Revelation of Jesus Christ = = = For a blessing 2 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Preface THE ART and SCIENCE OF INTERPRETATION Is It Literal? Is the Bible Cryptic? Symbols Thinking in a Box Debate, Argument, Dialogue, and Persuasion Bible"s Self Interpretation, The.
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Revelation for a Blessing Chapter 1 9 From Ron Rankin 1 2010
Revelation of Jesus Christ = = = For a blessing 2 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Preface THE ART and SCIENCE OF INTERPRETATION Is It Literal? Is the Bible Cryptic? Symbols Thinking in a Box Debate, Argument, Dialogue, and Persuasion Bible"s Self Interpretation, The.
Revelation of Jesus Christ = = = For a blessing 2 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Preface THE ART and SCIENCE OF INTERPRETATION Is It Literal? Is the Bible Cryptic? Symbols Thinking in a Box Debate, Argument, Dialogue, and Persuasion Bible"s Self Interpretation, The.
THE ART & SCIENCE OF INTERPRETATION Is It Literal? Is the Bible Cryptic? Symbols Thinking in a Box Debate, Argument, Dialogue, and Persuasion Bibles Self Interpretation, The
INTRODUCTORY STUDIES ABOUT THE BOOK OF REVELATION
Revelation The Book A Note From the Diaglott The Book of Revelation A Chart
CHAPTER ONE REVELATION FROM JEHOVAH FOR A BLESSING
Gospel in Simplicity, The Revelation 1:1-3; 22:6-10 By His Angel Revelation 1:1 Shortly Come to Pass Revelation 1:1 Signified Revelation 1:1 Symbolic Language in Revelation Revelation 1:1 Oracle of the Revelation, The Revelation 1:2 Blessed is He Revelation 1:3 Woe or Blessing Revelation 1:3 Seven Spirits, The Revelation 1:4 [Being Written] Faithful Witness Revelation 1:5 First Begotten From the Dead Revelation 1:5 Prince of the Kings of the Earth Revelation 1:5 Blood of the Covenant, The Revelation 1:5 Revealed Presence Revelation 1:7 I Am the One Revelation 1:8 John Companion Revelation 1:9 Patmos and John Revelation 1:9-11 First and the Last, The Revelation 1:11 Ephesus Revelation 1:11, 20 Smyrna Revelation 1:11, 20 4
Pergamos Revelation 1:11, 20 Thyatira Revelation 1:11, 20 Sardis Revelation 1:11, 20 Philadelphia Revelation 1:11, 20 Laodicea Revelation 1:11, 20 Map The Island of Patmos & the Seven Churches of Asia Map Aegean Sea & the Seven Churches Seven Stars Revelation 1:16 Two-Edged Sword Revelation 1:16 Liveth and Was Dead Revelation 1:18 Keys of Hell and of Death, The Revelation 1:18 Are the Seven Churches Prophetic? Revelation 1:20 Seven Candlesticks Revelation 1:20 Work of the Body of Christ, The Revelation 1:20
CHAPTER TWO SEVEN ANGELS FOR SEVEN CHURCHES: EPHESUS TO THYATIRA FOR A BLESSING Ephesus, City of Diana Revelation 2:1 I Know Thy Works and Thy Labours Revelation 2:2 Legalism A Judgment Revelation 2:2 Left Thy First Love Revelation 2:4 Qualities of Love Revelation 2:4 Nicolaitans, They Signify What? Revelation 2:6 Church History, Clergy & Laity Revelation 2:6 [To Be Finished] I Didnt Know, For a Thoughtful Moment Revelation 2:7 Tree of Life in the Paradise of God, The Revelation 2:7 Paradise Revelation 2:7 [To Be Written] Smyrna and it Crown of Porticoes Revelation 2:8, 10 Satans Assembly -- Revelation 2:9 Tribulation and Poverty Revelation 2:9 [To Be Written] Satans Assembly Revelation 2:9 Crowding Pressures of Tribulation Revelation 2:10 Pergamos, Where Dwelleth Satan Revelation 2:12 Nicolaitan According to the Church Fathers, The Revelation 2:13 [Being Written] Balaam, Who Held the Truth in Unrighteousness Revelation 2:14 Fight With the Sword of My Mouth Revelation 2:16 [To Be Written] Thyatira and Jezebel Revelation 2:18 Depths of Satan, The Revelation 2:24 [To Be Written] He Shall Rule Revelation 2:27 Rod of Righteousness Revelation 2:27 [To Be Written] 5
Morning Star, The Revelation 2:28 [To Be Written]
CHAPTER THREE SEVEN ANGELS FOR SEVEN CHURCHES: SARDIS TO LAODICEA FOR A BLESSING Sardis, With the Few Names Revelation 3:1 Philadelphia, Brotherly Love Revelation 3:7 An Open Door Revelation 3:8 [To Be Written] Word of My Patience Revelation 3:10 [To Be Written] Pillar in the Temple of God Revelation 3:12 [To Be Written] Wretched, Blind, and Naked Revelation 3:14 Beginning of the Creation of God, The Revelation 3:14 [To Be Written] Seeds of Laodicea Revelation 3:15, 16 Danger Signs Grieve Not the Holy Spirit of God Revelation 3:16 Great Gain Revelation 3:17 Rebuke and Chasten Revelation 3:19 [To Be Written] At the Door Revelation 3:20 [To Be Written]
CHAPTER FOUR HE THAT SAT UPON THE THRONE He That Sat Upon the Throne Four Beasts of Revelation Four, The Twenty-Four Elders
CHAPTER FIVE THE LAMB AND THE REDEEMED An Overview of the Lamb and the Redeemed Revelation 5:00 Redemption Revelation 5:9, 10 Reign on the Earth Revelation 5:9, 10
CHAPTER SIX FROM CONQUERING TO TESTIMONY TO VICTORY Seven Seals Revelation 6:1 Seals, Trumpets, and the Vials of Plagues, Compared Revelation 6:1 Beasts in Revelation Revelation 6:1 A Comparison of Animals in Daniel and Revelation Revelation 6:1 [Being Expanded Upon] Six Seals Getting Acquainted Revelation 6:1 The Romans Horse Revelation 6:2 Romans Coins with the Roman Horse Revelation 6:2 Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse Revelation 6:2 Four Horses of Revelation Revelation 6:2 6
A White Horse Revelation 6:2 Conquering and to Conquer Revelation 6:2 The Red Horse Revelation 6:3 Killing One Another Revelation 6:4 A Black Horse Revelation 6:5 Pair of Balances in His Hand Revelation 6:5 Table of Greek and Roman Measures Revelation 6:6 A Pale Horse Revelation 6:7 Persian Rebellion Revelation 6:7 Four Horses of Revelation Revelation 6:7 Growth of the Roman Empire Revelation 6:7 Empire Divided Revelation 6:7 Fall of West Roman Empire Revelation 6:7 Souls Under the Altar Revelation 6:9 Blood of Martyrs Picture Revelation 6:10 Presaging the End Revelation 6:12 A Great Earthquake Revelation 6:12 The Time the Earth Shook Revelation 6:12 Atlantic Tsunami Revelation 6:12 Candlelight Luncheon Revelation 6:12 A Word From Adler Planetarium Revelation 6:12 Stars and Falling Stars Revelation 6:12 His Wrath Orges Autou Revelation 6:17 The Heaven and Mountains Revelation 6:14-17
CHAPTER SEVEN SEALED UNTO SALVATION Jehovahs Servant Sealed Revelation 7:1-17 Sphragis Seal Revelation 7:2 Seal of the Living God Revelation 7:2 Hurt Not Until Revelation 7:3 Pressures That Distress Revelation 7:14 Serve Him in His Temple Revelation 7:15 They are Before the Throne Revelation 7:15
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CHAPTER EIGHT THE EMPIRE CRUMBLES The Seventh Seal Revelation 8:1 The Seventh Seal and the Golden Censor the Greek Text Chart The Empire 379 536 A.D. Impending Decline of Imperial Rome Revelation 8:3 The Trumpets the Greek Text Revelation 8:6, 7 Similar But Not the Same Revelation 8:7 Barbaric Invasions Revelation 8:7-12 Trumpets One Through Four Revelation 8:7-12 Alaric the Great Revelation 8:7 Genseric and the Vandals Revelation 8:8 Atilla, the Hun Revelation 8:10 Wormwood Revelation 8:11 Odoacer Revelation 8:12
CHAPTER NINE TWO WOES: PLAGUE OF LOCUSTS & THE ARMY OF HORSEMENT Army of Locusts Revelation 9:1 Abu Bekr Revelation 9:4 Army of Horsemen Revelation 9:12
CHAPTER TEN UNWRITTEN THUNDERS & WHEN THE MYSTERY SHALL BE FINISHED Between the Woes Revelation 10:00 [To Be Written] The Mystery is Finished [Revelation 10:5-7] The Ides of March [Revelation 10:6] Go Ye Unto the End of the Age [Revelation 10:7] Honey Revelation 10:9
CHAPTER ELEVEN TWO WITNESSES & THE THIRD WOE: THE WRATH OF GOD Taking Measurement Revelation 11:1, 2 [To Be Written] Two Witnesses Revelation 11:3, 4 [To Be Written]
This Generation Luke 21:32 Events Surrounding the Return of Christ Revelation 11:15-18
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CHAPTER TWELVE THE GREAT DRAGON & THE PEOPLE OF GOD The Woman Persecuted Revelation 12:00 Prophetic Woman Revelation 12:01 The Dragon Revelation 12:03 The Fall of the Accuser Revelation 12:10 Triumph Over the Accuser Revelation 12:10 Now is Come Revelation 12:10 Fall of the Accuser Revelation 12:10 The Justinian Code Revelation 12:14 Results of the Justinian Code Revelation 12:14 Taking of the Bastille, July 14, 1789 Revelation 12:16 The Testimony of Her Seed Revelation 12:17
CHAPTER THIRTEEN TWO BEASTS The Beast of Iron Revelation 13:1 Four World Empires Revelation 13:2 Imperial and Holy, Emperors of the Roman Empire Revelation 13:1 Golden Cross in Vaticans Collection Gets New Look Revelation 13:1 Map of the Old Roman Empire Revelation 13:1 Chart the Empire 1321 1478 A.D. They Worshipped [Revelation 13:4] Blasphemies [Revelation 13:5, 6] Blasphemies in Action [Revelation 13,5, 6] [Being Written] Vatican Decree Calls for More Fence-Mending Revelation 13:5 Slain From the Foundation of the World Revelation 13:8 The Book of Life Revelation 13:8 Caesar and the Church Revelation 13:10 Speaking Like a Lamb Now? Revelation 13:11, 12 The Beast, the Man, the Image, the Mark Revelation 13:4-18
CHAPTER FOURTEEN THE REDEEMED, THE GOSPEL, FALLEN BABYLON, & THE WRATH OF GOD They Sang [Revelation 14:1-5] Aion and Aionios [Revelation 14:6 and 20:10] Trial With Fire Revelation 14:18
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CHAPTER FIFTEEN VICTORY OVER BEAST & JEHOVAH IN HIS TEMPLE
CHAPTER SIXTEEN VIALS OF THE WRATH OF JEHOVAH The Mouth of the Dragon Revelation 16:13 Hitler and Islam Revelation 16:13 Bin Laden Takes Credit for Airline Bombing Plot Revelation 16:13
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN THE WHORE, MYSTERY BABYLON Rome Unveils Rare Vatican Documents Revelation 17:5 The Beast Ridden by a Woman, An Harlot Revelation 17:9-11
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN BABYLON THE GREAT IS FALLEN
Hello Anglicans, Rome Calling, Come Over Revelation 18:4
CHAPTER NINETEEN THE MARRIAGE SUPPER OF THE LAMB & HE THAT SAT ON THE WHITE HORSE
CHAPTER TWENTY 1,000 YEARS, A LITTLE SEASON & JUDGMENT The Fall of the Accuser Revelation 20:1 Thrones Revelation 20:4 Day and Night For Ever and Ever Revelation 20:10 Aion Revelation 20:10
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CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE THE TABERNACLE OF JEHOVAH
The Spirit and the Bride Say Come [Revelation 21:17] The Twelve Foundations of Precious Stones [Revelation 21:19]
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO THERE SHALL BE NO MORE CURSE Worship Jehovah Revelation 22:13
ADDENDA TO THE REVELATION A Closer Look at the Text [Revelation 5:9,10] Chatham Seal Nicolaitans, According to the Church Fathers [To Be Finished] Should Be Fulfilled Manuscript Difference [Revelation 6:11] Sphragis Seal Aion Revelation 20:10
INDICES
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PREFACE
This final communication from Heaven to the Body of Christ at the pen of John, the beloved apostle, is indeed a revelation. It reveals information, it does not hide it neither does it keep it secret nor does it present an unsolvable mystery.
Consistent with the scriptures of the New Testament, history is prophetically unveiled. Examples of the apostles Paul and Peter illustrate the practice of explaining previously not known or understood information. Ephesians 3:1-9 By revelation he made known the mystery [that which had been secret but nevertheless proclaimed by the prophets] Genesis 12:3 Galatians 3:8 1 Corinthians 2:9, 10 Things which God hath prepared for them that love him But God hath revealed them unto us by his spirit Isaiah 64:4 1 Peter 1:10-12 Romans 16:25, 26 The revelation of the mystery now made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets Isaiah 65:1 2 Peter 1:1-4 His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain to life and godliness 1 Peter 2:10 In time past were not a people, but are now the people of God Hosea 2:23
The revelation about things to come to pass, that that beginning soon [shortly, Revelat ion 1:1]; this revelation, a predicted [prophesied of] history of the world, and of all mankind, that includes all time from day of Pentecost, unto eternity.
Critical explanation of this book is, and has been, found through the normal processes of studying the Scriptures. It is not any private interpretation [2 Peter 1:19-21], but as is explained in 1 Corinthians 14:29-32, correlation of the prophets, a comparison of spiritual things with spiritual things [1 Corinthians 2:12, 13]. See further discussion of the subject of interpretation in the section entitled The Art & Science of Interpretation.
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The Table of Contents identifies the many individual subjects that are involved in this study of the Apocalypse; from its opening with visions of John and the Resurrection Jesus, to the New Heavens and New Earth. . To the Seven Churches of Asia . To the centrality of Jehovah and the place of Jesus . To Redemptive Salvation . To the Horses of the Imperial Roman Empire . To the Degradation of the Empire by the Barbarian Hordes and the Sword of Islam . To the Onslaught of Satan, Tribulations of the People of God, the Machinations of the Nations that Compose the Broken Roman Empire . To the Return of Jesus as Christ, the Wrath of God, the Millennial Times of Restitution, the Day of Judgment, and the Finalities of the New Heavens and New Earth.
Ron Rankin June 17, 2008
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1 The Art & Science of Interpretation = Otherwise known as Hermeneutics. 15
The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction Proverbs 1:7
My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou sleekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of Jehovah, and find the knowledge of God. For Jehovah giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly. Proverbs 2:1-7
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IS IT LITERAL?
= TO UNDERSTAND GODS WORD Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD [Hebrew YHVH, Jehovah] with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding [KJV]. Jeremiah 9:23,24 Thus saith the LORD [Hebrew YHVH, Jehovah], Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD [Hebrew YHVH, Jehovah] which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the [Hebrew YHVH, Jehovah]. 1 Corinthians 2:12,13 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which mans wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 1 Corinthians 1:30,31 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. 2 Corinthians 10:15-17 Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other mens labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another mans line of thing made ready to our hand. But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.
= LITERAL Definition Adjective, [Latin literalis, from litera, a letter.] According to the letter or verbal expression; not figurative or metaphorical; following the letter or exact words; as, a literal translation; tending to interpret statements factually or unimaginatively; consisting of or expressed by letters [LW]. The literal understanding and interpretation is the first-line of understanding Gods Word. There must be real and scriptural reasons for the non-literal understanding of Gods Word. It is not the first-line of understanding. An illustration of this principle is found in the definition of the word similitude. When the literal definition of likeness becomes an imaginative likening it is an allegory or parable. Literalism Noun. The act or practice of adhering to the letter or strict sense, as in translating; a mode of interpreting literally or realistically, as in literature or art. Literalize To interpret or translate literally. Examples For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth. And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me [Job 19:25-27]. 17
Job takes care to explain that he believes without a doubt that he will physically see God on the earth in spite of the fact that he will physically be destroyed in the grave. And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? And why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. Have ye here any meat? (and Jesus did eat fish and honeycomb in their presence) [Luke 24:38-45]. That they might understand the scriptures, Jesus showed himself to them that they would know that he literally physically was raised from the dead; that what they saw was It is I myself.
= ALLEGORICAL, PARABOLIC, FIGURATIVE, HYPERBOLIC, METONYMICAL, METAPHORICAL, SIMILAR, TYPICAL, SYMBOLIC, TROPOLOGIC, PROVERBIAL, NON-LITERAL. The literal must exist before there can be the related non-literal with which to compare it. The literal remains, and is the basis, for understanding the non-literal. The non-literal does not and cannot exist of itself but is intrinsically reliant on the literal for understanding the non-literal concept. Examples Sheep characteristically follow the lead sheep. The prophet Isaiah aptly describes some characteristics of sheep in saying like sheep and as a lamb. Isaiah 53:6,7 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD [Hebrew YHVH, Jehovah] hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he as afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. Jesus is called the Lamb because he demonstrated characteristics of the literal lamb or literal sheep, that is like the lamb or like the sheep. So, Jesus was a non- literal lamb or non-literal sheep. In our English language we have a number of different words by which we describe those things that are not literal. We will herein explore the use of those concepts in Gods word. Analogies and Idioms will be treated separately from this study. The word Spiritual since it means of the Spirit will not be considered with this subject of literal versus non-literal. Spiritual is sometimes mistakenly used to mean figurative. Here is the list which we will use, in alphabetical order: Allegory and Allegorical Figure, Figurative, and Figures of Speech Hyperbole Metonymy Metaphor and Metaphorical Parable Proverb Simile and Similitude 18
Symbol and Symbolic Tropes, Tropology, Tropical, and Tropically Type, Typify, and Typical Note that some of the preceding words are often considered synonymously in dictionaries as shown in the definitions given below. The meaning of words changes over time due to changes in common usage. The English language has changed since its recognized and recorded beginnings, however the amount and degree of change has not yet led to a new era of meaning. Good dictionaries give the etymology of words. Etymology is the explanation of the origin and linguistic changes of a particular word; the derivation of a word; the branch of philology concerned with the origin and history of words [LW]. Linguists recognize the categories of the English language as: Old English (A.D. 450-1150) Middle English (A.D. 1150-1475) Modern English (A.D. 1475 to the Present)
= ALLEGORY AND ALLEGORICAL Definition Allegory Noun. [Middle English allegorie, from Latin allegoria, Greek allegoria, from allegorein, to speak figuratively allos, other, and agoreuo, to speak, from agora, a forum, an oration.] A figurative discourse, in which the principal subject is depicted by another subject resembling it in its properties and circumstances; a symbolic representation; a narrative in which abstract ideas are personified; a sustained metaphor[LW]. In the Greek Allegory Greek, allegoreo [oiinyo pto], Verb, to speak allegorically; found only in Galatians 2:24 [NE]. Allegorical Adjective. Pertaining to allegory; in the manner of allegory [LW]. Allegorist Noun, One who allegorizes; a writer of allegory [LW]. Allegorization Noun. The act of turning into allegory; allegorical explanation or interpretation [LW]. Allegorize Noun. The turn into allegory; to narrate in allegory; to explain in an allegorical sense [LW]. Example Galatians 2:24 Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all.
= FIGURE, FIGURATIVE, AND FIGURES OF SPEECH Definition Figure Noun. [French figure, figure, shape, from fig, root of fingo, to fashion.] The form of anything as expressed by the outline or contour; shape; the human shape or form; a pictorial representation of the human body or an object; appearance or impression made by a person; as, to cut a poor figure; an emblem or symbol; a number symbol; value or amount stated in numbers [LW]. Figure. Verb. To compute or calculate numerically to imagine or picture mentally; to represent by a figure of speech [LW]. Figurative Adjective. [Late Latin figurativus, from Latin figurare, English figure, verb.] Of the nature of or involving a figure of speech, especially, a metaphor; metaphorical, not literal; as, a figurative expression; abounding in figures of speech; as, figurative language; 19
representing by means of a figure, emblem, or likeness, as in a drawing or sculpture; emblematic [LW]. Figure of Speech Noun. A mode of expression, as a simile, metaphor, or hyperbole, where words are employed in a nonliteral or unusual sense for special effects, such as lending vividness or heightening beauty of style [LW]. Examples Hebrews 9:9 A figure [parabole (opooin for the time then present. See Parable. Hebrews 9:24 The figures [antitupa (oviuo)] of the true. See Types. Hebrews 11:19 Raise him up from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure [parabole (opooin ]. See Parable. Matthew 9:36 Splagxnizomai (oioyyviCooi), a verb for the noun for inward parts, figuratively the heart; a figure of speech which was translated was moved with compassion. 1 Corinthians 4:6 I have in a figure [metesxematisa (ttoyno ioo*)] transferred to myself and to Apollos for our sakes. *1 st person singular, aorist 1, indicative, active of metasxematizo (tooynoiCo), to remodel, transfigure, to fashion [H]. Figuratively, to transfer to; to make an imaginary transference of circumstances from the parties really concerned in them to others, to transfer an imagination [H]. Philemon 7 The bowels of the saints are refreshed. Figuratively, the bowels are the seat of emotions. 2 Corinthians 7:15 And his inward affection (figurative of his bowels, splagxna (oioyyvo)] is more abundant toward you. 1 Peter 3:21 The like figure [antitupon (oviuov)] whereunto even baptism doth also now save us. See Types
= HYPERBOLE Definition Hyperbole Noun. [Latin from Greek, hyperbole, a throwing beyond, excess.] Rhetorical Deliberate exaggeration used for effect; an extravagant statement not intended to be understood in the literal sense [LW]. Hyperbolize Verb Intransitive hyperbolized, hyperbolizing. To use hyperbole; exaggerate. Verb Transitive To represent or express with hyperbole or exaggeration [LW]. The Greek Word Huperbole [utpoin ] Noun, feminine. Preeminence, extraordinary quality. Adverb, exceedingly [NE]. The definition of the Greek word huperbole is not identical with the definition of the English word hyperbole. Although the etymology of the English word is rooted in the Greek word, the difference seems to be in the exaggeration and emphasis beyond measurable. See a separate Bible study outline concerning Huperbole.
= METONYMY Definition Metonymy Noun. [Greek, metonymia meta, denoting change, and onoma, a name.] Rhetorical. A figure by which one word is substituted for another on account of some actual relation between the things signified, as when we say, We read Virgil, that is, his poems or writings [LW]. Examples Acts 1:18 There is not a substituted word here. Splagchna (oioyyvo), a noun, nominative, neuter, plural of Splagchnon (oioyyvov), the chief intestines, viscera; the entrails, bowels [H]. Philemon 12 Receive him, that is my own bowels auton, tout esti ta ema splagchna, proslabou. ouov. ou toi o to oioyyvo. pooioou. him, that is the my bowels, do thou receive. By metonymy, my bowels mean, cherished one, one dear as ones self. Matthew 5:33 Horkous (op|ou) literally means an oath. By metonymy it means the things for which the oath was made, or the vows.
= METAPHOR AND METAPHORICAL Definition Metaphor Noun. [French metaphore, from Greek metaphora, from metapherein, transfer, from meta (denoting change) and pherein, bear.] A figure of speech in which a term or phrase is applied to something to which it is not literally applicable, or order to suggest a resemblance, as: She is the flower of my life [LW]. Metaphorical Adjective of metaphor [LW]. Examples Ephesians 2:12,13,17 Far off is translated from the Greek word markan [op|ov] and concerns time and distance. Metaphorically afar off means alien or stranger. As often it does, context explains this understanding of afar off in verse 12 in the translation of alien for the Greek word apellotriomenoi [oniiopiotvoi].
Hebrews 12:15 The phrase root of bitterness [hriza pikrias, p iCo i|pio)] is understood as a metaphor rather than literal. 21
Literally root is the root of a tree or plant, without which the tree or plant cannot survive. Literally bitterness is the quality of taste, for example, gall is something very bitter bile, a bitter viscid, yellow or greenish alkaline liquid secreted by the liver [LW]. Metaphorically the root is the source, cause, origin and bitterness is that of the mind, or spirit. Acts 8:23 Simon was in the gall of bitterness because he could not purchase the gift of God with money. 1 Timothy 6:10 The love of money, by metaphor, is a root, meaning, source, origin, or cause, of all evil.
= PARABLES Definition Parable A noun. [French parabole, from Latin parabola, Greek parabole, from paraballo, to throw beside, to compare.] Originally a comparison or similitude; an allegorical story dealing with ordinary life from which a moral message or religious truth is taught. Plural, a collective term for the allegories recounted by Jesus [LW]. The Greek Word parabole [ opooin ] A placing one thing by the side of another; a comparing; a parallel case cited in illustration; a comparison, simile, similitude; a parable, a short relation under which something else is figured, or in which that which is fictitious is employed to represent that which is real [H]. A parable, figure [NE]. Parabole is translated also figure two times in Hebrews 9:9 and 11:19. And once it is translated proverb in Luke 4:23. Examples Mark 4:11-20 The reason why Jesus spoke in parables. Matthew 13:3-23 Jesus parable of the sower, given and explained.
= PROVERBS Definition Proverb Noun, [Old French and French proverbe, from Latin proverbium.] A short, pithy, popular saying, long in use, embodying some familiar truth, practical precept, or useful thought in expressive and often picturesque language; an adage; a saw; hence, a person or thing that has become proverbial, an object of common mention or reference, or a byword; a wise saying or precept, or a didactic sentence [LW]. The Parables of Solomon and others are noteworthy in the Old Testament Book of Proverbs. Examples Luke 4:23 this proverb [parabolen (opooinv)], Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. See Parables. John 10:6 This parable [paroimian (opoiiov*)] spake Jesus. A grammatical form of paroimia (opoii o), a byword, proverb, adage; an obscure saying, enigma; a parable, similitude, figurative discourse [LW]. John 16:25 These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs [paroimiais (opoiioi*)]: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you 22
in proverbs [paroimiais (opoiioi*)], but I shall shew you plainly of the Father. Also a grammatical form of paroimia (opoii o). John 16:29 His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb [paroimian (opoiiov)]. 2 Peter 2:22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb [paroimiais (opoiioi)]: The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. The above five verses are the only ones which use the word paroimia (opoii o) for a total of six times within them.
= SIMILE AND SIMILITUDE Definition Simile Noun. [Latin, a like thing, from similus, like.] A figure of speech likening or comparing two dissimilar things by the use of like or as, as: Her lips are like roses. A poetic or imaginative comparison [LW]. Similitude Noun. [Latin similitudo.] Likeness; a person or thing resembling another in nature, qualities, or appearance; a counterpart or double; an image or visible resemblance; an imaginative likening, as an allegory or parable [LW]. Examples Romans 5:14 them that had not sinned after the similitude [homoiomati * (ooiooi] of Adams transgression *dative, singular of homoioma (ooioo)], properly, that which is conformed or assimilated; form, shape, figure, likeness, resemblance, similitude [H]. Romans 6:5 in the likeness [homoiomati (ooiooi)] of his death.
= SYMBOL AND SYMBOLIC Definition Symbol Noun. [Latin, symbolum, <from Greek symbolon, a symbol, from symballo, to infer, conclude sym, for syn, with and ballo, to throw or put.] Something standing for or calling up something else, especially a concrete object which stands for an intangible object or idea; a character, letter, or cipher which by convention or arbitrary usage has come to represent something else, as the name of a chemical element; an image which embodies a web of interrelated meanings or which evokes a complex of emotions; [LW]. Symbolic Adjective. Pertaining to a symbol or symbols; of the nature of a symbol; representative; grammar formerly, denoting a class of words expressing relation, as pronouns or prepositions [LW]. Examples Acts 4:15 they conferred among themselves. [conferred sunebalon (ouvt tiov), which is the 3 rd person, plural, aorist 2, indicative, active, of sumballo (ouoiio) from which our English word symbol is derived (H)]. Others forms of sumballo (ouoiio) are found in the following verses showing the way it is translated in each. Luke 2:19 and pondered. Luke 14:31 to make war. Acts 17:18 encountered. Acts 18:27 helped. 23
Acts 20:14 met with. It appears to be a Greek word that intends to convey a sharing of thoughts or of help by conversation or by deed. Thus a symbol in English is a form of communication. For comparison, Rogets Thesaurus gives as synonyms for symbol the following words under Indication: sign, index, indicant, indicator; symbol, emblem, token, symptom, signal, mark, earmark, badge, stamp, signature, note, figure, cipher, type; image, picture, allegory; representation, representative; totem, totem pole or post; poster, signboard [Rogets #566.2]. In the New Testament the words translated from the Greek semeion (ottiov) and semaino (onoivo) which, synonymous with symbol, are: sign, miracle, wonder, signify, signifying, and signified. Examples are found in the following scriptures: Matthew 12:38, 39; 16:1, 3, 4; 24:3, 24, 30 Acts 2:19; 4:16,22,30 Romans 4:11 John 12:33; 18:32; 21:19 Acts 11:28; 25:27 Revelation 1:1
= TROPES, TROPOLOGY Definition Trope Noun. [French trope, from Greek tropos, a trope or figure, a turn, from trepo, to turn.] Rehtorical, a word or expression intentionally used in a different sense from that which it ordinarily possesses; a figure of speech [LW]. Tropology Noun. [Late Latin, tropologia, from Greek tropologia, from tropos, trope, and logia, from legein, speak.] The use of tropes or figures of speech in speech or writing; a treatise on tropes or figures of speech; the use of a Scripture text so as to give it a moral interpretation or significance apart from its direct meaning [LW]. Examples Matthew 23:37 how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as [tropon (poov), the accusative singular of tropos (poo), (H)] a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! 2 Thessalonians 2:3 Let no man deceive you by any means [tropon (poov), the accusative singular of tropos (poo), (H)]: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first The word tropos, in its various forms, and translated variously: even as, as, manner, way, means, and conversation. Examples are found additionally in the following scriptures: Luke 13:34 Acts 1:11; 7:28; 15:11; 27:25 Romans 3:2 Philippians 1:18 2 Thessalonians 3:16 Hebrews 13:5 Jude 7
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= TYPES, TYPIFY, AND TYPICAL Definition Type Noun. [Latin typus, from Greek typos, impression, image, figure, form model, type, from typtein, strike.] A kind, class, or group as distinguished by a particular character; a representative or typical specimen; a person or thing embodying the characteristic qualities of a kind, class, or group; as, the athletic type; the standard or model. Theology, a prefiguring symbol, especially an Old Testament even prefiguring a New Testament event. [LW]. Typical Adjective. [New Latin typicalis.] Of the nature of or serving as an emblem; symbolic; of the nature of or serving as a representative specimen; conforming to some type; characteristic [LW]. = Typify Verb transitive typified, typifying. To represent by a type or symbol; pre-figure; signify; symbolize; to constitute or serve as the typical specimen of; to exemplify [LW]. Examples Romans 5:14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adams transgression, who is the figure [Greek tupos] of him that was to come. The word tupos is translated variously as shown in the following scriptures: John 20:25 print (two times). Acts 7:43 figures. Acts 7:44 fashion. Acts 23:25 manner. Romans 5:14 figure. Romans 6:17 form. 1 Corinthians 10:6 examples. 1 Corinthians 10:11 ensamples. Philippians 3:17 ensample. 1 Thessalonians 1:7 ensamples. 2 Thessalonians 3:9 ensample. 1 Timothy 4:12 example. Hebrews 8:5 pattern 1 Peter 5:3 ensamples.
= ABBREVIATIONS and BIBLIOGRAPHY H The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Publishers: Harper & Brothers and Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited. KJV The King James Version, Presentation Reference Edition. Cambridge University Press, The Queens Printer. LW The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language. NE The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon. Roget Rogets International Thesaurus, Third Edition.
Ron Rankin Begun November 5, 2003 Completed December 24, 2003
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IS THE BIBLE CRYPTIC?
WHAT DOES CRYPTIC MEAN? Cryptic, adjective, [Late Latin crypticus, < Greek krypticos, < kryptein, hide.] Hidden; secret; occult; indicating the use of code or cipher; zoological fitted for concealing [The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language].
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT THIS MATTER? Hidden Kruptos [|puo] adjective, concealed, hidden, secret [The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon]. Matthew 6:4 - That thine alms may be in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
Mark 4:22 - For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested: neither was anything kept secret [apokrupto, oo|pu o], but that it should come abroad.
1 Corinthians 4:5 - Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest [phaneros, ovtpo] the counsels of the heart: and then shall every man have praise of God.
2 Corinthians 4:2 - But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation [Phanerosis, ovtpooi] of the truth commending ourselves to every mans conscience in the sight of God.
1 Peter 3:4 - But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
John 18:20 - Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.
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Secret, Not Revealed Musterion [uonpiov] noun, neuter, mystery, secret, unrevealed [The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon]. Ephesians 1:9 - Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself.
1 Corinthians 15:51 - Behold, I shew you a mystery, We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed.
Revealed Apokalupto [oo|oiu o] verb, to uncover, to disclose [The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon]. Ephesians 3:3-5 - How that by revelation [Apokalupto, oo|oiuo] he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery [musterion, uonpiov] of Christ) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed [oo|oiuo] unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.
Phaneros [ovtpo] adjective, visible, manifest [The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon]. 1 Corinthians 4:5 - Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden [kruptos, |puo] things of darkness, and will make manifest [phaneros, ovtpo] the counsels of the heart: and then shall every man have praise of God.
Phanerosis [ovtpooi] adverb, openly, publicly, clearly [The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon]. 2 Corinthians 4:2 - But have renounced the hidden [kruptos, |puo] things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation [phanerosis, ovtpooi] of the truth commending ourselves to every mans conscience in the sight of God.
BIBLICAL CONCLUSIONS 1. The current modern definition of cryptic is often concerned with the hidden things that are especially involved with the occult and the mystical. Cryptic does mean hidden and is sometimes used with regard for messages hidden by codes.
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2. The Word of God cannot be classified as occult or cryptic in that sense. Jehovah has revealed truth rather than hidden it. Things not understood, such as resurrection to immortality and incorruptibility, are explained, made known, for the understanding of all who will believe. He provides light rather than darkness [John 3:18-21].
3. Satan blinds and hides the truth: If the gospel be hid, it is hid [kalupto, |oiuo, to cover, conceal (N.E.)] to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them [2 Corinthians 4:3, 4].
4. Jesus openly taught truth, saying, I am the way, the truth, and the life [John 14:6].
5. Thou hast heard, see all this; and will not ye declare it? I have shewed thee new things from this time, even hidden things, and thou didst not know them [Isaiah 48:6].
Ron Rankin February 2, 2005
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SYMBOLS
+ DEFINITION and EXTRA-BIBLICAL EXAMPLES of SYMBOLS
Symbol = [Latin symbolum, from Greek symbolon, a symbol, from symballo, to infer, conclude sum, for. syn. with, and ballo, to throw or put.] Something standing for or calling up something else, especially a concrete object which stands for an intangible object or idea; a character, letter, or cipher which by convention or arbitrary usage has come to represent something else, as the name of a chemical element; an image which embodies a web of interrelated meanings or which evokes a complex of emotions 2
Fylflot or Swastika 3
- A cross with equal arms, the ends of which are bend backward counterclockwise. - The extensions of the arms of the cross are rudiments of the circle which originally surrounded the cross, in the fylfots earliest manifestation, as a symbol of the sun. - This design is one of the earliest known symbols to have been made by man, and one of the most widespread among primitive peoples. - It is found in all the continents except Australia, and is the symbol of all sun- gods, from, Apollo and Odin to Quetzalcoatl. - It still survives as a religious symbol in India among the Buddhists and Jains, and in China and Japan, as well as among the Indian tribes of North America which continue the practice of aboriginal religion and medicine. - The fylfot is the ancestor of many decorative motifs, from the classic Greek meander to more elaborate forms. - Its most recent European use as a symbol was the German hakenkreuz, or swastika, the emblem of anti-Semitism since 1918, and established as the national symbol of Nazi Germany under Adolf Hitler. - The Nazi swastika, however, was designed with arms bent clockwise.
A Ship 4
- The symbol of Paris, an island city, is a ship. And the symbol of Warsaw, also an inland city, is a mermaid.
2 The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language 3 Funk & Wagnalls Encyclopedia, 1952, Volume 15, Page 5438, Fylfot 4 Boyds Column, by L. M. Boyd, The Wenatchee World, Page 23, Tuesday, June 3, 1997 29
Symbol 5
- For Symbol, the encyclopedia says to see Creeds. Under Creeds, we find the following information. - Creeds, detailed confessions of Christian doctrine, are called in German Symbolik. - Concerning summaries of Christian belief; summaries that were used for candidates for baptism under the form of Traditio Symboli. - The writing of Professor Heurtly concerning creeds is called Harmonia Symbolica (1858). - The creed called Athanasian is called the Athanasian Symbol.
+ BIBLICAL SYMBOLS The Greek word sumballo [ouo iio], from which our English word symbol comes through Latin, is used in the New Testament. It is defined verb, literally, to throw together; (a) active, to discuss, confer; (b) to reflect, consider; (c) to encounter, confront; (d) middle, to contribute, help, assist. 6
The Scriptures where sumballo used are: Luke 2:19 - and pondered (them) in her heart Luke 14:31 - to make war (literally, to encounter in war) against another king Acts 4:15 - they conferred among themselves Acts 17:18 - and of the Stoicks, encountered him Acts 18:27 - helped them much which had believed Acts 20:14 - And when he had met with us at Assos
+ CONCLUSION Considering the word symbol, as we use it today, in the light of its etymology 7 , it is simply a way of conveying information in representative language, by signs, or by action. In the Bible, sumballo also conveys messages in these different ways.
Ron Rankin November 30, 1992; Updated June 3, 1997; and April 21, 2008
5 Encyclopedia Brittanica, Ninth Edition, Volume XXII, Page 849, 1877, Symbol ; Volume VI, Page 494ff, 1877, Creeds 6 New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon 7 Etymology = the study of and history of words 30
THINKING IN A BOX
> WHAT IS A BOX - This is a metaphor for a pattern of thought that is constrained by such things as traditions; everyone believes or thinks that; cultural practices; etc. - This pattern of thinking in a box must be broken in order that an inventor can think beyond the parameters that tend to stifle inventive thinking. - Are there any legitimate box-like ways of thinking? Yes, especially in understanding the Bible, for an example; incontrovertible facts that cannot be changed. Such things include the rules of language, the science of hermeneutics, and logic. As in the various forms of mathematics, there are specific rules that govern the operation and our understanding for each: arithmetic, calculus, algebra, trigonometry, geometry, etc. Languages change as the speakers of language break the rules, and continue to do so, until the rules for that language are modified or changed completely over time. However, for any given point in time, there are some inflexible rules. This is not, and cannot be true of the various fields of mathematics. Logic, our English word, comes to us from the Greek word Logos. Logic the science of formal reasoning, using the principles of valid inference; a system of reasoning or argumentation; the system or principles of reasoning applicable to a particular branch of knowledge or study; convincing force; as, the irresistible logic of facts; the apparently unavoidable cause and effect relationship of events leading to a particular conclusion; reason or sound sense, as in speech or action. 8
Isaiah 1:16-18 Job 13:3 1 Samuel 12:6,7 - Matters that pertain to God, however, are governed by Him; therefore there are parameters in religious matters that He has set. Social and cultural practices of mankind and religious traditions that man has developed become illegitimate boxes for religious thought. Mark 7:1-13
8 Logic = The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language. 31
> HOW TO GET OUT OF THE BOX - The answer to getting of the man-made boxes that govern mans thinking is, first, to listen to the counsel of God. - Then there is the need to challenge the man-made boxes and be governed only by those given to us in the wisdom and counsel of God. - Can we find our way? With determination and the help that He has promised. Ecclesiastes 7:24,29 Hebrews 1:1-3 1 Peter 1:1-4 James 1:5,6 Proverbs 1:1-9
Ron Rankin January 2, 2008
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DEBATE, ARGUMENT, DIALOGUE and PERSUASION A Bible Study Outline
For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, now great a matter a little fire kindleth! the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison [James 3:2-8].
= DEBATE and ARGUMENT Romans 1:28-32 Did not like to retain God in their knowledge. Being filled with all unrighteousness debate without understanding. As stated by a professor of linguistics of Georgetown University: The argument culture urges us to approach the world and the people in it in an adversarial frame of mine. It rests on the assumption that opposition is the best way to get anything done [page 3, The Argument Culture: Moving From Debate to Dialogue by Deborah Tannen]. The argument culture, with its tendency to approach issues as a polarized debate, and the culture of critique, with its inclination to regard criticism and attack as the best if not the only type of rigorous thinking, are deeply rooted in Western tradition, going back to the ancient Greeks [page 257, Ibid]. One reason so many teachers use the debate format to promote student involvement is that it is relatively easy to set up and the rewards are quick and obvious: the decibel level of noise, the excitement of those who are taking part. Showing students how to integrate ideas and explore subtleties and complexities is much harder. And the reward is quieter but more lasting [page 257, Ibid].
= DIALOGUE Matthew 15:19 Out of the heart proceed evil thoughts. Thoughts in this verse is dialogismos in the Greek NT. See definition below. Philippians 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings. Disputings = dialogismos. 1 Kings 18:21; Joshua 24:15 Between two opinions. Exchange of opinions or search for the truth? Dispassionate comparison of fact. Acts 26:14-18-28,29 Pauls ministry. To turn from darkness to light, from the power of Satan unto God. That they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith. 33
Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.
= GODLY PERSUASION 2 Timothy 2:23-26 Avoid foolish and unlearned questions. The servant of the Lord must not strive. In meekness instructing. If God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth. 1 Corinthians 3:5-7-10 Planting and watering. God that giveth the increase. Labourers together with God. A wise master-builder. 1 Thessalonians 2:14 The word of God not as the word of men effectually worketh also in you that believe. John 7:14-18 Use the word of God not ones own words. Isaiah 1:18; 43:25-27; 1 Samuel 12:7 Submit to Gods reasoning, not ones own. Revelation 2:7,11,17,29; 3:6,13,22 Listen to what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
= RAILING SPEECH Mark 15:29 blasphemeo [ioonto], see definition below. Luke 23:39 blasphemeo [ioonto], see definition below. 1 Corinthians 5:11 loidoros [ioiopo], see definition below. 1 Timothy 6:4 blasphemia [ioonio], see definition below. 2 Peter 2:11 blasphemos [ioonoo], see definition below. Jude 9 blasphemia [ioonio], see definition below.
= THE WORD OF GOD PROVIDES ADVICE CONCERNING SPEECH Colossians 4:5,6 Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt. Mark 9:50 If the salt have lost its saltiness wherewith will ye season it? Colossians 3:16 Teaching and admonishing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Proverbs 25:11 A word fitly spoken. Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath. 1 Peter 3:8, 9 34
Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing [loidoria (ioiopio), see definition below]: but contrariwise, blessing.
1 Peter 2:23 When Jesus was reviled [loidoreo, (ioiopto), see definition below], he reviled not again.
1 Kings 18:24-28,36,37 Contrast the manner of communication: They called on he name of Baal. They cried aloud and cut themselves with knives till the blood gushed out. Elijah came near and said, Jehovah God of Abraham let it be known this day that thou are God in Israel Hear me O Jehovah, hear me, that this people may know that thou art Jehovah.
James 4:11 Speak not evil.
Colossians 3:12,13 As the elect of God, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any; even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
= DEFINITIONS Blasphemeo Verb. To speak evil of, to slander, blaspheme [NE]. Blasphemia Noun. Blasphemy, vilification, slander [NE]. Blasphemos Adjective. Scurrilous, blasphemous, slanderous [NE]. Debate v.i. debated, debating. [Old French debatre (French debattre), batre, beat, English bate.] To engage in discussion, esp. in a legislative or other public assembly; to deliberate or consider. v.t. To dispute about, discuss or argue, as a question, in a public assembly; to deliberate upon or consider. n. Contention by argument; discussion; a discussion, esp. of public question in an assembly; deliberation or consideration [LW]. Dialogue n. [French dialogue, < Greek dialogos, dialogue, < dialegomai, to dispute.] A conversation between two or more persons; a formal conversation in theatrical performances; a composition in which two or more persons are represented as conversing on some topic; a frank exchange of ideas or views on a specific issue in an effort to attain mutual understanding [LW]. Dialogue as used in the Bible Dialogomai [ioityooi] verb, to say thoroughly; i.e. discuss [NE]. Dialogizomai [ioioyi Cooi] noun, masculine, inward reasoning, thought, questioning, doubting [NE]. Loidorew Verb. To revile [NE]. Loidoria Noun, feminine. Reviler, slanderer [NE]. Loidoros Noun, masculine. Reviler, slanderer [NE]. 35
Rail and Railing Verb intransitive. [French railler, to banter; > Late Latin radiculare, > Latin radere, to scrape.] To utter reproaches; to use insolent and reproachful language; to scold [LW].
= ABREVIATIONS AND BIBLIOGRAPHY esp. especially. Ibid ibidem (Latin), in the same place. LW The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language. NT New Testament. v.i. verb intransitive. v.t. verb transitive. < from.
Ron Rankin December 19, 2003
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THE BIBLES SELF-INTERPRETATION
g BIBLICAL INSTRUCTION 4 Listen and Hear - What is Said - What is not Said - Be very Careful to Not Make Assumptions - Never Declare a Conclusion without Consideration of all the Pertinent Information - Scriptures that Speak to These Statements Proverbs 1:5, 8 Proverbs 8:33 Proverbs 13:1 Proverbs 15:31, 32 Proverbs 18:13 Proverbs 22:17 Proverbs 23:19 Ecclesiastes 5:1 Ecclesiastes 7:5 Matthew 13:9, 13-23, 43 Acts 13:44, 48 Acts 28:26-28 Romans 10:14, 17, 18 1 Corinthians 14:21 Galatians 3:2, 5 Ephesians 1:13 Ephesians 4:29 2 Timothy 2:14 Hebrews 2:1 Hebrews 5:11 Hebrews 13:15, 16 James 1:19 Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29 Revelation 3:6, 13, 20, 22 Revelation 13:9 Revelation 22:17, 18
4 How do the Biblical Writers/Speakers Explain - With Illustrations [Biblical are sufficient] - With Reference to other Scriptures - By Speaking Contextually - By Understanding the Words Used as Defined by the Scriptures 9
- Scriptures that Speak to These Statements 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Hebrews 12:1 Matthew 22:29-32 Hebrews 11:1 the word faith defined Hebrews 11:2-40 the context explains faith
9 Words not defined by the Scriptures should be defined by the appropriate Lexicons of the Hebrew and Greek languages. Modern definitions and usages are probably not appropriate and may be mis-leading. 37
Romans 1:16 Romans 10:18-21
4 Comparison of Scriptures - Comparison of the Previously Secret in Context with the Revealed - Remember that There are no Private Interpretations - Scriptures that Speak to These Statements Hosea 2:23 and Isaiah 65:1 compared with 1 Peter 2:10; Romans 16:25, 26 and Ephesians 3:1-9 Genesis 12:3 compared with Galatians 3:8 1 Corinthians 2:9, 10 compared with Isaiah 64:4 and 1 Peter 1:10-12 2 Peter 1:19-21 1 Corinthians 14:29-32 and 1 Corinthians 2:12, 13 declare a correlation of the prophets and a comparison of spiritual things with spiritual things
4 Extra-Biblical Evidence - Biblical History and Archaeology Compared may shed some Corroborating Light - History as a fulfillment of the Prophecies of Scripture - Scriptures that Speak to These Statements Daniel 2:1-49
g It All Begins With - Devotion to Jehovah, acceptance of his word and will, with a desire to listen to Him with joy; and to follow the example of Jesus in these things. . Scriptures that Speak to These Statements Matthew 26:39 Acts 13:22 Matthew 5:48 1 Peter 1:14-17 Romans 15:7-13
Ron Rankin June 19, 2008
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39
REVELATION THE BOOK
4 Revelation = a revealing. The same word is used to describe the return of Jesus. It literally means an uncovering or unveiling. 1 Peter 1:13 Luke 17:30 2 Thessalonians 1:7 Revelation is one means by which God has spoken to mankind. Hebrews 1:1,2 explains, God who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the world. 10
Specifically, the source and manner of the Revelation was from God, 11 through Jesus, and by the Angel to John. Significant are the following scriptures both from within the Revelation and is consistent with other books of the Bible. Revelation 1:1,2 Revelation 22:8,9 Deuteronomy Proverbs 30:5 Not handling the word of God deceitfully --- Because the prime source of this book that any worship should be directed to Jehovah. The angel gave this direction in the form of a commandment. Revelation 22:8,9 - And I John saw these things and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God.
10 All quotations in this study will be from the King James Version except that other translations may be used for comparative study. 11 God = whom we know to be Jehovah, the Creator; see Isaiah 44:24 and 45:18. Throughout this Bible study I may often use his name instead of the appellation of God. On occasion I may use the Tetragrammaton YHWH which has been translated into English as Jehovah. This gives evidence of the scriptural distinction between Jehovah the Father, and Jesus the Son. 40
The significance of this book of Revelation is at least fivefold. Revelation 1:3 - Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. 1. By reading, hearing and keeping the words of it, a blessing may be obtained. In other words, Listen to me and you will receive blessing. Revelation 3:6 and 22:17,18 - He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. - The Spirit and the bride say, Come say come, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book 2. It is a commanding invitation to hear the Spirit, which in fact comes from Jehovah. Then is the command to carry the same invitation to others persons. Those who hear the bride, who is the body of Christ, are also invited to listen. Revelation 22:16 I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches 3. This is the testimony of Jesus; testimony is the supporting word of a witness. 12
Revelation 22:18,19 If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. 4. A curse attends the changing of this book by adding to it or taking from it. Note Gods attitude toward changing His word in the passages listed above. Revelation 22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
12 Testimony of Jesus = Jesus is called a witness in Revelation 3:14. It is translated from the Greek word martus from which we drive our word martyr. Though we often use martyr has come to mean, in English, one who has given his life for his witness, though death is not a prerequisite to being a witness, suffering and tribulation are sufficient. The Greek word martus is defined as, 41
5. The testimony [Greek = marturia, opupio] of the church is the teaching and preaching of the word, the Gospel, indeed every word that has proceeded out of the mouth of God. Matthew 28:19,20 Matthew 4:4 Acts 20:25-27 2 Timothy 2:2
There is a pattern, or natural outline, of the Revelation. Though many of the visions may form a complete message in themselves, they are not a series of disconnected and unrelated vision. Nor are they divorced in understanding from the rest of the Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments. The pattern may be outlines in general terms that are designated as Seven Church; a Throne Scene; Seven Seals; Seven Trumpets; Interim Visions; Seven Angels with Vials; The Great Whore; Vision of the King of Kings; Vision of the Millennium and Judgment; and Vision of the New Heaven and New Earth.
It seems obvious that the purpose of the Book became, and is, the obligation of the Church to read and to testify concerning its contents. Especially since it tells of things to soon come to pass. A benefit is always reaped by adherence to the words of God. This benefit includes a direct relation to the return of Jesus and the promises, as well as signifying things that would be fulfilled in events leading up to that time. Revelation 22:6-10 - And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. - Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. - And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. - Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. - Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand.
Ron Rankin Circa 1966 Updated December 29, 2007 42
A Note from the Diaglott, by Benjamin Wilson
The Revelation is not found in the Vatican Manuscript, 1209, therefore the Various Readings, are taken from Dr. Birchs Collation of the Vatican Manuscript, 1160, of the eleventh century. Where these readings agree with the three oldest Uncial Manuscripts they are respectively marked as follows: A Codex Alexandrinus, probably of the 6 th century; B = Codex Vaticanus, written about the end of the seventh century or beginning of the eighth; C = Codex Ephraemi Rescriptus, No. 9, probably of the fifth century. A few corroborative Readings, otherwise marked D = Codex Sinaiticus, will be given the very ancient Uncial, discovered by Dr. Tischendorf, probably of the same date as Vatican Manuscript, 1209.
Vatican Manuscript, No. 1160 No title is given in this Manuscript; C has Revelation of John. The Greek word Apocalypse has been adopted for the title.
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THE GOSPEL IN SIMPLICITY
Revelation 1:1-3; 22:6-10
Simplicity 2 Corinthians 1:12 - The testimony of our conscience in simplicity and godly sincerity Romans 12:5-8 - Impart with simplicity
Heresy brings Confusion, Controversy, Complexity 1 Timothy 1:19,20 - Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some have put away concerning faith have made shipwreck.
Tolerance Matthew 10:15; 11:20-24; Mark 6:11; Luke 10:10-16 - More tolerable 13 for the land Sodom and Gomorrha, Tyre, Sidon, than for Chorazin, Bethsaida, Capernaum, and other cities, in the Day of Judgment. - Paul Harvey said about tolerance, It has wrongly led people to listen politely and tolerantly to everyone else views but have none of their own. Romans 11:22 - Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. Ephesians 4:2 - Forbearing [tolerating, suffering with, bear with 14 ] one another in love. This is an expression and characteristic of love.
13 Tolerable = tolerance means neither forgiven of sins, nor saved from sin. Five times the Greek word anektoteron [ovt|otpov. an adjective, comparative , nominative, neuter, singular, of anektos, ovt|o and is defined simply as tolerable ] is so translated in the New Testament. Tolerable, an English adjective is defined as capable of being borne or enduring, sufferable; moderately good or agreeable; passable [The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language]. It does not mean righteous. 14 Forbearing = the Greek word is anechomai, ovtyooi, is the verb form of the adjective anektos.; see the preceding footnote. Anechomai, in 15 times in the New Testament, is defined as to endure, to bear with; properly to hold oneself up. 45
Colossians 3:13 - Forbearing one another and forgiving one another. - Forbearance is not soft on sin, but it is loving and forgiving, and, like tolerance, always stands for the truth. It never abides false teachings.
Gospel Simplicity in the book of Revelation Acts 24:24, 25 - concerning faith in Christ he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come Revelation 2:2,9,19; 3:1-3,8,15-19 - I know thy works Revelation 11:18 - the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, Revelation 20:11-15 - the first resurrection. the rest of the dead and I saw the dead stand before God were judged according to their works
Ron Rankin April, 1961 and August, 1962
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BY HIS ANGEL Revelation 1:1 A Bible Study Outline
The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John [The King James Version 15 ].
Ao|oiui Inoou Xpioou. nv to|tv ouo o Oto tiEoi oi Apokalupsis Iesou Christou hen edoken auto ho Theos deixai tois A revelation of Jesus Christ, which gave to him God, to show to the A revelation of Jesus Anointed, which gave to him the God, to point out to the
ouioi ouou. o ti ytvtooi tv oyti. |oi doulois autou, ha dei genesthai en tachei kai slaves of him, things which must occur with speed; and bond-servant of himself the things it behooves to have done with speed, and
tonovtv oootiio io ou oyytiou ouou o ouio esemanen aposteilas dia tou aggelou autou to doulo he signified sending through the angel of him to the slave he signified having sent by means of the messenger of himself to the bond-servant
ouou Ioovvn. 16
autou Ioanne, 17
of him, John, 18
of himself, John; 19
4 The above Greek text is shown here with an interlinear translation is for you to have a sense of the Greek text in English.
15 The King James Version is used here, but you may compare the translation that you may be using. 16 The Greek text used here is the Textus Receptus, Scrivener edition. It is the same in the United Bible Societies Greek New Testament as well as the Dr. J. J. Griesbach Greek Text used by Benjamin Wilson in the Emphatic Diaglott. 17 The line immediately below the Greek script is a transliteration of the Greek script into the English alphabet for your ease in reading. 18 The first line of the interlinear in English is the translation of Jay P. Green, Sr., as published in the Interlinear Bible, Hendrickson Publishers. 19 The second line of the interlinear in English is the translation of Benjamin Wilson in the Emphatic Diaglott. 47
+ WHO IS THE ANGEL IN REVELATION 1:1? The Greek word that is translated angel in this verse in the King James is oyytiou [aggelou]. It is simply a word that means messenger in English. The etymology of our English word angel is from the Middle English which is from the Old French angele or Old English engel; they are from the Late Latin word angelus which was derived from the Greek angelos, messenger. It is the context in which it is used that we must determine our understanding; that determination is also with comparison of pertinent scriptures. Revelation 22:6,8,9,16 And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand. I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches Revelation 3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. Luke 12:8 Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God. Matthew 18:10 Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. Hebrews 1:2-7,13,14 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son when he had by himself urged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. 48
But to the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thy enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation. 20
Throughout the Revelation, other angels figure prominently in the things which this angel shewed unto John.
+ ALSO REGARDING GODS MINISTERING SPIRITS 4 Not all messengers are necessarily from heaven and the presence of God. Matthew 11:7-15 Jesus called John, the Baptist, a prophet and messenger [oyytio]. Luke 7:19-24 The disciples of John were also called messengers [oyytio]. James 2:25 The men of Israel that came to Rahab in Jericho were called messengers [oyytio]. 2 Samuel 2:5-7 David sent messengers [malak, N"C] 21 to the men of Jabesh-gilead to announce the death of Saul and Davids succession to the throne of Israel.
4 Gods messengers from heaven are sometimes called men and sometimes described as looking like men. Genesis 32:24-32 and Hosea 12:2-4 Jacob wrestled with a un-named man, identified as an angel [malak, N"C] by the prophet Hosea. Judges 13:3-21 The angel [malak, N"C] of Jehovah appeared unto the wife of Manoah, the mother of Samson. His countenance was like the countenance of an angel [malak, N"C]. The angel [malak, N"C].of Jehovah ascended in the flame of the altar and did not again appear to Manoah and his wife.
4 Though angels are sometimes called men in the scriptures, the difference between men and the angels of God is striking. Luke 20:34-36 and 1 Corinthians 15:20-23,51-54
20 See also Psalm 34:7. 21 Malak is the Hebrew equivalent of the Greek aggelos. 49
In the resurrection of Gods people at the return of Jesus, they will become immortal; nether can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels, being the children of the resurrection.
+ COULD THE ANGEL OF REVELATION 1:1 BE THE HOLY SPIRIT? 4 The Holy Spirit [pneuma hagion, vtuo oyiov] And the angel answered and said unto her, the Holy Ghost [pneuma 22 hagion, vtuo oyiov] shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God [Luke 1:35]. The Holy Spirit is equated here with the power of the Highest, Jehovah, thus Jesus was being born of a woman, was the only begotten Son of God. Adam was created by the power of Jehovah from the dust of the earth [Genesis 2:7]. The Holy Spirit of God is intimately a part of the nature of Jehovah His power and His influence. He gave Jesus, His Son, spirit without measure according to John 3:34. He gives His people the earnest [a small amount according to His will] of the Spirit, according to 2 Corinthians 1:22; 5:5; and Ephesians 1:14. We are expected to produce the fruit of that Spirit according to Galatians 5:22-26. If that Spirit, that raised Jesus from the dead, dwell in us he will raise us up in the resurrection when he quickens our mortal bodies by his Spirit; according to Romans 8:5-11-25 and Philippians 3:20,21. Genesis 1:1-31; Psalm 33:6; Isaiah 44:24 As the spirit of God moved on the face of the waters, Jehovah proceeded with the creation. By the word of Jehovah were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. Thus saith Jehovah 23 , thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am Jehovah that maketh all things; that stretcheth for the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself. Spirit in the Old Testament is the Hebrew word ruach [`] and is the equivalent to the Greek pneuma [vtuo]. Ruach is defined as wind. 24
22 Pneuma = is translated in the King James Version, ghost (2 times); Ghost (with Holy, 89 times); life (1 time, meaning breath); spirit (151 times, meaning breath); Spirit (137 times; including with Holy, 4 times); spiritual gift (1 time, meaning spirit); wind (1 time); spiritually (1 time, meaning of the Spirit) [Index-Lexicon to the New Testament, in Youngs Analytical Concordance to the Bible]. 23 The Hebrew Text reads YHWH [``] which, in English, is translated Jehovah, as in Psalm 83:18. Most often, however, in the King James Version it is translated LORD (in capital letters). Bibles in some language do correctly translate YHWH as Jehova, such as in Spanish, and in some of the Philippine languages. YHWH [``] is commonly called the Tetragrammaton by scholars and scholarly works. 24 Ruach is translated in the King James Version, air (1 time); anger (1time); blast (4 times); breath (28 times); cool (1 time); courage (1 time); mind (5 times); quarters (1 time); side (6 times); spirit (232 times); tempest (1 time); 50
+ IN CONCLUSION 4 The Holy Spirit is neither person nor angel, but the power of the Highest, Jehovah Almighty. 4 This brief study outline may be followed with continued feeding and feasting on the word of God by which we must live. Hear what the Spirit saith, for the Spirit and the bride say, Come [Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22; 22:16, 17].
Ron Rankin January 10, 2008
wind (90 times); vain(2 times); windy (1 time) [Index-Lexicon to the New Testament, in Youngs Analytical Concordance to the Bible]. 51
SHORTLY COME TO PASS Revelation 1:1
REVELATION 1:1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass
oo|oiui Inoou Xpioou. nv to|tv ouo o to. tiEoi a revelation of Jesus Christ, which gave to him -- God, to shew
oi ouioi ouou. oi ti ytvtooi tv oyti. |oi to the slaves of him, things which must occur with speed; and
tonovtv oootiio io ou oyytiou ouou o ouio he signified sending through the angel of him to the slave
ouou Ioovvn 25
of him, John 26
SHORTLY . Tachei [oyti] ' noun, dative, singular of tachos [oyo], quickness, speed, used as the phrase en tachei [tv oyti] as an adverb, quickly, shortly
. Scriptures where used in the New Testament for comparison: Acts 18:8 arise up quickly [literally, in speed] Acts 22:18 get thee quickly out of Jerusalem Acts 25:4 would depart shortly Romans 16:20 bruise Satan under your feet shortly Revelation 1:1 shortly come to pass Revelation 11:6 which must shortly be done
. Note that the shortness or quickness may be relative to, and in conjunction with, the events of the context Revelation 1:19 Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter
25 Textus Receptus, Scrivener Edition 26 The Interlinear Bible, Jay P. Green Sr. translator and editor 52
Revelation 4:1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I hears was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.
Ron Rankin December 24, 2008
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SIGNIFIED A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 1:1 things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it
Semaino [onoivo] John 12:33 signifying what death he should die John 18:32 signifying what death he should die John 21:19 signifying by what death he should glorify God Acts 11:28 and signified by the spirit that there should be great dearth Acts 25:27 to signify the crimes laid against him
Semeion [ontiov] In the New Testament 77 times and translated as follows: - Miracle 22 times - Sign 51 times - Token 1 time - Wonder 3 times A few of the verses: Matthew 16:1, 3, 4 sign or signs (5 times) Matthew 12:38, 39 sign (4 times) Matthew 24:3, 24, 30 sign and signs (3 times) Revelation 12:1, 3 wonder Revelation 13:13, 14 wonders and miracles Revelation 15:1 sign Revelation 16:14 miracles Revelation 19:20 miracles
The visions of Revelation are intended to give signs, to signify, the things that must shortly come to pass; thus providing the blessing of a road map of signs to John and all who will listen and hear what the spirit saith unto the churches.
Ron Rankin January 16, 2008
27 The root word is word sema (ono), a sign, mark. The noun, neuter = semeion (ontiov), a sign, mark. One time the verb semeuoo, (ontioo) is used, translated note in 2 Thessalonians 3:14. 54
SYMBOLIC LANGUAGE IN REVELATION Revelation 1:1
Symbolic use of words and terms, often mixed with the literal, and scriptural precedence - The earth the kingdoms of men - Hail, fire and blood = storm = war blown by wind (as in the winds of war) Psalm 83:1-13-15, 116 Isaiah 28:2 Ezekiel 38:9 - The sea the people of the earth Revelation 13:1 - The rivers major rivers of the empire, sites of defeat Revelation 16:12, both literal and symbolic. - The sun, moon, and stars the light of the times and the empire; the heads of empire Genesis 37:9 Jude 12, 13 - Mountains political powers, kingdom or kingdoms Isaiah 2:1-4 Micah 4:1-4 Daniel 2:35, 44, 45 Psalm 30:7 Isaiah 65:25
Ron Rankin July 3, 2002
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ORACLE OF THE REVELATION Revelation 1:2
REVELATION 1:2 Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.
4 WHAT IS AN ORACLE OF GOD? logion [ioyiov] in the New Testament Greek logion finds its roots in lego [ityo] lego = to lay, to arrange, to gather; to say; to speak, to make an address or speech logion = an oracle, a divine communication or revelation
4 LOGION IN THE NEW TESTAMENT Acts 7:38 This is he [Moses], that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with the fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us.
Romans 3:2 Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them [the Jews, verse 1] were committed the oracles of God.
Hebrews 5:12; 6:1 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of meat. Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God.
1 Peter 4:11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
A few conclusions from these verses The oracles are the words of the God, Jehovah Moses was given, and spake, those words Jesus was commanded and spake those words All of the followers of Jesus and worshippers of Jehovah are commanded to speak the same, as the oracles of God, as conveyers of the word. John 12:49, 50 ] this commandments is life everlasting 56
John 7:16-18 ] he that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory I Corinthians 2:1-7 ] your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God
4 THE CONSISTENCY OF THAT WORD, ITS POWER UNTO SALVATION Matthew 4:4 man must live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God
Acts 20:26, 27 Declare the whole counsel of God or face the possibility of being guilty of the blood of any man
John 6:63 my words, they are spirit and they are life
I Thessalonians 2:13 when ye received not the word of men, but the word of God as the word of truth it effectually worketh also in you that believe
4 SELF EXAMINATION SCRIPTURES, A PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY Matthew 25:14, 16, 24, 25 Romans 12:1-8
Ron Rankin December 24, 2008
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BLESSED IS HE A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 1:3 Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therefore: for the time is at hand.
WHAT MEANETH BLESSED? Makarios [o|opio] is the word in Greek. Happy, blessed, an adjective. 28
The same word is used in the Beatitudes of Jesus Sermon on the Mount, among other places; it is translated blessed 43 times and happy 6 times in the New Testament. 29
For comparison the verb is makarizo [o|opiCo], is used only 2 times [Luke 1:48, shall call me blessed and James 5:11, count them happy]; and the noun, masculine, is translated blessedness 3 times [Romans 4:6, 9; Galatians 4:15].
REVELATION 14:13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.
REVELATION 16:15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.
REVELATION 19:9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.
REVELATION 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.
28 See the following lexical references = The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Bagster & Sons Limited, London; The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon, Wigram-Green, published by Hendrickson Publishers, Peabody, Massachusetts; and Analytical Concordance to the Bible, Robert Young, LL.D., published by Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, Michigan. 29 Matthew 5:3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11; 11:6; 13:16; 16:17; 24:46; Luke 1:45; 6:20, 21, 22; 7:23; 10:23; 11:27, 28; 12:37, 39, 43; 14:14, 15; 23:29; John 13:17; 20:29; Acts 20:35; 26:2; Romans 4:7, 8; 14:22; 1 Corinthians 7:40; 1 Timothy 1:11; 6:15; Titus 2:13; James 1:12, 25; 1 Peter 3:14; 4:14. 58
REVELATION 22:7 Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.
REVELATION 22:14 Blessed are they that do his commandments; that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.
ACTION Reads, hears, and keeps the words of this prophecy Die in the Lord Watches for the coming of the Lamb Righteousness of the saints; arrayed in fine linen Have part in the first resurrection Keep the sayings of the prophecy this book Do his commandments
BLESSING Rest from their labours Called into te marriage supper of the Lamb On such the second death hath no power Shall be kings and priests and reign with him a thousand years Right to eat of the tree of life in the paradise of God May enter into the city
A STUDY CHALLENGE Read the other scriptures of the New Testament to determine the relationship of this life to the promised blessings. [See the scripture-list in the footnote in page one]. How do these things relate to ones relationship with Jehovah? With His Son?
Ron Rankin January 25, 2008
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WOE or BLESSING Notes for Bible Study
WOE Isaiah 5:18 Woe unto them that draw iniquity with cords of vanity, and sin as it were with a cart rope.
Isaiah 5:20 Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light and light for darkness: that put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!
Isaiah 5:22 Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink!
Matthew 18:7 Woe unto the world because of offences. Woe to that man who whom the offence cometh.
THE BLESSED Psalm 1:1-6 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of Jehovah; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For Jehovah knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.
Matthew 5:3-12 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
October 24, 1945 Lyle Rankin 60
FAITHFUL WITNESS A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 1:5 - Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness - Inoou Xpioou. o opu o ioo - Iesou Christou, ho martus 30 ho pistos - Jesus Christ, the witness the faithful
WITNESSES IN THE REVELATION Revelation 2:13 and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denieth my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. Revelation 3:14 These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God. Revelation 11:3 And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. Revelation 17:6 And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus
A GREAT CLOUD OF WITNESSES Acts 10:39 we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they hanged on a tree. Acts 22:15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. 1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Ron Rankin January 11, 2008
30 Witness = Greek, martus, opu, a witness, a testifier, a martyr [The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited, London] 61
FIRST BEGOTTEN FROM THE DEAD A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 1:5 And from Jesus Christ the first begotten of the dead
Colossians 1:15, 18 the firstborn of every creature: the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
Revelation 3:14 the beginning of the creation of God.
1 Corinthians 15:20, 23 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christs at his coming.
Philippians 3:20, 21 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he his able even to subdue all things unto himself.
Romans 8:11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he t hat raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
Ron Rankin January 11, 2008
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PRINCE OF THE KINGS OF THE EARTH A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 1:5 - Jesus Christ the prince of the kings of the earth. - ... Inoou Xpioou . ... opyov 31 ov ooiitov 32 n yn
CHRIST Anointed to be King 33
Psalm 2:2 John 18:36, 37 - To be king, but not from hence, not from this time forward; even until now the kings and kingdoms are of this world [kosmos, |ooo, the arrangement, beauty, of this world, or society of this time, order. 34 Properly 35 , order, regular disposition. Sits on His Throne of the Kingdom in His Day Matthew 25:31 Psalm 2:8, 9 1 Timothy 6:14-16 Davids Throne - Anointed to be King by Samuel the Prophet 1 Samuel 16:1-13 - Sits on His Throne of the Kingdom, the Throne of Jehovah 2 Samuel 2:1-4 2 Chronicles 29:23
THE KINGDOM OF JEHOVAH AND OF HIS CHRIST Daniel 2:43-45 Psalm 2:6-8 Isaiah 11:1-16 Jeremiah 23:5-8 Ron Rankin January 11, 2008
31 first one, ruler [New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon]; it is translated variously as ruler and prince as well as in context as a leader. In Revelation 1:5, the King James translators chose prince. In fact, Jesus is as a Prince, the one in waiting to be successor to the throne. 32 royal, regal; by metonymy possessed of high prerogatives and distinction [The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Samuel Bagster and Sons Limited, London]. 33 Now Jesus is Head of the Body, which is the Temple of God, in which Jesus is also the Mediator, High Priest; Anointed to be King when he returns. He is called captain in Hebrews 2:10 [archegos, opynyo, chief leader (Youngs Analytical Concordance to the Bible); or a chief, leader, prince (The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Samuel Bagster and Sons Limited, London)]. 34 Kosmos = definitions from Youngs Analytical Concordance to the Bible and Strongs Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. 35 The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Samuel Bagster and Sons Limited, London. 63
THE BLOOD OF THE COVENANT A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 1:5 Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood. Him that loved us = John 3:16-18, For God so loved Washed us from our sins = Acts 22:16, arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. His own blood, the blood of his son = 1 Peter 1:2, Elect through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus
+ Hebrews 13:20 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant. + Hebrews 9:16,22 For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. without shedding of blood there is no remission. + Galatians 3:3-9,14-17 being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. and to thy seed, which is Christ. the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, + Romans 15:8,9 Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers: And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy + Matthew 26:28 For this is the blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. + Revelation 7:14 made white in the blood of the Lamb. + Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony [marturia, opupio]; and they loved not theirs unto death.
Ron Rankin January 11, 2008
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REVEALED PRESENCE Revelation 1:7
REVELATION 1:7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.
iou . tpytoi to ov vttiov. |oi otoi ouov Behold, He comes with the clouds, and will see him
o ooio. |oi oiivt ouov tEt|vnoov |oi |oovoi every eye, and those who Him pierced, and will wail
t ouov oooi oi uioi n yn. voi. onv. 36
due to Him all the tribes of the earth. Yes, Amen. 37
HE COMES ] erchetai [tpytoi] verb, indicative, present, 3 rd person, singular of erchomai [tpyooi] to come, to go, to pass = of itself erchomai does describe the circumstances of the coming, going, or passing; specific context and comparison of scriptures gives us a greater understanding ] specific context explain that this coming is visible, seen by all people of the earth ] Jesus coming is displays his visible presence to all; it is certainly not an invisible, unseen presence
SCRIPTURES TO COMPARE Colossians 3:4 When Christ shall appear [phanerothe ovtpon ], then shall ye also appear [phanerothesesthe ovtponotot] with him in glory. - phanerothe = verb, subjunctive, aorist, passive, 3 rd person, singular of phaneroo [ovtpoo], whose root is phaino [oivo] - phanerothesesthe = verb, indicative, future, passive, 2 nd person, plural of phaneroo [ovtpoo], whose root is phaino [oivo] - phaino = to cause to appear, bring to light, absolute to shine - phaneroo = to bring to light, to set in a clear light; to manifest, display; to reveal; to present to view when Christ appears visibly, revealed, his people will also appear visibly, revealed, glorified
36 Textus Receptus [Scrivener Edition] 37 The Interlinear Bible, Jay P. Green, Sr. Translator/Editor 65
I Peter 5:4 When the chief Shepherd shall appear [phanerothentos ovtpotvo] ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away - phanerothentos = verb, participle, aorist, passive, genitive, masculine, singular of phaneroo [ovtpoo], whose root is phaino [oivo] - see definitions of phaino and phaneroo under Colossians 3:4 glorification of the resurrected saints occurs when Jesus appears visibly again
I Thessalonians 4:15, 16 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming [parousian opouoiov] of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first. - parousian = noun, genitive, singular of parousia [opouoio] of the root pareimi [optii] - pareimi = to be beside, to be present, to be come - parousia = presence, a coming, arrival The coming of Jesus will be a visible presence to all, seen and heard by all
I Corinthians 15:22, 23 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christs at his coming [parousia opouoio ]. - parousia = noun, dative, singular of parousia - see definition above under I Thessalonians 4:15, 16 When Christ comes, visibly present, the dead in Christ shall arise.
. This documentation is only partial; further study reveals that all the words used to describe the coming of Jesus show that the events associated with his presence also are associated with his revelation, unveiling, manifestation, being seen by all the world.
Ron Rankin December 24, 2008
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I AM THE ONE A Bible Study Outline
Revelation 1:8 - o Kupio. o ov |oi o nv |oi o tpyotvo. 38
- the Lord, the being, and who was, and (is) coming, 39
- o ovo|poop - the Almighty
ov - A verb of existence, being, from eimi [tii ], I. - Verb, participle, present, active, nominative, masculine, 2 nd person, singular 40
- Note that this is a participle describing an on-going existence.
nv - A verb of existence, being, from eimi [tii ], I. - Verb, indicative, imperfect, active, third person, singular 41
Revelation 4:8 - Kupio o Oto o ovo|poop. o nv |oi - Lord God, the Almighty, the (One who) was and
- o ov |oi o tpyotvo - is and (is) coming
Revelation 1:4 4 oo ou o ov |oi o nv |oi o tpyotvo 4 from the (One), who was and who is coming
38 This Greek text is that of the Textus Receptus, Scrivener Edition, for all passages in this study outline 39 The interlinear translation is that of the Interlinear Bible, Jay P. Green, Sr. translator, for all passages in this study outline 40 Analytical Concordance to the Greek New Testament, Lexical Focus, Edited by Philip S. Clapp; Barbara Friberg; and Timothy Friberg; Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, Michigan 41 Ibid 42 The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited, London 67
+ The Lord God Almighty [Jehovah] = The One who was existing, the One who is existing, and the One who is coming. - The Originator of the Revelation He gave it to His Son, His faithful and true witness. It was subsequently given by Jesus to his angel who gave it to the disciple and apostle, John. Psalm 90:1, 2 Jehovah, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting thou art God. Isaiah 45:18 - For thus saith Jehovah that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am Jehovah; and there is none else. Psalm 48:1, 2 - Great is Jehovah, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. - Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King. Psalm 132:13, 14 - For Jehovah hath chosen Zion; he hath desire it for his habitation. - This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desire it. John 14:23 - Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him and make our abode with him. Revelation 21:2-4 - And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. - And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. Job 19:25-27 - For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: - And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God. - Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; thou my reins be consumed within me. 68
Revelation 22:4 - And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. 2 Peter 3:13, 14 - Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. - Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.
Ron Rankin January 12, 2008
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JOHN COMPANION A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 1:9 - I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.
COMPANION sugkoinos [ouy|oivovo] = joint-partaker; co-sharer 1 Corinthians 9:23 - And this I do for the gospels sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. Philippians 1:7 - ... inasmuch as both in my bonds and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. Ephesians 5:11 - And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness
TRIBULATION Acts 14:22 - We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God John 16:33 - In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. Romans 5:2, 3 - Rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. - And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience.
KINGDOM James 2:5 - Hearken hath not God chosen the poor of this world, rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? 1 Corinthians 4:8 - Now ye are full, now ye are rich, ye have reigned as kings without us: and I would to God that ye did reign, that we also might reign with you. John 18:36 - My kingdom is not of this world Ron Rankin January 11, 2008
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PATMOS AND JOHN Revelation 1:9-11 A Bible Study Outline
PATMOS 43
An island in the Aegean Sea; part of the Sporades group that lies off the coast of Asia Minor. It is about 28 miles south of Samos. 44
It is ten mile long and six miles wide at the broadest point, with an irregular sea coast; about 25 square mile in area. It is volcanic origin, rocky with volcanic hills up to 800 feet altitude; it is almost treeless having once been with woods, including palms for which the Italian name Palmessa at one time; by 1885 only one remained and a few specimen of olive, mulberry, fig, orange, lemon, carob, cypress, oak, and pine, and on the barren hills scrubby bushes and clumps of thyme. Its most ancient name seems to have been Phora. The Romans often banished exiles to the isles. Tradition says that Emperor Domition banished John to Patmos is 95 A.D. for eighteen months, during which period John received The Revelation. A cave near La Scala, the chief city on the harbor, is thought to be where John lived. During the Middle Ages the island was almost deserted; today it has a population of 3,000 to 4000 Greeks. At one time it may have had 12,000 to 13,000 inhabitants. On the hill above La Scala are the massive remains of the citadel. It was under Turkish control until 1912; it has since belonged to Italy and is known as Patino, and has been so-called by the natives.
JOHN Son of Zebedee and brother of the Apostle James, who was put to death by Herod Agrippa I about A.D. 44 [Matthew 4:21 and Acts 12:1, 2]. Zebedee, John, and James were fisherman [Mark 1:19, 20]. It is thought that he probably ministered to the churches of Asia. John was the beloved disciple [John 21:20-24]; died circa 96 A.D.
Ron Rankin February 8, 2008
43 Patmos = Lorman M. Peterson, in Zondervans Pictorial Bible Dictionary, edited by Merrill C. Tenney and The Encyclopedia Britannica, Ninth Edition, Volume XVIII, 1885, Page 418 44 Samos = a small island nine miles off the coast of Lydia in Asia Minor, a few miles S.W. of Ephesus, and about seventy-two miles in circumference; noted for its worship of Juno, its valuable pottery, and as the birthplace of Pythagoras [Youngs Analytical Concordance to the Bible, by Robert Young]; Acts 20:15. 71
THE FIRST AND THE LAST Revelation 1:11
tyo tii o A |oi o 1. o poo |oi o toyoo [TR-Scr] I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last [KJV]
This phrase is not found in the following manuscripts: - The Greek New Testament, United Bible Societies, 1966. - The Greek New Testament, Dr. J. J. Griesbach, Leipzig, 1805. - The Greek New Testament, Dr. M. A. Scholz, Leipzig, 1830-1836.
In the following scriptures it is Jehovah that makes the statement of Himself Isaiah 41:4 - Who hath wrought and done it, calling the generations from the beginning? I am Jehovah, the first, and with the last; I am he. Isaiah 44:6 - Thus saith Jehovah the King of Israel, and his redeemer Jehovah of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God. Isaiah 48:12 - Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last. Revelation 1:8 - I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. 45
Revelation 22:13 - I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. + This statement is made in the firm context of verses 6 and 9. - The Lord God 46 of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. - worship God. 47
Ron Rankin January 4, 2008
45 Lord Almighty = this Is not only reminiscent0 of, but identical to, Elohim Shaddai of the Old Testament, who identified Elohim Shaddai as Himself, Jehovah in Exodus 6:3. 46 Lord God = repeatedly used in the Old Testament, for example: O YHWH [Jehovah] El in Psalm 94:1, translated O Lord God. And, in Exodus 10:3, YHWH [Jehovah] Elohim translated the LORD God. 47 Worship God = As Jesus told the Devil, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve [Matthew 4:10]; as he quoted Deuteronomy 6:13, Thou shalt fear Jehovah thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. 72
EPHESUS 48
A Bible Study Outline
Q REVELATION 1:11, 20; 2:1 What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus. The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: And the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches. Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks.
EPHESUS Ephesus, a very ancient city on the west coast of Asia Minor. It was situate on some hills which rose out of a fertile plain near the mouth of the river Cayster, while the temple and precincts of Artemis, or Diana, to the fame of which the town owed much of its celebrity, were in the plain itself, at the distance about a mile. The situation of the city was such as at all times to command a great commerce. Of the three great river basins of western Asia Minor, those of the Hermus, Cayster, and Maeander, it commanded the second, and had ready access by easy passes to the other two, besides being the natural port and landing-place for Sardes, the capital of the Lydian kings [The Encyclopedia Brittanica, Ninth Edition, Volume 8, 1878].
WHAT BECAME OF EPHESUS Ephesus stood about 35 miles (56 kilometers) south of modern Izmir, Turkey; having been founded by colonists from Athens in the early 1000,s B.C. The Temple of Artemis [Diana, to the Romans] was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Ruins of the great theater remain. Remains exist of the great marble street of the Arkadians at Ephesus, which ran from the theater to the harbor. The Persians conquered Ephesus in the 500s B.C. In the 300s B.C. it was a trading and banking center under the Greeks. It had been a seaport city, built at the mouth of the Cayster. The harbor had already begun to silt in by the time of the apostles. Tacitus tells of an attempt to improve the seaway in A.D. 65, but the effort proved futile. Twenty miles of reedy marshland now separate the old harbor works from the sea and even in Pauls day the process was under way. 49
Ephesus had displaced Miletus as a trading port, but when its harbor like that of Miletus, in turn silted up, Smyrna re0oaced b9th as the outlet both as the outlet and emporion of the Maeander valley trade-route. 50
48 See Ephesus, City of Diana in Chapter Two 49 Ibid. 50 Ibid. 73
Ephesus was looted by the Goths as they invaded and participated in the crumbling of the Empire, as well as later by the Arabs and Turks, and finally by the Mongols in 1403. 51
The city was abandoned, and Ephesus lay deserted until archaeologist uncovered it in the late 1800s. 52
Ron Rankin June 15, 2002 Updated February 1, 2008
51 The World Book Encyclopedia, 1976, Volume 6, Page 262 52 Ibid. 74
SMYRNA A Bible Study Outline
Q REVELATION 1:11, 20 What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Smyrna The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars which are the angels of the seven churches. And the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
SMYRNA Smyrna, in ancient times one of the most important and now by far the greatest of the cities of Asia Minor, has preserved an unbroken continuity of record and identity of name from the first dawn of history in the present time. The favorable situation of Smyrna on the path of commerce between Lydia and the west raised it during the 7 th century to the height of power and splendor. It lay at the eastern end of an arm of the sea, which reached far inland and admitted the Greek trading ships into the heart of Lydia. One of the great trade routes which cross Anatolia from east to west descends the Hermus valley past Sardis, and then diverging from the valley passes south of Mount Sipylus and crosses a low pass into the little valley, about 7 miles long and 2 broad, where Smyrna lies between the mountains and the Sea [Encyclopedia Brittanica, Ninth Edition, Volume 12, 1887]
RELATIONS WITH SARDIS AND ROME - Smyrna had been destroyed by the Lydians in 627 B.C. and reduced it to a small village as it remained for three centuries. It was rebounded rapidly after Alexander the Great captured Sardis in the middle of the fourth century B.C. - At the end of the third century B.C. Smyrna and Sardis united in defence against Antiochus the Great. - Smyrna petitioned Tiberius for permission to build a temple to his deity in A.D. 26. 53
- Permission granted, they built the second Asian temple to Tiberius. They had worshipped the Roman power since 195 B.C. hence there developed a Caesar-cult in Smyrna.
POLYCARP - Polycarp was bishop of Smyrna; he claimed that he was so established by the Apostles. Polycarp was born, of Christian parents, circa 30 years before the end of the first century. - The Apostle John was the only one he could have known, as Tertullian surmises. He lived to the age of 86; he died for his faith circa 156 A.D. 54
- In his letter, epistle, he often used the Old Testament, contrasted with Clement of Alexandria who rarely did. Polycarp uses language of the New Testament of Paul, though not directly quoting Paul. He is silent about episcopacy while Ignatius speaks much about it. - He wrote a letter to the church at Philippi at their request. Ron Rankin June 15, 2002 Updated February 2, 2008
53 Recorded by Tacitus, Ann. 4.56 54 Polycarps death is estimated at 156 A.D. by the United Bible Societies according to their Greek New Testament. 75
PERGAMOS A Bible Study Outline
Q REVELATION 1:11, 20 What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia unto Pergamos ... The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, The seven stars which thou sawest are the angels of the seven churches. And the Seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
PERGAMOS Pergamum, an important city of Teuthrania, district in Mysia; it is usually name Pergamon [Pergamon] by Greek writers, but Ptolemy has the form Pergamos [Pergamos]. The name, which is related to the German burg, is appropriate to the situation on a lofty isolated hill in the broad and fertile valley of the Caicus, about 120 stadia, less than 15 miles, from its mouth. Under the Roman Empire Pergamum was one of the chief seats of the worship of Asclepius; invalids came from distant part of the country to ask advice from the god and his priests. The temple and the curative establishment of the god were situated outside the city. Pergamum was one of the early seats of Christianity, and one of the seven churches enumerated in the Revelation was situated there. Two tributaries of the Caicus, named Selinus and Cetius, flowed through or near the city. The ancient name is still preserved under the form Bergamo [Encyclopedia Britannica, Ninth Edition, Volume 18, 1885].
The serpent, and its relationship to the Caesar-cult worship, was illustrated by the representative image with a staff in one hand and the other on the head of a serpent. Emperor Caracalla (A.D. 211) is shown on one coin saluting a serpent twined round a bending sapling. There was a throne-like altar to Zeus on the crag above the city. In a representation of the conflict of the gods 55 and the giants, the giants are depicted as monsters with snake-like tails. Zeus was worshipped as the Saviour. 56
Ron Rankin June 15, 2002 Updated February 2, 2008
55 See Addenda The Gods. 56 E. M. Blaiklock, Litt.D., Professor of Classics, University College, Auckland, New Zealand, in his documentation of Pergamos in The Zondervan Pictorial Bible Dictionary, Page 636; General Editor Merrill C. Tenney, Dean of the Graduate School of Theology, Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois; Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1963. 76
THYATIRA A Bible Study Outline
Q REVELATION 1:11, 20 What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Thyatira The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand. The seven stars which thou sawest are the angels of the seven churches. And the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
THYATIRA Thyatira was a city in the province of Asia on the boundary of Lydia and Mysia. Thyatira has no illustrious history, and it is scarcely mentioned by ancient writers. Coinage suggests that, lying as it did on a great highway linking two river valleys, Thyatira was a garrison town over long centuries. Its ancient Anatolian deity was a warlike figure armed with a battle-axe and mounted on a charger. An odd coin or two shows a female deity wearing a battlemented crown. The city was a center of commerce, and the records preserve references to more trade-guilds than those listed for any other Asian city. Lydia, whom Paul met in Philippi, was a Thyatiran seller of turkey red, the product of the madder-root (Acts 16:14). It is curious to find another woman, nicknamed after the princess who sealed Ahabs trading partnership with the Phoenicians, leading a part of compromise in the Thyatiran church (Revelation 2:20,21). Necessary for guild membership in a trading community must have strengthened temptation to compromise. Thyatira played no significant part in the later history of the Church. 57
A city in the province of Asia, on the boundary of Lydia and Mysia. Thyatira has no illustrious history, and is scarcely mentioned by ancient writers. Coinage suggests that, lying as it did on a great highway linking two river valleys, Thyatira was a garrison town over long centuries. Its ancient Anatolian deity was a warlike figure armed with a battle-axe and mounted on a charger. An odd coin or two shows a female deity wearing a battlement crown. The city was a center of commerce, and the records preserve references to more trade-guilds than those listed for any other Asian city. Lydia, whom Paul met in Philippi, was a Thyatiran seller of turkey red, the product of the madder-root (Acts 16:14).
It is curious to find another woman, nick-named after the princess who sealed Ahabs trading partnership with the Phoenicians, leading a part of compromise in the Thyatiran church (Rev. 2:20, 21). Necessity for guild membership in a trading community must have strengthened temptation to compromise. Thyatira played no significant part in the later history of the church. 58
Ron Rankin June 29, 2002 Updated February 2, 2008
58 E. M. Blaiklock, Litt.D., Professor of Classics, University College, Auckland, New Zealand, in his documentation of Thyatira in The Zondervan Pictorial Bible Dictionary, Page 852; General Editor Merrill C. Tenney, Dean of the Graduate School of Theology, Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois; Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1963.
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SARDIS A Bible Study Outline
Q REVELATION 1:11, 20 What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Sardis The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, And the seven stars which are the angels of the seven churches. The seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
SARDIS Sardis, the capital of the kingdom of Lydia, the seat conventus under the Roman empire, and the metropolis of the province of Lydia in later Romans and Byzantine times, was situated in the middle Hermus valley, at the foot of Mount Tmolus, a steep and lofty spur of which formed the citadel. It was about 20 stadia (2 miles) south of the Hermus. The earliest reference to Sardis is in the Persae of Aeschylus (472 B.C.); in the Iliad the name Hyde seems to be given to the Maeonian (i.e. Lydia) chiefs, and in later times Hyde was said to be the older name of Sardis, or the name of its citadel. It is, however, more probably that Sardis was not the original capital of the Maeonians, but that it became so amid the changes which produced a powerful Lydian empire in the 8 th century B.C. The city, but not the citadel, was destroyed by the Cimmerians in the 7 th century, by the Athenians in the 6 th , and by Antiochus the Great in the 3 rd century; once at least, under the emperor Tiberius, it was destroyed by an earthquake; but it was always rebuilt, and continued to be one of the great cities of western Asia Minor till the later Byzantine time. Its importance was due, first to its military strength, secondly to its situation on an important highway leading from the interior to the Aegean coast, and thirdly to its commanding the wide and fertile plan of the Hermus. The early Lydian kingdom was far advanced in the industrial arts, and Sardis was the chief seat of it manufactures. The most important of these trades was the manufacture and dyeing of delicate woollen stuffs and carpets. The ruins of Sardis, so far as they are now visible, are chiefly of the Roman time; but probably few ancient sites would more richly reward the excavator with remains of all periods from the early pre-Hellenic time downwards. On the banks of the Pactolus two columns of a temple of the Greek period, probably the great temple of Cybele, are still standing. The necropolis of the old Lydian city, a vast series of mounds, some of enormous size, lies on the north side of the Hermus, four or five miles from Sardis, a little south of the sacred lake Coloe; here Maeonian chiefs, sons, according to Homer, of the lake, were brought to sleep beside their mother. The series of mounds is now called Bin Tepe (Thousand Mounds). [Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 th Edition, Volume 23, 1888.]
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Sardis was the chief city of Lydia was famous for its arts and crafts, and was the first center to mint gold and silver coinage. So wealthy were the Lydian kings, that Croesus became a legend for riches Croesus also became a legend for pride and presumptuous arrogance, when his attack on Persia led to the fall of Sardis and the eclipse of his kingdom. The capture of the great citadel by surprise attack by Cyrus and his Persians in 549 B.C., and three centuries later by the Romans The great earthquake of A.D. 17 ruined Sardis physically and financially. The Romans contributed 10,000,000 sesterces in relief, an indication of the damage done [Halleys Bible Handbook, 24 th Edition, page 698].
Ron Rankin June 29, 2002
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PHILADELPHIA A Bible Study Outline
Q REVELATION 1:11, 20 What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Philadelphia The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand. The seven stars which thou sawest are the angels of the seven churches. And the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
PHILADELPIA Ala-shehr, a city of Asiatic Turkey, in the pashalic of Anatolia, 83 miles E. of Smyrna. It is dirty and ill-built; but, standing on elevated ground, and commanding the prospect of the extensive and fertile plan of the Hermes, presents at a distance an imposing appearance. It is the seat of a Greek archbishop, and has five Christian churches and fifteen mosques. The city occupies the site of ancient Philadelphia, one of the seven churches in Asia of the Apocalypse. The ancient city, founded two centuries B.C., was subject to frequent earthquakes. In more modern times it was celebrated for its prolonged resistance to the Turks, who took it in 1390, after all the other cities of Asia Minor had surrendered. Ala-Shehr has no active trade, and the population is about 18,000. 59
Among the churches of Asia, Philadelphia is still erect, -- a column in a scene of ruins, -- a pleasing example that the paths of honor and safety may sometimes be the same. 60
The second city of Lydia in the W. of Asia Minor, 26 miles S.E. of Sardis, and 70 N.E. of Smyrna; it was founded by Attalus Philadelphus king of Pergamos; in A.D. 17 it was almost destroyed by an earthquake; it was taken by Bazazet I in A.D. 1390; it is now called Allah shair, city of God, and still contains about 15,000 inhabitants, and the ruins of many ancient churches. 61
Philadelphia = iiotitio = brotherly love.
Philadelphia, a small town in Lydia, founded in the 100s B.C. by King Attalus II Philadelphus of Pergamum. A pagan inscription found there indicates that its people followed a strict moral code. The town of Alasehir, Turkey, stands on the site now. 62
Ron Rankin February 2, 2008
59 The Encyclopedia Britannica, Ninth Edition, Volume 1, Page 393, 1875 60 Edward Gibbon, who wrote in the 18 th century, as quoted in Halleys Bible Handbook, 18 th edition of 1948, reprinted 1950, Page 625 61 Analytical Concordance to the Bible, by Robert Young 62 The World Book Encyclopedia, Volume 15, Page 319 1976 81
LAODICEA A Bible Study Outline
Q REVELATION 1:11, 20 What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Laodicea. The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, The seven stars which thou sawest are the angels of the seven churches. And the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
LAODICEAN HISTORY 63
At least eight cities, named Laodicea, were founded, or renovated in the Hellenic period; most of them were founded by the Seleucid kings of Syria 64 . Laodicea is also said to the name of the mother of Seleucus Nicator. Laodicea, the city, was probably founded by Antiochus II Theos [261246 B.C.], and named after his wife Laodice. Laodicea was a banking center, and proud of its wealth; the manufacture of rich garments of black glossy wool. The god, Zeus [in his extended right hand holding an eagle; in the left, a spear, the hasta pura], was a frequent symbol on its coins. Laodiceas coinage continued on to the time of Roman Emperor Diocletian. The great temple Men Karou, held also a great medical school, where was also made an eye-salve. Neighboring cities included Colossae, a few miles east and Hierapolis, six miles north. It was about 90 miles on northward to Ephesus. The site in the 19 th century solitary and deserted; called by the Turks Eski Hissar [the old castle]. It fell into decay during the time of the Turkish invaders. Frequent earthquakes have no doubt buried much of its ruins. An account of its ruins may be found in the works of Leake, Hamilton, Arundel, Texier, etc., and in the drawing of Cockerell in the Antiquities of Ionia, vol. iii.
Ron Rankin June 29, 2002 Updated February 7, 2008
63 According to both: The Encyclopedia Britannica, Ninth Edition, Volume 14, Page 293 and Halleys Bible Handbook 64 In Daniel, chapter eleven, the kings of the north are the kings succeeding Seleucus Nicator; called the Kings of Syria in history. Alexanders empire was divided between his four Generals: Seleucus Nicator, king of the North [the territory now occupied by Turkey, the majority, and Syria]; Ptolemy Soter, king of the South [Egypt]; Lysimachus, king of the East, the Eastern division of the Empire [Assyria, Mesopotamia, Persia, et al.]; Cassander, king of the West [Greece, Macedonia, Italy, et al.] 82
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THE SEVEN CHURCHES OF ASIA
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SEVEN STARS Revelation 1:16
REVELATION 1:16 And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two- edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.
REVELATION 1:20 The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
MYSTERY musterion [uonpiov] ' a matter to the knowledge of which initiation is necessary; a secret which would remain such but for revelation 65
' The revelation here explains that the meaning of seven stars is revealed and is no longer unknown
SEVEN STARS = SEVEN ANGELS OF THE SEVEN CHURCHES asteras hepta [to ootpt] = aggeloi ton hepta ekklesion [oyytioi ov to t||inoiov] ' an aster is a star, a luminous body like a star, a luminary ' a star heralded the birth of the Messiah Matthew 2:2 ' wandering stars 66 represent historical figures in the Bible who went astray from truth and the ways of God, ultimately to go into the blackness of darkness for ever Jude 13 ' these seven stars held in my right hand represent the angels of the seven churches ' a separate study of stars in the scriptures is recommended for further enlightenment concerning their creation, literal purpose, as well as how they are sometimes used in representation as already shown above ' the aggeloi are literally messengers, more specifically the personal messengers of Jehovah Matthew 1:20, 24 Judges 6:11 ' the aggeloi are also representatives and caretakers of Jehovahs people Psalm 34:7 Hebrews 1:13, 14
65 The Analytical Greek Lexicon published by Samuel Bagster and Sons Limited 66 Literally asteres planetai [ootpt iovnoi wandering stars; planates from plane [iovnoi plural of iovnn, rover, roving, a wanderer, wandering, from iovn, a wandering, deceit, deception, delusion, imposture, fraud; from this we derive our English word planet.] 85
Daniel 3:28 Daniel 6:22 Daniel 10:10-14
SEVEN CHURCHES hepta ekklesion [to t||inoiov] ' the ekklesion are, literally, the called out ' by application to the seven cities of Asia, it refers to the called out who lived in those seven cities, thus we called them collectively congregations in the study of these seven churches in Revelation chapters two and three we find that they were in much need of heavenly help they are also identified in the symbol of seven golden candlesticks For more information concerning the seven golden candlesticks see the separate study outlines: ' Seven Candlesticks Revelation 1:20 ' Two Witnesses, Olive Trees, Candlesticks Revelation 11:3, 4
Ron Rankin December 23, 2008
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TWO-EDGED SWORD A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 1:16 - And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp 67 two- edged sword 68 : and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.
QUESTION A sword is a weapon, how does it fit in the scriptures otherwise? ANSWER Because thinking is so often in a box, the question assumed that the sword was a weapon. How, therefore, do the Scriptures describe this two-edged sword? As we search the scriptures, notice that in Revelation 1:16 the sword proceeds from the mouth.
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword 69
Ephesians 6:17 the sword of the Spirit 70 , which the word of God. Revelation 2:12 saith he which hath the sharp with two edges. Revelation 2:16 else I will come unto thee quickly against them with the sword 71 of my mouth. Revelation 19:15 Out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword 72 , that with it he should smite the nations: Revelation 19:21 And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the hose, which sword 73
proceeded out of his mouth
OBSERVATIONS from the Scriptures As Jesus healed with the power of the word of his mouth, so shall conquer and rule by the word of his mouth; that power is literal and the results will likewise be literally accomplished. Ron Rankin January 11, 2008
67 Sharp = Greek, oxus, oyu. sharp, swift, acute [Youngs Analytical Concordance to the Bible]; think, sharp like the surgeons surgical tools, that cut cleanly, removing appropriately and cleanly that which needs to be removed without destroying the good flesh. 68 Sword = Greek, hromphaia, pooio, a brandishing weapon, sword, sabre [Youngs Analytical Concordance to the Bible]. 69 Sword = Greek, machaira, oyoipo, fighting weapon, sword [Youngs Analytical Concordance to the Bible]. 70 Sword = Greek, hromphaia, pooio, a brandishing weapon, sword, sabre [Youngs Analytical Concordance to the Bible]. 71 Sword = Ibid. 72 Sword = Ibid. 73 Sword = Ibid. 87
LIVETH AND WAS DEAD Revelation 1:18
REVELATION 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen and have the keys of heal and of death.
ALIVE OR DEAD, WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? Isaiah 38:1, 11 . thou shalt die and not live . I shall not see Jah, Jah in the land of the living of the living: I shall behold man no more with the inhabitants of the world.
Isaiah 8:19 . should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?
Psalm 146:4 . his breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish
Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10 . for the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing . for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest
CAME INTO EXISTENCE BECAME ALIVE Galatians 4:4 . God sent forth his Son, made of a woman . made = genomenou [ytvotvou], verb, participle, aorist, genitive, masculine, singular of ginomai [yivooi], to come into existence . Jesus came into existence by means of a woman
Romans 1:3 . Concerning his son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made [ginomai, came into existence] of the seed of David, according to the flesh
Luke 1:35 . that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God
HE DIED, PLACED IN HELL I Corinthians 15:1, 3 . the gospel which I preached and wherein ye stand . how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures
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I Corinthians 15:13, 14, 17 . if there is no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen . if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain . if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins
Isaiah 53:10-12 . thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin . for he shall bear their iniquities . he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bar the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors
HE LIVES AGAIN I Corinthians 15:20, 23 . but now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept . so in Christ shall all be made alive
Acts 13:34, 35 . and as concerning that he raised him up from the dead I will give you the sure mercies of David . thou shalt no suffer thine Holy One to see corruption
Psalm 16:10 . for thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption
Acts 2:27 . because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy On e to see corruption
CONSEQUENCES Because Jesus came into existence in the womb of Mary of the family of David, he did not existence before his conception and birth Because Jesus was a man, he was mortal and subject to the death that came upon Adam and Eve, even all their descendants. Jesus died as the offering and sacrifice for our sins, therefore he discontinued to live for those three days and three nights. If Jesus did not die but continued to live during those days then there was no offering not sacrifice, and we are yet in our sins. If Jesus did was not raised from the dead, we are yet in our sins.
4 ROMANS 4:20-25 He [Abraham] staggered not at the promised of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 89
And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness. Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.
Ron Rankin December 23, 2008
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THE KEYS OF HELL AND OF DEATH Revelation 1:18
REVELATION 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death
KEYS kleis [|iti] ] a key ] key used as a symbol = of power, of authority ] key used metaphorically = such as the key of entrance into knowledge
Where used in the New Testament Matthew 16:19 Luke 11:52 Revelation 1:18 Revelation 8:7 Revelation 9:1 Revelation 20:1
Related to the word kleio [|itio], to close, shut; kleis then is that which can open, can unlock.
HELL hades [on] . the abode of the dead where used in the New Testament, and how translated Matthew 11:23 ] hell ] the English word hell, when used to translated hades, means the grave ] an example is found in the statement to hell the potatoes; thus to plant the portion of the potato that contains the eye in the ground; as a verb to hell means to plant in the ground ] hell then is the grave as is evidenced in the King James translation of 1 st Corinthians 15:55; see below
Matthew 16:18 ] hell Luke 10:15 ] hell Luke 16:23 ] hell Acts 2:27 ] hell 91
DEATH thanatos [ovoo] . a noun, death thanatoo [ovooo] . a verb, to put to death thanatos is translated death in the New Testament 117 times and deadly 2 times thanatoo, in the New Testament 11 times, is translated cause to be put to death (3), kill (2), mortify (1), put to death (4), and become dead (1)
JESUS WILL USE THE KEYS TO OPEN THE GRAVES AND TO RAISE THE DEAD TO LIFE; THUS HIS POWER AND ABILITY TO DEAL WITH THE GRAVE AND DEATH the power and authority of Jesus John 5:25-30
of the righteous 1 Corinthians 15:22, 23 ] resurrection of the righteous as the return of Christ John 5:29 Daniel 12:2 Revelation 20:6 Job 19:25-27 Psalm 17:15
of the wicked John 5:29 Revelation 20:5, 12, 13 ] resurrection of the wicked of all time in the day of judgment ] resurrection of the righteous who died during the millennium Daniel 12:2
Ron Rankin December 23, 2008 92
ARE THE SEVEN CHURCHES PROPHETIC? Revelation 1:20
REVELATION 2:1 through 3:21 Primarily these are prophetic of each of the three literal churches of Asia Minor. - They also provide lessons regarding the spiritual health of each church that can be related to any time of the church age for lessons, similarly to the lessons provided to the church in the history of Israel. 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 They may be also, secondarily, prophetic pictures of the age of the Church. - We will see examples of this as we study each of the seven churches. - Watch is the keyword for the church of this age; signs are provided for this purpose, in events and in prophecies as they are fulfilled. Matthew 24 through 25 Luke 21 Mark 13 Revelation 4:6
EPHESUS Declining period, close of the Apostolic Age, 2 nd to 3 rd century The church losing its prowess as a lion
SMYRNA Persecution under the Roman Empire to about 315 A.D. The church as a sacrificial calf
PERGAMUM Constantine to the Papacy, 4 th to 6 th century The church assuming the face of a man
THYATIRA Papal period of persecution, 6 th to 12 th century The church fleeing continued persecution as a flying eagle
SARDIS Papal period continues, 12 th to 16 th century The church continues flight from persecution
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PHILADELPHIA Freedom from persecution 18 th to 20 th centuries The church receives help from the earth and persecution subsides
LAODICEA Apathy beginning in the 21 st century and to Jesus return Even as the church endures revival of persecution
We have in the course of the above outline have covered some of the prophecies of the Revelation detailed in chapters 6, 11, 12, 13, 17, and 18.
Ron Rankin February 9, 2008
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SEVEN CANDLESTICKS Revelation 1:20
MATTHEW 5:14, 15 74
Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house
. The candlestick is the holder of the candle, the light. The seven candlesticks are the seven churches, the bearers or holders of the light. Revelation 1:12, 13 - And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven candlesticks; - And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the papas with a golden girdle. Revelation 1:20 - The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches. Revelation 2:1, 5 - Unto the angels of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks. - Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
Observations from the above scriptures - Jesus is the holder of the candlesticks, being the Head of the churches. Colossians 1:18 - And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. Ephesians 5:23 - For the husband is the head of he wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. - The churches, that fail in their responsibilities and do not overcome, are fated to have their candlestick removed and not receive the things promised to the overcomer. - The light would fail and thus there would be no need for the candleholder. - There were angels provided for each church. Psalm 34:7 - The angel of Jehovah encampeth round about them that fear him. and delivereth them. - Repentance and returning to the works of God were the remedies for their failings.
Ron Rankin June 20, 2008
74 Correlating Verses = Mark 4:21 and Luke 8:16; 11:33 95
THE WORK OF THE BODY OF CHRIST Revelation 1:20
Let Your Light So Shine Before Men Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Revelation 1:20 - The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden clandlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
. We learn from the two preceding Scriptures that the work of the Body of Christ is to shed light to the world. Ephesians 5:8 1 Thessalonians 5:5 2 Corinthians 4:4-7 - the light of the glorious gospel of Christ Philippians 2:15 - the sons of God ye shine as lights in the world . The consistency of this is in the fact that Jesus, the Christ, the Head of the Body, is the Light of the world. John 1:8, 9 John 8:12 Acts 26:22, 23 - Shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles Psalm 118:27
Ron Rankin June 20, 2008
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EPHESUS, CITY OF DIANA
ACTS 19:26-41 Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands: So that not only this, our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth. And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians. But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, great is Diana of the Ephesians. And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter? Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly. For ye have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of churches, nor yet blasphemers of your goddess. For we are in danger to be called in question for this days uproar, there being no cause whereby we may given an account of this concourse. And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly [t||itoi ov].
EPHESIANS 1:1 - Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus.
CIRCA FORTY YEARS LATER A LETTER TO THE EPHESIANS, THE REVELATION DANGER SIGNS Acts 20:17-31 - And from he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. - And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after shat manner I have been with you at all seasons. - For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you not sparing the flock. - Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. - Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. Revelation 2:1-7 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: Romans 6:21
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and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars 1 John 4:1-4 but this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate Acts 20:17-31 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee because thou hast left they first love Jeremiah 2:1-5 remember from whence thou hast fallen, and repent, and do the first works Matthew 21:41 Galatians 5:4 Hosea 14:1 Acts 26:20 Luke 15:23, 24, 32
Ron Rankin June 15, 2002
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I KNOW THY WORKS AND THY LABOUR A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 2:2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars.
Thy Works and Labour Works = ergon [tpyov] anything done, or to be done; a deed, work, action. 75
John 3:21 Galatians 6:4 2 Timothy 2:21 Labour = kopos [|oo] trouble, vexation, uneasiness, labour, travail; by metonymy, at the fruit or consequence of labour. 76
1 Corinthians 3:8 1 Thessalonians 1:3 Revelation 14:13 Faith Work Energized by Love Galatians 5:6 - Worketh by love energeo [tvtpyto. tv & tpyov], to effect; put into operation; to be active. 77
75 The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited, London 76 Ibid 77 Ibid 100
LEGALISM A JUDGMENT? A Bible Study Outline
WHAT IS LEGALISM? Legalism, noun. Strict adherence, or the principle of strict adherence; salvation by good works or strict adherence to precise religious regulations of conduct and not by grace [The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language.]. The dictionary defines. The word of God explains. Persons judge. From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge [James 4:1, 11].
WHAT DOES GOD REQUIRE? He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD (Jehovah) require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? [Micah 6:8]. Can two walk together, except they be agreed? [Amos 3:3]. It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God [Matthew 4:4, Jesus quoted from Deuteronomy 8:3]. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him [Hebrews 11:6]. Even so faith, if it hath no works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also [James 2:17, 18, 26].
BY WHAT ARE WE JUDGED? He that rejecteth me (Jesus), and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day [John 12:48]. I will give unto every one of you according to your works (Revelation 2:23]. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city [Revelation 22:12, 14]. Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work [Psalm 62:12].
LAW AND RIGHTEOUSNESS 1 Timothy 1:8-10 the law is good if used lawfully. the law is not made for a righteous man. Romans 7:7,16 law identifies sin. 1 John 3:4 sin is transgression of law. 1 John 3:8 he that committeth sin is of the devil.
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Romans 10:5,6 the righteousness which is of the law. the righteousness which is of faith. 1 Corinthians 10:21 being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ. 1 Corinthians 7:23 is Christs servant [doulos, slave, not free but under bondage] Romans 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants [slaves] to obey, his servants [slaves] ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? Ephesians 2:8-10 salvation is by grace through (not outside of, nor without) faith we are created unto good works 1 Thessalonians 1:3 your work of faith and labour of love John 3:20, 21 light reproves evil deeds he that doeth truth cometh to the light in the light of truth deeds wrought in God are manifest
SOME OF THE SCRIPTURAL CRITICISMS (though not all) Hypocrisy James 3:17 Luke 11:44 Matthew 24:50, 51 Hold the truth in unrighteousness Romans 1:18 Romans 2:8 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12
CAN ONE BE SAVED by works? Ephesians 2:9 no. Not of works, lest any man should boast. without works? James 4:17 no. Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. Ephesians 2:10 no, but faith can inspire correct and good works. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
QUESTIONS TO PONDER IN THIS BIBLE STUDY 1. Is the purpose of commonly proposed arguments concerning, or against, legalism intended to teach that one can be saved without ... doing the truth? works meet for repentance? read Acts 26:18 to start your search for the scriptural answer. being baptized? 2. What things are lawful or unlawful according to the New Testament in Christ? 102
3. Can you list things that are laws, commandments, or works necessary to make a living faith in Christ? for starters consider Galatians 6:1, 2 and Romans 8:1-4. 4. Does faith work? Find the scripture(s) which answer this question. 5. Does truth work? Find the scripture(s) which answer this question. 6. What is the relationship of grace and faith; of grace and law? 7. Can you add to this list of questions and find scriptural answers? 8. Does one find answers from God by pitting one scripture against another scripture, or by listening to Gods word and find their harmony? Hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches [Jesus].
Ron Rankin September 4, 2002
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LEFT THY FIRST LOVE Revelation 2:4
LOVE IN THE EPISTLE TO THE EPHESIAN SAINTS Chapter One that we should be holy and without blame before him in love 78 [verse 4]. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved 79 [verse 6]. I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love [agape] unto all the saints [verse 15].
Chapter Two But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love [agape] wherewith he loved 80 us [verse 4].
Chapter Three That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love [agape], may be able to comprehend with all the saints [verses 17,18]. And to know the love [agape] of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God [verse 19].
Chapter Four With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love [agape] [verse 2]. But speaking the truth in love [agape], may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ [verse 15]. From which the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love [agape] [verse 16].
78 Love = Greek, agape [oyon], the noun, love, generosity, kindly concern, devotedness [The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited, London.]; The Greek word for love, phileo [iito], is not found in this epistle. 79 Beloved = Greek, agapao [oyooo], the verb, to love, value, esteem, feel or manifest generous concern for [The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited, London.] 80 Ibid. 104
Chapter Five Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear 81 children [verse 1]. And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved 82 us [verse 2]. Husbands, love [agapao] your wives, even as Christ also loved [agapao] the church and gave himself for it [verse 25]. So men ought to love [agapao] their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth [agapao] his wife loveth [agapao] himself [verse 28]. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love [agapao] his wife even as himself [verse 33].
Chapter Six Tychicus, a beloved [agapetos] brother and faithful minister in the Lord [verse 21]. Peace be to the brethren, and love [agape] with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ [verse 23]. Grace be with all them that love [agapao] our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen [verse 24].
LEFT THY FIRST LOVE Left = aphiemi [oini] To send away, dismiss, suffer to depart. 83
This word is translated, in the King James version, forgive 47 times, leave 52 times, and 15 other words a total of 47 times. 84
Matthew 6:12,14,15 - And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. - For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. - But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. James 5:15 - and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Matthew 4:22 - And they immediately left the ship and their father, and follow him.
81 Dear = Greek, apagetos [ooyno], agape is the noun, apagetos is the adjective, and is here translated dear; we might translated it as beloved children instead of as dear children. 82 Loved = Greek, egapesen [nyonotv], 3 rd person, singular, aorist 1, indicative, active of agapao [oyooo]. 83 The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited, London 84 Index-Lexicon to the New Testament in Analytical Concordance to the Bible by Robert Young 105
Matthew 24:2 - There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down It seems to have been a very serious matter that the church at Ephesus had left their first love. It appears that they had completely forsaken their first love. Revelation 2:5-7 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Questions to ponder: 1. What affect does the loss of love have upon their faith and their lives? 2. What was the remedy for their situation?
Ron Rankin January 10, 2008
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THE QUALITIES OF LOVE A Bible Study Outline
to have affection for 85 in the following scriptures: Proverbs 10:12 - Love covereth all sins Proverbs 15:17 - better is a dinner of herbs where love is Proverbs 17:9 - he that covereth a transgression seeketh love love, generosity, kindly concern, devotedness 86 and translated charity seven times in the following scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 these are the qualities of love: - Longsuffering 1 Corinthians 6:1-11 approving ourselves as the ministers of God by longsuffering, by kindness - Humility James 4:10 humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up - Rejoices in Truth 1 Thessalonians 2:13 in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe - Believes Hebrews 11:6 he that cometh to God must believe that he is and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him - Hope Romans 5:1,2 Jesus Christ, by whom we have access by faith rejoicing in the hope of the glory of God
85 To have affection for = definition given in Strongs Hebrew and Chaldee Dictionary for ahabah [Strongs number 160 from 158 and 157, the primitive root, ahab]. 86 The definition for agape according to The Analytical Greek Lexicon published by Samuel Bagster, and Sons, Limited, London. 107
- Endures James 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him - Never Fails Colossians 3:12-15 above all put on love, which is the bond of perfectness - Greater than Faith Galatians 5:5,6 wait for the hope of righteousness by faith faith which worketh by love - Greater than Hope Romans 8:24-28 We are saved by hope all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. - Love is Obedient John 14:23 if a man love me, he will keep my words
Ron Rankin January 9, 2008
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NICOLAITANS 87
They Signify What?
REVELATION 2:6, 15 But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.
HISTORICAL and BIBLICAL DATA There was, apparently, a sect of Nicolaitans in the early days of the church, against whom Irenaeus wrote listing them as a branch of the Gnostics. Also Hippolytus, Epiphanius, Ignatiuis, Clement of Alexandria, Eusebius and Theodoret wrote briefly against them and speculated as to their origin. Little is known specifically of their doctrines and deeds.
SIGNFICANCE OF THE NAME Nicolaitans [Ni|oioioi] Followers of Nicolas [Ni|oioo] Conqueror of the People Victory 1 John 5:4 Nike [vi|n] victory by metonymy 88 , a victorious principle 89
1 Corinthians 15:54-57 Nikos [vi|o] victory 90
Revelation 15:2 Nikao [vi|oo] to get victory, be invincible, conquer 91
Overcome Nikao [vi|oo] to gain the victory Luke 11:22 John 16:33 Romans 3:4; 12:21 1 John 2:13, 14; 4:4; 5:4, 5 Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 26 Revelation 3:5, 12, 21 Revelation 11:7 Revelation 12:11, 21 Revelation 13:7 Revelation 17:14 Revelation 21:7
87 See also Nicolaitans According to the Church Fathers, in the Addenda 88 Metonymy = a figure by which one word is substituted for another on account of some actual relation between the things signified, as when we say, We read Virgil, that is, his poems or writings [The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of English]. 89 The Analytical Greek Lexicon published by Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited, London 90 Nikos = a later Greek equivalent to nike [The Analytical Greek Lexicon published by Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited, London] 91 Nikao = verb, to conquer, overcome, vanquish, subdue [The Analytical Greek Lexicon published by Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited, London] 109
Victors, against the will of Jesus Katakurieuo [|oo|upituo] to lord against, over, thus, to subjugate 92
Luke 22:25-27 1 Peter 5:1-3-5 Matthew 20:25 Acts 19:16 Mark 10:42 Examples and warnings in the New Testament 3 John 9-11 Acts 20:29-31 Jude 4, 16-19 2 Corinthians 11:2-4,12-15
Ron Rankin January 17, 2008
92 The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon, Wigram-Green, Hendrickson Publishers, Peabody, Mass 110
I DIDNT KNOW For a Thoughtful Moment
REVELATION 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
1 CORINTHIANS 8:1,2 Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. And if any man think that he knoweth anything, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.
PROVERBS 1:7 The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Ron Rankin February 22, 2008
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THE TREE OF LIFE In the Paradise of God
Revelation 2:7 4 He that hath an ear, to hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches, to him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life 93 , which is in the midst of the paradise 94 of God.
Some questions to consider in this Bible study: 1. What is the history of the tree of life? It began in Jehovahs creation of the Garden of Eden. Genesis 2:9 4 Out of the ground made Jehovah the God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food; the tree of life 95 also in the midst of the garden 96 , and the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Genesis 3:24 4 So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.
2. To whom will be given the right to eat of the tree of life? Him that overcometh 97 . A right or privilege, not a required for they cannot die. Revelation 22:14 4 Blessed are they that do his commandments, they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. Revelation 2:11,17,26 Revelation 3:5,12,21 1 John 5:4,5 Romans 3:4 Romans 12:21 Luke 20:34-36
3. How is the fruit of the tree of life described? New fruit according to his months; every month a new fruit. It shall be for food. Ezekiel 47:12
93 Tree of life: Greek = xenon [Euiov] wood, timber, a tree; zoe [Con] life, living, existence; (Analytical Greek Lexicon, Samuel Bagster & Sons, Limited) 94 Paradise: Greek = paradeisos [opotioo]; found in the New Testament three times Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 12:4; Revelation 2:7. Paradeisos is an Oriental word, first used by the historian Xenophon, denoting the parks of Persian kings and nobles. It is of Persian origin (Old Persian pairidaeza, akin go Gk. peri, around, and teichos, a wall) whence it passed into Greek. See the Septuagint, e.g., in Nehemiah 2:8; Ecclesiastes 2:5; Song of Solomon 4:13. The Septuagint translators used it of the garden of Eden, Genesis 2:8, and in other respects, e.g., Numbers 24:6; Isaiah 1:30; Jeremiah 29:5; Ezekiel 31:8,9 [Vines Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words]. 95 Tree of life: Hebrew = ets, a tree (from its firmness) hence wood; from atsah, a primitive root; properly to fasten (or make firm) [Strongs Exhaustive Hebrew and Chaldee Dictionary]. 96 Garden: Hebrew: = gan, garden [Youngs and Strongs]. See Vines comments under footnote #2, Paradise. 97 Overcometh: Greek = nikao [vi|oo] to gain the victory [Youngs Analytical Concordance to the Bible]. 112
Revelation 22:2
4. Where will be the location of the tree of life? On the banks of the river of life that will flow from the sanctuary, house of God in Jerusalem. Ezekiel 47:1 Revelation 22:1
5. What, where, and when, is paradise? It is the kingdom of God. Jesus, when thou comest into thy kingdom. The thief, thou shalt be with me in paradise. It is part of the restitution that ensues the return of Christ. The new heaven and the new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness. Luke 23:43 2 Corinthians 12:4 Revelation 2:7 Acts 3:19-24 2 Peter 3:13 Revelation 22:14
6. Is the tree of life one tree only? No, many trees that line the banks of the river of life 98 . That tree and that river will continue on in the holy city new Jerusalem in the new heavens and earth. Revelation 21:1-5 Ezekiel 47:1-12 4 7 Now when I had returned, behold, at the bank of the river were very many trees on the one side and on the other. 4 12 And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the frit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary; and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine. Revelation 22:1,2 4 And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. 4 In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.
7. Is it a literal 99 tree? Yes, there is no scriptural reason for it not to be understood literally. Are there any spiritual things compared to the tree of life? Yes.
98 River of life: More related scriptures = Psalm 46:4; 65:9-13; 72:1-8,16-19; Zechariah 14:4,7-9; 9:10; Numbers 14:21; Habakkuk 2:14. 99 Literal: See the separate Bible Study Outline entitled Is It Literal. 113
Proverbs 3:18,19 4 She [wisdom] is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her. 4 The LORD [Jehovah] by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. Proverbs 11:30,31 4 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. 4 Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner. Proverbs 13:12,13 4 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life. 4 Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. Proverbs 15:4 4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit. 4 A fool despiseth his fathers instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.
Ron Rankin May 18, 2007
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SMYRNA AND ITS CROWN OF PORTICOES A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 2:8, 10 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. 2 TIMOTHY 2:5 And if a man, also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. 2 TIMOTHY 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. 1 CORINTHIANS 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
Smyrna was famous for science, medicine, and the majesty of its buildings. Apollonius of Tyana refers to her crown of porticoes, a circle of beautiful public buildings which ringed the summit of Mount Pagos like a diadem. 100
Revelation 2:8-11 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich). - James 2:5 - 1 Corinthians 4:7-16 And I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are of the synagogue of Satan. - Revelation 3:9 - 1 Corinthians 10:32 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer the devil shall cast some of you into prison., that ye may be tried. - Revelation 12:12, 13,17 - 1 Peter 1:6-9
100 According to E. M. Blaiklock, Litt.D., Professor of Classics, University College, Auckland, New Zealand, in his documentation of Smyrna in The Zondervan Pictorial Bible Dictionary, Page 798; General Editor Merrill C. Tenney, Dean of the Graduate School of Theology, Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois; Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1963.
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ye shall have tribulation ten days. - Acts 14:22 - Romans 5:3 be faithful and I will give you a crown of life. - 1 Timothy 4:8, 9 - Titus 3:7, 8
+ Persecution-Tribulation by Roman Emperors - The persecutions involved imprisonment and death throughout the period that ended when Constantine ascended the throne and converted to Christianity. Domition (80-96) 101 persecution both Jew and Christian. Diocletian especially, is remembered for his persecution of Christians beginning in 303 and ended with his death in 313; 102 ten years of intense persecution, and the last by the Roman Emperors.
Ron Rankin June 15, 2002 Updated February 2, 2008
101 World Book Encyclopedia, 1976, Volume 5, Domitian, Page 252 102 World Book Encyclopedia, 1976, Volume 5, Diocletion, Page 174 116
SATANS ASSEMBLY A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 2:9 ! I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. REVELATION 3:9 ! Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.
Why is the title of this study outline called Satan Assembly? Because of the phrase synagogue of Satan! - Synagogue = ouvoyoyn = a collecting, gathering; an assembly or congregation; also by metonymy 103 used of the place of their gathering. - It is derived from ouvoyo [sunago], to bring together, collect, gather; to to convoke; to convene, come together, meet; to receive with kindness and hospitality, to entertain. - Thus the synagogue of Satan refers to those who follow his teachings, and may be called the house of Satan meaning the household of Satan. - In this sense the followers of Moses and of Jesus are their houses, as in Hebrews 3:5, 6. - Thus, those who follow the ways and/or teachings of Satan are of his synagogue.
IDENTIFIERS of Satans Assembly Claim to be Jews, and are not . about this they lie . it is blasphemy Galatians 3:28, 29 Galatians 5:6 Galatians 6:15, 16
103 Metonymy = rhetorically, a figure by which one word is substituted for another on account of some actual relation between the things signified, as when we say, We read Virgil;, that is, his poems or writings. [The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language] 117
Other Identifiers, Satans Devices 2 Corinthians 2:7-11 . The failure to love and forgive; to cause unnecessary, overmuch, sorrow . To take advantage of this situation, Satans device is to captivate . His servants ye are to whom ye obey, according to Romans 6:16
1 Peter 5:8 . In the context of this passage, verses 1-7, Satan takes advantage of: - mans desire to be a lord of Gods heritage, commonly known, and exercised, as hierarchy - a desire for filthy lucre
Study the following and list those things of which Satan may take advantage and enlarge his House, his Assembly, even more Ephesians 2:1-3 Colossians 2:8 Colossians 2:18-23 James 4:1-11 2 Corinthians 11:1-15 Hebrews 12:14-17
Ron Rankin May 3, 2008
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THE CROWDING PRESSURES OF TRIBULATION Revelation 2:10
THE MEANING OF TRIBULATION IN THE NEW TESTAMENT The Greek Words of the New Testament thlibo and thlipsis are the words found over fifty times in the New Testament. thlibo means to crowd sunthlibo means to squeeze together thlipsis, the noun, means pressure - These definitions do not in themselves reveal where the pressure or crowding comes from, who receives it, how it happens. - That is determined if possible by reading the verses around where these words occur in the Bible. The English Translation of these Words in the New Testament (King James Authorized Version of 1611) Thlipsis Tribulation Matthew 13:21 John 16:33 Acts 14:22 Romans 2:9 Romans 5:3 Romans 8:35 Romans 12:12 2 Corinthians 1:4 2 Corinthians 7:4 Ephesians 3:13 2 Thessalonians 1:4,6 Revelation 1:9 Revelation 2:9-10,22 Revelation 7:14 Afflict Matthew 24:9 Mark 4:17 Mark 13:19 Acts 7:10-11 Acts 20:23 2 Corinthians 2:4 2 Corinthians 4:17 2 Corinthians 6:4 2 Corinthians 8:2 Philippians 1:16 Philippians 4:14 Colossians 1:24 1 Thessalonians 1:6 1 Thessalonians 3:3,7 119
James 1:27 Anguish John 16:21. Burdened 2 Corinthians 8:13 Persecution Acts 11:19 Trouble 1 Corinthians 7:28 2 Corinthians 1:4,8 Thlibo Tribulation 1 Thessalonians 3:4 Afflict 2 Corinthians 1:6 1 Thessalonians 5:10 Hebrews 11:37 Trouble 2 Corinthians 4:8 2 Corinthians 7:5 2 Thessalonians 1:6,7 Throng Mark 3:9 Sunthlibo Throng Mark 5:24,31 Comments - Persecution and Tribulation are real terms, real possibilities, in the real world today as it has been savagely applied in history. - The word tribulation sparks various and sundry images of prophecy unfolding. - The nature of that image depends on how the Bible is understood and perhaps on influence from popular religious literature.
A SUMMARY - Bible studies found tribulation to be man's wrath/persecution or life's pressures on God's people about 80%. - God's wrath on the disobedient about 5%. - Miscellaneous applications about 15%. - These percentages are of the total word study.
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A CHALLENGE I would challenge you to analyze the contexts to the above verses to get a feel of tribulation according to the New Testament. Ask yourself the following questions - (1) Where does it come from? - (2) Onto whom does it fall? - (3) How and why? Let the synonyms found in the text describe the nature of the pressure and crowding.
HOW TO APPROACH EACH DAY Ephesians 6:13 Acts 14:22.
Delbert Rankin October 14, 2001
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PERGAMOS, WHERE SATAN DWELLETH A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 2:12 I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satans seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days where Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.
Revelation 2:12-17 I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satans seat is: 1 Thessalonians 1:3 2 Thessalonians 1:11 James 1:3 James 2:17 and thou holdest fast my name, Romans 1:1-7 and hast not denied my faith, Matthew 10:33 Matthew 16:24,25 1 Timothy 5:8 2 Timothy 2:12, 13 even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, Revelation 1:5 Acts 7:54-60 Revelation 6:9-11 Revelation 20:4 where Satan dwelleth; Ephesians 2:1-3 Revelation 13:2
But I have a few things against thee because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, - Jude 11 - 2 Peter 2:15,16 to eat thing sacrificed unto idols, - Acts 15:28,29 - 1 Corinthians 8:10-13 and to commit fornication. - Romans 1:29 - 1 Corinthians 5:1 - 1 Corinthians 6:13,18 - 1 Corinthians 10:8
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Repent or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. - Ephesians 6:17
To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, - John 6:31-33 - Psalm 78:23-25 and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. - Revelation 19:12
Ron Rankin June 15, 2002 Updated February 2, 2008
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BALAAM, WHO HELD THE TRUTH IN UNRIGHTEOUSNESS A Bible Study Outline
Q CONCERNING THOSE WHO HOLD THE TRUTH IN UNRIGHTEOUSNESS For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness (Romans 1:16-18).
+ FOR THEM THE WRATH OF GOD Romans 1:18 Romans 2:1-11; 9:22-24 Ephesians 5:5,6 Jude 4-13 2 Peter 2:9-17-22
+ THE EXAMPLE OF BALAAM Questions to consider Did Balaam know the True God? Did Balaam prophecy truth? What was the unrighteousness of Balaam? Do we know or have Gods final judgment concerning Balaam? Numbers 22:1-41; 23:1-30; 24:1-25 Balaam and Truth He knew Jehovah as his God. Numbers 22:18,38; 23:8,25,26; 24:13 He was a prophet from Aram. Numbers 23:7-12,15-24 Numbers 24:1-9,14-25 Balaams Unrighteousness He sought after enchantments. Numbers 24:1 Joshua 13:22 He ran greedily after gain. Numbers 22:5-7 Deuteronomy 23:4,5 Jude 11 2 Peter 2:15,16 He gave false counsel. Numbers 31:15-19 Revelation 2:14
+ THE COUNSEL OF PAUL, APOSTLE OF JESUS 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Romans 6:19 1 Timothy 6:3-11 Acts 20:25-27 Ron Rankin June 6, 2001 124
THYATIRA AND JEZEBEL A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 2:18 Revelation 2:18-24 I know says the Son of God thy works, and charity, and service, and faith Ephesians 2:9, 10 works; duty not to be boasted of. Luke 17:10 duty. 1 Corinthians 13:1-8 charity; love. Philippians 2:17 the sacrifice and service of your faith. Revelation 2:19 service, diakonian (io|oviov), the act of one who renders a service, a minister, a servant (io|ovo). - Daily service and ministry of the word Acts 6:1-4 the services given. - Barnabas and Saul Acts 12:25 fulfilled their ministry. - Phoebe Romans 16:1 a servant. - Paul Ephesians 3:7 a minister. - Timothy 1 Thessalonians 3:2; 1 Timothy 4:6 minister of God; minister of Jesus Christ. - Tychicus Ephesians 6:21 a faithful minister. - Paul and Apollos 1 Corinthians 3:5 ministers. - Those men specially designated as servants 1 Timothy 3:8, 12; Philippians 1:1 deacons, diakonous (io|ovou plural form). - Civil servants Romans 13:4 the higher civil powers. - Servants in the Church with differing ministries 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 differences of administrations, diakonion (io|oviov). - The house of Stephanus, and everyone who helpeth and laboureth 1 Corinthians 16:15, 16 addicted to the ministry of the saints. - Romans 12:1 service latreian (ioptiov), the work of a servant latris (iopi), especially of a religious nature. and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. 1 Thessalonians 1:3 work of faith patience of hope 1 Thessalonians 1:4 patience and faith in persecutions and tribulations. 1 Timothy 6:11, 12 follow after patience fight the good fight of faith. Titus 2:2 things which become sound doctrine sound in faith, in charity, in patience. Hebrews 6:12 through faith and patience inherit the promises. James 1:3 the trying of faith worketh patience. 125
Revelation 13:10 the patience and faith of the saints demonstrated. James 2:26 faith without works is dead [the last (works) more than the first (patience)].
Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. - Jezebel stirred up, incited, Ahab to follow idols. 1 Kings 16:29-33 1 Kings 21:5-26 1 Kings 11:1,2
And I gave here space to repent and except they repent 1 Kings 21:27-29 2 Kings 9:1,4-10,21-37; 10:1-11 Revelation 16:9, 11 Genesis 15:16 2 Peter 3:8, 9
And all the churches shall know Psalm 7:9 1 Samuel 16:7 Psalm 62:12 Matthew 16:27
As many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan Revelation 3:3 Hold fast till I come. Revelation 3:21 he that overcometh. - Revelation 5:9,10; 20:4-6 John 14:23 keep my words. - For Israel Deuteronomy 17:19 keep all the words of this law Deuteronomy 29:9 keep all the words of the covenant.
- For the Church Galatians 6:2 fulfil the law of Christ, that is Romans 8:1, 2, 11-14 the law of the Spirit of life. Matthew 28:19, 20 observe whatsoever he commanded.
Ron Rankin June 29, 2002 Updated February 2, 2008 126
HE SHALL RULE Revelation 2:27
= THE TEXT And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.
= A COMPARISON OF TRANSLATIONS kai poimanei autous en hrabdo* sidera, [JJG 104 ] |oi oiovti ouou tv poo oinpo [JJG] and he shall rule them with a rod made of iron, [WI 105 ] and he shall rule them with a rod of iron; [KJV 106 ] and he shall rule them with a rod of iron [NASB 107 ] He shall rule them with an iron sceptre [NIV 108 ] And he shall rule them with a rod of iron [YLT 109 ]
hos ta skeue ta keramika suntribetai, [JJG] o o o|tun o |tpoi|o ouvpitoi. [JJG] as the vessels those earthen ones it is breaking together, [WI] as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers, [KJV] as the vessels of the potter shall they be broken to shivers: [NASB] he shall dash them to pieces like pottery [NIV] as the vessels of the potter they shall be broken [YLT]
hos kago eilepha para tou patros mou. [JJG] o |oyo tiino opo ou Hopo ou [JJG] as also I received from of the Father of me; [WI] as also I received of my Father; [KJV] as I also have received authority from my Father. [NASB] just as I have received authority from my Father. [NIV] as I also have received from my Father. [YLT]
* UBS 110 poo , it may be a typo for JJG.
104 JJG = Greek Text of J. J. Griesbach, Leipsic, 1805 105 WI = Benjamin Wilsons Emphatic Diaglott, Interlinear and with a Translation 106 KJV = The King James Version, 1611 107 NASB = The New American Standard Bible 108 NIV = The New International Version 109 YLT = Youngs Literal Translation of the Bible, by Robert Young 110 UBS = The Greek New Testament, United Bible Societies 127
= SELECTED GREEK WORDS FOR STUDY poimanei [oiovti ] Verb = 3 rd person singular future indicative of poimaino [ oioivo ] from poimen [oinv]; to feed, pasture, tend a flock; Luke 17:7; 1 Corinthians 9:7; tropically (turned aside from its strict literal meaning] to feed with selfish indulgence, to pamper, Jude 12; metaphorically, to tend, direct, superintend, Matthew 2:6; John 21:16, et al.; to rule, Revelation 2:27(H 111 )
Verb = to tend, shepherd, nourish; tropically to rule, lead. (NEG 112 ) Matthew 2:6 out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. [poimanei (oiovti ), 3 rd person, singular, future, indicative, of poimaino (oioivo)] (H) Luke 17:7 a servant plowing or feeding cattle [poimainonta (oioivovo), accusative, singular, masculine, participle, present of poimaino (oioivo)] (H) John 21:16 He saith unto him, Feed my sheep [poimaine (oioivt), 2 nd person, singular, present, imperative of poimoino (oioivo)] (H) Acts 20:28 to feed the Church of God [poimaineiv (oioivtiv), present, infinitive, of poimaino (oioivo)] (H) 1 Corinthians 9:7 or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk [poimainei (oioivti), 3 rd person, singular, present, indicative, of poimaino (oioivo)] (H) 1 Peter 5:2 Feed the flock of God [poimanate (oiovot), 2 nd person, plural, aorist, imperative, of poimaino (oioivo)] (H) Jude 12 when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear [poimainontes (oioivovt), nominative, plural, masculine, participle, present, of poimaino (oioivo)] (H) Revelation 2:27 he shall rule them with a rod of iron [poimanei (oiovti ), 3 rd person, singular, future, indicative, of poimaino (oioivo)] (H) Revelation 7:17 the midst of the throne shall feed them [poimanei (oiovti ), 3 rd person, singular, future, indicative, of poimaino (oioivo)] (H) Revelation 12:5 who was to rule all nations with [poimaineiv (oioivtiv), present, infinitive, of poimaino (oioivo)] (H) Revelation 19:15 he shall rule them with a rod of iron [poimanei (oiovti ), 3 rd person, singular, future, indicative, of poimaino (oioivo)] (H)
Comment: In the context of the meaning and use of this Greek word, rule is indicative of a benevolent, firm, just, exercise of royal authority; in this case the royal authority of Christ and the saints in the Kingdom of God.
111 H = The Analytical Greek Lexicon published by Harper and Brothers 112 NEG = The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon 128
Suggested for further study is the word poimen [oin v] which is defined and translated as shepherd. This word is that from which the word poimaino [oioivo] is derived. Note that both words are often used in the same context.
hrabdos [poo] Noun = a rod, wand, Hebrews 9:4; Revelation 11:1; a rod of correction, 1 Corinthians 4:21; a staff, Matthew 10:10; Hebrews 11:21; a sceptre, Hebrews 1:8; Revelation 2:27 (H) Noun, feminine, a rod; (a) a staff for a journey, Matthew 10:10; (b) a sceptre for a ruler, Revelation 2:27; 12:5; (c) a rod of chastisement, 1 Corinthians 4:21 (NEG) Matthew 10:10 nor yet staves [hrabdon (poov), noun, accusative, feminine, singular] (CF 113 ) Mark 6:8 save a stave only [hrabdon (poov), noun, accusative, feminine, singular] (CF) Luke 9:3 neither staves, nor scrip [hrabdon (poov), noun, accusative, feminine, singular] (CF) 1 Corinthians 4:21 shall I come unto with a rod [hrabdo (poo), noun, dative, feminine, singular] (CF) Hebrews 1:8 a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom
[hrabdos (poo), two times in this verse, noun, nominative, feminine, singular] (CF) Hebrews 9:4 and Aarons rod that budded [hrabdos (poo), noun, nominative, feminine, singular] (CF) Hebrews 11:21 upon the top of his staff [hrabdou (poou), noun, genitive, feminine, singular] (CF) Revelation 2:27 rule the with a rod of iron [hrabdo (poo), noun, dative, feminine, singular] (CF) Revelation 11:1 a reed like unto a rod [hrabdo (poo), noun, dative, feminine, singular] (CF) Revelation 12:5 ... rule all nations with a rod of iron [hrabdo (poo), noun, dative, feminine, singular] (CF) Revelation 19:15 shall rule them with a rod of iron [hrabdo (poo), noun, dative, feminine, singular] (CF)
Comment: The rod or sceptre of the royal authority, a sceptre of righteousness, in the Kingdom of God appears to be a rod of authority, exercised like the rod or staff of a shepherd, albeit one of strength.
Suggested for further study, the related verb, hrabizo (p oi Co) used as a rod for beating a person in Acts 16:22 and 2 Corinthians 11:25.
sidera [oinpo ] Adjective = dative, singular, feminine, of sidereos (oinpto ), from sideros (oinpo), made of iron (H) Adjective, made of iron, iron (NE) Acts 12:10 they came unto the iron gate
113 CF = Analytical Concordance of the Greek New Testament, Edited by Clapp, Friberg, & Friberg 129
[sideran (oinpov), adjective, accusative, feminine, singular, of sidereos (oinpto)] (CF) Revelation 2:27 he shall rule them with a rod of iron. [sidera (oinpo ), adjective, dative, feminine, singular, of sidereos (oinpto)] (CF) Revelation 9:9 as it were breastplates of iron. [siderous (oinpou), adjective, accusative, plural, of sidereos (oinpto)] (CF) Revelation 12:5 to rule all nations with a rod of iron [ sidera (oinpo ), adjective, dative, feminine, singular, of sidereos (oinpto)] (CF) Revelation 19:15 he shall rule them with a rod of iron [sidera (oinpo ), adjective, dative, feminine, singular, of sidereos (oinpto)] (CF)
Noun, sideros (oinpo), masculine, iron (NE) Revelation 18:12 and of brass, and iron, and marble [siderou (oinpou), noun, genitive, masculine, singular of sideros (oinpo)] (CF)
suntribetai [ouvpitoi] Verb = 3 rd person, singular, present, indicative, passive, of suntribo (ouvpio), [sun & tribo (ouv pio) ], to rub together; to shiver, Mark 4:3; John 10:36; to break down, crush, bruise; Matthew 12:20; metaphorically, to break the power of any one; deprive of strength, debilitate, Luke 9:39; Romans 16:20; passively to be broken in heart, be contrite, Luke 4:18 (H)
Verb, to shatter, break in pieces, bruise; figuratively in Matthew 12:20 and Luke 4:18; to crush Satan under foot, Romans 16:20 [NE] Matthew 12:20 A bruised reed shall he not break [suntetrimmenon (ouvptpitvov), verb, participle, perfect, passive, accusative, masculine, singular, of suntribo (ouvpio)] (CF) Mark 5:4 and the fetters broken in pieces [suntetriphthai (ouvtpioi), verb, infinitive, perfect, passive, accusative, masculine, singular, of suntribo (ouvpio)] (CF) Mark 14:3 and she brake the box, and poured [suntripsasa (ouvpiooo), verb, participle, aorist, active, nominative, feminine, singular, of suntribo (ouvpio)] (CF) Luke 4:18 he hath sent me to heal brokenhearted [suntetrimmenous (ouvtpitvou), verb, accusative, plural, masculine, participle, perfect, passive, of suntribo (ouvpio)] (TR-Scr 114 ; Sch 115 ; and H) To heal the broken in heart, is omitted both by the Vatican Manuscript, and Griesbach, but Bloomfield thinks without sufficient warrant, as it is found in lxi.1 (Footnote in the Emphatic Diaglott).
114 TR-Sc = The Textus Receptus, Scrivener Edition 115 Sch = M. A. Scholz Greek New Testament 130
It is included in the Interlinear Greek-English New Testament based on Stephens-1550 as it is in TR-Scr., Sch, H and NEG. This phrase is also omitted in the present UBS. It is omitted also in the NASB and the NIV.
Luke 9:39 bruising him hardly departeth from him. [suntribon (ouvpiov), verb, participle, present, active, nominative, neuter, singular, of suntribo (ouvpio) (CF) John 19:36 a bone of him shall not be broken. [suntribesetai (ouvpinotoi , verb, indicative, future, passive, 3 rd
person, singular, of suntribo (ouvpio) (CF) Romans 16:20 shall bruise Satan under your feet. [suntripsiei (ouvpiiti), verb, indicative, future, active, 3 rd person, singular, of suntribo (ouvpio) (CF) Revelation 2:27 as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers. Note: -- Some manuscript copies here read [suntribetai (ouvpitoi), verb, indicative, present, passive, 3 rd
person, singular, of suntribo (ouvpio) (CF)
= COMPARISON OF OTHER SCRIPTURES* And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations (Revelation 2:26). And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him (Daniel 7:27). Know ye not that the saints shall judge the world? And if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? (1 Corinthians 6:2). Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds. Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand; To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people; To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD (Psalm 149:5-9).
= SOME CONCLUSIONS Rule = to shepherd Isaiah 40:10, 11 Psalm 72:3, 4, 12-14
Rod of iron = the sceptre of righteousness, the rod of his mouth Isaiah 11:4
broken to shivers = the taking away of the power and authority of the nations Isaiah 34:1-9; 24:21 Overthrow by Jesus and the Angels while the saints are hidden from the wrath and indignation of the Lord. Isaiah 24:22 to put the kings of earth in prison this honour have all the saints.
The information accumulated in this study presents a challenge to student of the word of God. Study with prayer for wisdom and understanding. We should inquire and search diligently about the truths of the gospel of the Kingdom of God as did the prophets search for what 131
manner of time and the sufferings of Christ and the glory that should follow. Even the angels desire to look into those things promised by Jehovah. 1 Peter 1:10-12
Ron Rankin February 21-25, 1993 *Additional Information Added, February 14, 2003 Re-edited January 4, 2008
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SARDIS WITH THE FEW NAMES A Bible Study Outline REVELATION 3:1 And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.
Revelation 3:1-6 I know thy works Thou livest and art dead. - 1 Timothy 5:6 - Ephesians 2:1,2,5-7 - Colossians 3:5,6 I have not found thy works perfect. - Matthew 5:48 - Colossians 1:27-29 - James 1:3,4 - James 3:2 Remember the things which remain, that are ready to die Matthew 24:42-51 Luke 21:34-36 Isaiah 17:9-11 Psalm 9:17 Psalm 78:5-8 2 Peter 3:1-4 1 Corinthians 5:8 A few which have not defiled their garments Jude 23 Ephesians 5:25-27 Revelation 1:5 Revelation 6:11 Revelation 7:9 Revelation 19:7-9 He that overcometh Malachi 3;16, 17 Matthew 10:32, 33 Romans 3:4 Romans 12:21 1 John 2:13,14; 4:4
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PHILADELPHIA, BROTHERLY LOVE A Bible Study Outline
Q REVELATION 3:7 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth, and no man openeth.
Revelation 3:7-13 I know thy works Q Galatians 5:5, 6 Q 1 Thessalonians 1:3 Q Revelation 3:2 I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it 1 Corinthians 16:8, 9 2 Corinthians 2:12 John 1:1-9 Colossians 4:3-6 Thou hast a little strength Strength Mark 12:30 And hast kept my word Colossians 1:9-11 Psalm 119:28 Ephesians 3:16-20 And hast not denied my name Romans 10:12, 13 1 Timothy 6:1 Romans 15:9 Revelation 2:13 hold fast my name The synagogue of Satan which do lie They say they are Jews and are not Galatians 3:28 1 Corinthians 10:32, 33 Deuteronomy 28:9-13 Amos 9:8-15 Isaiah 61:2-11 Thou hast kept the word of my patience Romans 15:4, 5 James 5:7-11 Hold that fast which thou hast Revelation 2:25 hold fast the things of verse 19 Hebrews 4:14 hold fast our profession Revelation 3:11 the things of verses 9 and 10 Ron Rankin February 2, 2008 135
WRETCHED, BLIND, AND NAKED A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 3:14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These thing saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God.
Revelation 3:15-22 I know thy works Neither hot, nor cold The significance of hot or cold 116 compare to each other may be irrelevant. They are both different than lukewarm. They represent acceptable alternatives to lukewarm; it says, I would thou wert cold or hot. Matthew 10:42 - give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water - the Greek word used here 117 is only used here in addition to Revelation 3:15, 16 Hot, an adjective, as is used only in these two verses [15, 16] in the New Testament, is zestos [Ctoo]. It is defined properly as boiled, boiling hot, metaphorically, glowing with zeal, fervent. 118 The root verb is zeo [Cto], which also means to boil, to be hot; metaphorically to be fervent, ardent, and zealous. 119
Zeo is found only two times: Acts 18:25 - [of Apollos] being fervent in spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord Romans 12:11 - Not slothful in business [in duty 120 ]; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord
116 Cold = psuchros [uypo], cool, cold, figuratively indifferent (The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Bagster; The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon) 117 Psuchros = We have at least one English word that comes directly from this Greek word, psychrometer; it is an instrument used to measure the difference between two thermometers, a wet bulb and dry bulb, to give the measurement of humidity in the atmosphere. Literally the psychrometer in Greek means cold measure. 118 The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Bagster; and The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon 119 Ibid. 120 Business = spoude [ooun ], haste, with a sense of urgency [The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Bagster] 136
Thou sayest I am rich 121
James 1:10,11 James 2:6 James 5:1 I am increased with goods 122 I have need of nothing 1 Timothy 6:9 1 Corinthians 4:8
Thou knowest not Thou art wretched 123
Romans 7:24 Thou art miserable 124
1 Corinthians 15:19 Thou art poor 125
2 Corinthians 6:10 James 2:6 Thou art blind 126
2 Peter 1:9 Matthew 15:14 Thou art naked 127
Hebrews 4:13 1 Corinthians 15:37 bare
I counsel thee Buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich 1 Peter 1:5-7-9,13 James 2:5 Proverbs 9:18, 19 Buy of me white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed Revelation 19:8 Romans 13:12, 14 Colossians 3:9, 10 Hebrews 12:14
121 Rich = plousios [iouoio], adjective, rich, wealthy [The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon] 122 Increased with goods = plouteo [iouto], verb, to be, or become, rich [Youngs Analytical Concordance] 123 Wretched = talaiporos [oioiopo], properly enduring severe effort and hardship; hence, wretched, miserable, afflicted, found only in two places in New Testament, Romans 7:24 and Revelation 3:17 (The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Bagster; The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon) 124 Miserable = eleeinos [tittivo], pitiable, wretched, miserable (The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Bagster; The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon) ; found only in 1 Corinthians 15:19 and Revelation 3:17 125 Poor = ptochos [oyo], reduced to beggary, mendicant; poor, indigent (The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Bagster; The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon) 126 Blind = tuphlos [uio], blind, metaphorically mentally blind (The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Bagster; The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon) 127 Naked = gumnos [yuvo], naked, without clothing (The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Bagster; The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon) 137
Anoint thine eyes with eye salve, that thou mayest see Matthew 6:22, 23 Ephesians 1:18 Revelation 4:6 Matthew 24:42, 43 1 Corinthians 16:13 1 Thessalonians 5:5-8 Revelation 16:15
As many as I love, I rebuke, and chasten Be zealous and repent
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock Hear my voice Open the door Sup together James 1:5, 6
To him that overcometh grant to sit with me 1 Corinthians 15:57, 58
He that hath an ear let him hear 1 Thessalonians 2:13
Ron Rankin June 29, 2002 Updated February 8, 2008
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SEEDS OF LAODICEA
= What are the seeds of Laodicea? * thou art neither hot nor cold (Revelation 3:15, 16) The development of apathy (the opposite of zealous). Luke 19:20-24 here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin Luke 8:14 are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection A strong focus on personal improvement to the exclusion of the business of preaching and teaching the gospel. Matthew 23:23 these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone Acts 20:26, 27 I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. A strong focus on the things to believe to the exclusion of the matters of conduct before God. Romans 1:18 who hold the truth in unrighteousness. Jude 11 the error of Balaam How to recognize the seeds and development of the spirit of hierarchy.
Definitions of hierarchy: Hierarchy noun, a ranking of individuals, as a group of officials, according to their authority or function in a church of government [The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language by The English Institute of America]. Hierarchy that now represents a system of graded authority once meant a government by officers of the church, a holy government, for the Greek word hieros meant holy. [Word Origins and their Romantic Stories, by Wilfred Funk, Litt.D.] Hierarchy can be opposed yet still practiced by the unintentional cultural frame of mind of the body of Christ. Also hierarchy can be opposed by the elders and deacons yet can be unintentionally practiced. History is evidence of these two statements. It did not enter the early church by any announced intent. It crept in unawares. It developed in practice enhanced by the seeds of improper motives. Acts 20:29-31 Jude 4,16
Symptoms of the seeds of hierarchy. James 4:1,2 From whence come wars and fightings among you? Galatians 5:15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 I .. of Paul I .. of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Jude 16 mens persons in admiration because of advantage
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James 5:11, 12 He that speaketh evil of his brother Matthew 23:5-11 the use of titles can support and promote the principles of hierarchy. This often begins innocently to designate someone who has been given responsibility which is inherent in the word used, and then becomes a title with the meaning a distinguishing appellation belonging to a person by right or rank [The Living Webster]. Some titles like Mr., Mrs., Miss are by right of being rather than by rank. The persons with designated responsibilities in the Church of God are called elders, deacons, pastors, etc., by designation of that responsibility rather than by rank. So, we do not use them as titles of rank but titles designating responsibility. The general culture of the world will however think title by rank.
* I am rich and increased with goods, and have need of nothing (Revelation 3:17). 1 Timothy 6:3-10 supposing that gain is godliness Ecclesiastes 7:12 For wisdom is a defense, and money is a defense: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it. Proverbs 28:22 He that hasteth to be rich
= Consequences, according to the judgment of Jehovah. * thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked (Revelation 3:17). Romans 11:8 the spirit of slumber, eyes not see, ears not hear Matthew 25:1-13 they all slumbered and slept
* the shame of nakedness (Revelation 3:18) Revelation 16:15 lest he walk naked, and they see his shame
* as many as I love, I rebuke and chasten (Revelation 3:19 Hebrews 12:4-13 Proverbs 3:11,12
= What are the remedies? * buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich (Revelation 3:18) 1 Peter 1:4-9 the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold James 2:5 the poor of this word rich in faith Matthew 19:16-24 it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God 1 Peter 5:1-4 Feed the flock of God not for filthy lucre Neither as being lords over Gods heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 140
1 Peter 5:5,6; 1 Timothy 5:1-3 regarding the elder and the younger Proverbs 3:11,12 despise not the chastening of the Lord (Jehovah)
* and (buy of me) white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed (Revelation 3:18) Revelation 19:8 fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. Revelation 16:15 Blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth his garments
* anoint thine eyes with eye salve, that thou mayest see (Revelation 3:18) Lessons in Israel Acts 28:25-27 Matthew 13:13-17 Isaiah 6:9-12
Understanding = To See Matthew 7:1-5 Proverbs 1:5; 2:2,3; 14:8; 28:5
* be zealous (Revelation 3:19) Zeal, good works, and knowledge. Titus 2:14 Romans 10:2 Zeal and Evangelism 2 Corinthians 9:2 Colossians 4:13
* repent (Revelation 3:19) Psalm 143:7 Hear me speedily, O Lord (Jehovah): my spirit faileth: Luke 13:3-5 repent or perish. Revelation 2:5,16,21,22; 3:3 hear and repent. Acts 8:22; 26:20
= The request of Jesus. * hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches (Revelation 2:7,11,17,29; 3:6,13,22).
* I stand at the door and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in, and will sup with him, and he with me (Revelation 3:20).
* To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne (Revelation 3:21).
* He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels (Revelation 3:5).
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* The first word of the commandment given in Deuteronomy 6:4, 5 is Hear according to Jesus in Mark 12:29. It goes on to say, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord.
* I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen (Revelation 22:16, 17, 20, 21).
Ron Rankin August 14, 2001
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DANGER SIGNS GRIEVE NOT THE HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD
GRIEVE NOT THE HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD Ephesians 4:30 - Whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption
SATANS ANGER AND HIS DEVICES Revelation 12:17 - We are in the days of Satans anger 2 Corinthians 2:10, 11 - We can ill-afford to ignore the devices of Satan
DAYS OF LUKEWARMNESS, TAKE HEED LEST WE FALL Revelation 3:14-18 - In danger of being spued out 1 Corinthians 10:11, 12 - We have examples and lessons in Israel, take heed lest we fall Revelation Chapters Two and Three - None of the churches were without fault before God Revelation 2:1-5 - Even the church at Ephesus had somewhat against it Ephesians 4:1-7 - Disunity threatens the worthiness of the vocation wherein we are called 1 John 1:7-10 - None are perfect, yet we are commanded to strive to that end 1 Peter 1:14-16 Matthew 5:48
DANGER SIGNS Partiality of Persons James 4:4 - To unscripturally hold persons in admiration 1 Timothy 5:21 - To prefer one before another by partiality Romans 12:10 - Be kindly affectioned with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another; warmth not the cold-shoulder 1 Corinthians 1:9, 10; 3:1-9 - Divisions because of personalities is carnal 1 Timothy 5:1, 2 - Cliques are inappropriate and are evidence of carnality. 1 Kings 12:1-11 - The church cannot afford to make the mistake of Rehoboam.
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Practice of Hierarchy, The Luke 22:24-27 - This cannot be a lip-service, but in reality a practice of humility and servitude
Spirit of Evangelism, The Luke 19:13-26 - We cannot afford to allow this to be weakened by divisiveness; it is not a competitive activity; and it is inclusive, not limited to places away from home
Mammon Matthew 26:9 - Example of the unscriptural regard for money held by Judas 1Timothy 6:5-10 - Beware the many foolish and hurtful lusts Revelation 3:14-18 - Richness is a malady of our time in the church
Resolution of Faults and Practices that are Destructive Matthew 18:15-17 - Between thee and him (or her) alone 1 Peter 4:15 - Busybody in other mens matters; meddling Proverbs 11:11-13 - Tale-bearing and a tongue void of wisdom; gossip Colossians 3:10-14 - The remedy renewal in knowledge after the image of God
Spiritual Stagnation James 3:5, 6 - An evidence of spiritual decline the tongue that sets on fire 2 Timothy 3:14-17 - Teach the young that they may become wise unto salvation 2 Timothy 2:15 - Teach the young to study, and how to study, the scriptures, so that their knowledge and understanding may be of many and varied scriptures rather than a few standards Acts 20:25, 26 - Declare the whole (all the) counsel of God, and teach the congregation to examine the scriptures rather than wait to be told Acts 17:10, 11 - The more noble of Berea searched the scriptures to see whether or not Paul was teaching the truth. Every member of the Body of Christ should do the same for any who teach or preach in our congregation
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Galatians 6:1-3 - Replace destructive criticism of brethren with a constructive loving effort to help 1 Corinthians 13:5-8 and 12:22-26 - Teach the depth of the scriptures rather than surface principles, such as, teach the scriptural how to love rather than just the principle of love
Teachers 2 Timothy 3:3, 4 - Heap to themselves teachers having itching ears that ultimately results in the turning from the teaching of truth and righteousness Philippians 1:15-18 - Teaching and preaching to hurt or damage brethren Hebrews 5:12-14; 6:1-3 - Those who are apt to teach should teach the others how and what to teach, allowing for individual style of teaching. Use constructive criticism, never the destructive kind, for both experienced and novice teachers 1 Timothy 5:1, 2 and Titus 2:1-8 - Teaching is not only the responsibility the elders that oversee but all the elders (men and women) in the congregation Labourers Together Ephesians 4:11-16 - The scriptural organism of the church 1 Corinthians 12:12-21 - To properly function each member must be supported by all other members in their functions; the whole congregation bears a collective responsibility 1 Peter 5:3 - The elders who oversee are examples to the flock, not doers for the flock; generally the responsibilities of the members can not be scripturally relegated to the elders or the deacons Psalm 127:1 - As labourers together our effectiveness is limited to the fact that we do not give the increase, which comes from Jehovah Acts 10:29, 30 - Remember that Jesus is the Head of the Body and he is the only Head Psalm 133:1-3 - Divisiveness is destructive Proverbs 6:12-19 - Regarding the sower of discord Ron Rankin January 22, 2002 145
GREAT GAIN Revelation 3:17, 18 A Textual Bible Study
1 TIMOTHY 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred 128
from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows (KJV 129 ).
piCo yop ovov ov |o|ov toiv n iiopyupio n ivt a root for of all of the evils is the love of money; which some A root for of all ----- evils is the love of money; of which some
optyotvoi otiovnnoov oo n ioto |oi touou longing after wandered from the faith, and themselves lusting after were seduced from the faith, and themselves
For a root of all kinds of evil is the love of money; which some longing after, wandered from the faith, and pierced themselves around with many sorrows [Benjamin Wilson]
For a root of all the evils is the love of money, which certain longing for did go astray from the faith, and themselves did pierce through with many sorrows [Youngs Literal Translation]
For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith, and pierced themselves with many a pang [The New American Standard Bible]
For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs [The New International Version]
128
129 KJV = The Authorized Version aka The King James Version, 1611. The King James Version is used throughout this study except when otherwise noted. 130 JJG = the Dr. J. J. Griesbach Greek Text; UBS-2 = the Greek Text of the United Bible Societies, Edition Two; Sch. = The Greek New Testament of Dr. M. A. Scholz, Leipsic, 1830-36); TR-Sc = The Textus Receptus, Scrivener Edition. 131 DI = The Interlinear Emphatic Diaglott, Benjamin Wilson 132 GI = The Interlinear Bible, translator Jay P. Green, Sr. 146
Sapagkat ang pagibig sa salapi ay ugat ng lahat ng uri ng kasamaan; na sa pagnanasa ng iba ay nangasinay sa pananampalataya, at tinuhog ang kanilang sarili maraming mga kalumbayan [Ang Biblia Tagalog]
Ta ti ayat ti pirac isu ti maysa a ramut ti isu-amin a kita ti dakes; isu, nga idi inaguman dagiti dadduma, nayawawanda iti pammati ket nasalputda cadagiti adu a ladladinget [Ti Biblia, Ilokano]
Kay ang gugma sa cuarta amo ang gamut sang tanan nga kalainan; paagi sa sining mainit nga handum ang iban nagtalang gikan sa pagtoo kag nagsuntok sang ila mga tagiposoon sing madamung kasakitan [Ang Biblia Hiligaynon]
Kay ang gugma sa salapi mao ang gamut sa tanang kadautan; nga ang uban tungod sa pagkaibog nini sangasalaag sila gikan sa pagtoo, ug nangatugob sa ilang kaugalingon sa daghang kasakit [Ang Biblia Cebuano]
The Definition of Some of the Above Greek Words
& iiopyupio noun, nominative, feminine, singular [CF&F 133 ] love of money, covetousness [H 134 ] This word is found only in 1 Timothy 6:10 Compare iiopyupo (iio & opyupo) money-loving, covetous, Luke 16:14; 2 Timothy 3:2 (H 135 ) opyupo silver, meton. 136 , anything made of silver; money (H 137 )
& |o|ov adjective, pronomial, genitive, neuter, plural [CF&F 138 ] root word = |o|o - bad, or a bad quality or disposition , worthless, corrupt, depraved, Matthew 21:41; 24:48; Mark 7:21; wicked, criminal, morally bad; o |o|ov, evil, wickedness, crime, Matthew 27:23; Acts 23:9; malediction, 1 Peter 3:10; mischievous, harmful, baneful; o |o|ov, evil, mischief, harm, injury, Titus 1:12; afflictive; o |o|ov , evil, misery, affliction, suffering, Luke 16:25 [H 139 ] 1 Timothy 6:10 the root of all evil
133 CF&F = Analytical Concordance of the Greek New Testament, Volume 1, Lexical Focus, Editors Philip S. Clapp; Barbara Friberg, Timothy Friberg 134 H = The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Harper & Brothers 135 H = Ibid. 136 Meton = metonymy 137 H = Ibid. 138 CF&F = Ibid. 139 H = Ibid. 147
Romans 1:30 inventors of evil things 1 Corinthians 10:6 we should not lust after evil things James 1:13 for God cannot be tempted with evil [margin, or, evils) Also under |o|o, the root word: Acts 16:28 do thyself no harm Acts 28:5 felt no harm Romans 13:10 love worketh no ill 2 Corinthians 5:10 whether it be good or bad Revelation 16:2 fell a noisome and grievous sore Titus 1:12 evil beasts
& optyotvoi verb, participle, present, middle, nominative, masculine, plural [CF&F 140 ] Root word = optyo - to extend, stretch out; mid. to stretch ones self out, to reach forward to; metaphorically to desire earnestly, long after, 1 Timothy 3:1; Hebrews 11:16; by implication to indulge in, be devoted to, 1 Timothy 6:10 [H 141 ] 1 Timothy 3:1 optytoi - verb, indicative, present, middle, third person, singular [CF&F 142 ] - if a man desire the office. - This Greek word is only found in these three places in the N.T. - ** Note: desireth a good work, in 1 Timothy 3:1 is a different word; and in addition to 1 Timothy 3:1 covet = root word, tiuto: Matthew 5:28 to lust after Luke 16:21 desiring to be fed Romans 7:6; 13:9 thou shalt not covet
& otiovnnoov verb, indicative, aorist, passive, third person, plural [CF&F 143 ] Root word = ooiovoo - (oo & iovoo) to cause to wander; metaphorically to deceive, pervert, seduce, Mark 13:22; passive, to wander; metaphorically, to swerve from, apostatise, 1 Timothy 4:10 [H 144 ] Mark 13:22 = ooiovov - verb, infinitive, present, active, accusative [CF&F 145 ] - This Greek word is only found in these two places in the New Testament - Compare iovnoi in Jude 13, wandering
140 CF&F = Analytical Concordance of the Greek New Testament, Volume 1, Lexical Focus, Editors Philip S. Clapp; Barbara Friberg, Timothy Friberg 141 H = The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Harper & Brothers 142 CF&F = Ibid. 143 CF&F = Ibid. 144 H = Ibid. 145 CF&F = Ibid. 148
& tpittioov verb, indicative, aorist, active, third person, plural [CF&F] Root word = tpitipo - (tpi & tipo) to put on a spit, transfix; met. To pierce, wound deeply, 1 Timothy 6:10 [H] - This Greek word is only found in this one place in the New Testament
& ouvoi noun, dative, feminine, plural [CF&F 146 ] Root word = ouvn - pain of body or mind; sorrow, grief, Romans 9:2; 1 Timothy 6:10 [H 147 ] - This Greek work is only found in these two places in the New Testament Compare related words, also: > ouvoo - to pain either bodily or mentally; passive, to be in agony, to be tormented, L [H 148 ]
& ovov adjective, genitive, plural [CF&F 149 ] all, the whole, every, in all respects [H 150 ]
& oi and in New Testament oiv. ivo. n. the throes of a woman in travail, a birth-pang. 1 Thessalonians 5:3; plural metaphorically, birth-throes, preliminary troubles to the development of a catastrophe, Matthew 24:8; Mark 13:9; from the Hebrew, a stringent and, a snare, noose, Acts 2:24 [H 151 ]
& oivo to be in travail with, to make effort to bring to spiritual birth, Galatians 4:19 [H 152 ]
CONCLUSIONS
> The precise translation is: For the love of money is a root of all of the evils. Youngs Literal Translation of the Bible is the closest to an absolutely word for word translation. It reads, For a root of all the evils is the love of money.
146 CF&F = Analytical Concordance of the Greek New Testament, Volume 1, Lexical Focus, Editors Philip S. Clapp; Barbara Friberg, Timothy Friberg 147 H = The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Harper & Brothers 148 H = Ibid. 149 CF&F = Ibid. 150 H = Ibid. 151 H = Ibid. 152 H = Ibid. 149
> A root denotes that it might not be the only root to the plant which grows all bad things.
> The meaning of |o|o = bad. Sin in Greek is o opio. Bad may be a sin or it may simply be bad in the sense of a catastrophe, or physical or mental harm. The two words are not necessarily synonymous. See Isaiah 45:7.
> The KJV adds the in saying is the root; and omits of in saying the root of all evil.
> The NASB adds sorts and omits the in the phrase sorts of evil.
> The NIV adds kinds and omits of the in the phrase kinds of evil.
> All three say evil instead of evils, the King James Version allowing the plural to stand in of all, while the New American Standard Bible and New International Version show the plural by the plural of their added words sorts and kinds. One can make similar comparisons to all translations.
> The context of iiopyupio & iiopyupo 1 Timothy 6:10 verse 5 supposing that gain is godliness verse 9 they that will be rich verse 10 which while some coveted after - Literally verse 10 is talking about the love of silver, while in the broader sense of the context it is talking about gain, riches and covetousness which go beyond the literal silver. Luke 16:14 Here it is translated covetous Luke 16:14 The subject here is the covetousness of the Pharisees, about which Jesus has just given the parable of the unjust steward [Luke 16:1-12]. 2 Timothy 3:2 Again the word is translated covetous.
> Related Texts: 1 Peter 5:2, 3 not for filthy lucre 1 Timothy 3:3,8 not greedy of filthy lucre Titus 1:7 not given to filthy lucre Hebrews 13:5 let your conversation be without covetousness, and be content with such things as ye have Philippians 4:11 in whatever state to be content
> By interpretation, we might say, covetousness, one of the lusts of our flesh, is a root of all bad. Like Eve, who was deceived, saw that the fruit was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise (Genesis 3:6). Thus, the curse of sickness, pain, sorrow, and death, came upon all mankind.
150
> There is a root of all evil/bad; that root is love and affection for personal gain that is bad or evil. Whether the gain is evidenced in money, or any of the numerous lusts that plague mankind, is irrelevant, because that love, that desire, that covetousness, turns away from the righteousness of Jehovah.
> What evil, or bad, is not included in the all kinds thereof? Conversely, there is Great Gain in godliness in which there is not evil. It is the root that guides to godliness or wickedness. We may be rooted and grounded in the love of God; or we may be rooted in the love of Ones Self.
Ephesians 3:17-19 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God. Colossians 2:6,7 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Romans 11:16-18 For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy so are the branches. And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakers of the root and fatness of the olive tree; Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.
Proverbs 12:3,12 A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved. The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit. 153
Ron Rankin September 1999 Updated February 6, 2008
153 Men, fruit = these two words have been added to the text by the translators, neither being not in the Hebrew text. 151
152
HE THAT SAT ON THE THRONE A Bible Study Outline
REVELATION 4:1-3 I will shew thee things which must be hereafter. He that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald Ezekiel 1:26-28 Ezekiel 10:1-4
REVELATION 4:5, 6 Out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thundering and voices And there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal
REVELATION 4:8, 9, 11 Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty In the Hebrew of the Old Testament, Lord God Almighty is represented as: - Jehovah 0. Exodus 3:14 LORD [YHWH, Jehovah] God [Elohim] - El or Elohim - Shaddai 1. Exodus 6:3 God [El] Almighty [Shaddai]
Which was, and is, and is to come 1. Revelation 4:8 154
Kupio o Oto o ovo|poop. o nv |oi Lord God, the Almighty, the (One who) was and
o ov |oi o tpyotvo 155
is and (is) coming 156
154 See I Am the One for the discussion of the grammar pertaining to this phrase 155 This Greek text is that of the Textus Receptus, Scrivener Edition 156 The interlinear translation is that of the Interlinear Bible, Jay P. Green, Sr. translator 153
Psalm 90:1, 2 157
- Jehovah, the Almighty Mighty God. - The Existing One, without beginning, continuing, and is coming to the earth to continue for time without end. Psalm 132:13, 14 Revelation 21:1-4
Glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever. 158
1 Timothy 1:17 - Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Timothy 6:15-16 - Which in his [Jesus] times he [Jesus] shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; - Who [Jehovah] only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power Romans 15:8-11 - Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the father: - And that the Gentiles might glorify God [Jehovah] for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles. And sing unto thy name. - And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people. - And again, Praise the Lord [Jehovah], all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people. Psalm 117:1, 2 - O praise Jehovah [YHWH], all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. - For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of Jehovah endureth for ever. Praise ye Jehovah. For thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created Isaiah 45:18 Isaiah 44:24
Ron Rankin January 11, 2008
157 Everlasting = olam, the Hebrew word for an indefinite, by definition an undefined, period of time. Context and comparison of scriptures will determine if it has an end or is without end. 158 For ever and ever = aionios, the Greek word for an indefinite, by definition an undefined, period of time. Context and comparison of scriptures will determine if it has an end or is without end. 154
THE FOUR BEASTS OF REVELATION FOUR A Bible Study Outline
WHO ARE THE FOUR BEASTS OF REVELATION 4:6-11? Revelation 5:8-10 They along with the 24 elders represent the redeemed who have harps and golden vials full of odours, the prayers of the saints. They represent the redeemed to God by the blood of the Lamb. They represent the redeemed out of every kindred and tongue, and people, and nation. Revelation 7:14-17 Revelation 19:4,5 Psalm 1-6:47 Revelation 1:1-3 They too, represent things that will shortly come to pass.
WHAT ARE THESE FOUR BEASTS THAT, ALONG WITH THE 24 ELDERS, REPRESENT THE REDEEMED? The first beast = like a lion. The first century boldness of faith and preaching to all the World. Proverbs 30:29,30 Proverbs 28:1 Acts 4:13,29-31 Acts 8:4 Acts 13:46 2 Corinthians 7:4 Philippians 1:20 1 Thessalonians2:1-6 1 Timothy 3:13 Philemon 6-9 The second beast = like a calf. A beast of sacrifice: First at the hand of the Pagan Roman Empire Second at the hand of the Holy Roman Empire Revelation 1:9 Revelation 2:13 Revelation 6:9-11 Revelation 14:13 Revelation 20:4 The third beast = had a face as a man. God and Jesus are replaced in the Church by the leadership of a man. Acts 20:29, 30 Jude 4, 16 2 Peter 2:1-3 1 John 2:18, 19 1 John 4:3 2 Timothy 4:3, 4 2 Thessalonians 2:4 Revelation 16:6; 17:5, 6; 18:24
155
The fourth beast = like a flying eagle. How God carries His people out of harms way and to safety. Exodus 19:4 Deuteronomy 32:9-12 Psalm 103:1-6 Isaiah 40:28-31 Revelation 12:13-15 They each had six wings about and full of eyes before, behind and within. What is a watchman? Ezekiel 33:1-16 Matthew 24:42, 43 Matthew 25:13 Matthew 26:41 Acts 20:31 1 Corinthians 16:13 Colossians 4:2 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9 2 Timothy 4:3-5 Hebrews 13:17 1 Peter 4:7 Revelation 3:3 They had no rest neither day nor night Represents no rest from persecution. Israel, past and continuing. Deuteronomy 28:65-68 Lamentations 1:3 Lamentations 5:5 The Church John 15:20 2 Corinthians 7:5 Acts 14:22 1 Peter 5:8,9 They give glory, honour and thanks to God and the 24 elders fall down before Him and worship. Revelation 7:10-12 1 Corinthians 10:31 Ephesians 3:20, 21 1 Timothy 1:16 2 Corinthians 2:14, 15 Ephesians 5:20, 21 Colossians 3:17 Hebrews 13:15 They cast their crowns before the throne and glorify God. Revelation 11:16, 17 in the context of verses 15 and 18. 1 Corinthians 15:24-28 that God may be All-in-All. Revelation 4:13 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: For thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. Ron Rankin February 16, 2001
156
TWENTY-FOUR ELDERS A Bible Study Outline
= THE TWENTY-FOUR ELDERS IDENTIFIED Revelation 4:4,10,11 Revelation 5:8-10 the redeemed. from ever kindred, tongue, people, and nation. thus they represent the saved throughout all the ages.
= TWENTY-FOUR ELDERS AS A DESCRIPTION Why twenty-four? Although the Scriptures do not tell us specifically the reason for this number, we can compare the use of the two sets of twelve. The twelve patriarchs, fathers of the twelve tribes of Israel. the twelve apostles whom Jesus sent to preach the gospel to the uttermost part of the earth, to the Jew first and also to the Gentile. They, along with the prophets sent to Israel, are the foundation of the household of God. Acts 1:1-8 Romans 1:16 Ephesians 2:19,20 Revelation 21:12,14 names of the twelve tribes of Israel. names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. Matthew 10:1-5 twelve disciples called apostles Matthew 19:28 ye (the twelve disciples/apostles) shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. John 6:70,71 one of you is a devil. 1 Corinthians 15:5-10 Acts 9:1-6 Romans 11:13 2 Timothy 1:11 Paul replaced Judas, being chosen by Jesus as the apostle to the Gentiles. Why elders? Revelation 5:14 Revelation 11:16,17 Revelation 19:4 Elder [Greek presbuteros ( presbuteros ) ] defined elder, senior; older, more advanced in years; plural specially ancients, ancestors, fathers; as an appellation of dignity, an elder, local dignitary; an elder, member of the Jewish Sanhedrin; an elder or presbyter of the Christian church [Harpers Analytical Greek Lexicon]. Consult a good concordance for its many uses in the New Testament. 1 Timothy 5:1-20 note the responsibility of the elder men of the church.
Ron Rankin June 8. 2003 157
158
AN OVER-VIEW OF THE LAMB AND THE REDEEMED Revelation Five
4 HE THAT SAT ON THE THRONE As identified in chapter Four, it is Jehovah on the Throne Revelation 5:1 In His right hand - A book sealed with seven seals - Exodus 15:3-12 the right hand of Jehovahs power - Hebrews 1:1-3 His Son sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high 159
A book sealed with seven seals - Sealed katesphragismenon [|otopoyiotvov] Accusative, singular, neuter, participle, perfect, passive form of katasphragizo [|ooopoyi Co], a compound word formed from |oo & opayiCo. Katasphragizo means to seal up Revelation 5:2 is the only place this word where is found in the New Testament - Seals sphragisin [opoyioiv] Dative plural of the noun sphragis [opoyi] Sphragis means a seal, a signet ring, an inscription on a seal. 1 Corinthians 9:2 2 Timothy 2:19 Romans 4:11 Colossians 2:11, 12 Revelation 7:2, 3 Revelation 9:4 Compare 160 the Hebrew chatham in the Old Testament Isaiah 29:11, 12 Daniel 12:4 Daniel 9:24 1 Kings 21:8
159 See also Hebrews 8:1 and Hebrews 12:2 160 Sealed = Hebrew chatham [22 ], a primitive root, to close up; especially to seal [#2856 in Strongs Exhaustive Concordance to the Bible] 159
4 STRONG ANGEL WITH A LOUD VOICE Revelation 5:2-4 Who is worthy to open the book and to loose the seals thereof?
4 IN THE MIDST STOOD A LAMB Revelation 5:5-10 Identity of the Lamb Lion of the tribe of Judah Genesis 49:9-12 Root of David Romans 1:1-4 Lamb John 1:29-34 1 Corinthians 5:7 Had been slain Revelation 1:18 Revelation 13:8,9 Having the seven spirits of God Isaiah 11:1-5
4 THE REDEEMED Revelation 5:9-14 Luke 20:34-38 Ephesians 1:7-12 Gather together in one all things in Christ The redeemed surrounded by myriads of angels, saying, Worthy is the Lamb Neither can they die any more: for they are equal to the angels Every creature in heaven and in earth and under the earth, heard saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.
Ron Rankin February 29, 2008
160
REDEMPTION Revelation 5:9, 10 A Bible Study Outline
1 ST Corinthians 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption [katubusan].
Apolutrosis [ooiupooi] - Noun, feminine, a buying back, redemption - Katubusan - Luke 21:28 - Your redemption [pagkatubos] draweth nigh - Romans 3:24 - the redemption [pagtubos] that is in Christ Jesus - Romans 8:23 - The redemption [pagtubos] of our body - Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption [katubusan] through his blood - Ephesians 1:14 - the redemption [ikatutubos] of the purchased possession - Ephesians 4:30 - until the day of redemption [pagkatubos] - Colossians 1:14 - in whom we have redemption [katubusan] - Hebrews 9:15 - redemption [ikatutubos] of the transgressions - Hebrews 11:35 - Not accepting deliverance [katubusan]
Ephesians 1:13-17 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.
Ron Rankin June 3, 2000; Updated March 7, 2008 161
REIGN ON THE EARTH A Bible Study Outline
REVEALTION 5:9, 10 161
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us 162 to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
! Who The Redeemed Greek 163 egorasas [nyopooo] - 2 nd person, singular, aorist 1, indicative, active form of agorazo [oyopoCo], the verb form of the noun agora [oyopo ]. - Agora means the place of public concourse, forum, market-place. [Compare the verb to which agora is related ageoro [oytipo], to gather together.] - Agorazo means to buy, redeem, acquire, by a price paid. Matthew 13:44 buyeth that field Matthew 11:15 sold and bought in the temple 1 Corinthians 6:20 ye 164 are bought with a price 2 Peter 2:1 among you denying the Lord that bought them
! Reign Greek basileusousin [ooiituoouoiv] - 3 rd person, plural, future, indicative form of basileuo [ooiituo], the verb form of the noun basileus [ooiitu]. - Basileus means a king, monarch, one possessing regal authority. - Basileuo means to possess regal authority, be a king, reign. Revelation 1:6 Daniel 7:27 Revelation 3:21 Revelation 21:24 Matthew 19:28 Luke 12:32
161 I have used the King James Version throughout this study unless otherwise noted. 162 Us = the redeemed from all peoples 163 The Lexicon used in this study, unless otherwise indicated = The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Samuel Bagster and Sons, Limited 164 Ye = the church of God which is at Corinth, 1 Corinthians 1:1; members of Christ, 1 Corinthians 6:15; Christs servant ye, 1 Corinthians 7:22, 23 162
! On the Earth Greek ges [yn] - noun, genitive, singular of ge [yn], a contraction of gea [yto]. - yn means earth, soil, the ground, the surface of the earth, the land (as opposed to the sea or a lake). Daniel 7:27 under the whole heaven Psalm 72:8 dominion from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth
- The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth 165 [Proverbs 10:30].
- Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth 166 : much more the wicked and the sinner [Proverbs 11:31].
- For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon Jehovah, they shall inherit the earth 167
[Psalm 37:9].
- For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth 168 ; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off [Psalm 37:22].
- The righteous shall inherit the land 169 , and dwell therein for ever [Psalm 37:29].
- Wait on Jehovah, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land 170 : when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it [Psalm 37:34].
Ron Rankin February 21, 1993
165 Earth = Hebrew eretz [|N], meaning earth, land [Strongs Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible]. 166 Earth = Ibid 167 Earth = Ibid 168 Earth = Ibid 169 Land = Ibid 170 Land = Ibid 163
A CLOSER LOOK AT THE TEXT Revelation 5:9, 10
Greek Text Revelation 5:9
9) |oi oouoiv onv |oivnv. ityovt. oEio ti iotiv o and they sung a song new, saying; worthy thou art to receive the
iiiov. |oi ovoiEoi o oopyio ouou oi tooyn. scroll, and to open the seals of it; because thou wast slain,
|oi nyopooo o Oto no` tv o oioi oou t| oon and didst buy back for the God us with the blood of thee out of every
uin |oi yiooon |oi ioou |oi tvou. 171
tribe and tongue and people and nation, 172
Verse 09 Manuscript Data
+ Summary of this data: e United Bible Societies, Edition Two 173 reading they have rated {C} for verse nine, meaning that there is considerable degree of doubt whether their text contains the superior reading. e UBS-2 adopts the omission of no and itemizes only by two manuscripts according to their own footnotes. Those two are dated to the 5 th and 6 th centuries A.D. One is Codex A, London: Alexandrian that seems to be the center of much controversy. But about which all agree that it was the beginning of textual criticism. That criticism has led to a plethora of translations many of which are translator biased toward the doctrines of Orthodoxy. e UBS-2 itemizes manuscript evidence from 38 source documents. These 38 all include no. Details are shown under each variant reading below.
`no is omitted in the UBS-2 text; it reads o Oto only It is also omitted in the in the following manuscript evidence: - London: Alexandrinus 174 V 175
[Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] 176
171 This manuscript is that used by in 172 This interlinear translation is that of in 173 Herein UBS-2 will be used to represent the Greek New Testament by the United Bible Societies, Edition Two. 174 The name of the Greek Text [Alexandrinus] and where it is located [London] 175 V is the century in which this manuscript was copied. There are no original copies of the Greek manuscript of the New Testament, only copies. 176 This delineates the content of this manuscript. Most manuscripts are not complete, contained Matthew through Revelation, as can be seen as they are listed herein. 164
- Ethiopic VI [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - The J. J. Griesbach text (1805) used in the Emphatic Diaglott 177 includes no with the following footnote for verse 9: us is omitted by A, and the Codex Sinaiticus D, and both read to our God. A is the London: Alexandrinus. - The M. A. Scholz text (1830-1836) reads the same as the Textus Receptus.
`o Oto no this is the reading in the TR(Scr.Ed) 178 and the following manuscript evidence:
- London: Sinaiticus IV [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Numbered Uncial 179 046 X [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 180 1006 XI [Gospels, Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 1611 XII [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 1859 XI [Epistles of Paul, Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2020 XV [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2042 XIV [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2053 XIII [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2065c XV [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2081 XI [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2138 1072 [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2432 XIV [Revelation]
177 The Emphatic Diaglott was prepared using the Dr. J. J. Griesbach Greek Text 178 TR(Scr.Ed) = The Textus Receptus, or Received Text, is the Greek Text used for the King James Version of 1611. We use here the edition published by Scrivener 179 Uncials = ancient manuscript letters distinguished from modern capital majuscules; a manuscript written in uncials 180 Minuscule = small, as lower case; written in such letters; the small cursive script developed in the 7 th century from the uncial, which it afterward superseded [The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language]; the Minuscules are fragments of the Greek text for the New Testament and are numbered. 165
- Coptic Version (Bohairic) 181 IV [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Church Father 182 Andrew of Caesarea-a 614 - Church Father Andrew of Caesarea-p 614 - Church Father Arethas 914
`no o Oto
- Greek Minuscule 94 XIII [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 1828 XII [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2073 XIV [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2344 XI [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-ar IX [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-c XII/XIII [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-dem XIII [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-gig XIII [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-haf X [Revelation] - Latin Vulgate IV [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Syriac Version Philoxenian VI [Catholic of General Epistles in part, Revelation] - Syriac Version Harclean VI [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Coptic Version Bohairic? IV [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation some doubt] - Armenian Version IV/V [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Church Father Hippolytus 235 - Church Father Cyprian 258 - Church Father Augustine 430
181 Coptic Versions of the New Testament = 182 Church Fathers = They are by name ; the date shown is the date, or approximate date, of death. 166
- Church Father Primasius 552 - Church Father Andrew of Caesarea-bav 614 - Church Father Andrew of Caesarea-c 614
`no o Oto no this reading is in the following manuscript evidence:
- Coptic Version Sahidic? III [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation]
Greek Text Revelation 5:10
+ Summary of the data below: e It appears that the variation between Greek manuscripts is alone the reason for the differences in translation. e The choice of ouou instead of noappears to be one of a considerable degree of doubt. e The choice of verb below has no particular affect upon either translation or understanding of the text. However, to be in agreement, with the majority of texts with verse 9 that use no [us], consistency calls for ooiituootv [we shall reign] to be the word used in verse 10.
10) |oi toinoo no` o Oto nov ooiiti |oi
itpti. |oi ooiituootv` ti n yn. priests, and we shall reign on the earth,
Verse 10 Manuscript Data:
`no is retained by the following manuscripts according to Nestle-Aland. - Greek Minuscule 1611* XII - Vulgate cl XVI - Church Father Beatus of Liebanan VIII - Church Father Gigus XIII. - Church Father Hippolytus 235 - Church Father Primaseus 567
`no is replaced in the UBS-2 text autous [ouou]. - UBS-2 gives no footnote explanation or other textual evidence for their text. - They do recognize that their text is rated {C} meaning that there is a considerable degree of doubt. - The J. J. Griesbach (1805) text reads the same as the UBS-2 text for verse 10 as does the M. A. Scholz text (1830-1836). 167
- Nestle-Aland texts read autous [ouou] instead of n o in the following manuscripts. A-02 London: Alexandrinus V [Gospels, Acts, General Epistles, Pauls Epistles, Revelation] Greek Minuscule 1854 XI [Acts, Pauls Epistles, Revelation] Minuscule 2050 1107 [Revelation] Minuscule 2329 X [Revelation] Greek Minuscule 2344 XI [Revelation] Syriac Version syr-ph VI [General Epistles pt, Revelation] Old Latin Versions V-h,VII-l,VIII-z,IV-IX-m,IX-ar,XI- g1,t,XII-c, XIII-dem,div,gig,p [the 12 of them listed by UBS2 that contain Revelation (43 do not contain Revelation)]
`ooiituootv [verb, indicative, 1 st person, plural] This is the word in the TR(Scr.Ed) and the following manuscript evidence:
- Greek Minuscule 2432 XIV [Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-dem XIII [Acts, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Vulgate cl XVI [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Church Father Maternus 348 - Church Father Tyconius 380 - Church Father Primasius 552 - Church Father Bede 735 - Church Father Haymo 841 - Church Father Arethas-txt914
`ooiituoouoiv [verb, indicative, feminine, 3 rd person, plural] this is the word in the UBS-2 and in the following manuscript evidence:
- London: Sinaiticus IV [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - P Leningrad IX [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Revelation] 168
- Greek Minuscule 1 XII [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 94 XII [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 1828 XII [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 1854 XI [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2042 XIV [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2053 XIII [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2073 XIV [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2081* XI [Revelation-the reading of the original hand of a manuscript] - Greek Minuscule 2344 XI [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-c XII/XIII [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-div XIII [Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-gig XIII [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-haf X [Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-z VIII [Epistles of Paul, Catholic of General Epistles, Revelation] - Vulgate-ww XIX/XX [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Syriac Version-Philoxenian VI [Catholic or General Epistles in part, Revelation] - Coptic Version-Sahidic III [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Coptic Version-Bohairic IV [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Armenian Version IV/V [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Church Father Hippolytus 235 - Church Father Cyprian 258 - Church Father Fulgentius 533 - Church Father Andrew of Caesarea-bav 614 - Church Father Andrew of Caesarea-c 614 - Church Father Andrew of Caesarea-p 614 169
- Church Father Arethas 914
`ooiituouoiv a verb, not listed in this form in either The Analytical Greek Lexicon (Harpers/Bagsters) or the Analytical Concordance of the Greek New Testament, Volume 1, Lexical Focus (Bakers)] This word is in the following manuscript evidence:
- London: Alexandrinus V [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Numbered Uncial 046 X [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 1006 XI [Gospels, Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 1611 XII [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 1859 XIV [Acts, Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2020 XV [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 2065 XV [Revelation] - Greek Minuscule 5081c XI [Revelation-corrector of a manuscript] - Greek Minuscule 2138 1072 [Acts, Epistles of Paul, Revelation] - Old Latin Version it-ar IX [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Syriac Version-Harclean VI [Gospels, Acts, Epistles of Paul, Catholic or General Epistles, Revelation] - Church Father Andrew of Caesarea 640
Verse 10 Other Translations:
ooiiti |oi itpti [JJG Text and TR(Scr.Ed)]. a kingdom and priests [NASB]. kings and priests [Diaglott].
Ron Rankin April 10, 1997 Updated August 22, 2004 File Reference Revelation 5:9, 10
170
171
SEVEN SEALS A Summary Revelation 6:1
They are discussed in more detail in later in our coverage of Chapter Six, but here we look at them in relationship to the rest of the book.
Six of the seals are fully related in chapter six. However the seventh seal is opened in Chapter Eight. Upon opening it proceeds to relate the rest of the Book, including seven trumpets, seven thunders, seven plagues, and seven vials.
Interestingly this makes the book overall to not be visions of consecutive events. The reason is seen when we find how they begin and how each set of sevens end their apocalyptic prophecy. - The first Six Seals, of Chapter Six, end with the return of Christ and the end of this present age. The first Five Seals all precede the return of Christ. - The Seven Trumpets, of Chapters Eight and Nine and verses 14-18 of Chapter Eleven, end with the Seventh Trumpet at the return of Christ and associated events with it. The First Six Trumpets all precede the return of Christ. - The vision, of the Seven Thunders in Chapter Ten, is neither recorded nor explained. - The Seven Plagues, of Revelation Chapter Fifteen, the wrath of God. - The Seven Vials, of Chapter Sixteen, also are filled with the wrath of God. Vial Seven is at the return of Christ. The first Six Vials all precede the return of Christ.
The events of that precede the six seal and the seventh trumpet, overlap in their time of fulfillment. Many other visions that are shown in the Seventh Seal are concerning events of this present age, and therefore overlap in various ways and at various times in Chapters 11 through 18.
The events of Chapters 19 relate to the return of Christ. Chapters 20 through 22 are concerning events that go far beyond the return of Christ. Thus the book is not a set of consecutive visions. They all are concerning with things to be fulfilled from the time the Revelation was given until the time of the new heaven and new earth beyond the millennium, a little season, and the day of judgment.
Ron Rankin March 4, 2008
172
SEALS, TRUMPETS, AND THE VIALS OF PLAGUES COMPARED Revelation, Chapters Six through Eighteen
Revelation 16:15-21 Vials of Plagues 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9 Zechariah 14:12-15 Joel 3:2, 9-16 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9, 10 2 Thessalonians 2:8-13
The Return of Christ is a common point in all the Seals, Trumpets, and Vials of Plagues.
Ron Rankin March 14, 2008
173
BEASTS IN REVELATION
Living Creatures Zoon [Coov] - A living creature, animal. 183
Revelation 4:6, 7, 8, 9 Revelation 5:6, 8, 11, 14 Revelation 6:1, 3, 5, 6, 7 Revelation 7:11 Revelation 14:3 Revelation 15:7 Revelation 19:4 - All are the living creatures identified as the redeemed from every nation. - Other than in Revelation are the following three verses. Hebrews 13:11 2 Peter 2:12 Jude 10 Wild Beasts Therion [npiov] - A beast, wild animal; metaphorically a brute, brutish man. 184
Revelation 6:8 Revelation 11:7 Revelation 13:1, 2, 3, 4, 11, 12, 15, 17, 18 Revelation 14:9, 11 Revelation 15:2 Revelation 16:2, 10, 13 Revelation 17:3, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17 Revelation 19:19, 20 Revelation 20:4, 10 - These represent governments including the leaders thereof. - Other than in Revelation are the following eight verses. Mark 1:13 Acts 10:12; 11:6; 28:4, 5 Titus 1:12 Hebrews 12:20 James 3:7
Ron Rankin March 14, 2008
183 Lexical Source = The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Samuel Bagster & Sons Limited, London 184 Lexical Source = Ibid. 174
A COMPARISON OF ANIMALS IN DANIEL & REVELATION Revelation 6:2
Four Living Creatures Revelation 4:6-9 Revelation 6:1, 3, 5, 6, 7
Martyrs Persecuting Emperors Nero [54-68] to Diocletian [284-305] Five emperors called good by historians between 96 and 180 Empire began to decline 180 It has been thought that the last 10 years persecution was more fierce and that the 10 days of persecution in Revelation 2:10 related to that; this may be a questionable application Martyrdom not yet finished Revelation 6:11
Church Face of a Man This indicates that the church began to be led by men and eventually to a falling away Revelation 4:7 Revelation 17:4-6
Outline of the Vision of the Seals The Lamb took and opened the book Revelation 5:5-7
The four beasts [living creatures] said Come and See Revelation 6:1, 3, 5, 7
The Bride says Come Revelation 22:17
Horse # 1 White, Bow, Crown, peace, conquering and to conquer Roman Horse Beast # 1 Lion, a bold and active church
Horse # 2 Red, take peace from the earth, sword Roman Horse continues Beast # 2 - Calf, Church under persecution
Horse # 3 - Black, Balances, famine Roman Horse continues Beast # 3 - Face of a man on the Church, being led by men 176
Horse # 4 - Pale, Death Roman Horse continues Beast # 4 - Church flees under persecution
Christian Martyrs
Time of the End An earthquake The sun becomes black The moon becomes red The stars fall The heaven departs as a scroll An earthquake again
LUKE 18:1-8 How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? Revelation 6:10
Ron Rankin Adapted from my sermon notes of June 12, 1966
177
FOUR HORSEMEN OF THE APOCALYPSE Revelation 6:1-8
WHITE HORSE RED HORSE BLACK HORSE PALE HORSE
4 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts says, Come and see. |oi tiov ot nvoiEt o opvi ov iov t| ov opoyiov. |oi n|ouoo tvo t| tooopov Coov ityovo. o ovn povn. tpyou |oi itt.
4 And I saw, and behold a white horse: and He that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.
4 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see.
4 And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.
4 And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand.
4 And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.
4 And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with the sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.
Ron Rankin April 19, 2008 178
FOUR HORSES OF REVELATION Revelation 6:02
Revelation 1:19 Things which thou hast seen, things which are, and things to come
Revelation Six 1 st beast lion [church], come and see
White Horse rider had bow and crown & conquered Horse = government Rider = ruler, guiding person Bow = war weapon Horse = Rome, world government Rider = Augustus Caesar Senate gave him crown; peace for over 40 years of his rule Lion = Church bold, Pentecost
2 nd beast calf [beast of sacrifice]
Red Horse = Rome Acts 9 persecution Here say = Nero Rider = took peace from the earth; kill one another; given sword 3 rd beast face of a man [wrong head]
Black Horse = death, wickedness, famine Rider = pair of balances; says a measure of wheat for penny
4 th beast flying eagle
Pale Horse = Rome dying; Papacy Rider = death and hell; power given to rider and horse Over part of the earth; kill with sword, hunger, death Beast inquisition
True church pulls away from papacy, flees into the wilderness
Virginia Rankin circa 1948
179
THE ROMAN HORSE Revelation 6:2
And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer [Revelation 6:2].
ANIMALS FOR EMPIRES + As in the book of Daniel, animals, both domestic and wild, are used to represent governments, especially of empires: Babylon, Medo-Persia, Grecia, Rome Daniel 7:4-7 - Eagle; Bear with 3 Ribs of another in its mouth; Leopard; A Non- descript and Diverse Beast Daniel 8:3-22 - Ram and He-Goat
A LOOK AT THE HISTORY OF THE HORSE FOR ROME 185
+ Romulus, name of the founder and first king of Rome, is represented in legend as the son of Mars. After his death, he was worshipped as a god under the name of Quirinus, in reality a Sabine 186 form of Mars. Much of the record of Romulus is shrouded in the form of the mythology of the gods. + Mars, the Roman deity, 187 in whose worship the horse was sacrificed. Mars sacred war-horse, called the horse of the sun, was also sacrificed to the Greek god Helios. + The horse was important to the Romans in their military campaigns. See the picture of the Roman coins imprinted with Roman horses. + It is fitting that the prophecy of the Decline of the Roman Empire be depicted with prophetic horses.
THE APOCALYPSE + Is the history of world from the birth of Jesus to the coming of Jehovah to the Earth Revelation 1:1, 19 - Things which must shortly come to pass - The things which John had seen - The things which are - The things which shall be hereafter
185 Bibliography = 1) Encyclopedia Brittanica, Ninth Edition; Volume XX, 1886, Page 862, Romulus; Volume XV, 1883, Mars, Page 576ff; 2) Horae Apocalyptica, E. B. Elliott, 5 th Edition, Volume One, 1862, Page 125ff 186 Sabines = an ancient people of central Italy, and their language 187 Mars = god of heaven, giver of light, the opener of the new year, god of war, hurler of thunder and sender of rain, as well as god of god of the land and giver of increase, and god of death and the dead, was the great god of one of the races (probably the Sabines) from which the Roman state sprang. The first day of the Romans first month of the year, Mars, was the birthday of Mars; the current month of March corresponds to the Roman month; roughly corresponding to the Jewish month Nisan. 180
Revelation 4:1 - The things which must be hereafter Revelation 6:1, 3, 5, 7 - Come and see Revelation 17:1 - I will shew thee Revelation 22:7 - Keep the sayings of this book Revelation 1:3 - Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.
THE FAITH AND PATIENCE OF THE SAINTS + Herein Revelation Chapter Two and Three - He that Overcometh Revelation 13:10 - The patience and faith Revelation 14:12 - The patience of they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus
- REVELATION 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely
Ron Rankin April 18, 2008
181
ROMAN COINS WITH THE ROMAN HORSE Revelation 6:2
182
A WHITE HORSE The First Seal
+ REVELATION 6:2 And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.
Revelation 1:19 Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter.
One of the Four Beasts Revelation 4:7 - The first was like a Lion - Come and See Acts 8:1-12
The White Horse Conqueror Horse = government Rider = ruler, guiding person Bow = a weapon of war Rome = the world government, to rule over all the earth First Emperor = Augustus Caesar; given his crown by the Roman Senate; peace ensued for over 40 years Daniel 2:39,40 - Strong as Iron Daniel 7:7 - Diverse Beast Daniel 11:30 - Chittim Revelation 17:18 - Reigneth over the kings of the earth - Art Thou a King? John 18:4-14,33-40 Revelation 12:1-5 - Things Past Daniel 7:13,14 - The man child caught up unto God
183
The Caesars/Emperors of Rome 188
Julius Caesar = established Roman power throughout the world; He was the Caesar who never became Emperor His adopted became the first Emperor = August Caesar
Ron Rankin March 15, 2008
188 The Caesars and Emperors of Rome are listed in the Addenda to Apokalupsis; A Thumbnail Sketch of the Caesars and Roman Emperors may be found in The Book of Daniel the Beloved 184
CONQUERING, AND TO CONQUER Revelation 6:2
ROOTS OF ROME Noah, Japheth, Javan Genesis 10:1, 2, 4 Deuteronomy 32:7-9 754/753 City of Rome founded by Romulus on Mount Palitine 752 715 Romulus [a mild and just ruler] 715 672 Numa Pompilius [a continued triumph, distinguished by wisdom] 672 640 Tullus Hostilius --- the battle between the Horatii and the Curiantii 640 616 Ancus Martius [23 years of prosperity, a man of great piety] 616 578 Tarquinus Priscus [reigned long, prosperous] 578 509 Servius Tullius [humane and able, promoted the welfare of the people] 509 Expelled Tarquinus Superbus [assassinated Servius Tullius; and was a tyrant; his son caused the death of Lucretia, a virtuous person, and the gates of Rome closed to the Tarquins and they were banished from the throne Consuls, two annually-elected magistrates, became the supreme power of the commonwealth. The first two Consuls were Brutus, and Colatinus the husband of Lucretia. The two sons of Brutus, Titus and Tiberius, were bribed by Tarquinus in an effort to regain the throne. The two sons were arrested, brought before the tribunal of their father, and according to the law were scourged and beheaded. Confusion followed in Rome and the Senate established an aristocracy; this was replaced by three officers called Tribunes and later increased to five then subsequently to ten. These Tribunes were chosen by the people and were given authority to veto the acts of the Senate, and thus protected the people from the Consuls. Inhabitants of the provinces of Italy: - Ligurians, Etruscans, Rutulians, Umbrians, Aequians, Sabines, Latins and Samnites. - Two Latin settlements and one Sabine were united to form the city and government of Rome; the Sabines were Latinized and thereafter Rome was considered a Latin City. 458 Aequians and Sabines assaulted Rome so the Senate appointed a Lucius Minucius, one of the consuls, to command the Roman army; they were subsequently blockaded by the invaders and the Senate appointed Lucius Quintius Cincinnatus to be Dictator. He led the Romans to victory. 185
The Romans sent three emissaries to Athens to obtain a copy of the Greek laws. Ten magistrates were appointed, called Decemvirs, for the purpose of compiling a body of laws for the Roman governments. Enthroned in the Comitium, the great public hall, were ten tablets of brass that were engraved with the new Roman laws. ===== 100 July 12, Julius Caesar born of a ruling family the Caesar who never became Emperor Conqueror from Britain to the Levant and established Roman supremacy of the Mediterranean Sea 44 March 15, Julius Caesar assassinated Succeeded by Octavius Caesar, Caesar the August, known as Augustus Caesar, followed by 11 more Caesars The conquering continued even to Armenia and Parthia [Persia] Ultimately the conquering in its divided and broken condition has continued throughout the world Successors of Nebuchadnezzar, Darius the Mede & Cyrus the Persian, and Alexander the Great Daniel 2:31-40 Wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. After thee shall arise another, inferior And another third kingdom And the fourth shall be strong as iron The kingdom shall be divided But there shall be in it of the strength of iron The kingdom shall be partly strong, and partly broken Daniel 7:1-7 Daniel 11:30
Ron Rankin April 5, 2008
186
A RED HORSE The Second Seal
Revelation 6:3, 4 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see. And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.
One of the Four Beasts [Living Creatures] Revelation 4:7 The second was like a calf Come and See Acts 8:1 Acts 14:22
The Red Horse Persecutor Horse = government Rider = ruler, guiding person Sword = weapon of war and bloodshed He was given ability-authority-power to take peace from the earth So that they might kill one another, civil war among leaders and aspiring emperors Beginning with Emperor Commodus the empire entered a time of internal conflict, assassination and murder. The causal agent of the civil insurrections and bloodshed being from first to last military men in power; those whose vocation was war, whose weapon the sword, and by the sword rose, and by the sword fell. 189
This lasted for about 92 years from 192 to 284
A great sword Sword = machaira [oyoipo] A large knife, a poniard [poniard = [(etymology of poniard French poignard, < poing, Latin pugnus, the fist.) A dagger; To pierce or stab with a poniard.]
This horse represents the continuing world government of Rome, but this time in a state of civil turmoil and bloodshed.
189 Source = Horae Apokalypticae, by E. B. Elliott, Volume I, page 150ff 187
The following emperors persecuted Christians and other groups to varying degrees of intensity: 1. Nero 54 - 68 64 began persecution of Christians and is thought to have included the Apostle Paul 2. Domitian 81 - 95 95 began persecution of Christians and thought that he banished John to the isle of Patmos 3. Trajan 98 117 In spite of persecution of Christians, he is thought to have been a good Emperor 4. Hadrian 117 138 Also persecuted Christians 5. Antoninus 138 - 161 Although he persecuted Christians, he is thought of as noble ruler with the Empire at peace 6. Marcus Aurelius & Lucius Veris, joint rulers 161 180 163 persecuted Christians; Polycarp was martyred 7. Septimius Severus 193 211 Also persecuted Christians 8. Maximin 235 238 236 persecuted Christians 9. Decius 249 251 250 published his edict for persecution of Christians 10. Valerian, ruled jointly with his son Gallienus 254 - 260 Persecuted Christians 11. Aurelian 270 275 Persecuted Christians 12. Diocletian 284 - 305 Persecuted Christians He abdicated the throne in 305 and retired to the town of his birth; died 8 years later
Constantine the Great succeeded Diocletion to the throne and ended persecution of Christians
Ron Rankin April 6, 2008
188
KILLING ONE ANOTHER Revelation 6:4
And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.
The white horse of Revelation 6:2 having exhibited Romes conquering glory and the establishment of peace was now coming to a period of decline Augustus, 31 B/C. through Marcus Aurelius, 180 A.D.
The red horse of Revelation 6:4 exhibits the decline in leadership that led to the fall of the empire. Turmoil in and for leadership provoked assassination and murder to a greater degree.
The persecution of segments of the populace continued until Constantine, the Great. Turmoil with bloodshed signaled this phase of the Empire.
Edward Gibbon illustrated these things in The History of the Fall and Decline of the Roman Empire.
See the individual lesson outline titled, A Red Horse.
Ron Rankin April 12, 2008
189
A BLACK HORSE The Third Seal
Revelation 6:5, 6 And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see that thou hurt not the oil and the wine.
The Third of the Four Beasts Revelation 6:5 The third had the face of a man Come and See The face of a man is the wrong head for the redeemed for Jesus, the Son of God, is the Head The leadership of man that developed led into the apostasy 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12
The Black Horse Horse = Roman government Rider = rulers, guiding persons Had a pair of balances in his hand
PAIR OF BALANCES IN THE HISTORY OF EMPIRES 190
In the case of the Babylonian Empire and its last Emperor, Belshazzar, the balances weighed the Empire and found it lacking. Daniel 5:27 In the case of the Roman Empire, the balances are descriptive of the operations of the leaders of the Empire. In the early years of the growth of the government that was to become the Roman Empire, before the Caesars became Emperors, the balances were an emblem of justice under the control of the Praetors. 191 See the picture of Roman coins in the page following this outline. Under the Emperors the balance of justice became their province. In imperial times indeed the supreme judicial and financial, as well as supreme
190 Bibliography = 1) Gibbons Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire; 2) Horae Apokalypticae, E. B. Elliott 191 Praetors = the original title of the consuls, later to the magistrates who administered justice. 190
military power, centred in the emperors. The balance was not always equity, and would eventually lead to oppression and famine. A more modern expression of the balances is illustrated by the statement by Henry V of England to the English Lord Chief Justice, Hold thou still the balance and the sword. The words of Jehovah that He gave to Samuel, who relayed them to the people, when the Israelites desired a king to judge us like all the nations. 1 Samuel 8:4-19 This will be the manner of the king that shall reign over you He will take your sons for himself, for his chariots, and to be his horsemen He will appoint him captains to ar his ground, and to reap his harvest, and to make his instruments of war, and instruments of his chariots He will take your daughters to be confectionaries and to be cooks, and to be bakers He will take your fields, and your vineyards, and your olive- yards, even the best of them, and give them to his servants He will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officer, and to his servants He will take your menservants and your maidservants, and your goodliest young servants, and your asses, and put them to his work He will take the tenth of your sheep: and ye shall be his servants And ye shall cry out in that day because of your king which ye have chosen And Jehovah will not hear you in that day
In weight, the choenix of wheat = 2 lbs; the congiius of rain-water = 10 lb
Ron Rankin April 19, 2008
192 Source = Horae Apokalypticae, by E. B. Elliott 193
A PALE HORSE The Fourth Seal
Revelation 6:7, 8 And when he had opened the fourth seal I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see. And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth. To kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.
The Fourth Beast Revelation 4:7 - The fourth was like a flying eagle - Come and See Revelation 12:6
The Pale Horse Horse = the Roman government continuing, but waxing weaker through civil disunity and uprisings, war and threatening divisions that led to a broken empire with a union of church [the papacy and concordat 193 ] and the state; a condition that will remain until replaced by the Kingdom of God. Daniel 2:42, 43 - Partly strong and partly broken [brittle] - People of the Roman Empire cannot cleave together. 2 Timothy 3:1-5 - Provinces were already being lost, or ceded, to the northern Gothic tribes as the end of the 3 rd century neared. Rider(s) = those that rule, the guiding persons; whose name = Death; and Hell followed him It was given to him the power to kill with the sword, with hunger, with death, with wild beasts of the earth
Ron Rankin April 7, 2008
193 Concordat = an agreement; a compact; especially an agreement between the Pope and a secular government regarding the regulation of ecclesiastical matters [The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language] 194
PERSIAN REBELLION Emperor Valerian Captured 194
A.D. 260
g Valerian, captured by Persian king Sapor, died in captivity
g His associate on the throne, his son Gallienus, became sole Emperor - His rivals for the throne, called in history the 30 tyrants, persisted for the next twelve or fourteen years
g These events illustrate the turmoil, uprisings, and civil strife that was coming on the Empire
g Reference Outline A Pale Horse, q.v.
Ron Rankin April 19, 200
194 Sources = Horae Apokalypticae, by E. B. Elliott; Historian Pollio and in Travels in Persia, Volume I, page 540, also documented this event and the 30 Tyrants. 195
GROWTH OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE 264 B.C. 117 A.D.
MAP SHOWING the CORE OF AUTHORITY and GROWTH in ITALY from 264 B.C. to world-wide in 117 A.D.
- In red the amalgamated tribes that formed the nucleus of the power in 264 B.C. that became the Roman Empire under Emperor Augustus Caesar. - In green the growth in 133 B.C. - In tan the growth under Emperor Trajan in 117 A.D. - Wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. - The succession of power from Babylon to Medo-Persia to Grecia and to to Rome. - The final succession of power will be to Jehovah and His Christ.
SCRIPTURES Daniel 2:38-41 Daniel 7:3-7 Revelation 13:1-4 Revelation 11:15-18 Psalm 2:1-12
Ron Rankin April 21, 2008
196
EMPIRE DIVIDED 395 A.D.
MAP SHOWING the CORE OF AUTHORITY in the EAST & WEST in 395 A.D.
MAP SHOWING the CORE OF AUTHORITY in the EAST & WEST in 476 A.D.
- Kingdom of Odoacer - East Roman Empire - The Empire in the East fell in 1451 to the Ottoman Empire. - The remainder of the story of the Roman Empire continues as we proceed through the book of Revelation
SCRIPTURES Daniel 2:41 Revelation 8:12
Ron Rankin April 21, 2008
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SOULS UNDER THE ALTAR The Fifth Seal
REVELATION 6:9-11 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow-servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.
- SLAIN FOR TESTIMONY AND THE WORD OF GOD Acts 26:15-18 Acts 28:23-31 1 Thessalonians 2:7-20 2 Timothy 2:9-12
- HOW DO DEAD SOULS SPEAK? Isaiah 38:18, 19 Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6 Genesis 4:10
- HOW LONG, O JEHOVAH Luke 18:1-8 James 5:1-11 1 Thessalonians 3:12, 13 Ephesians 3:13 2 Peter 3:9 Hebrews 10:35-37
- WHITE ROBES Revelation 19:7-9 Romans 4:6-8 Revelation 3:5, 18
These verses do not say that they will not wear white raiment; only that it represents the righteousness of the saints; clothing that is compatible with that for which it also stands.
199
- UNTIL FELLOW BRETHREN ARE ALSO KILLED FOR THEIR FAITH 1 Thessalonians 4:17 - Together Hebrews 11:32-40 - They without us should not be made perfect 2 Peter 1:4 - Partaker [Greek, koinonoi, |oivovoi ] to share with, partner, have in common.
Together is the operative word
Ron Rankin April 23, 2008
200
BLOOD OF MARTYRS Revelation 6:10
EPITAPH IN THE CATACOMBS ON A MARTYR SLAIN IN DIOCLETIANS PERSECUTION
= = =
A MARTYRS VASE OF BLOOD IN THE CATACOMBS AT ROME
201
PRE-SAGING THE END The Sixth Seal
REVELATION 6:12, 13 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.
4 SIGNS WHY Matthew 16:1-4 Matthew 12:38-42 Luke 21:25, 26
4 A GREAT EARTHQUAKE November 1, 1755 - 4,000,000 square mile area affected - Lisbon, Portugal and 60,000 dead
4 THE SUN BECAME BLACK & THE MOON AS BLOOD Joel 2:31 - The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of Jehovah come. Joel 2:10, 11 - The earth shall quake before them; the heavens shall tremble: the sun and the moon shall be dark, and the stars shall withdraw their shining: - And Jehovah shall utter his voice before his army: for his camp is very great: for he is strong that executeth his word: for the day of Jehovah is great and very terrible; and who can abide it? May 18-19, 1780 - The Dark Day, May 19, 1780 so-called on account of a remarkable darkness on that day extending over all New England. In some places, persons could not see to read common print in the open air for several hours together. Birds sang their evening songs, disappeared, and became silent; fowls went to roost; cattle sought the barnyard; and candles were lighted in the houses. The obscuration began about ten oclock in the morning, and continued till the middle of the next night, but with differences of degree and duration in different places. For several days previous, the wind had been 202
variable, but chiefly from the southwest and northeast. The true cause of this remarkable phenomenon is not known. 195
4 THE STARS OF HEAVEN FELL Luke 21:25 - And there shall be signs and in the stars November 13, 1833 - See separate study outline Stars and the Falling of Stars
4 LESS SPECTACULAR BUT NONETHELESS SIGNS Matthew 24:7, 8 2 Timothy 3:1-5
Ron Rankin June 19, 1966 Updated April 22, 2008
195 Noah Websters Dictionary, Edition 1869, as recorded in Drama of the Ages, by William Henry Branson, Southern Publishing Association, 1953 203
A GREAT EARTHQUAKE Revelation 6:12
The Time the Earth Shook On November 1, 1755, the people of Lisbon were celebrating all Saints Day. Suddenly the city was wracked; by jarring shocks; fields and roads split asunder with terrifying roars. In the churches, prayers turned to screams as buildings collapsed. Hundreds drowned as a 50 foot wall of water swept in from the harbor. When the Quake ended three minutes later, over of Lisbons population lay dead! 196
Ron Rankin July 11, 2003
196 Our Fascinating Earth by Phil and Nancy Seff, The Wenatchee World, Sunday March 10, 2002. 204
THE TIME THE EARTH SHOOK November 1, 1755 Revelation 6:12
205
ATLANTIC TSUNAMI November 1, 1755 Revelation 6:12
206
CANDLELIGHT LUNCHEON May 19, 1780 Revelation 6:12
207
A WORD FROM ADLER PLANETARIUM Revelation 6:12
208
STARS & FALLING STARS Sixth Seal
Revelation 6:12, 13 - And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; - And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.
Stars aster [oonp] 197
- A star, luminous meteor 198
Matthew 2:2, 7, 9, 10 Matthew 24:29 Mark 13:25 1 Corinthians 15:41 [twice] Jude 13 wandering stars Revelation 1:16, 20 [twice] Revelation 2:1, 28 Revelation 3:1 Revelation 6:13 Revelation 8:10, 11, 12 Revelation 9:1 Revelation 12:1, 4 Revelation 22:16 astron [oopov] - a constellation, star 199
Luke 21:25 Acts 7:43 Acts 27:20 Hebrews 11:12
197 Aster = compare the Greek word, asteriktos [oon pi|o], and our English noun asteroid [from aster, star, and eidos, form] one of the small planets that revolve about the sun mainly between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, more accurately called planetoids adjective = resembling a star; pertaining to the asteroids [The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language]; 2 Peter 2:14 unstable souls; 2 Peter 3:16 unlearned and unstable; unstable in these two verses is the word asteriktos. 198 Young Analytical Concordance to the Bible, Robert Young 199 Ibid 209
Isaiah 47:13 kimah [C`3 ] - [S#3598 206 ]; a group, the Pleiades 207
Amos 5:8
200 Planetes = [Old French, planete; French, planete; from Late Latin planeta; from Greek planetes, planet, literally wanderer; from planan, cause to wander]. Any one of the heavenly bodies revolving about the sun and shining by reflected light: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto distinguished from a fixed star [The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language]. 201 Ibid 202 Ibid 203 Ibid 204 S#2374 & 3556 = Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, James Strong 205 Young Analytical Concordance to the Bible, Robert Young 206 S#3598 Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, James Strong 207 Young Analytical Concordance to the Bible, Robert Young 210
Falling of Stars Leonid Showers - Astronomy: any of a shower of meteors occurring yearly about November 15 th , appearing to shoot from the constellation Leo. 208
- On November 12-13, 1833 there was a falling of stars that is described as From the Gulf of Mexico to Halifax, until daylight with some difficulty put an end to the display, the sky was scored in every direction with shining tracks and illuminated with majestic fireballs. 209
- The morning of November 13, 1833, was rendered memorable by an exhibition of the phenomenon called shooting stars, which was probably more extensive and magnificent than any similar one hitherto recorded Probably no celestial phenomenon has ever occurred in this country, since its first settlement, which was viewed with so much admiration and delight by one class of spectators, or with so much astonishment and fear by another class. For some time the occurrence, the meteoric phenomenon was the principal topic of conversation in every circle. 210
- I witnessed this gorgeous spectacle, and was awe-struck. The air seemed filled with bright descending messengers from the sky. It was about daybreak when I saw this sublime scene. It was not without the suggestion at that moment that it might be the harbinger of the coming of the Son of man; and in my state of mind I was prepared to hail him as my friend and deliverer. I had read that the stars shall fall from heaven, and they were now falling. I was suffering for the rest denied me on earth. 211
Ron Rankin March 7, 2008
208 The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language 209 Agnes M. Clerke, History of Astronomy in the Nineteenth Century, page 328; as recorded in Drama of the Ages, by William Henry Branson, page 450, 1953, Southern Publishing Association 210 Denison Olmsted, professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy in Yale College, in the American Journal of Science and Arts, Vol. XXV (1834), pp. 363, 364; as recorded in Drama of the Ages, by William Henry Branson, page 450, 1953, Southern Publishing Association. 211 Frederick A. Douglass, My Bondage and My Freedom, p. 186; as recorded in Drama of the Ages, by William Henry Branson, page 450, 1953, Southern Publishing Association. 211
THE HEAVEN AND THE MOUNTAINS
REVELATION 6:14-17 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bond and, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains. And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
AS A SCROLL and the MOUNTAINS SHALL BE THROWN DOWN Isaiah 34:4 Isaiah 2:10-21 Jeremiah 4:19-31 Isaiah 24:17-23 Ezekiel 38:19-23 Zechariah 14:1-10 Psalm 2:1-9 Revelation 16:12-21 Revelation 11:14-19
THE VERY GREAT VALLEY Zechariah 9:10 Psalm 72:8 Psalm 46:1-11 Ezekiel 47:1-12
Ron Rankin April 23, 2008
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HIS WRATH ORGES AUTOU
Revelation 6:17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
oi nitv n ntpo n tyoin n opyn ouou |oi i uvooi because came the day the great of the wrath of him; and who is able
oonvi 212
to stand? 213
OTHER TRANSLATIONS + Because the great day of his wrath has come, and who is able to stand. 214
+ For the great day of their wrath has come; and who is able to stand? 215
+ For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand? 216
+ The great day of their vengeance has come. Who can withstand it? 217
+ Because come did the great day of His anger, and who is able to stand? 218
+ Others, that translate their instead of his, are: The Revised Standard Version, J. B. Phillips Translation, and the New English Bible.
MANUSCRIPT EVIDENCE + ouou. autou United Bible Societies Greek Text, Edition 2, reads auton [ouov]; and gives it a rating of C, meaning of a considerable degree of doubt. + Textual evidence shows ouov with 24 authorities [the earliest is 4 th century]; and ouou with 19 authorities [the earliest is 5 th century]. + The Textus Receptus (Scrivener Edition) and the Scholz Greek Text also read ouou. + Comparison of the age of manuscripts is of limited value, because there are no extant original manuscripts. + Wilson has a footnote in the Diaglott that indicates his awareness that some manuscripts contain the word auton [ouov] which properly translate as their. Whereas the Griesbach text has auton [ouou ] which he properly translates as his. + Which set of manuscripts is most compatible with other teachings of the Scriptures regarding wrath; so next we look for enlightenment in its Biblical context?
212 Greek Text of Dr. J. J. Griesbach; same as the Textus Receptus, Scrivener Edition 213 Benjamin Wilson in the Emphatic Diaglott 214 The translation of Benjamin Wilson in the Emphatic Diaglott 215 The New American Standard Bible 216 The New International Version 217 The New American Bible, St. Joseph Edition 218 Youngs Literal Translation of the Bible, by Robert Young, author of the Analytical Concordance to the Bible 213
BIBLICAL CONTEXTUAL EVIDENCE Joel 2:11 - And Jehovah shall utter his voice before his army: for his camp is very great: for he is strong that executeth his word: for the day of Jehovah is great and very terrible; and who can abide it? Jeremiah 30:7-9 - Alas, for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacobs trouble; but he shall be saved out of it. - For it shall come to pass in that day, saith Jehovah of hosts, that I will break his yoke from off thy neck, and will burst thy bonds, and strangers shall no more serve themselves of him: - But they shall serve Jehovah their God, and David their king, whom I will raise up unto them. Zephaniah 1:14,15 - The great da of Jehovah is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly, even the voice of the day of Jehovah: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly. - That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness. Ezekiel 38:18-23 - And it shall come to pass at the same time when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, saith, the Lord Jehovah, that my fury shall come up in my face. - For in my jealousy and in the fire of my wrath have I spoken, Surely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel; Isaiah 34:8 - For it is the day of Jehovahs vengeance for the controversy of Zion. Revelation 16:14-21 - And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon. Revelation 6:16 Hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb. Acts 17:31 He that sits on the throne has designated his Son to exercise righteous judgment.
CONCLUSION + It is the day of His, Jehovahs, anger and wrath.
Ron Rankin June 5, 1995 214
215
JEHOVAHS SERVANTS SEALED Revelation 7:1-17
SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD - Seal Sphragida [opoyio] - A noun, accusative, feminine, singular of sphragis [opoyi] - A seal, a signet ring; an inscription on a seal, motto; the impression of a seal; a distinctive mark; a token, a proof. 219
- See the addendum, the separate study of the family of words, under sphragis, with scriptures. A seal signifies ownership of that which is sealed by ownership of the seal itself.
144,000 SEALED OF THE TRIBES OF ISRAEL COMPARISON Genesis 49:1-28 COMPARISON Revelation 7:4-8 MOTHER COMMENTS Reuben 12,000 Leah Simeon 12,000 Leah Levi 12,000 Leah Judah 12,000 Leah Zebulon 12,000 Leah Issachar 12,000 Leah Dan 0 220 Bilhah reason unknown Gad 12,000 Zilpah Asher 12,000 Zilpah Naphtali 12,000 Bilhah Joseph* 12,000 Rachel Mannaseh & Ephraim Benjamin 12,000 Rachel Dinah Leah
These 144,000 are described in Revelation 14:1-5 - They are of the children of Israel, not of Gentiles - Singing before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders; Singing before Jehovah, before the Lamb, and before the Redeemed; singing a new song - They also are redeemed - They are virgins - They follow the Lamb wheresoever he goes - They are the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb
219 Lexicon Source = Samuel Bagster & Sons Limited, London 220 The reason that Dan is not included in the total 144,000 is unknown; we must assume that it implies neither good nor bad. 216
- In their mouth was found no guile - They are without fault before the throne of God - See a separate detailed outline They Sang, Revelation 14:1-5
A GREAT MULTITUDE OF ALL NATIONS
From all Nations Ethnic 221 Groups Revelation 7:9-17 - All nations - And kindreds - And people - And tongues
From all time? Hebrews 11:40 They, in the context of Hebrews 11:1-39, are the faithful from Abel to the return of Jesus
Came out of great tribulation Revelation 7:14 Erchomenoi ek tes thlipseos tes megales tpyotvo t| n iito n tyoin coming 222 out of the affliction 223 the great 224
Acts 14:22 We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom io oiiov 225 iitov ti no tioitiv ti nv ooiitiov through many afflictions must we enter into the kingdom
Conclusion - All who have the will to be sealed unto salvation, Jehovah knows, will be sealed before the end comes; the end being signified by the return of Jesus from heaven.
Ron Rankin Composite of study and sermon notes dated: January 30, 1966 July 3, 1966 January 6, 1971 January 15, 1996 Updated April 24, 2008
221 Ethnic ek pantos ethnous [t| ovo tvou] = out of all nations in the King James Version 222 See Addendum Thlipsis 223 Also See Addendum Thlipsis 224 Interlinear from the Emphatic Diaglott 225 Pollon [oiiov] = great in magnitude or quantity, much, large, plural many [The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Samuel Bagster & Sons Limited, London] 217
SPHRAGIS SEAL Revelation 7:2
SPHRAGIS, opoyi. WORD FAMILY 226
SCRIPTURE TRANSLATION WORD GROUP GRAMMAR
Matthew 27:66 Sealing sphragisantes, opoyioovt sphragizo, opoyiCo verb, participle, aorist, active, nominative, masculine, plural John 3:33 hath set to seal esphragisen, topoyiotv
226 Lexical Sources = 1 The Analytical Greek Lexicon, Samuel Bagster & Sons Limited, London; 2 The New Englishmans Greek, Concordance and Lexicon; 3 Textus Receptus, Scrivener Edition; F Analytical Concordance of the Greek New Testament, Volume I, Lexical Focus, Edited by Philip S. Clapp, Barbara Friberg, & Timothy Friberg 218
227 phragesetai = this verse with this word were incorrectly listed under sphragizo by the New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon; but should have been under prasso only. 219
- Sphragis [opoyi] - a seal, a signet ring - an inscription on a seal, motto - a seal, the impression of a seal - a seal, a distinctive mark - a seal, a token, proof - a token of a guarantee
223
- Sphragizo [opoyiCo] - to seal, stamp with a seal - to seal up, to close up, conceal - to set a mark upon, distinguish by a mark - to seal, to mark distinctively - to set ones own mark upon, seal as ones own, to impress with a mark of acceptance - to obtain a quittance of, to deliver over safely to - to set ones seal, to make a solemn declaration
- katasphragizo [|ooopoyiCo] - kata & sphragizo [|oo & opoyiCo] - to seal up
- See chatham [2"" ] for the Hebrew equivalent to sphragis [opoyi].
Ron Rankin April 25, 2008
224
SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD
REVELATION 7:2 And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.
The Living God Psalm 42:2 Psalm 86:7 Job 19:25-27 Isaiah 33:13-17 Revelation 22:4 Matthew 5:8
His Seal II Timothy 2:19 ] Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. ] And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. John 6:27 ] Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. John 3:33 ] He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.
Ron Rankin January 10, 2009
225
HURT NOT UNTIL
REVELATION 7:3 Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.
A PEOPLE FOR HIS NAME . Faithful Before the Flood Until the Return of Jesus ' Acts 15:7, 13-18 ' Hebrews 11:1-7 ' Exodus 19:3-9 ' Isaiah 65:1-3 ' Romans 10:12-21 ' I Peter 2:9, 10 ' Hebrews 11:39, 10 ' Hebrews 12:1, 2 ' I Thessalonians 4:16, 17
JEHOVAH KNOWS HOW . Numbers 11:23 . Isaiah 59:1 . II Peter 2:6-9 . Psalm 34:4-9, 15-22
Ron Rankin January 10, 2009
226
PRESSURES THAT DISTRESS Revelation 7:14
IN GREEK = thlipsis [iii] 228
Noun = pressure, compression, distress, affliction, trial Verb = thlibo [iio] = to press, to press upon, to squeeze, encumber, crowd, thus to oppress, afflict, to distress
DATA for WORD STUDY
SCRIPTURE TRANSLATION iii iio Grammar noun Verb feminine
Matthew 7:14 Narrow tiitvn participle, perfect, passive, nominative, singular Matthew 13:21 Tribulation iito genitive, singular Matthew 24:9 be afflicted iiiv accusative, singular Matthew 24:21 Tribulation iii nominative, singular Matthew 24:29 Tribulation iiiv accusative, singular
Mark 3:9 should throng iiooiv Subjunctive, present, active, 3 rd person, plural Mark 4:17 Affliction iito genitive, singular Mark 13:19 Affliction iii nominative, singular Mark 13:24 Tribulation iiiv accusative, singular
John 16:21 Anguish iito genitive, singular John 16:33 Tribulation iiiv accusative, singular
228 Lexical Sources = 1) The New Englishmans Greek Concordance and Lexicon 2) The Analytical Greek Lexicon, published by Samuel Bagster & Son Limited 227
SCRIPTURE TRANSLATION iii iio Grammar noun Verb feminine
QUESTIONS FOR CONTINUATION OF THIS STUDY 1. In what circumstance/context is this word family used? 2. How many ways is it used? 3. Can we determine the meaning of tribulation, in its various contexts, and its relationship to other subjects? 4. How does it illuminate the study of the subject of tribulation? 5. Is it ever used in relationship to the execution of the wrath of God? 6. See a separate study of the Hebrew words tsar [S ] and tsarah [S ] and related words.
Ron Rankin April 30, 2008 229
SERVE HIM IN HIS TEMPLE
REVELATION 7:15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.
When do they serve him day and night in the temple? 1. Because they serve him day and night, it is not after they have come to the new heavens and new earth, for there shall be no night there. . Revelation 22:5
2. They are not in heaven before his throne because the righteousness shall never be removed from the earth and shall receive their reward in the earth. . Proverbs 10:30 . Proverbs 11:31 . John 3:13
3. Also because both Jehovah the Father and the Jesus Son will come to the earth. Jehovah will send his Son and then, when the heaven and the earth have been made new, Jehovah will also come. . Acts 3:19-21 . Revelation 21:1-3
4. There was no temple for the one built by Solomon, and again after it was destroyed by the Babylonian king; it was rebuilt later after captives returned from Babylon after the Medo-Persian decree that they return; finally it was destroyed again during the Roman invasion in A.D. 70 and not rebuilt since. Further we are told by the Apostle Paul that the church is the temple of God. Not all Israelites served in the temple of God in the days of Israel. . I Kings 6:1-3 . II Chronicles 36:22, 23 . Luke 1:5-23 . Luke 2:21-39 . Matthew 23:37-39 . Matthew 24:1, 2 . Luke 21:20-24 . I Corinthians 3:15, 17 . I Corinthians 6:19
5. Serve Him all the days of our lives. . Ecclesiastes 12:1 . Ephesians 6:1-7 . Romans 12:1, 2
230
When they are before His throne and He shall dwell among them. Revelation 7:16, 17 Revelation 21:4, 5 Revelation 22:3-9
Ron Rankin January 10, 2009
231
THEY ARE BEFORE THE THRONE Revelation 7:15
REVELATION 7:15-17 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
Serve Him Day and Night Revelation 22:3
Shall Dwell Among Them Revelation 21:3
Neither Hunger Nor Thirst Isaiah 40:11 Revelation 2:7 Ezekiel 47:12
Neither Sun nor Heat Revelation 21:23 Revelation 22:5
The Lamb Shall Lead Them Isaiah 40:11
Living Fountains of Waters Revelation 22:1 Ezekiel 47:12 Psalm 46:4, 5 Galatians 4:25, 26 Hebrews 12:22
Wipe Away all Tears Revelation 21:4 Isaiah 25:8
232
- I Will Make the Place of My Feet Glorious Isaiah 66:1 Isaiah 45:18 Isaiah 65:17 Isaiah 66:22
Ron Rankin May 6, 2008
233
234
THE SEVENTH SEAL Revelation 8:1
4 Seventh Seal Includes Chapters 8 through 22
- Seven Trumpets including Three Woes [Chapters 8 and 9; and 11:14-16]
! Another Angel and Seven Thunders [Chapter 10]
A Woman [Chapter 12]
A Beast [Chapter 13]
> Lamb on Mount Zion [Chapter 14:1-6]
Winepress of God [Chapter 14:7-20]
Seven Plagues [Chapter 15:1-6]
Seven Vials of Wrath [Chapter 15:7,8; Chapter 16:1-21]
Great Whore [Chapter 17]
Babylon is Fallen [Chapter 14:8; Chapter 18]
Salvation and Judgment of the Great Whore and the Nations [Chapter 19]
The Little Season and the Final Judgment [Chapter 20]
New Heavens and New Earth [Chapters 21 and 22]
Ron Rankin March 1, 2008
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CHAPTER EIGHT The Seventh Seal and the Golden Censor
Verse 1 [ 229 ] Koi ot nvoiEt nv opoyio nv tonv. tytvto oiyn And when He opened the seal the seventh, occurred a silence
tv o oupovo o niopiov. about a half-hour.
Verse 2 |oi tiov ou to oyytiou oi tvoiov ou Otou ton|ooi. And I saw the seven angels who in presence of the God have stood,
|oi tonoov ouoi to ooiiyyt. and were given to them seven trumpets.
Verse 3 Koi oiio oyytio nit. |oi toon ti o uoioonpiov. tyov And another angel came and stood by the altar having
iiovoov ypuoou v |oi ton ouo uiooo oiio. ivo oon a censor golden, and was given to him incenses many, so that he might give
oi pootuyoi ov oyiov ovov ti o uoioonpiov o ypuoouv o for the prayers of the saints of all on the altar the golden that
tvtiov ou povou. in presence of the throne.
Verse 4 Koi ovtn o |ovo ov uiooov oi pootuyoi ov oyiov And went up the smoke of the incenses with the prayers of the saints
t| ytipo ou oyytiou tvoiov ou Otou. presence of the God.
229 The Greek text herein used is that of the Interlinear Bible which is based on the Textus Receptus, Scrivener Edition. The interlinear translation is a composite of that of Jay P. Green, Sr. in the Interlinear Bible, and Benjamin Wilson in the Emphatic Diaglott. 236
Verse 5 Koi tiintv o oyytio o iiovoov. |oi tytiotv ouo t| And has taken the angel the censor, and filled it from
ou upo ou uoiooupiou. |oi toitv ti nv ynv the fire of the altar, and cast it into the earth,
|oi tytvovo ovoi |oi povoi |oi oopooi |oi otioo. and occurred sounds and thunders and lightnings and an earthquake.
237
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IMPENDING DECLINE OF IMPERIAL ROME Revelation 8:3
Revelation 8:1-5 In the early days of the church The church endured persecution under the Roman Emperors until the reign of Constantine the Great, born 275 and became emperor of the Roman Empire in 306 until his death in 337. He was converted and all who claimed Christianity gained freedom of religious worship. Persecution of the church by the empire during the first three centuries is depicted here by an altar and the prayers of the saints. Revelation 6:9-11 - The cessation of persecution by the Empire would later be succeeded by the persecutions of the dark ages under the power of the Holy Roman Empire. Soon the winds of war, against the empire, were to begin. By the end of the fourth century would come the invasions of the Barbarian tribes and subsequently the wars of the Mohammedan empires, the Saracens and the Ottomans; the crumbling of the Empire. - The censor, filled with fire, was cast into the earth.
Ron Rankin July 3, 2002 Updated January 28, 2008
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The Trumpets
Verse 6 Koi oi to oyytioi oi tovt o to ooiiyyo noiooov And the seven angels having the seven trumpets prepared
touou ivo ooiioooi. that they might sound.
The First Trumpet Sounded
Verse 7 Koi o poo oyytio tooiiot. |oi tytvto yoioCo |oi up And the first angel sounded, and occurred hail and fire
tiytvo oioi. |oi tinn ti nv ynv |oi o piov having been mingled with blood, and they were cast to the earth, and the third
ov tvpov |ot|on. |oi o yopo yiopo |ot|ov. of the trees was burned up, and all grass green was burnt up.
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SIMILAR BUT NOT THE SAME Revelation 8:7
When is a Hand only similar to another, but not the same? When is a Plague only similar to another, but not the same? The two preceding rhetorical questions emphasize a simple point of logic. Three lists from the scriptures are compared using this simple logic, and the fact that to be the same they must be identical.
TEN PLAGUES SEVEN TRUMPETS SEVEN LAST PLAGUES Exodus 7 12 Revelation 7 11 Revelation 15, 16
1 Water turned to Blood Hail, Fire, Blood Sores 2 Frogs Sea turned to Blood Sea turned to Blood 3 Lice Waters and Wormwood Rivers & Fountains turn to Blood 4 Flies Darkness Fire and Heat 5 Murrain Locusts like Scorpions Darkness and Pain 6 Boils and Blains Destroying Army River Euphrates Dried Up 7 Hail and Fire Two Witnesses, Earthquake Unclean Spirits Gather for War 8 Locusts Resurrection, Earthquake, Wrath of God, Hail Wrath on Babylon 9 Darkness Earthquake and Hail 10 Death of the Firstborn
Let My People Go Wrath of God Wrath of God
The events and the results are different; therefore they are not the same not for the same purpose. They are unrelated to each other; similarity does not mean equality.
Ron Rankin July, 6, 1994
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BARBARIC INVASIONS Revelation 8:7-12
From the Caesars to Papal Authority Barbaric invasion, although resulting in the overthrow of many institutions of civilization, and in widespread suffering and social deterioration, served but to enhance the influence and importance of the Roman see. The apparent fulfillment of prophecy, pagan as well as Christian, when the city was taken and sacked by Alaric (410), seemed to complete the effacement of the temporal power in Rome. Neither the Western emperors nor the Gothic conquerors held their court in the ancient capital, where the pope was now at once the most important and conspicuous authority. In the African provinces the demoralization occasioned by the fierce controversies and dissensions concerning Pelagianism and Donatism compelled the Catholic communities to exchange their former attitude of haughty independence for one of suppliant appeal, and to solicit the intervention and counsel which they had before rejected. 230
From Alaric to Attila and Odoacer As devastating as was Alarics sack of Rome, the same continue with invasion of Attila and the takeover by Odoacer to become the first barbarian ruler of Italy. The result as suggested by the above Britannica article the fulfillment of prophecy, (chapter 8 of Revelation) in which Pagan Rome was divided and became Papal Rome.
Ron Rankin October 24, 2007
230 Encyclopedia Britannica, Ninth Edition, 1885, Volume XIX, Page 506, in article Council by David Patrick of Edinburgh 242
TRUMPETS ONE THROUGH FOUR Revelation 8:7-12 A Summary Outline
Trumpet One verse 7 And there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: The third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up.
Barbarians from the north descend on the divided empire. - 409 Goths descend on Italy and left behind burning cities, and scorched, bloody and desolated lands.
Trumpet Two verses 8, 9 And as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: And the third part of the sea became blood; And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died; And the third part of the ships were destroyed
The great burning mountain - 422 The Vandals sweep across Gaul, Spain and into Africa. - They built a Navy, and, for 30 years, fought the Roman Navy, which for 600 years had controlled the Mediterranean, and Drove it from the Sea.
Trumpet Three verses 10, 11 And there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, And it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; And the name of the star is called Wormwood: And the third part of the waters became wormwood; And many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter.
Great burning star - 440 Atilla the Hun, from the depth of Central Asia, appeared on the banks of the Danube. - Atilla and army of 800,000 defeated the Roman armies successively on the River Marne, the River Rhone, and the River Po. These rivers actually ran with blood. - On returning to the Danube, Atilla died and was buried beneath the bed of the Danube. The waters still flow over his grave. - He was a scourge of the rivers and the bitterness of defeat for Rome.
Trumpet Four verse 12 And the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; So as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise.
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A dark day for the empire begins. - 476 Odeacer and his horde of barbarians came from the Rhine country, beseiged and took Rome. Rome fell and the dark ages ensued with the Holy Roman Empire.
Ron Rankin July 3, 2002
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ALARIC, the GOTH Revelation 8:7
! Alaric, a profile of his life. - He was born of Gothic origin. - In his youth he became a Roman citizen and lived among the Romans with ease. - He was a career soldier beginning as a Gothic mercenary under Theodosius. 231 As a mercenary he fought for Theodosius in his war with Eugenius. He was politically astute and also apparently had a mercenary band of followers who fought with him for the emperor. After the death of Theodosius, Alaric led Gothic incursions against Thrace, Morea and Athens. - Arcadius 232 conferred upon Alaric the prefecture of Eastern Illyricum. In this capacity as Flavius Alaricus, the magister militum, he was commander of all the Roman troops in Illyricum. At about 400 A.D. he was chosen king of his people. - In The Spring of 403 A.D., he set about to invade the Western Roman Empire, and upon reaching Milan Honorius 233 fled to the fortress of Asta in Liguria. To defend Honorius, Stilicho, a Roman General, gained a victory over Alaric in the battle of Pollentia on Easter Day. Later Alaric was defeated at Verona, but Honorius felt compelled to buy him of by appointing his prefect of Western Illyricum. - In hope of re-uniting the Empire, Stilicho urged Alaric to lead his army against Constantinople. Alaric did not do so but for his service in Epirus he claimed and received a reward of 4000 pounds of gold. - Honorius paid for the assassination of his minister who had ably contended with coped with Alaric and then broke all the treaties that Stilicho had made with Alaric. - Alaric marched against Rome by the Via Flaminia and laid siege. - Alaric replied to the Roman resistance with the famous saying, The closer hay is pressed, the easier is it mown. - Alaric was induced to retire from the siege with the promise of 5000 pounds of gold and 30,000 pounds of silver, and other treasure. - Honorius left Rome for Ravenna and refused to ratify certain treaty conditions to which Alaric now again exerted his power against Rome. - He first took Ostia, successfully threatening to destroy food stores. The people of Ostia said that Alaric should appoint a new emperor. He appointed Attalus, the prefect of the city who proved incompetent, and Honorius was restored as emperor. - The treachery of Honorius continued in Ravenna by sending a barbarian, Sarus, who was an enemy of the Goths, to attack the Goths. Alaric laid siege for the third time
231 Theodosius was Emperor from 379 to 395. 395 A.D. marks the division of the Roman Empire into Eastern and Western. 232 In the East, Arcadius succeeded Theodosius and ruled from 395 to 408. 233 Honorius was Western Roman Emperor from 395 to 423 A.D. 245
against Rome and gained entrance to Rome on August 24, 410, by the Salarian gate. Rome endured six days of pillaging. - On August 29 Alaric withdrew from Rome and turned to ravage southern Italy for several months. While engaged in siege to Cosentia (Cosenza), Alaric fell victim to a fatal illness. - Alaric was buried with his treasures in the bed of the river Busentinus, for they had diverted the river for that purpose. Prisoners who were compelled to do this work were put to death in that their endeavor to keep the burial place unknown.
! About Alaric in General - Alaric held a respect for Christianity due to his frequent intercourse with Arian teachers. - He has been called a barbarian as many others of his, and succeeding time, have been called. The appellation Barbarian has been used of these invasions of the Roman Empire, not as a personal attribution, but as a national distinction. 234
- Pronunciation of his name appears to be somewhat varied. For example, the Encyclopedia Britannica, Ninth Edition, shows it to be, Al-ric, i.e. All rich. Today, it has been heard as Al-ric, i.e. All Rick or A-lar-ic.
Ron Rankin October 20, 2007
234 Barbarian = [Latin, barbarous, < Greek bararos, one whose language is unintelligible, a foreigner.] A foreigner; a man in his rude savage state; an uncivilized person; a cruel, savage, brutal man; one destitute of pity or humanity The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language. 246
GENSERIC AND THE VANDALS Revelation 8:8 Historical Information Outline 235
Revelation 8:8,9 > And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood; > And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed.
! Genseric, or Gaiseric, was born circa 390 and died in 477. - In 428, Genseric became King of the Vandals, a Teutonic people of low German stock closely related to the Goths. - He was a devout believer in Arianism. - He persecuted those who believed in doctrine of Athanasius that prevailed over Arian doctrine at the Council of Nicea in 325 A.D. - By May, 430, had seized all cities of Roman Africa except Carthage, Hippo, and Cirta. Be besieged Hippo from May, 430, to July, 431, and ended with success for the Vandals; during this siege Augustine became ill and died. - In 435, January 30, made peace with emperor Valentinian III. - Seized Carthage in 439; in 442 forced the Roman government to recognize him as the independent ruler of their North African Province. Vandal occupation of Carthage last for 90 years. - He formed a formidable navy that was the maritime power of the Mediterranean for 30 years. - In 455 entered and sacked Rome. - The vessels of the temple, at Jerusalem, brought to Rome by Titus, were, among the spoils, taken to Carthage. - He carried on a fierce persecution of Catholics; churches were burned, bishops were banished and congregations forbidden to elect successors. - Huneric, his son, succeeded him, and carried on the policies of Genseric even more rancorously.
Ron Rankin January 28, 2008
235 Sources of Historical Information = Encyclopedia Britannica, Ninth Edition, Volume 24, 1889; The World Book Encyclopedia, 1976; Halleys Bible Handbook; Apocalyptic Sketches, Lectures on the Book of Revelation, First Series, John Cumming, 1848; et al. 247
ATTILA the HUN 406 - 453 The Scourge of God 236
Revelation 8:10
Attila the Hun has been known as a ruthless barbarian, fierce and uncivilized. The devastation that he delivered his enemies and the terror that he instilled in them during his lifetime caused him to become known as "The Scourge of God". While most people see Atilla as being just a ferocious warrior, the more obscure side of him shows us that he was also a great king, possessing great leadership abilities and management skills.
Attila the Hun was born in approximately 406 AD to the ruling Hun family, his uncle being the king. Although we do not know much about Attila's childhood, he was taught to ride a horse, shoot a bow, and fight in hand to hand combat at a very young age. By his late teens, he was leading the Huns in battle against their enemies, the Visigoths. In battles, Atilla was merciless. He pillaged numerous towns causing utter devastation. No one could match him in battle, and by his thirties, he was the Huns' leading commander.
Before Attila's time, the Huns were a nomadic, barbarian race. They came from Asia and first reached the outskirts of the Roman Empire in the late 4th century. They conquered the barbarian Ostrogoths and drove back the Visigoths. The Eastern Roman Empire was very threatened by the vicious barbarians that seemed to be unstoppable. In 418, Rome sought peace with the Huns. Hostages were sent to the Huns for a time, and in turn, Attila, at a very young age was taken to Rome. During his time in Rome, Attila was awed by the grandeur of the Empire. He spent two years there. Upon his return home, he vowed to someday go back to Rome not as a hostage, but as a conqueror.
Attila and his brother Bleda succeeded the throne upon the king's death in 433. However, in 445, Attila murdered his brother and obtained entire rule of the Hun kingdom. As king, Attila demanded large amounts of tribute from the Roman Empire and pillaged nearby villages when his demands were not met. For many years, the Eastern Roman Empire, ruled by Theodosius II, paid Attila extreme amounts of money and gifts to keep an unsteady state of peace.
236 Bibliography = 1. Blackwood, Allan. Twenty Tyrants, New York; Marshall Cavendish Corporation, 1990 2. Thompson, E.A. A History of Attila and the Huns; Westport, Connecticut; Greenwood Press, 1975 3. Atilla, Scourge of God. A&E Biography, A&E Television Network, New York, NY 4. Realm-of-shade 16 October, 2002 http://www.realm-of-shade.com/zarathustra/attila.html 5. Art1 Candor 16 October, 2002 http://art1.candor.com/barbarian/gaul.htm.
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Even though he was very rich, Attila led a very simple life. He ate normal Hun food, which was usually raw meat, and wore plain clothes. His belief system was most likely that of the ancient Roman gods, for throughout his life, he cared nothing for the Church or Christianity. There are many legends surrounding the life of Atilla. He is said to have found a sword of the war god Mars buried in the ground of a field, with which he was an invincible warrior. Attila probably really did find a sword. It may not have been the sword of a god, but Attila believed it to be a sign that he was destined to rule the world.
It is also supposed that he was a cannibal, eating two of his sons. This is not known to be a fact. It is believed that one of Attila's wives perhaps killed and prepared the children, for an unapparent reason, and told Attila the meat was that of an animal.
War between the Romans and the Huns broke out in 440 when a Roman bishop was caught desecrating Hun tombs. Attila and his army proved unbeatable as they swept into the Roman Empire defeating them time after time. The Romans offered Attila tremendous amounts of gold, so Attila finally agreed to peace.
In 451, Attila turned his aggression towards the Western Roman Empire in an attempt to expand his kingdom. The Huns organized one of the largest invasions of the time composed of perhaps as many as a half a million men. The Huns spread across Gaul (today's France) and pillaged many great cities. The Romans quickly united with the Visigoths, enemies of the Huns, and formed an army to meet Attila and the Huns. The Huns were surprisingly halted and forced to retreat a hundred miles. The enemy pursued them and once again attacked. The battle that ensued caused mutual retreat for the loss of men on both sides.
Attila was not discouraged however, and planned to redirect his invasion into Italy, the heart of the Western Empire. So, in 452 the Huns struck once again at the Romans. His ultimate goal was Rome itself. The Huns devastated the Roman countryside. However, Attila was forced to make peace with the Romans because of a famine and plague that existed in Italy at the time. Back home, Attila planned his next campaign on the Romans. However, in 453, his plans were suddenly cut short with his untimely death. Atilla had just married to Ilico, his seventh wife. During the night of the wedding, he got drunk and suffered from a hemorrhage of the nose. He died in his bed that night at the age of about 47.
After his death, the sons of Attila gained leadership of the Huns. They lacked the qualities and experience to run a kingdom. In fighting over the throne, they divided the empire, which soon led to its crippling. By 469, the Hun Empire was completely dissolved, faded into a mere memory.
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Attila was a fierce, merciless warrior on the battlefield. The devastation he left behind him is unmatched. Through his aggression, he posed an extreme threat to the Romans and very nearly conquered Rome itself. His accomplishments off the battlefield cannot go unnoticed, however. During his reign, he was able to transform the nomadic Huns into a sedentary empire. He collected immense riches for the Huns and had a very prosperous reign. In many European cultures today, Attila the Hun is honored as a hero. ##
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WORMWOOD A Bible Study Outline
Revelation 8:11 - And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter.
Wormwood and its Qualities The qualities of the plants called wormwood include bitter and extremely unpleasant, therefore it makes water become undrinkable. Likewise, it is associated with gall in Deuteronomy 29:18. Amos 5:7 associates judgment that is turned into wormwood which results when righteousness is absent. Compare Hebrews 12:15
The Application is to a Star Attilas leadership of the Huns brought much bitterness to the empire. He assumed the reigns of, and beyond the Huns, to all the tribes north of the Danube River and the Black Sea and had dominion from the Rhine to the frontiers of China. The bounds of the rivers of Europe identified his exercise of power. When he crossed the Rhine he began his assault on the rest of Europe. He was reverenced by his countrymen; he was said to posses the iron sword of the war-god, Mars, and he proclaimed himself to be the man-child born at Engaddi, who was destined to rule over the whole world. His military activities ranged from the Thrace and Illyria in the east to the heart of Gaul, France, and Italy in the west. At one point Genseric, king of the Vandals, offered to unite with him against Theodoric, king of the Visigoths. His training and influence ranged even into courts of Rome.
Ron Rankin October 28, 2007 Updated January 28, 2008
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ODOACER Revelation 8:12
! Odoacer, circa 434-493, the first barbarian ruler of Italy, was born of German ancestry near the Danube River. - The Rugii, Scyrri, Turcilingi, and Herali were predominant Germanic peoples along the Danube. They all seem to have claimed Odoacer as belonging to them by birth. 237
- His father was Aedico or Idico, a name which suggests Edeco the Hun, who was suborned by the Byzantine court to plot the assassination of his master Attila. There are, however, some strong arguments against this identification. A certain Edica, chief of the Scyrri, of whom Jordanes speaks as defeated by the Ostrogoths, may more probably have been the father of Odoacer, though even in this theory there are some difficulties, chiefly connected with the low estate of which he appears before us in the next scene of his life, when as a tall young recruit for the Roman armies, dressed in a sordid vesture of skins, on his way to Italy, he enters the cell of Severinus, a noted hermit-saint of Noricum, to ask his blessing. The saint had an inward premonition of his future greatness, and in blessing him, said Fare onward into Italy. Thou who art now clothed in vile raiment wilt soon give precious gifts unto many. 238
- He was about 30 years of age when he entered the Imperial army.
! Odoacers Rise to Power - He had come to some eminence by the year 472. - In 476, after the puppet emperor Romulus had been on the throne a year, the Danube tribes arose in mutiny. Odoacer offered his fellow-soldiers all that they desired if they would seat him on the throne. On August 23, 476, Odoacer was proclaimed king. - Rome at once accepted the new ruler; Augustulus, as Romulus was nick-named, was deposed but his life was spared. 239
- Odoacer was 42 years of age when became the chief ruler of Italy. He was called King by the various Germanic tribes but dominus noster by the Romans.
! Odoacers Decline - When Odoacer became chief ruler of Italy he reigned for thirteen undisputed years. He appears to have conducted his administration along the same lines as the old imperial power. - During the course of his time in Italy, Odoacer annexed Dalmatia (481) to the Western state and engaged in altercation with the Rugians, after which his power began to decline and his relationship with the Byzantine court grew less friendly. - Theodoric led the Ostrogoths against Italy which led to the final demise of Odoacer.
! Papal Relationships - In the history of the papacy Odoacer figures as the author of a decree promulgated at the election of Felix II., in 483, forbidding the pope to alienate any of the lands or ornaments of the Roman Church, and threatening any pope who should infringe this edict with anathema. This decree, a strange one to proceed from an Arian sovereign, was probably suggested by some Roman counselors of the king, and seems to have been accepted at the time without protest. It was however, loudly condemned in a synod held by Pope Symmachus (502) as unwarrantable interference of the civil power with the concerns of the church. 240
- John, archbishop of Ravenna, acted as mediator between Theodoric, the Ostrogoth, and Odoacer, when the Ostrogoths invaded Italy. His efforts proved futile and Theodoric killed Odoacer and his brother Onulf in 493 thus eradicating Odoacer and his family.
ARMY OF LOCUSTS Revelation 9:1-11 Outline of Historical Information 241
The Fifth Trumpet = Locusts with the power of Scorpions
REVELATION 9:3 And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power.
A host of horrible monsters, with unreal appearance of Locusts, Horses, Scorpions, Lions and Humans, and their activities, are the focus of Revelation 9:1-11.
It is like a plague of locusts. This is the first woe.
This Trumpet points to events of the rise and spread of the religion of Islam, 242 whose prophet and founder is Mohammed, or Mahomet, born about 570 A.D. and died in 632.
Islamic conquests - Syria in 634 - Jerusalem in 637 - Egypt in 638 - Persia (Iran) in 711
Defeated in 732 by Charles Martel, grandfather of Charlemagne. This prevented further invasion of Europe from the south and west.
241 Sources of Historical Information = Halleys Bible Handbook; Apocalyptic Sketches, Lectures on the Book of Revelation, First series, John Cumming, 1848; Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 th Edition; Historians History of the World, et al. 242 Halleys Bible Handbook gives the following description = In the Seventh century A.D., Mohammedanism swept the Eastern World like a tidal wave, and Blotted out Christianity in Southwest Asia and North Africa; the Euphrates and Nile Valleys; the Eastern and Southern Borders of the Mediterranean; lands of the Bible Story; lands in which the Bible originated and grew; lands in which Gods Revelation of Himself to Mankind was nurtured and brought to completion; lands in which God formed and trained the nation Israel, for two thousand years, to pave the way for the coming of Christ; lands hallowed forever as the scene of Christs Life and Death and Resurrection and His Redemptive Work for Mankind; lands which were the Cradle of Christianity, and which were for 600 years Christian; the Original Christian World; in these lands, by one fell blow of the Mohammedan Sword, Christianity was blotted out, and Mohammedanism was Established. And they have been Mohammedan ever since.
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Locusts (Revelation 9:3) - Shapes of Locusts like War-Horses, with Scorpion-like Tails, Crowns like Gold, Faces like Mens Faces, Hair like Womens Hair, Teeth like Lions Teeth, Breastplates as of Iron, and Wings that sounded like Chariots and Horses running to War (Revelation 9:7-10). - This is indeed a very good description of Mohammedan Armies, composes of Fierce, Relentless Horsemen, famous for their Beards with Long Hair like Womens Hair, with Yellow Turbans on their Heads that looked like God, and they had Iron Coats of Armor. - Arabia, pre-eminently, was a land of locusts. It was in Arabia that Mohammedanism originated.
Some from the Abyss (Revelation 9:2, 3) - It was out of this Smoke that the Locusts came. The smoke had darkened the sun and the air. - The false teachings, which had clouded and corrupted the Church of Mohammeds day, in its worship of images, relics and saints. It was the idolatry of a degenerate and apostate Church that gave Mohammed his chance. - Destruction of idols was his slogan.
Hurt not the Grass, nor any green thing (Revelation 9:4) - See the decree of Abu Bekr, Caliph to General Abu Sufyan. It forbad violence to the aged, the women and children; provided for preservation of fields and trees.
Torment Men Five Months (Revelation 9:5). - 5 months, the normal time of Locusts, May to September, is about 150 days. This corresponds to the 150 years of conquest. - In this period, A.D. 630 to A.D. 786, Mohammedanism continued its effort at World Conquest. - With Haroun-Al-Raschid (A.D. 786-809), at the eight of Mohammedan Power and Glory, the idea of conquest was abandoned and they began to cultivate peaceful relations with other nations.
Ron Rankin and Russ Rankin Compiled between 1957 and 2008
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ABU BEKR His Decree as Caliph to General Abu Sufyan Scripture Reference = Revelation 9:4
Abu Bekr the caliph died the same day that Damascus was taken, which was on Friday, the 23rd of August, 634 A.D. Abu Bekr particularly lamented the number of the prophet's companions that fell in these campaigns, and fearing that the revelations of Mohammed might be dispersed and lost, he gave orders that they should be collected into the Koran. .... When all things were ready, the caliph reviewed the troops and issued that celebrated code of regulations for the conduct of the army; it was addressed to the general Abu Sufyan, and contained the following directions:
"Take care to treat your men with tenderness and lenity. Consult the enemy with bravery and resolution. If you are victorious, spare all the aged, the women, and the children. Neither cut down palm trees nor burn any fields of corn. Spare all fruit trees; slay no cattle but such as are required for your own use. Adhere to your engagements inviolably; spare the inhabitants of monasteries; desecrate no houses of religious worship. Cleave the skulls of those members of the synagogue of Satan, who shave their crowns, give them no quarter, unless they embrace Islamism, or pay tribute." >>
The Historians' History of the World, ed. Henry Smith Williams, LL.D., The Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., New York, 1904, 1926 edition, Vol. 8, Pg. 149.
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ARMY OF HORSEMEN Revelation 9:12-21 Outline of Historical Information 243
The Sixth Trumpet = Army of 200,000,000 Euphratean Horsemen
REVELATION 9:16 And the number of the army of the horsemen, were two hundred thousand thousand: and I heard the number of them.
Horrible looking Monsters, of complex appearance of Men, Horses, Lions and Serpents, belching Fire, Smoke and Brimstone, are the scenes described in Revelation 9:12-21.
630 to 1018 = Arabians ruled Mohammedan World 400 years 1057 = Turks then took over, and were in control of the Mohammedan world, and occupied Jerusalem, until 1917. George Allenby, the British General, drove the Turks from Jerusalem and thus ended their power and influence over the holy land.
This Trumpet points to events of the Turkish Mohammedanism Era.
Euphrates (Revelation 9:14), from whence the Sixth Trumpet Armies of Horsemen were loosed. In A.D. 1057 a vast horde of Turks, from central Asia, appeared on the banks of the Euphrates. In their westward march they replaced the Arabians as rulers of Mohammedan lands.
The Turks were more cruel and intolerant than the Arabians had been. Their barbarous treatment of Christians in Palestine led to the Crusades (A.D. 1095-1272), almost 300 years of intermittent War in which European Christians tried to regain the Holy Land from Mohammedans. The Turk became known eventually as the wild man of Europe. Fiercely independent and cruel in military action, such things as the Turkish Armenian atrocities have made an indelible mark on the history of Europe and the Middle East.
Out of the Horses Mouths proceeded Fire, Smoke, Brimstone (Revelation 9:17). The Eastern Roman Empire (A.D. 395-1453), its capital, Constantinople, had, for centuries (A.D. 630-1453) been the bulwark of Europe against Mohammedanism. But in A.D. 1453 it fell to the Turks. - It was at the battle of Constantinople A.D. 1453), that Artillery with gunpowder was first used, which gave victory to the Turks; the Fire, Smoke
243 Sources of Historical Information = Halleys Bible Handbook; Apocalyptic Sketches, Lectures on the Book of Revelation, First Series, John Cumming, 1848; A History of Gunpowder, by Phil Earnshaw; Historians History of the World; et al.
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and Brimstone of Revelation 9:17. Gunpowder having been invented, in Asia by the Chinese, was brought to Europe by the Turkish invaders. - The victorious Turks marched on in toward central Europe; but met their defeat in Vienna (A.D. 1683), at the hands of a Polish army under John Sobieski. - As in the Battle of Turks (A.D. 732), so here, a second time after almost 1000 years, Europe was again saved from Mohammedans.
Hour, Day, Month, and Year (Revelation 9:15), point to an exact appointed time. - Using the day for a year principle found in Ezekiel 4:6 and Numbers 14:34 = 365 plus 30 plus 1, 396 days, that is 396 years. 244
- From A.D. 1057, when the Turks crossed the Euphrates, to the Fall of Constantinople (A.D. 1453), was 396 years. - The actual dates are: From the day the Turks left Baghdad on the Euphrates January 18, 1057 Until Constantinople fell into their control May 29, 1453 Which equals 396 years and 106 days This is determined by calculating 365 years + a month [30 years] + 1 day [1 year] + an hour [15 days] = 396 years and 106 days; the exact period of time between January 18, 1057 and May 29, 1453.
Third Part of Men Killed (Revelation 9:18) - The fall of the Eastern Roman Empire (A.D. 1453), the last remaining Third of the original Roman Empire, at the hands of the Turks.
And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not [Revelation 9:20] - The remaining, broken and holy, Roman Empire continued with their devilish and idolatrous worship, their murders, sorceries, fornications, and thievery. Revelation 17:3-6 Revelation 18:3-5
Ron Rankin and Russ Rankin Compiled between 1957 and 2008
244 The contractual weeks of Jacob in Genesis 29:27, 28 = 1 week equaled 7 years; the two weeks were fulfilled by Jacob, working for Laban, for 7 years each [7 for Leah and 7 for Rachel]. This was tantamount to 1 day = 1 year. Though a contractual week was not precisely an example of a day for a year, the result was the same. Interestly, the Hebrew word for day [yom] is sometimes translated appropriately as year. Likewise days [yamim] may also be translated appropriately years. This may be learned from a study of the Hebrew usages of these words, as well as how they are translated into English in the Bible.