Discuss Revelation 5 Page 2

Hi Vince, God blessed us with the ability to have fun and happy lovable pets. While the Bible doesn't answer this specifically, the Bible describes heaven as an amazing place full of love, joy, and probably every possible positive emotion on earth we experience times a million. Those who described the visions of heaven seemed to lack the words to even convey how awesome it is. Total love and happiness with no downside. So, basically, you have nothing to be concerned about. Many of these answers will only be revealed then.

This verse suggests there could be animals in heaven:

"And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever." Revelation 5:13 KJV

On the other hand, I don't think people who died of dog attacks, snake bites or shark attacks, etc will be forced to live in fear with those same creatures in heaven. I think God has it under control where people have nothing to worry about. To me its not like looking for an apartment. There's only one super obvious positive choice, and one super horrible choice.

Hello Hope this help

A biblical concept of worship involves praising God and giving Him glory with our lips and our lives, with our words and our deeds, with our physical bodies and our spiritual hearts. Worship that pleases God is authentic, offered with clean hands and a pure heart ( Psalm 24:3-4; Isaiah 66:2).

King David danced "before the Lord with all his might" ( 2 Samuel 6:14)

Revelation 5:8-11

twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they *sang a new song, saying, " Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals

Psalms 149:3 - Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. Psalms 150:1 - 127:6 - Praise ye the LORD

Luke 2:13-14

And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest,

And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased

Colossians 3:14-17

And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Who are the 24 elders?

Hi Gigi.

Not sure if this is exactly what you are looking for but here's a few of many references of a future Kingdom here on earth.

Revelation 5:10

And have made us kings and priests to our God;

AND WE SHALL REIGN ON THE EARTH.

Psalm 2:6-8

"Yet I have set My King

On My holy hill of Zion." "I will declare the decree:

The LORD has said to Me,

'You are My Son,

Today I have begotten You.

Ask of Me, and I will give You

The nations for Your inheritance,

And the ends of the earth for Your possession.

Daniel 2:34-35

You watched while a stone was cut out without hands, which struck the image on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces. Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold were crushed together, and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors; the wind carried them away so that no trace of them was found. And the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and FILLED THE WHOLE EARTH.



Zechariah 14:9-11.

Zechariah 14:16-19

And it shall come to pass that everyone who is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles. And it shall be that whichever of the families of the earth do not come up to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, on them there will be no rain. If the family of Egypt will not come up and enter in, they shall have no rain; they shall receive the plague with which the LORD strikes the nations who do not come up to keep the Feast of Tabernacles. This shall be the punishment of Egypt and the punishment of all the nations that do not come up to keep the Feast of Tabernacles.

Matthew 6:10

Your kingdom come.

Your will be done

"ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN."

Matthew 5:5.

Matthew 25:31-34.

Isaiah 2:2.

Jeremiah 30:10.

Ezekiel 34:25-31.

Daniel 2:44.

Micah 4:1-2.

Zechariah 8:1-3.

Revelation 11:5.

God bless you.

Goodnight.

Hi Renee.

We learn a lot about the 24 elders Revelation 5:9-10.

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 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.

1) We know they were redeemed.

2) They were made Kings and priests.

3) They shall reign on earth.

I believe this represents the Church.

Here's why.

They were redeemed out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation. Ephesians 1:7.

They were made kings and Priests.

1st Peter 1:9.

These kings and Priests shall reign on earth.

Revelation 1:5-6.

And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

I hope this helps.

God bless.

Revelation 4:5, Revelation 3, Revelation 5:6, Psalms 104:4, Hebrews 12:9, Hebrews 1:7,

Hebrews 1:13,14,

Hopefully these are helpful

Renee,

Revelation Chapter 1 tells us that the seven Spirits was the sevenfold Spirit of God. Revelation 4:5, along with Revelation 5:6 tells us that the sevenfold Spirit of God represent His eyes, the all- knowing and the all-seeing God.

Also, in Zechariah 4:10, it tells us that the seven Spirits are the seven eyes of God.

He that has the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars, from Verses 4 and 16 of Chapter 1.

Men and women: Roles and eternal rewards (cont).

Okay take 2...

We see from Galatians 3:28 in the last post that we are one in Christ. There are certain things such as slavery mentioned in the rest of the verse that supposedly are outlawed almost worldwide (but that continue unabated nonetheless). Thus; when we see Revelation 13:16-18 we see slaves still being mentioned; along with every type person in society (in that case LOST people taking the Mark of the Beast); and in Rev. 13:7 we see every trible; tongue and language who is represented in heaven (saved folk).

I have probably stated before that there are some women who I consider of superior intellect. An example is Amy Van Gerpen at Tracking Bible Prophecy. Her teaching on Revelation is now complete; each chapter being jam packed with page after page of scripture cross references. She is not claiming any authority to teach as a Pastor; and goes to church with her husband. It is in my estimation unsurpassed for detail and theologically accurate.

Sadly though even if we could take an "impartial" approach to women teaching in the church on the pulpit when you look at the women who are prominent or simply calling themselves "public speakers" they often take up a role of authority and I am not aware of any at this point who don't have major theological and/or doctrinal error. Of course as far as prosperity preachers in general I can't say much better. So there is perhaps a predilection for such apostasy and deception to continue with women in these roles ( 1 Tim. 2:12). I have also discussed what roles women can have; and their strength that tends to be with prayer and at times discernment. Also I probably brought up how women were to cover their heads while prophesying or in prayer (ostensively in a public setting) so there are tines things are said; and of course this excludes private settings to some extent.

Kings and priests in Revelation 5:10 could include women as far as I see.

The mark of the Beast cannot come until Antichrist comes; is worshipped by all the unregenerate; a mark is given for allegiance to him; and a death penalty is worldwide for those who will not recieve it. The allegiance will be to the man who appears to have a deadly wound then is healed from it. This prophecy can be found in Zechariah 11:17 as well as in Revelation 13. This will appear to be immortality as a type of false Resurrection as it were. The son of perdition in John 17:2 as well as 2 Thessalonians are describing the fate of Judas Iscariot; and the second verse Antichrist. These two individuals are both directly controlled by Satan; although technically the possession of the Beast is due to Apollyon king of the bottomless pit the way I see it in Revelation 9:11 which means; among other things the destroyer.

There are certainly foreshadowings today technologically speaking; and the genetic AI concept likely will also involve some sort of DNA alteration assuring eternal life for those taking it. I take chronologically most of Revelation; bolstered by "after these things" used so frequently. There will clearly be a false one world religion that will ride the beast at first; and this will be overturned at the Midpoint of the Trib. ( Rev. 17:16); as Satan only wants worship for himself. There will be a process where it appears all men will praise God after the Rapture in Revelation 5:13. I haven't heard it preached but we must remember there is the Resurrection of all the church saints; so even if the Rapture isn't seen by some the partially empty graveyards can't be denied. At any rate; men's hearts will harden to the point where they fear God and are aware of judgment coming at the sixth seal; and later on dthey will blaspheme God and attempt eventually to fight God (see also Psalm 2; Rev. 19). BTW God's people are also "sealed" ( Eph. 1:13); as well as the 144,000 ( Rev. 7:1-8) invisibly.

Enoch was written no doubt as a genuine text as quoted in Jude; and his name mentioned in Genesis. Unfortunately, the only section that can be trusted is in Jude and major parts of the text are missing; noteably part that mentions disputing over the Body of Moses. There is rather fanciful and strange things in the existing version too; so it is probably not the original text.

From what we do now in the scriptures; he was a man who pleased God and "was not"; he was the first man to be translated to heaven; then Elijah later on. Since it appears Elijah is one of the 2 last prophets then it is clear that he has NOT received as yet a resurrection body. If the principle of Heb. 9:27 holds forth; then the same would be said of Elijah; and hence these would be the final 2 prophets. This is controversial; but bolstered by the fact that Christ was said to be the first of the firstfruits; ( 1 Cor. 15:23) which was followed apparently by a resurrection of some of the saints from the grave at that point ( Matthew 27:53). The Rapture is the next phase along with the Resurrection of all the church age saints (it appears that perhaps the rest of the O.T. saints are resurrected later on in the Tribulation when we look at Daniel 12:2.

What we do understand is how to be a man after God's own heart and how that qualifies us for the Rapture and to escape all things to come; as well as the multihued of ten thousand times ten thousand angels also bolstered by Revelation 5:11. There are other texts quoted in scripture that we don't have copies of; even with the sermon on Mars hill by Paul as well as his comment to the Cretians being greedy and gluttonous came from secular writers (not a pleasant message to hear is true; no doubt). Scripture as a whole is intertwined with numerous cross references (a Dake's bible has over 100,000!) Some of these of course are questionable but in scripture it is clear that "thus saith the Lord" means certain things indeed happened.

Tim,

It tells us that out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices:

This will be the expression of God's judgment whenever He judges. We see it throughout the book of Revelation. There will be lightnings and thunderings and sounds coming out from the throne.

It says, and there were seven lamps of fire before the throne, which are the (seven spirits of God).

We see these seven spirits back in Revelation 1:4. And if we follow it through in Chapter 4, along with Revelation 5:6, it tells us that these seven spirits of God are the seven eyes of God going throughout the world.

It is the seven fold complete ministry of the Holy Spirit held by both the Jews, and of course the scripture itself teaches that.

In Zechariah Chapters 4 and 10, it also tells us that the seven lamps are the seven eyes of the Lord, the all-seeing one.

So before the throne, the seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God (The 7 eyes of God).

In Revelation 5:6, we have a Lamb that had been standing there as it had been slain, having seven horns and (seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God), sent forth into all the earth.

Daniel Chapter 7 tells us that the horns represent power and authority. And of course the eyes, again, Zechariah tells us that the Messiah has seven eyes. I don't believe it is talking about the literal eyeball.

The word seven in scripture means complete. It means that He (God) is in complete authority, and He sees everything fully and completely.

Hope this helps!

End of comment on seals

The Antichrist will utilize the desperation at this point as well as the supposed invincibility shortly afterwards in killing the two prophets and breaking the covenant to bring out the dreaded "mark of the beast." Before this; the false one world religion (see Revelation 17:3) will have persecuted the true believers on earth at that time; but after that the false religions themselves along with true Christians will be destroyed as Satan only wants worship for himself. It is a means to an end to consolidate power and God allows it for that last 3 1/2 years to fulfill his purposes as we also see spelled out in Daniel 12.

That period no doubt will affect either 1/4 of the earth in total or be concentrated in 1/4 of the earth. I would expect the USA to be affected with much of this; and/or the mideast areas. It depends if we are Babylon; if we ARE then such things seem to come in one hour or near the end of the Tribulation if not it is possible that we are exploiting much of the world in the beginning.

This is beyond the scope of the seals specifically but relates to how quickly one place may fall as compared to others; it seems not affecting the "oil and wine" could literally refer to the oil industry in my opinion althouh traditionally it has been thought to be like the wine fancy food for rich people still around while others starve which seems to have been foreshadowed with COVID as it seems to me the rush on the state stores occurred at that point and also then oil actually was cheap. It doesn't seem like alcohol anyway has gone up in price; an interesting sidenote. Eventually gold and silver don't save in the day of wrath (I'll let you find the verse). In the sixth seal we see everyone hiding from the wrath of God but by the end of the Tribulation they are FIGHTING God. That is a far cry from Revelation 5:13 which if it occurs after the rapture shows praise of the Lord initially. Israel must go through all this to wake up

good morning

what is the meaning of the 7 seals?

Hello Peggy. You could look up the following Scriptures on Jesus Christ's Deity (i.e. God's fullness found in Jesus ( Colossians 2:9) & in His Holy Spirit). Jesus' Deity is proved by:

a. His Names: Hebrews 1:8, John 20:28 (God); Matthew 16:16, Matthew 26:61-65 (the Son of God); Matthew 22:41-46 (Lord); Revelation 19:13 (Word of God); Revelation 19:16 (King of kings and Lord of lords).

b. His Characteristics: Matthew 28:18 (Omnipotence: all powerful); Luke 6:8, John 2:24,25, John 13:11 (Omniscience: all knowing); Matthew 18:20 (Omnipresence: present in any place); John 1:4 (Life); John 14:6 (Truth); Hebrews 13:8 (Immutability: unchanging); 1 Timothy 3:16, John 1:1-14 (God manifest in the flesh in Jesus).

c. His Works: John 1:3, Colossians 1:16 (creates); Colossians 1:17 (sustains); Luke 7:48,49 (forgives sin); John 11:41-44 (raises the dead); John 5:27 (judges); John 15:26 (sends the Holy Spirit).

d. His receiving Worship: Hebrews 1:6 (from angels); Revelation 5:11-13 (from other heavenly beings); Matthew 14:33 (from men); Philippians 2:10 (from all).

e. His equality within the Triune God: John 14:23, John 10:30-33 (with the Father); Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14 (with the Father and the Spirit).

I hope you can see from these few Scriptures that Jesus was not just a special Man or Prophet sent by God, but truly was "God manifested in the flesh". No other man before Jesus' coming, during, or after His leaving this Earth, could ever fully reflect God's Glory, Wisdom & Power. Only God could - and He did this by sending us His Word, made Him a Man, so that He could give His Life as full payment for our sins - but only to those who believe this & place their trust in Him. To some, the 'Trinity' teaching is abominable. But man's salvation depends on the Divine Person of the Lord Jesus Christ - that God could accept no other Sacrifice to redeem & secure people to Himself - only by giving fully of Himself, which is true love for all.

Psalm 45.

This Psalm discusses in the first five verses a description of a mighty warrior of valor; with characteristics of "truth; meekness and righteousness" in verse 3. The description in verse 2; however about being fairer than the children of men would certainly seem to portray the future Messiah; or at least an angelic being.

Verse 6 clearly describes God. Verse 7 discusses God Himself anointing someone; which likely represents only the Messiah Himself. There were special formulas for priests to administer to kings in the O.T. as specified in Leviticus 8:30; as well as Exodus 29 and 30.

Verse 8 discusses Myrrh which was one of the spices brought to Christ ( Matthew 2:11).

The remainder of the Psalm except for the last verse could describe the nuptuals and marriage bonds such as found in the Song of Solomon. We are also reminded of the story of Ruth who left her own people and was blessed for joining Naomi and the Jews; and eventually was part of he royal lineage from the sentiments in verse 10.

Verse 16 could describe spiritual offspring; and relate to us as in Revelation 5:10 being "kings and priests on the earth". The last verse also seems to indicate Christ being "remembered in all generations." The whole Psalm is likely a depiction of David as seen by those writing it for the sons of Korah for worship.

Psalm 33 begins with a praise admonition for song with "noise" (v. 3); as well as "skillfully" played music with a variety of instruments in the surrounding verses being approved for use. In verses 3-5 we aslso see a "new song" mentioned which is associated with God's judgment and also reflecting His works (v. 4). This is reminiscent of the verses in Revelation 5:9 and 14:3 which reflects the earlier song of Moses starting before the end of Deuteronomy 31 and most of chapter 32. These show judgments that will occur which finally will bring Israel to the right standing with God.

We see further description in verses 6 through 10 of the creation of earth as well as the fear of the Lord (verse 8) and devices o men coming to naught (v 10); a theme repeated elsewhere in Psalms and other passages as I noted in other commentaries previously.

Verses 10 through 14 get into the general state of nations; if their trust is in the Lord. This indeed may not be the case now; but at His coming there will be a major change in the attitude of many remaining as seen in Isaiah 19:23 for example.

Once again verses 16 through 17 show what Solomon should have heeded to in multiplying horses and gold and silver; clearly David's foolish census taught him that lesson!

Ultimately the promise is in verse 19 to deliver from death for rhose who fear him (v. 18). THe theme of hope and truste end out this Psalm; which are things we should patiently heed in these last days.

Leviticus 6:7-13

So, this continual burnt offering on the altar speaks so many things to those of us in Christ. In Revelation 5:6 speaks of the slain Lamb before God's throne. This speaks back to this burnt offering in Leviticus being continually offered. Scripture tells us that Jesus was slain for sinful mankind before creation and is depicted as the slain sacrificial lamb in Revelation, speaks to the eternality of the work of God for salvation.

God is always true to Himself. He will never change His mind about sin, nor about His will to redeem mankind, nor about the way He brings about the salvation of humankind. He never had a "Plan B" when Adam sinned. What He ordained was already done when He willed it in eternity because all of what God wills has been accomplished in Him. We on the other hand, see His will be done in time and space. We are bound by that, but God is not.

The other aspect of this continual sacrifice, and notably, that new wood is put on the fire every morning, is that we are to offer ourselves to God continually as living sacrifices. We are to daily lay our life down for His will, not ours. Each new day we can renew our dedication to Him. All day long we can be in communion with Him because of the perpetual efficacy of Jesus' sacrifice. Even when we are asleep or not consciously aware, the blood of Jesus avails for us. It is not depended on our effort to recall or meditate on it. All of our redemption depends on God alone. He alone can redeem us perfectly forever.

So much to praise Him for!

Amen Joe.

That's the view I hold also.

Did you notice in Revelation 5:3. the locations was saught out to find a "MAN" (Kinsman Redeeer) to loose the seals?

"And no man in ( HEAVEN,) nor in EARTH, neither UNDER THE EARTH, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.

"Another verse some of us use to identify the rapture has already taken place at this point."

HERE'S ANOTHER THING TO NOTE;

Look at how they are identified In Revelation 5:9-10. 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 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.

We know this don't represent the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 Apostles. They're not "OUT OF EVERY KINDRED, AND TONGUE, AND PEOPLE, AND NATION;"

But look who this group Identify with. Revelation 1:4-6. John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, AND WASHED US FROM OUR SINS IN HIS OWN BLOOD,

AND HATH MADE US KINGS AND PRIESTS unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

All this takes place BEFORE the Antichrist hits the scene and before the 7 seals are broken.

God bless.

Hi Adam.

I believe God answered his prayer in Matthew 26:39. And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, IF IT BE POSSIBLE, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.

"IF" it be possible may be the clue.

If there was any other way for man to be saved there would have been another outcome.

And later in Acts 4:12 Peter was able to say this "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."

And also John in Revelation 5:2-5 "And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?

And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.

And I wept much, because "NO MAN" was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.

And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof."

Revelation 5:9 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" to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

Jesus is our Kinsman redeemer.

No MAN in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book,

To be a Kinsman he had to be a Man,, "So Jesus took on flesh for the suffering of death."

Hebrews 2:14.

And to redeem us he had to be able and willing. He was the perfect Lamb of God. 1 Peter 3:18.

Hebrews 9:22-26.

I believe there was no other way.

There was no other sacrifice that would make it possible.

God bless.

1Corinthians 6:1-3, Continue on 1Corinthians 6:4,5, 2Timothy 2:12, Revelation 5, notice Revelation 5:10,

Mark 10:42-45, 1Timothy 3:1-13, 1Timothy 5:17-22, Hebrews 13:7,17,24, 1Corinthians 4,

Exodus 18:13-26, John 7:24, Deuteronomy 1:16,18, 1Corinthians 11:31, Isaiah 3:4,12, Isaiah 14:2, Isaiah 32:1, Deuteronomy 15:5-18,

James 1:5,

Hopefully these are helpful

You are correct Chris. I cannot just leave. We need all the saints and encourage everyone to be saved. God wants us to take care of everyone until we have ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; Revelation 5:11

We really are in perilous times. The evil forces are more pronounced on earth. I personally will be responsible to God if I do not share the truth that is all based on the Bible.

Just to let everyone know I am more comforted by each of your kind responses. You guys inspired me to do more.

Romans 1:11-12

For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. I prayed for each and everyone of you and your family to be stronger, healthier, joyful, and at peace in God's grace. Agape.

Revelation 6:12-17 Sixth seal.

If indeed there was praise everywhere as stated after the Rapture in Revelation 5:13 there wasn't anymore. Fear was apparently for all members of society (v. 15) when they tried to hide in vain in the caves of the earth from God and Christ's wrath. For those who would say that this is a parallel passage to the bowl judgments or trumpet judgments are not dividing the Word very carefully. By the bowl judgments men are trying literally to fight against Christ; and are continually blaspheming His name; making no attempt to veil either their bodies or attitudes from God. The demons have succeeded in total control; no doubt aided by the intoxicating power behind Satan's mark of the Beast.

The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. ( Prov. 9:10; etc.) Some will learn from this and repent such as seen in Psalm 64:9. There is a time when it is too late however such as in Psalm 18:41-42. That is in God's hands. For some at the sixth seal it probably is too late; all those not in the Book of Life will worship the Beast ( Rev. 13:8) and be damned ( Rev. 19:15).

That will no doubt encompass many who continue in sin even after one third of the earth is destroyed and men are tormented by demons ( Rev. 9:21).

I pray that as this study continues as an unworthy servant to reflect the Spirit of God in my words and to have the strength to undertake discussion of these awful realities which are to come upon the earth. May someone even one soul take it to heart and be led to repentance and may readers be as Jeremiah states in chapter 20 verse 9 that His Word is fire in our bones. The enemy does not want our minds to be opened to see what is shortly to come to pass. The apocalyptic day which is worse than any that was and will come ( Jeremiah 30:7; Mark 13:19; Matt. 24:21) is at hand. May we all have a "reality check" and be ready for His return to escape all these things ( Luke 21:36; Rev. 3:10).

The beginning of this passage shows John weeping that no one was found worthy (verse 2-5) to open the sealed scroll or even LOOK upon it. Christ; of course is victorious (verse 6); and finally the time comes for the Father to hand control to the Son and to begin His reign through a series of judgments. God determines when transgressions are to the full; and when the world is fully ripe for judgment; not man who would have no doubt destroyed each other completely long ago without the Restrainer. (2 Thessalonians).

Once again in this chapter the 24 elders are mentioned (verse 8). As we get to the next verse; the focus should be on the prayers of the saints not the elders who previously were holding the "golden vials". It is hard to say if the "prayers of the saints" represent those just raptured or those who are still suffering or knew what was to come on earth or both. Whether part of the great multitude of new believers post Rapture or not; it shows awareness in heaven as to what is going on in the earth as later passages show with the souls under the altar. In heaven; certainly there is no need for prayer for any improvement of perfect peace and a sinless state.

When we see verse 11-14 we see not only those in heaven but ALL in the earth; under the earth which eventually represent those of faith and unbelievers as well as all will bow the knee ( Philippians 2:10-11). The rapture may in part be in secret; the busting open of many graves certainly will NOT be able to be hidden; although the explanation by Antichrist will be twisted. It likely will state that aliens have abducted us; and or the New Age lie that we were inflexible and unable to accept the utopia promised and are being reprogrammed somewhere.

As to the dead who were raised it seems that won't be too good an explanation; nonetheless ALL those NOT written in the Book of Life will worship the Beast. He will likely promise immortality as he himself will appear to be raised from the dead.

Revelation 5: Focus on the seven Spirits of God.

Revelation 4:5 also discusses the seven Spirits of God along with Revelation 5:6. Apparently; Isaiah 11:2 is a commonly referred to cross reference; although technically it involves 6 ministries under the Lord Himself (as the 7th); it does fit in a sort of Menorah picture of how the Spirit operates in the entire corporate Body. We see a further description in Zechariah 4:2-3 of this source (apparently now in heaven); and the two prophets that tap into this power as witnesses throughout the earth in the end times. That can be studied further in Revelation 11.

It would seem that the seven spiritual gifts also would be in play here as to the emphasis given to a given church. This would be seen in Romans 12:6-8. In general; it seems that there are certain strengths and weaknesses that are commonplace depending on what gifts we have and that could factor into the overall situation as to the state of a congregation; what trials a particular congregation may or may not be called to suffer; doctrinal errors that creep in; etc. It is important to see the interdependence here so that the church isn't imbalanced

( 1 Cor. 12:14-16). In fact; we also see seven gifts listed in 1 Corinthians 12:8-11. It is important to differentiate between the fruit of the Spirit (love; joy; peace; longsuffering; etc) in Galatians 5:22-22 which characterizes the lives of all true believers and the particular ministries they have. We can't have one without the other. The common thread; of course is the love of God and brethren as seen in John 13:34-35; and reflected in 1 Corinthians 13 (entire chapter). Apparently; gifts can operate even with immature saints just as some could believe at one time without understanding the indwelling Holy Spirit such in Acts 19:1-4.

In conclusion; God distributes as He will or "severally" ( 1 Cor. 12:11). In obedience because we love Christ ( John 14:15) we have the right attitude to grow.

Hi Grae.

I pray this disagreement doesn't offend anyone, That's not my intentions. I will start with verse 9 through 11 to focus on his humanity.

9) But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels FOR THE SUFFERING OF DEATH, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.

10) For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, IN BRINGING MANY SONS UNTO GLORY, TO MAKE THE CAPTAIN OF THEIR SALVATION PERFECT THROUGH SUFFERINGS.

( Verse 10. The CAPTAIN of our salvation means he's the author and finisher of our salvation. the suffering is the death on the cross for all humanity as seen here in Hebrews 12:2.)

11) For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified ARE ALL OF ONE: FOR WHICH CAUSE HE IS NOT ASHAMED TO CALL THEM BRETHREN,

Jesus didn't take on our humanity so he can be tempted and resist sin, he took on our humanity to redeem us as our Kinsman redeemer by way of the cross. See Revelation 5:2-9.

That brings us to Verses 17-18.

"Wherefore in all things IT BELOVED HIM TO BE MADE LIKE UNTO HIS BRETHREN, THAT HE MIGHT BE A MERCIFUL AND FAITHFUL HIGH PRIEST in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

FOR IN THAT HE HIMSELF HATH SUFFERED BEING TEMPTED, HE IS ABLE TO SUCCOUR THEM THAT ARE TEMPTED."

First let's deal with the word tempted.

Greek:

Transliteration: peiraz

Pronunciation: pi-rad'-zo

Definition: From G3984; TO TEST (objectively) that is endeavor 6

scrutinize entice discipline: - assay examine go about prove. .

Jesus entire life was a testing!!

Jesus was PROVOKED just like we are, that doesn't mean he was tempted to sin as if he had to withstrain him self from sinning.

We have the opportunity to do wrong as well as Christ. THE OPPORTUNITY IS THE TEST!

We have the opportunity to do wrong AND WE WANT TO DO IT. Christ didn't!

Because God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him! John 3:34.

God bless.

Hi Don.

The book of Ruth is a wonderful book. It is the story of the Kinsman redeemer. Christ is our Kinsman redeemer! The book of Ruth models Christ redeeming us.

We lear about the Kinsman redeemer here in Leviticus 25:25-28 "If thy brother be waxen poor, and hath sold away some of his possession, and if any of his kin come to redeem it, then shall he redeem that which his brother sold.

And if the man have none to redeem it, and himself be able to redeem it;

Then let him count the years of the sale thereof, and restore the overplus unto the man to whom he sold it; that he may return unto his possession.

But if he be not able to restore it to him, then that which is sold shall remain in the hand of him that hath bought it until the year of jubile: and in the jubile it shall go out, and he shall return unto his possession."

Jesus Christ would redeem all who trust in his name from the slavery of sin and death. He had to be able and willing.

Read Revelation 5:2-10.

"And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?.....

Verse 9. "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 to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;"

Another interesting study is the Jubilee and Pentecost.

I hope this helps.

God bless.

Brother Richard:

The REVEALING of Christ was the 3 1/2 years he was IN FLESH on the EARTH.

Revelation 1:1 ...the REVELATION (revealing) of Jesus Christ ....reveals Christ and those 3 1/2 years; fulfilling the coming of the Kingdom of God.

The seven seals are already open, the seventh seal at Pentecost. All the answers are in the scriptures of prophecy.

Daniel 12:7 An I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand, and his left hand unto heaven, and swear by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time (one year), times (2 Years) and a half 1/2 year (1+2+1/2=3 1/2 years: prophecy; Christ in flesh); when he shall accomplish to SCATTER THE POWER of the holy people (his priests) ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE FINISHED.

John 19:30 And when Jesus had therefore received the vinegar ( Psalms 69:21), he said, IT IS FINISHED (prophecy fulfilled), and bowed his head, and gave up the ghost (the Spirit of his Father).

God Bless You.

Brother Richard:

You are correct, there is no scriptures that says there is not a rapture; but there is scripture that says that rapture is not COLLECTIVE; but, ONE by ONE.

Isaiah 27:12 ....and ye shall be gather ONE by ONE, O ye children of Israel.

Whatever the Word says, will happen. Scripture CANNOT contradict scripture, It must be RIGHTLY DIVIDED to reveal truth.

Isaiah 55:11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

I also love the book of Revelation, but man's (anti-Christ) teachings have distilled it's TRUTH. It's the REVEALING of CHRIST the KINGDOM of GOD.

John 5:43 I (truth, Christ) come in my Father's name, and ye received me (truth) not: if another come in his OWN NAME, HIM (anti-truth, anti-Christ) will ye receive.

God Bless ALL as we come to HIS TRUTH.

Revelation 5:13 certainly does seem to indicate that a worldwide praise of God occurs. The only question is; if this is not a chronological marker of the events immediately after the Rapture but indicates perhaps when the 2nd coming; or even Great White Throne judgment occurs when people are forced to bow. ( Isaiah 45:23; Philippians 2:11). In any event; it is pretty clear that by the sixth seal the world will be well aware of God the Father and the Son on the throne in heaven; and the fact that wrath has started. Perhaps there will be a full understanding of the Father and Son right after the Rapture; as the verse above seems to suggest. The world would be deceived; however in thinking that wrath doesn't begin until later; as the 1st Seal somehow will appear to be a solution to the world's problems. The Antichrist certainly will be a substitute for Christ ( John 5:43); and there is no verse that seems to indicate any denial of a Rapture event; and certainly worldwide Resurrections with empty tombs and damaged graveyards can't be denied. Undoubtably; there will be some message explaining why some weren't taken; and explaining away as a UFO abduction of those missing is a likely thing to occur. Everyone at that point will want to find solutions; and this super orator will appear to be the 12th Imam; Maitreya; or whatever figure best suits all those who don't love the truth but believe THE lie ( 2 THess. 2:11). This will also allow the one world government; currency and final "Beast" kingdom to be established.

When we look at the life of Christ; being praised in the streets one week before many turned against Him at the cross; we see how quickly men's hearts can turn. In the Tribulation; men will go from fearing God to attempting at the end to fight against Him ( Psalm 2; Rev. 19). It is also not inconceivable that men fear God yet still worship idols ( 2 Kings 17:41; Rev. 9:20-21).

Rev. 13:8 shows how all those not written in the Book of Life succumb

I was always taught that we are not robots but that we have free will. That God doesn't just push a button and we respond. Well, in chapter 5 it says that when the Lamb takes the book out of the hand of the Father all heaven AND earth give praise at that time. Well, if one is here upon earth at that time, and not being all robots, what will motivate that response? I believe that the same trumpet sound that John the Revelator heard, and the thunder and lightning that followed when that very scene was revealed to him will be heard and seen by those here on earth at that time. The trumpet sound will bring all safely to a halt and then that scene will be revealed in real time and those on earth will witness Jesus taking the book out of the hand of the Father and opening the first seal and thus motivated to respond with the praise mentioned. Thus, there will be if you will an official beginning of the Tribulation. Those on earth will KNOW it has started.