Follow the Work of Our Faithful God!

In studying Revelation chapters 2 and 3, it is rather startling to realize that churches in the 1st century are so similar to churches today. God's Word is always relevant, especially evident, as we begin chapter 4. It is a transition to future events culminating in the return of Jesus Christ, the establishment of His kingdom on earth, and the creation of a new heaven and earth.

This study of prophecy will use the literal (historical-grammatical) method of interpretation. It assumes a literal interpretation unless there is justification not to do so. It pursues a Christological understanding of prophecy with a preference for pretribulation premillennialism. This position states that Christ will return at the end of the church age and set up His kingdom on earth for a literal thousand years. His return will be preceded by the rapture of Christians prior to the Tribulation. Some future events of this prophetic book include:

• A resurrection of believers before a time of trouble

• A seven-year time of trouble (Tribulation)

• Israel turns to Christ in the time of trouble.

• The return of Christ to earth (His Second Coming)

• A physical reign of Christ (Millennium)

• A New Heaven and New Earth

Premillennialism stands on two basic premises: literal interpretation and God’s promise keeping nature. This is seen in the unconditional nature of biblical covenants made by God to the nation of Israel. It is a doctrinal grid by which one fits the truths of God into His eternal perspective. God does not require a Christian to be a premillennialist but He does require Christians to accurately handle His Word. I believe the study of Revelation and all prophecy is best understood from this position.

A brief review of some of the biblical covenants made with Israel underlines the importance of future fulfillment. The Abrahamic Covenant deals with three key terms: land, seed and blessing. These are initially outlined in Genesis 12:1-3. God promised Israel, through Abraham, a homeland. Abraham would be the father of a multitude of nations. Also, God promised that in Abraham, all the families of the earth shall be blessed. These promises were made unconditionally. Some have been fulfilled but others await fulfillment. The Palestinian Covenant (the land promise) is further described in Genesis 15:18,21. The extent of the territory given by God to Israel is outlined. Israel has never possessed these borders, entirely, but one day they will.

Numerous promises in the Davidic Covenant are detailed in 2 Samuel 7:8-16. Some have been fulfilled but the important promise of a kingdom is not evident, today. In examining Luke 1:31-33, Jesus Christ will reign upon the throne of David, forever. Messiah was expected by the Jews to be the one to lead them politically, as well as spiritually. The disciples of Jesus misunderstood the dual nature of Jesus’ ministry. Jesus fulled His role of suffering Messiah. We expectantly await His return to earth to fulfill His role as King, sitting on the throne of His father David.

The nation of Israel will one day possess all the land promised to her. She will one day be ruled by her rightful King, Jesus Christ, in perfect peace. This kingdom will be on the earth for 1,000 years. All these things will take place because God keeps His promises. The Revelation to John is an encouragement in hard times because we are reminded that God is in charge even as our world is so out of control.

I hope you will follow the study of the Book of Revelation under Books of the Bible tab. We live in difficult times but God is faithful. He will keep His promises to the nation of Israel and to every person who places faith in Jesus Christ alone.