld the glory and majesty of God as it was manifest in the Lord Jesus. They saw the visible light that is God Himself. What a holy and sacred moment. The Father proclaimed to them the dawning of a day that was to be revealed in the Lord Jesus, the day of salvation. The heavenly light sent from God blazing and illuminating the darkened hearts of men. Thank the Lord that each of us have had or may have the glorious experience of the dawning of a new day in Christ Jesus. 2 Pet. 1:17-19 The light of the glorious gospel is made available to all. We were blinded by the god of this world, Satan, but now the light has broken in upon us and we rejoice in the salvation of our God. God has sent the light to lighten each and every person that is born into this world. That light brings true knowledge, the knowledge of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of our lives. 2 Cor. 4:4 SEALS 30 A STAR AND OR A BLACK HOLE. Where there is an object of great value there is always an opportunity for a counterfeit. We see in the scriptures the Lord Jesus as the day star who has dawned or has arisen in our hearts. Bringing to us the marvelous salvation that assures us of eternal life. But there is another star, who is called < son of the morning, morning star, or son of the dawn >. His name is Lucifer, the morning star or brightness. He is a created being. At one time he was the closest created being to God. He has never been deity or God. But held a high and exalted position in the kingdom of heaven. Isa. 14:12 He is a fallen being and star. More than that, he was cut off or cast out of heaven. His sin was that of pride and rebellion against the Lord. Isa. 14:13-14 The status of Lucifer is amazing. He was in the garden. Every precious stone was his covering. He was the anointed cherub. He dwelt on the holy mountain of God. The Spirit of God was on him. He was perfect in his creation, until sin was manifest in him. He was beautiful and filled with wisdom. Shining with the glory of God. Eze. 28:13-15 Jesus, in eternity past, saw him fall as a flash of lightning. Luke 10:18 Compare that with the Coming of Christ who will come as a flash of lightning, flashing out of the east unto the west. Mat. 24:27 However, it is very apparent that he still has access to heaven and to the throne of God. He works 24/7, day and night accusing the people of the Lord before the throne. He is a gossip, he is a whisperer, he is a false accuser, he is a tale bearer, he is a slanderer, he is the father of lies and liars. He can out lie any man. Let us not help him. Incidentally, he is too busy to give us a personal visit, he sends his imps. For a second time he will be cast out of the presence of the Lord. Rev. 12:10 It is the marriage of the Lamb and the subsequent birth of the manchild that triggers war in the heavenly and the defeat of Satan. His fall is noted as the act of God under the sounding of the third angel. He is said to be a great star and indeed he had been. No doubt that his casting out of heaven will be a spectacular celestial event. This star as it falls will be as a blazing, flaming torch. Even as it falls it displays light. Rev. 8:10 This too is an imitation of the coming of Christ. For the revelation of Christ at the time of His Coming will be with flaming fire and the destruction of His enemies. 2 Thes. 1:8 This star will have an extremely damaging consequence on the waters of the earth, One-third of them will become bitter and unusable. Strange that even now scientist are saying that we are going to run out of water. Some countries are already there. The name of the star is Wormwood, or Afsantin, bitter. Bitterness is a horrible spirit to allow to develop in our spirit nature. Too many Christians have allowed bitterness to come into their hearts and it controls them. Note that the ultimate of bitterness is death. Let us keep ourselves in the love of Christ. It is inevitable, situations will transpire that could easily create a spirit of wormwood or bitterness. Rev. 8:10-11 Some roots are so fine that they are barely visible. Watch for roots of resentment that can do harm and danger to a family and even to a church. Heb. 12:15 SEALS 31 A VERY SPECIAL TABERNACLE. The heavens manifesting His glory were created as a tabernacle for the sun. The hand of the Lord created and spread out the starry heavens. The word tabernacle in Hebrew is translated, a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance. A covering, a dwelling place or a home). According to Strongs Dictionary. Ps. 19:4 Jesus said that he was going to prepare a place for His own and that He would return and take His own with Him to that place which He had prepared, or home. Jn. 14:2-3 Heaven is therefore a place. Paul spoke of being caught up to the < third heaven >, where He found himself in paradise, the garden of the Lord. It is worthy of note, that contrary to so many folks who in our day claim to have visited there, he said nothing about the appearance of heaven. The impression that was made on him was by the things that he heard. Words that he was not permitted to repeat to others. 2 Cor. 12:2 That third heaven would be the tabernacle of the Lord. THE SUN IS AN OCCUPIED CELESTIAL WORLD. When someone is standing in the door of a home, we know that it is occupied. By virtue of the testimony of nothing less than the Word of God, we can verify that the sun is a dwelling place. John, on the isle of Patmos, saw an angel standing in the sun. That should be sufficient evidence. Rev. 19:17 THE VARIOUS REVELATIONS OF THE BEING AND NATURE OF GOD. He < IS > a sun. The brightness and the shining of the glory of the Lord can only be expressed to us by comparing it to the sun. Ps. 84:11 However, the full glory of the Lord is far greater. During the millennium the sun will shine seven times brighter or to the full capacity of His brightness. Isa. 30:26 The sun-like quality is made manifest in the face of the Lord Jesus. His face is as brilliant as the blazing light of the sun. Rev. 1:16 He is seen again as that powerful and strong angel who is clothed with the cloud, the saints. The rainbow upon His head, the colors of the Triunity called the Godhead. His face, what a beautiful face, glowing and scintillating with the flaming of the glory of the Lord. His feet as pillars of fire and judgment. What a majestic description of the mighty Son of the living God. Rev. 10:1 THE WOMAN COVERED WITH THE SUN. Everything that is God like and is victorious has the mark or seal of the greatest physical light that we can see with the naked eye. It is proper and fitting that this woman, the last day Bride of Christ have the same glory as He. Not only is it her clothing but she is filled with that light. It will not be casual sight but the same shinning forth of the glory of the Lord will be upon her that is seen in the Lord Jesus. At this moment of time she will have become one with Him. All that He is, she has become. What a glorious perspective awaits the church of the last days. The same evidence of the Trunity of God is exhibited in her. She is His wife, bone of His bone and flesh of His flesh. He will lift her and draw her unto Himself. Rev. 12:1 SEALS 32 THE SHINING FORTH OF THE SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. The effulgence, the blazing glory of the exceeding great glory of the Lord. The presence of the one who is the righteousness of the Lord, produces that glow and brilliant light of the holiness of the Lord. Those who honor His name will experience healing and growth in Him. Mal. 4:2 The removal of the veil of His flesh brought a transfiguration that was witnessed by Peter, James and John. They literally saw the alteration that took place. His face was blazing like the sun. His clothing scintillated with light and became as white as God can make it. The conversion of Saul was with a spectacular light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun. What a tremendous blaze of glory shining around and about them. So great was that bright light that Saul was actually blinded. Acts 26:13 FOR OUR GOD IS A CONSUMING FIRE. Once again we see this as the very nature and character of God. Heb. 12:29 His fire is expressed in a dual fashion, one in great judgment, the other in a very pleasant force and act of cleansing. The fire of the Lord is a marvelous experience and feeling as it flows through our bodies. Beyond a shadow of a doubt it will be the life giving force that flows through the bodies of the resurrected, throughout eternity. What a glorious perspective we have in looking forward to that constant flow of joy and ecstasy. There is absolutely no human delight than can be compared to it. Isaiah felt its tremendous cleansing power when he saw the Lord. The coal from the altar cleansed and purified him. Isa. 6:6-7 We seem to have forgotten, in this day of every kind of a quickie, that the baptism of the Holy Spirit was to be accompanied by FIRE, FIRE, FIRE. Do not be short changed. There is a baptism of FIRE that still produces the same results as in the day of Isaiah. It cleanses, purges and sanctifies. Mat. 3:11 The FIRE of the Lord is both consuming and none consuming. It consumes uncleanness without harm of any kind to the individual. It produces great pleasure, sometimes so much so that the person on fire feels that they cannot stand any more of that glory. Moses turned aside to view a bush on fire but was not being consumed. What a sight. He met the Lord there. Yes, there is a burning bush experience for each one of us. Ex. 3:2 The fury of Nebuchadnezer could not produce a fire greater than that of our God, who is that consuming fire. The Lord fought fire with His fiery presence, which is of far greater intensity. Old Nebuchadnezers furnace was seven times hotter than customary. Seven times has its prophetic fulfillment in our time. Watch out, its already hot but it is going to get a lot hotter. The same deliverer who was present with the three Hebrew children will be with us. He said He would never leave nor forsake us. They saw a fourth man, < like the Son of God >. The smell of the fire was not upon them, so great was the deliverance and the presence of the Lord in that furnace with them. Dan. 3:19-27 That same man is our Savior and King today. Enter into His FIRE and the smell fire of the world will not be found upon us. SEALS 33 GOD ON SINAI. The Lord descended from heaven in the fire of God. So great was His presence that the mountain billowed with a great column of smoke as if from a mighty furnace. Ex. 19:18 So great was the conflagration that its blaze reached to the very heavens. The children of Israel saw the glory of the Lord as a great burning mountain. Ex. 24:17 The mountain became hidden in hugh dark clouds and thick darkness. What a great and awesome manifestation of the glorious presence of the Lord. Deut. 4:11 This was a mighty display of the glory and the closeness of the living God. Moses entered into this tremendous display of glory and power. He literally absorbed the glory until his face with that same splendor. So much so that the people of Israel were afraid to approach him. Ex. 34:35 Moses was required to wear a veil over his face for the children of Israel could not cope with the glory of the Lord that was on him. When Moses went in to communicate with the Lord he removed the veil, he spoke to the Lord face to face. Because of the glory, it was as if he were an equal. Ex. 34:35 In the time of the last and final judgments, the heavenly, true temple will be closed by the same expression of glory and the smoke that accompanies it. The vials that will be poured out are the seven final plagues which are associated with the return of Christ. Rev. 15:8 GOD IN THE TABERNACLE. The fire that burned on the altar of burnt sacrifice was to be an eternal flame. They had to maintain it constantly and it was never to cease to burn. Lev. 6:13 At the time of the dedication of the Tabernacle as Moses and Aaron blessed the people the fire descended from the Lord and the people were able to see the glory of the Lord. God, himself kindled the eternal fire on the altar. The fire proceeded from the Lord and consumed the whole sacrifice. This caused the people to shout and to fall on their faces in worship to the Lord. Lev. 9:23-24 GOD IN THE TEMPLE. Once again an outstanding display of the glory of the Lord in a very visible manner, Solomon was praying at the dedication of the Temple, when the glory of the Lord descended from heaven and consumed the sacrifices that had been laid out before the Lord. It was one glorious verification of the pleasure of the Lord in His acceptance of the Temple. So pure, so marvelous was the glory of the Lord that the priests were not able to continue their ministry in the Temple. They could not stand in that glory, even though they were consecrated and dedicated to the priesthood of the old Testament. The Israelites visually looked upon the fire as it fell from heaven and beheld the glory resting on the Temple. 2 Chr. 7:1-3 Lord haste the day when the same is visible in the true Temple. The promise of the Lord still stands. The glory of < the latter > house will be greater than the former. There will be a display of the glory of the Lord in the latter days that will supersede any thing that has ever been unfolded. Hag. 2:9 The very best wine has been preserved and will be distributed in the last days. SEALS 34 GOD IS A CONSUMING FIRE, WHO WILL DWELL WITH HIM? A shocking time for the sinner and the hypocrite. They shall be in much fear and trembling. There is coming to the last day church, a day of purging, cleansing and sanctification such as has never been experienced by the church in its whole history. All flesh and carnality will either be repented of or the individual will be set apart from the true church. There must be a separation of the chaff from the pure grain and the chaff is to be destroyed by fire unquenchable. There is much chaff in the church of today. Far too much that is a manifestation of the flesh rather than the Spirit of the Lord. Mat. 3:12 It is obvious to all that in a great house, and the numbers increase daily, there are vessels of honor and dishonor. 2 Tim. 2:20 There is to be a cleansing, a purging until that which is left will be nothing but vessels of honor and usable to the Lord. He will have a sanctified church, His bride. 2 Tim. 2:21 In the act of purging and restoration the Lord will bestow a beautiful name on His people, His bride. They shall be named the City of Righteousness, the Faithful City. Isa. 1:25-26 This prophecy is to the New Jerusalem, if applied to the natural seed, there would be no one left for these are the redeemed, those who humble themselves in repentance. All rebels and sinners will be destroyed. Isa. 1:27-28 A VISION OF THE THRONE OF THE LORD. Ezekiel beheld a whirlwind approaching him. The swirl, the circle are to be found throughout the creation of the Lord. From our DNA to the swirling appearance of the galaxies of the heavens above. It is a form that the Lord has made to be universal in all of His creation. He sits on the circle of the earth. Isa. 40:22 An immense nimbus or thunder cloud accompanied by fire enfolding or swirling as the flame of great fire fires. So hot and intense that it creates its own fire storm. The brightness, the blazing glory of the Lord was to be seen around and about it. In the very heart or center there appeared the color of amber of what may be termed as glowing metal. Eze. 1:4 What a majestic and marvelous sight to behold. There is nothing boring about the eternal kingdom of the Lord. Great activity will be seen there as well as beauty far beyond anything that has ever been seen by man on earth. It is a marvel that those who claim to have visited there give a report that is so similar to that which we are accustomed to here on earth. Paul, on his visit to the third heaven, (There are no more above that), when he returned piqued our curiosity by saying; < He heard unspeakable things >. Things that he could not relate, perhaps because of their sanctity or because there are no words in human languages that can express what he saw and heard. We have now the WORD, in itself it is inexhaustible. There are always new treasures to be discovered within its pages. It is a living book and imparts spiritual life to those who read and study it. Its message is exciting and filled with encouragement and instruction. There is not question whatsoever but what there is an eternity of revelation ahead of us. The Lord is inexhaustible in His nature and being. Eternity will be great and marvelous. SEALS 35 I WAS IN THE SPIRIT. John is to give us several views of the throne of the Lord. All of which must be combined for us to even begin to grasp the enormity and grandeur of that which is the very center and heart of heaven. The attitude and spiritual condition of John was certainly right for Him to view the throne and relate what he saw to us. The use of the term < set > brings assurance of a throne that cannot be moved. It is the seat of the ruler who has never been defeated nor will He ever be. It established for all eternity and will never be moved. Rev. 4:2 ONE OCCUPIED THE THRONE. This may be a difficult statement for some to accept. It is to be received exactly as stated. The occupant of the throne is one, and that is the living God. Rev. 4:2 Once again, in connection with the throne John speaks of (singular) the NIV translates it as < the one who sat >. Is the Bible advocating < oneness >? No, but it is simply making a statement of truth. The scriptures declare < The Lord our God is one LORD >. < the LORD is one >. NIV. Deut. 6:4 The word as used in this verse is very interesting and proper to use in such a situation. It may be properly translated, < UNITED >, alike, altogether, each (one), a man, together, among others. This is not intended to be a study on the Godhead but to see that there is one physical body that occupies the throne and visibly appears as its occupant. God, is a Spirit, therefore is not of the same makeup as we. Yet we are created in His image and His likeness. We are triune in nature. Body, soul and spirit. One man, a united man. When we look upon each other we see only the human, the natural man. That does not negate the whole of what man is, for he is one, yet three. Man was created in the image and likeness of the Lord. . Gen. 1:26 We see one, on the throne because Jesus is the image of the invisible God. Col. 1:15 CONTINUED EVIDENCE OF THE OCCUPANT OF THE THRONE. Glory, honor and thanks bestowed upon < HIM > who sits on the throne. The ever living one, the one who is very life. Rev. 4:9 The twenty-four elders pay obeisance to < HIM > who is ever living. They also cast their crowns before the throne, showing their honor to Him and thereby are humbling themselves before Him. Rev. 4:10 In the midst, the middle, the very center, the heart of the throne is seen the slain LAMB of God. This is an evidence of the Lord Jesus in the throne. The witness and testimony of the mercy seat, the Lord Jesus will forever be seen in heaven. We will never forget the work of redemption that he accomplished for us. Nor the horrific price He paid to bring us unto Himself. His blood is in heaven, ever fresh and vital. The once for all sacrifice. NEVER AGAIN can God in anyway accept any other offering or sacrifice. If animal sacrifices were reinstated it would be an abomination to God. The blood of Jesus Christ Gods Son cleanseth us from all sin and unrighteousness. 1 Jn. 1:7 SEALS 36 THE PREDOMINANCE OF THE LAMB IN THE THRONE. The status of the Lamb is indicated, not only by His location, but also by the seven horns and the seven eyes. We must remember that the book of Revelation symbolically represents certain circumstances and conditions. The number seven is a divine complete number representing fullness or perfect. Horns symbolize power and authority. Consider Hab. 3:4 Horns or beams, rays of light flashing from His pierced hand. Here is the source of His power. Jesus like wise stated that; < all power > was delegated to Him, in heaven and in earth. The eyes denote the fact that there is nothing hidden from the eyes of the Lord. The seven eyes, or the Spirit of the Lord covers the whole earth. Zech. 4:10 Better than < seven spirits > is the < seven fold > Spirit, this is the absolute fullness of the Spirit, without measure. Rev.5:6 AMP. Isaiah prophesied of the seven fold Spirit that would rest upon Him. Then he listed the seven fold Spirit of God that was to abide in the Lord Jesus. Isa. 11:2 THE THRONE OF THE FATHER, THE THRONE OF THE SON. The person who overcomes, in particular the bride, will be an occupant of the throne of heaven. In the mysteries of the person of God, we must always consider the unparalleled unity that exemplifies the Godhead. For this is the throne of the Father and also the throne of the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ. The presence of the Holy Spirit is represented in the Father, in the Son and also in the Spirit filled Bride. Rev. 3:21 It is very apparent that there will be a hierarchy in heaven, a government that rules from the throne of God. The twelve Apostles are to be given thrones from which they will judge the twelve tribes of Israel. Mt. 19:28 The redeemed have been given a status of kings and priests who will minister unto the Lord. Rev. 1:6 The one who overcomes will also have a part in assisting in the final judgments of the ungodly. Rev. 2:26-27 THE SEALED BOOK. Held in the hand of the occupant upon the throne. There was no one in heaven or earth worthy to open the book, let alone look inside and see its contents, but the Lamb of God. His identity is completed by the prophetic name whereby He is called. The LION of the tribe of Judah and the ROOT of David. Lamb of redemption. A Lion when facing the enemy. The Root and offspring of the true nation of the Lord. Rev. 5:3-5 The WORTHY one. The eternal sound of worship and praise reverberating throughout the corridors of the New Jerusalem. Rev. 5:9 A divine appointment set for the millennium, the Sabbath day, the one thousand years of rest. The redeemed set to establish a kingdom of righteousness on earth, prior to the new heavens and the new earth. Rev. 5:10 His kingdom on earth is to be a kingdom without sin or sinners. No sickness, disease or death. A time of harmonious living among all that are citizens of that glorious and wonderful age. There is established leadership in the kingdom that He has prepared for those who love Him. SEALS 37 ANGELIC HOSTS SURROUNDING THE THRONE. The sum of this angelic throng surrounding the throne is immeasurable. The first reference to their numbers is, < many >, abundant or plenteous, a vast sum. The next reckoning of their number is < ten thousand time ten thousand > which would be one hundred million. Ten thousand, however according to Strongs Dictionary is the Greek word, or myriad or an indefinite number. The final reference is to thousands of thousands, a number which is impossible to summarize. The term angel does not always indicate a created angel. In can be used in reference to any messenger of the Lord or a Pastor. John the Baptist is called a messenger (angel). Luke 7:27 Jesus sent messengers (angels) to the village to prepare for His coming. Luke 9:52 The Pastors of the seven churches in Asia are addressed as the angel of the church. Rev. 1:20 With this broad usage of the term this vast multitude could have a much more extensive meaning as to its content. A GREAT MULTITUDE STANDING BEFORE THE THRONE. The number of this mammoth gathering is innumerable to man, only the Lord could calculate their number if He so desired. They originate from every and all, tongues, tribes, and nations. Rev. 7:9 This consummated the prophecy of Jesus that all would hear and then the end should come. Mt. 24:14 They are wearing long white {leukus, white, from luke } robes. Their garb identifies them as saints clothed in the righteousness of the Almighty. Rev. 19:8 Their robes scintillate with the visible glory of the Lord. They are beings of light, for they are members of the kingdom of light. Col. 1:12 WHAT ARE THESE, WHERE DID THEY COME FROM? According to the response the second half of that question is the most important. The question originated from one of the elders. John evoked an answer and a revelation from him by saying; . The response of the elder was, < they came out of great tribulation >. Not only referencing to the but also to the time leading up to the great tribulation. Rev. 7:9 Prophecies and utterances that promise an easy time for these last days are doing irreparable harm to the church. Causing it to be lax and giving it a feeling of false security, and that it will never face difficulties or persecution. Heed the words of Jesus. These are the beginnings of sorrows. Mt. 24:8 You will be persecuted and martyred. You will be hated of the nations. v. 9 Many shall become apostate, betraying and hating one another. These are they who will follow the antichrist. v. 10 A great number of false prophets will appear, deceiving many. v. 11 The increase of sin and unrighteousness will cause many to loose out with the Lord. v. 12 The individual who will stand firm with the Lord unto the end is the one who will be saved and delivered. v. 13 SEALS 38 PERSECUTION AND MARTYRDOM PRIOR TO THE TRIBULATION. These who are seen under the opened fifth seal will die a martyrs death before the great tribulation period. They are faithful people who adhere to the Word of God and who express and maintain their faith in the Lord Jesus. As it is with all whose blood is shed, whether in murder or manslaughter, the blood of that individual cries out for vengeance. Gen. 4:10 < Who so sheddeth mans blood, by man shall his blood be shed. Gen. 9:6a >. They are granted white robes to wear and are told that they must wait a little while, that is, for the tribulation period, until those of like faith should also be killed. Persecution will come, and is here in many countries of our world. Millions have already died because of their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Christians in numerous countries of the world are currently being greatly persecuted. Jesus said this would happen. Should we take the word of man or the Word of God as our guide? Rev. 6:11 IN THE LAST DAYS. Not easy days to think or talk about. Today we like that which is positive, that which makes us feel good. The picture that the scripture gives pertaining to the end of the age is not a rosy one. Paul labeled our day as being < perilous >, dangerous, furious or fierce times, a < set or proper time >. He then supplies a word picture of the ungodly works and attitude of this generation of humanity, in general. Christian standards are not easy to maintain, in an atmosphere such as is presented here, of this modern generation. True spirituality is constantly being challenged, from without and from within the church. 2 Tim. 3:1-7 The church is under attack and many do not know it. They gladly associate themselves with those who promise them peace and prosperity. We need to remember that the horseman of the second seal is the rider to whom power and authority is given to remove peace from the earth. So far, he is doing an excellent job. Rev. 6:4 This earth has become a powder keg. It is difficult to count the numerous conflicts that are currently active in our world. It is indeed, nation against nation and kingdom against kingdom. Insurrections, rebellions, border disputes, threats of war prevail world wide. THE EXPRESS STATEMENT OF THE SPIRIT. In the latter times, our day, there is an apostasy. A departure from sound doctrine, following spirits of deception and doctrines taught by devils. Strong words from the Apostle Paul but certainly fitting for our day. Doctrines that placate and please. Teachings that are contrary to sound doctrine. The making of promises that never come to pass. Pathetically, many good people are swept up by the brainwashing capabilities of these unscrupulous individuals. 1 Tim. 4:1 They teach lies, with the spirit of hypocrisy. They are without conscience, for it has been cauterized and burned beyond possessing any human compassion, seeking only their own benefit and prosperity. 1 Tim. 4:2 Be warned. The future is glorious, only in Christ. Seals 39 THE SEVENTH SEAL, THE LAST ONE. The seal of a silenced heaven. So awesome and holy is this moment of time that all of heaven is awe stricken and in utter silence. This season of silence is so important that the usual sounds of heaven, the praises, the adoration, the songs of worship all cease until this moment is past. Rev. 8:1 SILENCE is caused by the mighty and glorious presence of the LORD in His Holy Temple. This is a sacred and holy event. The Lord will have finished His permanent and everlasting dwelling place and will occupy it, in power and great glory. Because He is making His beloved His wife, total silence is observed. The LORD is in His Temple. Hab. 2:20 Silence is commanded for the day of the Lord is near, it is swiftly approaching. He has prepared His sacrifice, he has sent out the invitations to His bidden guests. Zeph. 1:7 The Temple is that beautiful and glorious structure which is constantly referred to as His Church, His Body or His Bride, all three being one and the same living body of believers. Those who have met the divine requirements necessary for membership in the body that will be His Bride. Eph. 5:23 INVITED TO THE MARRIAGE OF THE SON. A kingdom parable. Mt. 22:2-14 A parable, while an allegory, is used to illustrate a truth. A KING, prepared a marriage for his Son. There can be no question as to the identification of the characters of this story. The first call was issued to those who had anticipated an invitation. They REFUSED to come. Unbelievably, they turned down their King, a man of power and authority, their ruler. Stubbornly, they would not come. This equates to the Call of the Lord to Israel. A second call is issued. Everything is ready, come now. What patience and love for His people the King is demonstrating. The response of his subjects is one of scorn and disdain, one colossal insult. Their attitude is not according to the ethics of their day, much more, when dealing with their leader. Their own affairs were determined to be of more importance, so they went their own ways. So wicked and vile were the men of that day that they took the servants of the King, mocking and beating them, then killing them. Sounds like the servants of the Lord called Prophets, whom Israel slew, even to John the Baptist. THE ANGER OF THE KING. His reactions were just. The inhabitants of his kingdom were termed, murderers. They deserved the punishment that was measured out to them. Their cities were destroyed by the armies under the command of the King. Even to Jerusalem. No one appreciates rejection, how much more a King. Their actions were deplorable and were deserving of the judgment that they received. The King then considered those whom he had invited, in the past, as being unworthy. Amazingly, he will issue yet another invitation. This time to a different group and with different results. SEALS 40 THE THIRD INVITATION. No longer to one nation but now extended to the whosoever will. Guests were sought in the highways and the hedges, a great mixture gathered together to fill the banqueting room. Bad and good alike were brought together in one place. No distinctions were made all were welcomed heartily. A MAN WITHOUT A WEDDING GARMENT. The King enters the banqueting hall to see the guests. No doubt it gave Him great pleasure to see the place crowded with those who gladly responded to his invitation. It is my understanding that the king furnished the necessary garb for the guests. That would certainly seem plausible with this crowd who were plucked from the streets in rather an impromptu manner. Perhaps the man had a new garment on, or even a religious robe of some sort. It is obvious that he considered his own clothing to be of sufficient covering and acceptability. Note the King addressed him in a kindly manner, calling him Friend. His approach was certainly not adversarial. The question was and is, where is the wedding garment? Unmistakably, it was most necessary that it be worn at the feast. The poor man was speechless. He had no answer and there was none. He should have had the wedding garment on, and he knew it. The breach of etiquette was so gross that the king passed immediate judgment upon him. He was taken away, bound hand and feet and cast out into outer darkness where there will be weeping or sorrow, plus gnashing of teeth or great pain and anguish. There are two vital truths that must be gleaned from this story. The first is that there is a wedding garment and it must be applied and worn for the wedding. The second is, that those without the wedding garment will be excluded from the wedding and must face the great tribulation. Purely and simply, those who enter the tribulation, if they attempt to maintain their Christianity they will be persecuted and martyred. Unfortunately, many will deny the Lord and in this manner be lost. BRIEFLY, WHAT IS THE WEDDING GARMENT? It is having been purchased by the blood of Christ and our acknowledgment of the same. Acts 20:28 It is being obedient to the Word and being baptized into Christ, i.e., into His Name, the Lord Jesus Christ (study the book of Acts). Gal. 3:27 It is to have < put on > the new man, that man living according to New Testament standards. Col. 3:10 It a renewal of the mind, in thinking and language, by the Spirit. It is being filled with the Holy Spirit. Acts 9:17 Eph. 5:18 It likewise involves being filled with all the fullness of God. Eph. 3:19 It is the wearing of that man that is created after the likeness of God in righteousness and true holiness. Eph. 4:24 The motivating factor of all this is LOVE, our love for the Lord. If we truly love him we will want to pattern our life after His. It is LOVE that is the sealing element of the many member body of Christ into one body. Col. 3:14 SEALS 41 HIS WIFE HATH MADE HERSELF READY. Preparation for the event of the ages is extremely vital for those living in the end of the age. Every bride plans for that wedding day with great anticipation. How much more the Bride of Christ. This is not a post coming occurrence. The wedding will be consummated, here, on earth, prior to the great tribulation period. Rev. 19:7 THE TEMPLE. Jesus referred to His physical body as His temple. The dwelling place of the Living God. John 2:21 The unique relationship existing between the Father and the Son is absolute. Each person of the Godhead, while retaining their individual identity, live and work as a unit. Christ Jesus was and eternally shall be the visible Temple of all that is eternal life. In the bodily form of The Lord Jesus dwelt ALL the of the Almighty. Col. 2:9 Understanding the Triunity of the Lord is not difficult if we adhere to the scriptures for our comprehension of Him. God is Spirit. He is a Spiritual being. He is life, all life emanates from Him, both physical and spiritual. He is the only source of life. He is existence itself and all that the word involves. Without Him, nothing could exist. Acts 17:27 The Spiritual world and existence that He rules over is that which is real, for it is eternal. The Father has life in Himself, so the Son has life in Himself. The Father, the Son, the Spirit, that is, the Godhead is the very essence of life. John.5:26 Our world is temporal and is in the process of dying and fading away. Water is becoming a scarce item in many parts of the earth. Plant life, animal life on land and sea are diminishing. WAKE UP! We inhabit a planet that is waxing old and is dying. The Spiritual world, which is the Lord Himself, is ever living and cannot die, for it is LIFE. That which is Spiritual is diametrically opposite to the natural. In the natural there are multiplied restrictions that limit that which is natural and earthly. These confinements do not exist in the Spiritual realm. By way of example, Jesus entered the room where His disciple were gathered without opening the door. John 20:26 THE DIVINE ALLIANCE. The Father was in the Son {in the Spirit} and the Son was in the Father {by the Spirit}. Beautiful harmonious dwelling together. John 10:38 The words spoken and the works committed by the Lord Jesus were the works of the Father who dwelt within Him. Jesus acknowledged, and confessed this absolute compatibility and origin of the works that He did. Here is revealed the secret of achieving the works that He did. If we have the same relationship with the Father, then the same works will be manifest, through us. John 14:10 The God the Father who is omnipresent, while dwelling in the Lord Jesus, was at the same time dwelling in heaven. Their prayer was to be addressed to the Father which was in heaven. Mt. 6:9 It is the Father who attracts and draws men to Christ. There is no other way for man to know the Lord but by the call and wooing of the Father. John 6:44 SEALS 42 THE BRIDE MUST HAVE THAT RELATIONSHIP OF UNITY WITH HIM. The bride is not a figment of the imagination. She is the results of the divine purpose of the Lord. From eternity she has been the strong desire of His heart and will. In His prayer for His church, Jesus prayed for a unity that would lead to perfect harmony. Not only among the members of the church but between the Lord and the church. I IN THEM. As there is no split nor division in the Godhead, so in the Bride there cannot be even the appearance of dissension. John 17:23 A true love for the Lord and a strong adherence to the Word will accomplish that which is His perfect will for us. With the blessed promise that; < WE > (the fullness of God Himself) will come to him and make our home, our place of dwelling place with Him. This is not a minor, frivolous experience. The God of all power is seeking a people who are more than willing to bid Him welcome and most eager to have His life become their life. John 14:23 THIS IS A MATTER OF LIFE OR DEATH. The presence of Christ, the anointing, in our spirit nature must be the ultimate goal of every one who has any craving at all to be a part of the bride. The presence of the Spirit will cause the flesh to be crucified. The carnal man, the sinful nature that has not been fully committed to the Lord must die. Then and only then can the Spirit of life and righteousness that is in Christ Jesus be in full control. Being possessed and possessing that Spirit of Christ is the secret of living the life of an overcoming Christian. The scriptures also promise a quickening of the mortal body, through that Spirit that dwells in victory and power within His people. This is not a promise for the sweet bye and bye but is for us now. There is a refreshing that comes from the Spirit. There is deliverance, there is healing and a constituent flow of life from the Spirit of Christ that is abiding within. Be challenged to constantly be filled with the Spirit. Rom. 8:10-11 The communion table is such a vital part of our kinship in the family of the Lord. Without it we are cut off from the very life of God that is in Christ Jesus. Partaking of the bread and the cup is a unifying factor for the body of Christ. We all eat of that one bread and drink from that one cup, making us one in Christ. Sealing to us the glorious knowledge that we are in Christ and He is in us. John 6:56 Bread of heaven, sweet and divine. Satisfying beyond human comprehension. Imparting the strength of the strong one, the Almighty. Establishing a life of the Spirit for this world and for the world to come. The bread of eternity, bread that will never grow stale nor moldy. It possesses natural and spiritual life and imparts life to everyone who partakes of it. It is the bread, the Word of God, which blesses and elevates every participant to a higher plane of Spirituality. This is His body which was broken for you. Marvelous and wonderful sacrifice and offering that was made for our benefit. Lord help us to always manifest our deep felt appreciation for your sacrifice on Calvarys tree. Bread of heaven, completely satisfying, yet once having eaten of it we have a great hunger for more and more. John 6:58 SEALS 43 CHRIST LOVES HIS CHURCH WITH INCOMPARABLE LOVE. The measure of His love for His church cannot be reckoned. It is the love of One who is the very essence of love. He is all that the word love implies and then far greater. The human mind cannot comprehend such extreme love. Calvary is but one aspect and expression of His love. That love reaches its climax in a marriage. The marriage of Christ and His church is the grandest event ever to be consummated in this world. This is THE GREAT MYSTERY. That Christ should desire marriage with His church is in itself a mystery. His great desire toward that accomplishment is constantly expressed in the Word of the Lord. His anticipation of the marriage may be seen in His ministry. His first miracle was at a wedding. What was mere water was created a new and made to be the best of wine. Truly, the best has been reserved for the last days. Many of His parables and statements related to marriage. Eph. 5:22 It is my purpose to borrow the words of Paul; < Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel >. Eph. 6:19 It is not an easy subject to present to the church. Not all are willing to receive the message of a union between Christ and His church, in marriage. Not only is it the mystery of the gospel it is the heart and focus of the Lord. It is the reason for the whole plan of salvation. It is the achievement of His eternal goal. THE BRIDEGROOM. Interesting that John the Baptist would from the very beginning of His ministry refer to Him as the bridegroom. John was just the friend of the bridegroom and acknowledged Jesus to be the anticipated one. It is the bridegroom who is to receive the bride as His one and only. John 3:29 Paul was jealous over the church with a godly jealousy. which poses the question, is God jealous? Yes, extremely and righteously so. He has stated; < I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God >. Ex. 20:5 This emotion is stirred in Him when His beloved turns to idols and other gods. He even expresses greater indignation by stating that His name is < Jealous > and that He is a jealous God. Ex. 34:14 Paul had committed the church to Christ and to Him only. She is already promised, engaged to the Lord Jesus. In Bible times that was a strong and full pledge. Living in the hour of the marriage, how great our covenant of marriage should be with Him. He would present the church to Christ as a pure, uncontaminated virgin. What an importance holiness before the Lord is to the church. 2 Cor. 11:2 The unhindered, the virgins focus is on the Lord and the affairs of the Lord. She is devoted to the Lord in spirit and body, total promised to Him. 1 Cor. 7:34 The emphasis of Ephesians five is on the relationship between the man of true love and His lover, his bride to be, the church. This chapter is excellent for our human relationships and marriages. It should be observed and practiced in all Christian marriages. But, the greater message is that blessed union between two beings, in whom the love of God dwells. Eph. 5:32 SEALS 44 THE NATURE OF THE BRIDE. Her actions that prove her to be a member of the bride. There are certain divine requirements, which if lacking, would exclude one from being a member of the bride. Submission is mandatory. That which is required of the natural is greatly increased in the spiritual. Eph. 5:22 We note that the natural, carnal mind is in hostility to the Lord. It will not, nor can it submit to the will of God. Those who live in the flesh and are motivated by the wants and desires of the flesh, whether in or outside of the church, cannot please the Lord. Therefore they will be excluded from the Bride of Christ, by their own will and actions. Rom. 8:7 The church is to be in full submission to the Lord Jesus Christ. She is to live and manifest perfect obedience unto Him. Submission or obedience unto Christ pleases Him. The more we please Him the more He pours out of His love, grace and Spirit upon us. In return, the greater we love Him and surrender unto Him. Then, our joy and love is increased by leaps and bounds. It becomes a very pleasant circle of growth and increase in the Lord. His bride will be in submission to Him, in every aspect of her life. Her life is His life, lived in her. Eph. 5:24 HE IS THE SAVIOR OF THE BODY. Therefore the right of leadership is His. What a blessing and privilege to know that He will lead and guide His own. We are His possession, purchased by the extreme price of His redemptive blood. Acts 20:28 In His schedule, there is a day where He will fully redeem His body unto Himself. He will sanctify and perfect the Bride. As the body, she will be all that the head, the Lord Jesus, is in His resurrected status. He cannot marry a bride that is inferior to Himself, she must be like Him. There is no greater glory, to Him, than that which will be seen in His glorified church. Eph. 1:14b. HE IS THE BEGINNING. He is the firstborn. All things have their beginning in Him. He is our source of life, natural and spiritual. He is the firstborn of many. As He was born of the incorruptible seed, so are we. The same life, the same glory is ours. As the ruler He imparts all things spiritual to us. He is to have the supremacy in the midst of His people. Eph. 1:18 The good pleasure of the Father was to have the completeness of God, all that He is, dwell within the Christ of God. Eph. 1:19 The fullness of the Godhead dwells within His physical, resurrected body. Col. 2:9 Here is the beauty and majesty of this presence, < Ye are complete in Him >. What a tremendous and mighty statement. His bride will be what He is, in all things. One with the Head, filled to completeness with all that is God like. Col. 2:9 The ultimate of the flow of His love in the bride and her response to Him is also an element That will exalt the Bride and make her to be His exact likeness in every Spiritual aspect and manifestation. The destiny of the bride is that she too might be filled with all the fullness of the Almighty. What a marvelous and glorious high calling is ours in Christ Jesus. We shall be like Him. Eph. 3:19 SEALS 45 FULLY EXPERIENCING CHRIST. The crucified Christ is the source and the beginning of our salvation. We rejoice in the work that was accomplished for us at the cross. However, the cross must be a still greater part of our spiritual life. The true bride of Christ will be separated, or will die to the sinful elements of this world. This is a great step in the perfection of the church. It speaks of victory in our spiritual life. We must be crucified to the world and the world to us. That is a communication of a life that is dedicated unto the Lord. The Bride will be totally disassociated from all forms of carnality and worldliness. Her glory is not in the things of this life which are frivolous and superfluous, but in the work of the cross in her life. Gal. 5:14 IDENTIFIED AS BELONGING TO CHRIST. Paul stated that he had been crucified with Christ. That is an act of full surrender to the Lord. In the natural, there is no esthetic attraction to the cross. The cross was not a thing of beauty to behold. It is a place and an experience that must be visited. Not only for salvation but also as a source where the carnal life is put to death. < I am crucified with Christ >. This is a must for every member of the body of Christ. The only way that we can achieve His likeness is to follow the pattern of His life. The Spirit of the Lord will live that complete new life in the church, providing the old life is conquered. The old and the new cannot mix, with both being active at one and the same time. One or the other will be predominate and will rule. Gal. 2:20 DEATH, BY WATER BAPTISM. This too is extremely necessary to the spiritual growth of each member of the body of Christ. It is not an option. It is a commandment. It is an imperative and may not be bypassed. It is strongly associated with believing unto salvation for Jesus said: He that believeth and IS BAPTISED shall be saved. As baptism without faith is ineffective so faith without baptism is insufficient. Neither will of themselves accomplish the necessary result. They must be combined and performed for a full and complete work of salvation. Mark 16:16 Water baptism is an extremely essential act on behalf of everyone who would be a member of the body of Christ and ultimately a part of His Bride. Water baptism is a means whereby we are placed < into > His death. It is then, a part of the process of dying to the natural, carnal man. We are buried WITH HIM. Strongly identified with HIM in His death. Then gloriously raised with Him in the power of His resurrection. His life of resurrection is to be formulated and displayed in our present life. Resurrection life is the life that conquerors all sin and unrighteousness. It is triumphant over every sickness and disease. It is the manifestation of that , NEW LIFE, in Christ Jesus. His life is now the life that we live. All the promises of the Word are exercised and fulfilled in those who have touched this life of CHRIST. The destruction of the old man of sin completely eradicates the old man and its useless life. Rom. 6:4-6 SEALS 46 BUILD THE TEMPLE ACCORDING TO THE BLUEPRINT. To deviate from the plan is to displease the architect. The materials must be the very best available. There is no acceptance of any workmanship that is inferior. It was the Lord that was to dwell in the finished Tabernacle of Moses. Moses conveyed perfectly the vision of the tabernacle to the workmen, by divine intervention they made it perfect, according to the proposed plan. Ex. 25:9 If that tabernacle in the wilderness required such meticulous work and absolute perfection, HOW MUCH MORE, the true Temple of the Lord. The pattern is spelled out to us in the volume of the Word. We are required to build accordingly. UNKNOWN, NEGLECTED, IGNORED OR SCORNED? What is the attitude of the church toward the formula of water baptism spelled out for us in the Word? The command is to GO, BAPTISE, in the NAME of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. Mt. 28:19 This poses a question where we must ask, what is the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. All of us have and most of us are Fathers, but that is not a personal or a legal name. All males are Sons. All have Spirits. Would any deny the right for God to be identified by His name? His name sets Him apart from all others who may be called god. All that we do in word or deed is to be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, while giving thanks to the Father. Col. 3:17 LEARN THE VALUE OF HIS NAME. His presence is assured, even when the gathering is small, as long as it is done in His name. Mt. 18:20 When prayer is made for the healing of the sick, the casting out of devils, a miracle, or divine intervention and protection, it must be done by the mentioning and invocation of His NAME. Mark 16:17-18 When special prayer is made for the sick and they are anointed with oil it must be in the name of the Lord. James 5:14 Could this be a reason for unanswered prayers? Do the work of building the building according to the pattern. WHATSOEVER, ye ask in MY NAME, what a debit card that is. Absolutely unlimited. Pray, request, speak boldly in His Name. It works! John 14:13-14 The teacher, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost commissioned of the Father, and sent in His Name. If you are desirous of being filled with the Holy Spirit, ask the Lord Jesus in His Name to fill you and He will, wherever you might be. You need not wait until you are in church or have someone else pray for you. Ask in His Name. The Name of the Lord Jesus and the Holy Spirit have been instrumental in the cleansing and sanctification of those who belong to Christ. Justification is in His Name. 1 Cor. 6:11 Christ is the exalted one. He is above all principalities and powers that currently are in the world and in the world to come. The Father has also given Him a name that is above every name that has ever been named amongst mankind. There is none greater, more powerful, more marvelous, more majestic, more wonderful, more lovely than the name that the Father gave Him. The Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be His Name. Speak forth His Name. Declare His Name. Glorify His Name. Series complete 2 Nov 2002 edited RA 14:20 16-09-03