Before and during World War II, the dictatorial Axis powers tried to wipe out Jehovah's Witnesses in many lands where religious leaders, particularly those of the Roman Catholic hierarchy, gave open or tacit support to oppressive dictators, But the 71,509 Witnesses who were preaching when the war started in 1939 became 141,606 by its end in 1945, even though upwards of 10,000 had spent long years in prisons and concentration camps, and other thousands had been killed. The number of active Witnesses earth wide had expanded to well over three million today. Growth has been outstanding in Catholic lands and in countries where persecutions were most bitter-such as Germany, Italy and Japan, in each of which the Witnesses are now reporting well over 100,000 active field ministers.-Isaiah 54:17; Jeremiah 1:17-19.
Our conquering King has also blessed his zealous people by leading them to many victories "in the defending and legally establishing of the good news" in courts of law and before rulers. (Philippians 1:7; Matthew 10:18; 24:9) This has also been on an international scale - in Australia, Argentina, Canada, Greece, India, Swailand, Switzerland, Turkey and other lands. Among 23 legal victories gained by Jehovah's Witnesses in the United States Supreme Court have been those guaranteeing the right to declare the good news "publicly and from house to house" and to desist from idolatrous patriotic ceremonies. (Acts 5:42; 20:20; 1 Corinthians 10:14) Thus, the way has been kept open for an expanding global witness.
How does Jesus "complete his conquest"? This he does, as we shall see, by disposing of false religion and then hurling every remaining segment of Satan's visible organization into a symbolic "fiery lake" of destruction,in vindication of Jehovah's sovereignty. Confidently, we now look forward to that day at Armageddon when our "King of kings" will gain the final victory over Satan's oppressive political organization! (Revelation 16:16; 17:14; 19:2, 14-21; Ezekiel 25:17) In the meantime, the invincible Conqueror on the white horse continues to ride forth as Jehovah keeps adding honest hearted ones to his righteous nations on earth. (Isaiah 26:2; 60:22) Are you sharing with the anointed John class in that joyful Kingdom expansion? In that event, what the apostle John sees when the next three seals are opened will no doubt stir you to have an even greater share in Jehovah' s work for this day.
Next time: Behold, The Fiery -Colored Horse!
9.30.2007
9.29.2007
Going Forth Conquering
Why, though, must the newly crowned King ride forth to war? It is because his kingship is established in the face of the bitter opposition from Jehovah's chief adversary, Satan the Devil, and those on earth who - knowingly-serve Satan's ends. The birth of the Kingdom itself calls for a major war in heaven. Fighting under the name Michael (meaning "Who Is Like God?"), Jesus overcomes Satan and his demons and hurls them down to the earth. (Revelation 12:7-12) Jesus' ride of conquest continues through the opening decades of the Lord's day while the nations and peoples of earth are being judged and sheep like humans are being gathered to the King's side for salvation. Though the whole world still lies "in the power of the wicked one," Jesus lovingly continues to shepherd his anointed brothers and their companions, helping each to achieve the conquest of faith. -1 John 5:19; Matthew 25:31-33.
What other conquests has Jesus made during the past 70-and-more years of the Lord's day? Around the globe, individually and as a congregation,Jehovah's people have experienced many hardships, pressures, and persecutions, similar to those described by the apostle Paul in giving proof of his ministry. (2Corinthians 11:23-28) Jehovah's Witnesses have needed "power beyond what is normal," especially in theaters of war and violence, in order to endure. (2 Corinthians 4:7) But even in the most trying situations, faithful Witnesses have been able to say as did Paul: "The Lord stood near me and infused power into me, that through me the preaching might be fully accomplished." (2 Timothy 4:17) Yes, Jesus conquered on their behalf. And he will continue to go forth conquering in our behalf, as long as we are resolved to complete our conquest of faith. -1 John 5:4.
The global congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses has shared in many conquests under the guidance of its conquering King. Outstandingly, He protected these Bible students from annihilation in 1918, when they themselves were 'conquered' temporarily by Satan's political organization. In 1919, however, he broke prison bars to rescue them, and he then enlivened them to proclaim the good news "to the most distant parts of the earth."-Revelation 13:7; Acts 1:8.
Next time: Continue with the above subject.
What other conquests has Jesus made during the past 70-and-more years of the Lord's day? Around the globe, individually and as a congregation,Jehovah's people have experienced many hardships, pressures, and persecutions, similar to those described by the apostle Paul in giving proof of his ministry. (2Corinthians 11:23-28) Jehovah's Witnesses have needed "power beyond what is normal," especially in theaters of war and violence, in order to endure. (2 Corinthians 4:7) But even in the most trying situations, faithful Witnesses have been able to say as did Paul: "The Lord stood near me and infused power into me, that through me the preaching might be fully accomplished." (2 Timothy 4:17) Yes, Jesus conquered on their behalf. And he will continue to go forth conquering in our behalf, as long as we are resolved to complete our conquest of faith. -1 John 5:4.
The global congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses has shared in many conquests under the guidance of its conquering King. Outstandingly, He protected these Bible students from annihilation in 1918, when they themselves were 'conquered' temporarily by Satan's political organization. In 1919, however, he broke prison bars to rescue them, and he then enlivened them to proclaim the good news "to the most distant parts of the earth."-Revelation 13:7; Acts 1:8.
Next time: Continue with the above subject.
9.28.2007
The White Horse And Its Illustrious Rider
John, and with him the zealous John class and companions of today, is privileged to see a fast-moving drama! John says: "And I saw, and, Look! a white horse; and the one seated upon it had a bow; and a crown was given him, and he went forth conquering and to complete his conquest." (Revelation 6:2) Yes, in answer to that thunderous "Come!" A white horse charges forth. In the Bible, the horse often symbolizes warfare. (Psalm 20:7; Proverbs 21:31; Isaiah 31:1) This horse, likely a beautiful stallion, gleams with a whiteness that indicates unblemished holiness. (Compare Revelation 1:14; 4:4; 7:9; 20:11) How appropriate this is, for it portrays warfare that is clean and righteous in Jehovah's holy eyes! -See also Revelation 19:11, 14.
Who is the Rider of this horse? He has a bow, an offensive weapon of war, but he is also given a crown. The only righteous ones seen wearing crowns during the Lord's day are Jesus and the class represented by the 24 elders. (Daniel 7:13,14, 27; Luke 1:31-33; Revelation 4:4, 10; 14:14) It is unlikely that a member of the group of 24 elders would be pictured as receiving a crown on his own merit. Hence, this lone horseman must be Jesus Christ and no other. John sees him in heaven at the historic moment in 1914 when Jehovah declares, "I, even I, have installed my King," and tells him that this is for the purpose "that I may give nations as your inheritance." (Psalm 2:6-8) Thus, in opening the first seal Jesus reveals how he himself, as the newly crowned King, sallies forth to war at God's appointed time.
This scene harmonizes beautifully with Psalm 45:4-7, addressed to the King enthroned by Jehovah: "And in your splendor go on to success, ride in the cause of the truth and humility and righteousness, and your right hand will instruct you in fear-inspiring things. Your arrows are sharp-under you peoples keep falling-in the heart of the enemies of the King. God is your throne to time indefinite, even forever; the scepter of your kingship is a scepter of uprightness. You have loved righteousness and you hate wickedness. That is why God, your God has anointed you with the oil of exultation more than your partners." Being familiar with that prophetic description, John would appreciate that it applies to Jesus' activity as King. -Compare Hebrews 1:1, 2, 8, 9.
Next time: Going Forth Conquering
Who is the Rider of this horse? He has a bow, an offensive weapon of war, but he is also given a crown. The only righteous ones seen wearing crowns during the Lord's day are Jesus and the class represented by the 24 elders. (Daniel 7:13,14, 27; Luke 1:31-33; Revelation 4:4, 10; 14:14) It is unlikely that a member of the group of 24 elders would be pictured as receiving a crown on his own merit. Hence, this lone horseman must be Jesus Christ and no other. John sees him in heaven at the historic moment in 1914 when Jehovah declares, "I, even I, have installed my King," and tells him that this is for the purpose "that I may give nations as your inheritance." (Psalm 2:6-8) Thus, in opening the first seal Jesus reveals how he himself, as the newly crowned King, sallies forth to war at God's appointed time.
This scene harmonizes beautifully with Psalm 45:4-7, addressed to the King enthroned by Jehovah: "And in your splendor go on to success, ride in the cause of the truth and humility and righteousness, and your right hand will instruct you in fear-inspiring things. Your arrows are sharp-under you peoples keep falling-in the heart of the enemies of the King. God is your throne to time indefinite, even forever; the scepter of your kingship is a scepter of uprightness. You have loved righteousness and you hate wickedness. That is why God, your God has anointed you with the oil of exultation more than your partners." Being familiar with that prophetic description, John would appreciate that it applies to Jesus' activity as King. -Compare Hebrews 1:1, 2, 8, 9.
Next time: Going Forth Conquering
The White Horse And Its Illustrious Rider
John, and with him the zealous John class and companions of today, is privileged to see a fast-moving drama! John says: " And I saw, and, Look! a white horse; and the one seated upon it had a bow; and a crown was given him, and he went forth conquering and to complete his conquest." (Revelation 6:2) Yes, in answer o that thunderous "Come"! a white horse charges forth. In the Bible, the horse often symbolizes warfare. (Psalm 20:7; Proverbs 21:31; Isaiah 31:1) This horse, likely a beautiful stallion, gleams with a whiteness that indicates unblemished holiness. (Compare Revelation 1:14; 4:4; 7:9; 20:11) How appropriate this is, for it portrays warfare that is clean and righteous in Jehovah's holy eyes!- See also Revelation 19:11, 14.
Who is the Rider of this horse? He has a bow, an offensive weapon of war, but he is also given a crown. The only righteous ones seen wearing crowns during the Lord's day are Jesus and the class represented by the 24 elders. (Daniel 7:13, 14, 27; Luke 1:31-33; Revelation 4:4, 10; 14:14) It is unlikely that a member of the group of 24 elders would be pictured as receiving a crown on his own merit. Hence, this lone horseman must be Jesus Christ and no other. John sees him in heaven at the historic moment in 1914 when Jehovah declares, "I, even I, have installed my King." and tells him that this is for the purpose "that I may give nations as your inheritance." (Psalm 2:6-8) Thus, in opening the first seal Jesus reveals how he himself, as the newly crowned King, sallies forth to war at God's appointed time.
This scene harmonizes beautifully with Psalm 45:4-7, addressed to the King enthroned by Jehovah: "And in your splendor go on to success; ride in the cause of truth and humility and righteousness, and your right hand will instruct you in fear-inspiring things. Your arrows are sharp - under you peoples keep falling-in the heart of the enemies of the king. God is your throne to time indefinite, even forever; the scepter of your kingship is a scepter of your uprightness. You have love righteousness and you hate wickedness. That is why God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of exultation more than your partners. Being familiar with that prophetic description, John would appreciate that it applies to Jesus's activity as King. -Compare Hebrews 1:1, 2, 8, 9.
Next time: Going Forth Conquering
Who is the Rider of this horse? He has a bow, an offensive weapon of war, but he is also given a crown. The only righteous ones seen wearing crowns during the Lord's day are Jesus and the class represented by the 24 elders. (Daniel 7:13, 14, 27; Luke 1:31-33; Revelation 4:4, 10; 14:14) It is unlikely that a member of the group of 24 elders would be pictured as receiving a crown on his own merit. Hence, this lone horseman must be Jesus Christ and no other. John sees him in heaven at the historic moment in 1914 when Jehovah declares, "I, even I, have installed my King." and tells him that this is for the purpose "that I may give nations as your inheritance." (Psalm 2:6-8) Thus, in opening the first seal Jesus reveals how he himself, as the newly crowned King, sallies forth to war at God's appointed time.
This scene harmonizes beautifully with Psalm 45:4-7, addressed to the King enthroned by Jehovah: "And in your splendor go on to success; ride in the cause of truth and humility and righteousness, and your right hand will instruct you in fear-inspiring things. Your arrows are sharp - under you peoples keep falling-in the heart of the enemies of the king. God is your throne to time indefinite, even forever; the scepter of your kingship is a scepter of your uprightness. You have love righteousness and you hate wickedness. That is why God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of exultation more than your partners. Being familiar with that prophetic description, John would appreciate that it applies to Jesus's activity as King. -Compare Hebrews 1:1, 2, 8, 9.
Next time: Going Forth Conquering
9.27.2007
Four Horsemen At The Gallop!
In this day of crisis, are we not intensely interested in "the things that must shortly take place"? Surely we are, for we ourselves are involved! So let us now accompany John as Jesus proceeds to open that intriguing scroll. Remarkably, John does not have to read it. Why not? Because its contents are conveyed to him in "signs" by a series of dynamic, action-packed scenes.-Revelation 1:1,10.
Listen to John as Jesus opens the first seal of the scroll: "And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say with a voice as of thunder: "Come!' " (Revelation 6:1) This is the voice of the first cherub. Its lion like appearance would suggest to John that Jehovah's organization will act with courage in executing His righteous judgments. And to whom is that command addressed? It could not be to John, for John has already been invited to share in these prophetic scenes. (Revelation 4:1) That "voice as of thunder" is calling forth other participants in the first of a series of four rousing episodes.
Next time: The White Horse And Its Illustrious Rider
Listen to John as Jesus opens the first seal of the scroll: "And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say with a voice as of thunder: "Come!' " (Revelation 6:1) This is the voice of the first cherub. Its lion like appearance would suggest to John that Jehovah's organization will act with courage in executing His righteous judgments. And to whom is that command addressed? It could not be to John, for John has already been invited to share in these prophetic scenes. (Revelation 4:1) That "voice as of thunder" is calling forth other participants in the first of a series of four rousing episodes.
Next time: The White Horse And Its Illustrious Rider
9.26.2007
A Swelling Anthem
In the scene described by John, the hosts of heaven are rendering melodious acclaim to Jesus in acknowledgment of his faithfulness and his heavenly authority. In this, they are joined by voices from the earthly realm as these too share in praising both the Father and the Son. Just as the achievements of a human son can bring great credit to parents, so Jesus' loyal course redounds among all creation "to the glory of God the Father." Thus, John goes on to report: "And every creature that is in heaven and on earth and underneath the earth and on the sea, and all the things in them, I heard saying: ' To the One sitting on the throne and to the Lamb be the blessing and the honor and the glory and the might forever and ever.' "- Revelation 5:13.
When does this superb anthem sound forth? It began early in the Lord's day. After Satan and his demons were cast out of the heavens, "every creature that is in heaven" could unite in this song of praise./ And, as the record shows, since 1919 a growing multitude on earth have united their voices in praising Jehovah,increasing from a few thousand to well over three million by the late 1980's. After Satan's earthly system has been destroyed, "every creature. . . on earth" will be singing the praises of Jehovah and his Son. In Jehovah's due time, the resurrection of the countless millions of dead will begin, and then "every creature. . . underneath the earth" that is in the memory of God will have the opportunity to join in singing the anthem.
Already, "from the extremity of the earth. . . the sea and . . . islands," millions of humans are singing a new song in association with Jehovah's global organization. (Isaiah 42:10; Psalm 150:1-6) This joyous praise will reach a crescendo at the end of the Millennium, when mankind has been raised to perfection. that old Serpent, the arch deceiver, Satan himself, will thereafter be destroyed in complete fulfillment of Genesis 3:15, and in a triumphant climax, all living creation, spirit and human, will sing in unison: "To the One sitting on the throne and to the Lamb be the blessing and the honor and the glory and the might forever and ever." There will be no dissenting voice in all the universe.
What a joyful time that will be! Surely, what John describes here makes our hearts swell with happiness and stimulates us to join the heavenly hosts in singing heartfelt praises to Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. Are we not more determined than ever to endure in right works? If we do so, we can expect that, with Jehovah's help, we will be there individually at the happy climax, adding our voices to that universal chorus of praise. Certainly, the cherubic four living creatures and the resurrected anointed Christians are in full accord, for the vision ends with the words: "And the four living creatures went saying: 'Amen!' and the elders fell down and worshiped."-Revelation 5:14.
Next time: Four Horsemen At The Gallop!
When does this superb anthem sound forth? It began early in the Lord's day. After Satan and his demons were cast out of the heavens, "every creature that is in heaven" could unite in this song of praise./ And, as the record shows, since 1919 a growing multitude on earth have united their voices in praising Jehovah,increasing from a few thousand to well over three million by the late 1980's. After Satan's earthly system has been destroyed, "every creature. . . on earth" will be singing the praises of Jehovah and his Son. In Jehovah's due time, the resurrection of the countless millions of dead will begin, and then "every creature. . . underneath the earth" that is in the memory of God will have the opportunity to join in singing the anthem.
Already, "from the extremity of the earth. . . the sea and . . . islands," millions of humans are singing a new song in association with Jehovah's global organization. (Isaiah 42:10; Psalm 150:1-6) This joyous praise will reach a crescendo at the end of the Millennium, when mankind has been raised to perfection. that old Serpent, the arch deceiver, Satan himself, will thereafter be destroyed in complete fulfillment of Genesis 3:15, and in a triumphant climax, all living creation, spirit and human, will sing in unison: "To the One sitting on the throne and to the Lamb be the blessing and the honor and the glory and the might forever and ever." There will be no dissenting voice in all the universe.
What a joyful time that will be! Surely, what John describes here makes our hearts swell with happiness and stimulates us to join the heavenly hosts in singing heartfelt praises to Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. Are we not more determined than ever to endure in right works? If we do so, we can expect that, with Jehovah's help, we will be there individually at the happy climax, adding our voices to that universal chorus of praise. Certainly, the cherubic four living creatures and the resurrected anointed Christians are in full accord, for the vision ends with the words: "And the four living creatures went saying: 'Amen!' and the elders fell down and worshiped."-Revelation 5:14.
Next time: Four Horsemen At The Gallop!
9.25.2007
A Heavenly Chorus
How do others of the vast heavenly host of Jehovah's organization respond to this new song? John thrills to behold their heartfelt accord: "And I saw, and I heard a voice of many angels around the throne and the living creatures and the elders, and the number of them was myriads and myriads and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice: "The Lamb that was slaughtered is worthy to receive the power and the riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.' " (Revelation 5:11,12) What an impressive song of praise!
Does this mean that now Jesus has somehow replaced Jehovah God and that all creation has turned to praising him rather than his Father? Far from it! Rather, this song of praise is in harmony with what the apostle Paul wrote: "God exalted [Jesus] to a superior position and kindly gave him the name, so that in the name of Jesus every knee should bend of those in heaven and those on earth and those under the ground, and every tongue should openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11) Jesus is here extolled because of his part in settling the primary issue before all creation-the vindication of Jehovah's rightful sovereignty. What glory, indeed, this has brought to his Father!
Next time: A Swelling Anthem
Does this mean that now Jesus has somehow replaced Jehovah God and that all creation has turned to praising him rather than his Father? Far from it! Rather, this song of praise is in harmony with what the apostle Paul wrote: "God exalted [Jesus] to a superior position and kindly gave him the name, so that in the name of Jesus every knee should bend of those in heaven and those on earth and those under the ground, and every tongue should openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11) Jesus is here extolled because of his part in settling the primary issue before all creation-the vindication of Jehovah's rightful sovereignty. What glory, indeed, this has brought to his Father!
Next time: A Swelling Anthem
9.24.2007
A New Song
A melodic song now rings forth. It is sung to the Lamb by his priestly associates, the 24 elders: "And they sing a new song, saying: 'You are worthy to take the scroll and open its seals, because you were slaughtered and with your blood you bought persons for God out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation.' " ( Revelation 5:9) The expression "new song" occurs several times in the Bible and usually refers to praising Jehovah for some mighty act of deliverance. (Psalm 96:1; 98:11; 144:9) Thus, the song is new because the singer can now proclaim additional wonderful works of Jehovah and express renewed appreciation for His glorious name.
Here, though, the 24 elders sing a new song before Jesus rather than before Jehovah. but the principle is the same. They praise Jesus for the new things that he, as God's Son, has done in their behalf. By means of his blood, he mediated the new covenant and thus made possible the bringing forth of a new nation as Jehovah's special possession. (Romans 2:28, 29; 1 Corinthians 11:25; Hebrews 7:18-25) Members of this new spiritual nation came from many fleshly nations, but Jesus united them into one congregation as one nation.-Isaiah 26:2; 1 Peter 2:9, 10.
When Jehovah formed the Israelites into a nation back in the days of Moses, he made a covenant with them and promised that if they would remain faithful to that covenant, they would become a kingdom of priests before him. (Exodus 19:5, 6) The Israelites were not faithful and never experienced the realization of that promise. On the other hand, the new nation, formed by virtue of the new covenant mediated by Jesus, has remained faithful. Its members therefore get to rule over the earth as kings and also to serve as priests, helping right hearted ones among mankind to be reconciled to Jehovah. (Colossians 1:20) It is just as the new song expresses it: "And you made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God, and they are to rule as kings over the earth." (Revelation 5:10) What joy those 24 elders have in singing this new song of praise to the glorified Jesus!
Next time: A Heavenly Chorus
Here, though, the 24 elders sing a new song before Jesus rather than before Jehovah. but the principle is the same. They praise Jesus for the new things that he, as God's Son, has done in their behalf. By means of his blood, he mediated the new covenant and thus made possible the bringing forth of a new nation as Jehovah's special possession. (Romans 2:28, 29; 1 Corinthians 11:25; Hebrews 7:18-25) Members of this new spiritual nation came from many fleshly nations, but Jesus united them into one congregation as one nation.-Isaiah 26:2; 1 Peter 2:9, 10.
When Jehovah formed the Israelites into a nation back in the days of Moses, he made a covenant with them and promised that if they would remain faithful to that covenant, they would become a kingdom of priests before him. (Exodus 19:5, 6) The Israelites were not faithful and never experienced the realization of that promise. On the other hand, the new nation, formed by virtue of the new covenant mediated by Jesus, has remained faithful. Its members therefore get to rule over the earth as kings and also to serve as priests, helping right hearted ones among mankind to be reconciled to Jehovah. (Colossians 1:20) It is just as the new song expresses it: "And you made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God, and they are to rule as kings over the earth." (Revelation 5:10) What joy those 24 elders have in singing this new song of praise to the glorified Jesus!
Next time: A Heavenly Chorus
9.23.2007
Songs Of Praise
How do those others before Jehovah's throne react? "And when he took the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, having each one a harp and golden bowls that were full of the holy ones." (Revelation 5:8) Like the four cherubic living creatures before God's throne, the 24 elders bow to Jesus in acknowledgment of his authority. But these elders are alone in having harps and bowls of incense. And they alone now sing a new song. (Revelation 5:9) Thus they resemble the 144,000 of the holy "Israel of God," who also carry harps and sing a new song. (Galatians 6:16; Colossians 1:12; Revelation 7:3-8; 14:1-4) Further, the 24 elders are shown to fulfill a heavenly, priestly function, pictured by that of the priests in ancient Israel who burned incense to Jehovah in the tabernacle-a function that ended on earth when God took the Mosaic Law out of the way, nailing it to Jesus' torture stake. (Colossians 2:14) What conclusion do we draw from all of this? That here the anointed over comers are seen in their ultimate assignment as 'priests of God and of the Christ, ruling as kings with him for the thousand years.' -Revelation 20:6.
In ancient Israel, entry into the Most Holy before the symbolic presence of Jehovah was limited to the high priest. For him, carrying incense was life-or-death matter. Jehovah's law said: "[Aaron] must take the fire holder full of burning coals of fire from off the altar before Jehovah, and the hollows of both his hands full of fine perfumed incense, and he must bring them inside that curtain. he must also put the incense upon the fire before Jehovah, and the cloud of the incense must overspread the Ark cover, which is upon the Testimony, that he may not die." (Leviticus 16:12, 13) It was impossible for the high priest to penetrate successfully into the Most Holy unless he burned incense..
In the Christian system of things now only the antitypical High Priest, Jesus Christ, but also each of the 144,000 under priests eventually gets to enter the antitypical Most Holy, the place of Jehovah's presence in heaven. (Hebrews 10:19-23) Entry into the Most Holy is impossible for these priests, as represented here by the 24 elders, unless they 'burn incense,' that is, constantly offer up prayers and supplications to Jehovah. -Hebrews 5:7; Jude 20, 21; compare Psalm 141:2.
Next time: A New Song
In ancient Israel, entry into the Most Holy before the symbolic presence of Jehovah was limited to the high priest. For him, carrying incense was life-or-death matter. Jehovah's law said: "[Aaron] must take the fire holder full of burning coals of fire from off the altar before Jehovah, and the hollows of both his hands full of fine perfumed incense, and he must bring them inside that curtain. he must also put the incense upon the fire before Jehovah, and the cloud of the incense must overspread the Ark cover, which is upon the Testimony, that he may not die." (Leviticus 16:12, 13) It was impossible for the high priest to penetrate successfully into the Most Holy unless he burned incense..
In the Christian system of things now only the antitypical High Priest, Jesus Christ, but also each of the 144,000 under priests eventually gets to enter the antitypical Most Holy, the place of Jehovah's presence in heaven. (Hebrews 10:19-23) Entry into the Most Holy is impossible for these priests, as represented here by the 24 elders, unless they 'burn incense,' that is, constantly offer up prayers and supplications to Jehovah. -Hebrews 5:7; Jude 20, 21; compare Psalm 141:2.
Next time: A New Song
9.22.2007
'The Lamb That Was Slaughtered'
John looks to see this "Lion that is of the tribe of Judah." But how astounding! A completely symbolic figure appears: " And I saw standing in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures and in the midst of the elders a lamb as though it had been slaughtered, having seven horns and seven eyes, which eyes mean the seven spirits of God that have been sent forth into the whole earth." -Revelation 5:6.
Right in the center, beside the throne, withing the circles formed by the four living creatures and the 24 elders, there is a lamb! Doubtless John quickly identifies this lamb with "the Lion that is of the tribe of Judah" and "the root of David." He knows that, more than 60 years earlier, John the Baptizer introduced Jesus to onlooking Jews as "the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29) All during his life on earth, Jesus remained untainted by the world-just like and unblemished lamb-so that he could offer his blameless life as a sacrifice for mankind. - 1Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 7:26.
Is it somehow belittling or undignified to represent the glorified Jesus as "a lamb as though it had been slaughtered"? Not at all! The fact that Jesus stayed faithful to the death was a major defeat for Satan and a great triumph for Jehovah God. Representing Jesus in this way vividly portrays his conquest of Satan's world and is a reminder of the deep love that Jehovah and Jesus have for mankind. (John 3:16; 15:13; Compare Colossians 2:15) Jesus is thus pointed to as the promised Seed, outstandingly qualified to open the scroll.-Genesis 3:15.
What else adds to our appreciation of this "Lamb"? He has seven horns. Horns in the Bible are often a symbol of power or authority, and seven would indicate completeness. (Compare 2:1, 10; Psalm 112:9; 148:14) Hence, the Lamb's seven horns represent the fullness of power that Jehovah has entrusted to Jesus. He is "far above every government and authority and power and lordship and every name named not only in this system of things, but also in that to come." (Ephesians 1:20-23; 1 Peter 3:22) Jesus has particularly exercised power, governmental power, since 1914 when Jehovah enthroned him as heavenly King. - Psalm 2:6.
Moreover, Jesus is filled to completeness with holy spirit, as pictured by the Lamb's seven eyes, which "mean the seven spirits of God." Jesus is a channel through whom the fullness of Jehovah's active force flows to His earthly servants. (Titus 3:6) Evidently, it is by this same spirit that he sees from heaven what is happening here on earth. Like his Father, Jesus has perfect discernment. Nothing escapes his notice. (Compare Psalm 11:4; Zechariah 4:10) Clearly, this Son-the integrity keeper who conquered the world, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David; the one who offered his life for mankind, the one with complete authority, fullness of holy spirit, and perfect discernment from Jehovah God-yes, this one is outstandingly worthy to take the scroll from Jehovah's hand. Does he hesitate to accept this commission of service in Jehovah's lofty organization? No! Rather, " he want and at once took it [the scroll] out of the right hand of the One seated upon the throne." (Revelation 5:7) What a fine example of willing compliance!
Next time: Song Of Praise
Right in the center, beside the throne, withing the circles formed by the four living creatures and the 24 elders, there is a lamb! Doubtless John quickly identifies this lamb with "the Lion that is of the tribe of Judah" and "the root of David." He knows that, more than 60 years earlier, John the Baptizer introduced Jesus to onlooking Jews as "the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29) All during his life on earth, Jesus remained untainted by the world-just like and unblemished lamb-so that he could offer his blameless life as a sacrifice for mankind. - 1Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 7:26.
Is it somehow belittling or undignified to represent the glorified Jesus as "a lamb as though it had been slaughtered"? Not at all! The fact that Jesus stayed faithful to the death was a major defeat for Satan and a great triumph for Jehovah God. Representing Jesus in this way vividly portrays his conquest of Satan's world and is a reminder of the deep love that Jehovah and Jesus have for mankind. (John 3:16; 15:13; Compare Colossians 2:15) Jesus is thus pointed to as the promised Seed, outstandingly qualified to open the scroll.-Genesis 3:15.
What else adds to our appreciation of this "Lamb"? He has seven horns. Horns in the Bible are often a symbol of power or authority, and seven would indicate completeness. (Compare 2:1, 10; Psalm 112:9; 148:14) Hence, the Lamb's seven horns represent the fullness of power that Jehovah has entrusted to Jesus. He is "far above every government and authority and power and lordship and every name named not only in this system of things, but also in that to come." (Ephesians 1:20-23; 1 Peter 3:22) Jesus has particularly exercised power, governmental power, since 1914 when Jehovah enthroned him as heavenly King. - Psalm 2:6.
Moreover, Jesus is filled to completeness with holy spirit, as pictured by the Lamb's seven eyes, which "mean the seven spirits of God." Jesus is a channel through whom the fullness of Jehovah's active force flows to His earthly servants. (Titus 3:6) Evidently, it is by this same spirit that he sees from heaven what is happening here on earth. Like his Father, Jesus has perfect discernment. Nothing escapes his notice. (Compare Psalm 11:4; Zechariah 4:10) Clearly, this Son-the integrity keeper who conquered the world, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David; the one who offered his life for mankind, the one with complete authority, fullness of holy spirit, and perfect discernment from Jehovah God-yes, this one is outstandingly worthy to take the scroll from Jehovah's hand. Does he hesitate to accept this commission of service in Jehovah's lofty organization? No! Rather, " he want and at once took it [the scroll] out of the right hand of the One seated upon the throne." (Revelation 5:7) What a fine example of willing compliance!
Next time: Song Of Praise
9.21.2007
The Worthy One
Yes, there is someone able to open the scroll! John relates: "But one of the elders says to me: 'Stop weeping. Look! The lion that is of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, has conquered so as to open the scroll and its seven seals.' " (Revelation 5:5) So John, dry those tears! The John class and their loyal companions today have also endured decades of severe trials while waiting patiently for enlightenment. What a comforting reward we now have in understanding the vision, and what a privilege to share in its fulfillment by proclaiming its message to others!
Ah, "the tribe that is of the tribe of Judah"! John is familiar with the prophecy that Jacob, ancestor of the Jewish race, pronounced concerning his fourth son, Judah: "A lion cub Judah is. From the prey, my son, you will certainly go up. He bowed down, he stretched himself out like a lion and, like a lion, who dares rouse him? The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the peoples belong." (Genesis 49:9, 10) The royal line of God's people stemmed from Judah. Starting with David, all the kings who ruled in Jerusalem until the Babylonians destroyed that city were Judah's descendants. But not one of them was the Shiloh prophesied by Jacob. Shiloh means "He Whose [Right] it is." Prophetically, this name pointed to Jesus, the one to whom the Davidic Kingdom now permanently belongs. -Ezekiel 21:25-27; Luke 1:32, 33; Revelation 19:16.
John quickly recognizes the reference to "the root of David." The promised Messiah is prophetically called both "a twig out of the stump of Jesse [father of King David]. . . a sprout" and "the root of Jesse that will be standing up as a signal for the peoples." (Isaiah 11:1, 10) Jesus was a twig of Jesse, being born into the royal line of David, son of Jesse. Further, as a root of Jesse, he was the One that cause the Davidic dynasty to sprout again, giving it life and sustenance forever.- 2 Samuel 7:16.
Jesus preeminently is the one who, as a perfect human, served Jehovah in integrity and under excruciating trials. He supplied the complete answer to Satan's challenge. (Proverbs 27:11) Thus, he could say as he did on the night before his sacrificial death, "I have conquered the world." (John 16:33) For this reason, Jehovah entrusted the resurrected Jesus with "all authority. . . in heaven and on the earth." He alone of all servants of God is qualified to receive the scroll, with a view to making known its momentous message. - Matthew 28:18.
It is appropriate, indeed, that Jesus should open the scroll. Since 1914 he has been enthroned as King of God's Messianic Kingdom, and that scroll reveals so much concerning the Kingdom and what it will accomplish. Jesus faithfully bore witness to Kingdom truth while he was here on earth. (John 18:36, 37) He taught his followers to pray for the coming of the Kingdom. (Matthew 6:9, 10) He initiated the preaching of the good news of the Kingdom at the beginning of the Christian era and prophesied the culmination of that preaching work during the time of the end. (Matthew 4:23; Mark 13:10) It is likewise appropriate that one of the 24 elders should reveal to John that Jesus is the one to open the seals. Why? Because these elders sit on thrones and wear crowns, being joint heirs with Christ in his Kingdom. -Romans 8:17; Revelation 4:4.
Next time: 'The Lamb That Was Slaughtered'
Ah, "the tribe that is of the tribe of Judah"! John is familiar with the prophecy that Jacob, ancestor of the Jewish race, pronounced concerning his fourth son, Judah: "A lion cub Judah is. From the prey, my son, you will certainly go up. He bowed down, he stretched himself out like a lion and, like a lion, who dares rouse him? The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him the obedience of the peoples belong." (Genesis 49:9, 10) The royal line of God's people stemmed from Judah. Starting with David, all the kings who ruled in Jerusalem until the Babylonians destroyed that city were Judah's descendants. But not one of them was the Shiloh prophesied by Jacob. Shiloh means "He Whose [Right] it is." Prophetically, this name pointed to Jesus, the one to whom the Davidic Kingdom now permanently belongs. -Ezekiel 21:25-27; Luke 1:32, 33; Revelation 19:16.
John quickly recognizes the reference to "the root of David." The promised Messiah is prophetically called both "a twig out of the stump of Jesse [father of King David]. . . a sprout" and "the root of Jesse that will be standing up as a signal for the peoples." (Isaiah 11:1, 10) Jesus was a twig of Jesse, being born into the royal line of David, son of Jesse. Further, as a root of Jesse, he was the One that cause the Davidic dynasty to sprout again, giving it life and sustenance forever.- 2 Samuel 7:16.
Jesus preeminently is the one who, as a perfect human, served Jehovah in integrity and under excruciating trials. He supplied the complete answer to Satan's challenge. (Proverbs 27:11) Thus, he could say as he did on the night before his sacrificial death, "I have conquered the world." (John 16:33) For this reason, Jehovah entrusted the resurrected Jesus with "all authority. . . in heaven and on the earth." He alone of all servants of God is qualified to receive the scroll, with a view to making known its momentous message. - Matthew 28:18.
It is appropriate, indeed, that Jesus should open the scroll. Since 1914 he has been enthroned as King of God's Messianic Kingdom, and that scroll reveals so much concerning the Kingdom and what it will accomplish. Jesus faithfully bore witness to Kingdom truth while he was here on earth. (John 18:36, 37) He taught his followers to pray for the coming of the Kingdom. (Matthew 6:9, 10) He initiated the preaching of the good news of the Kingdom at the beginning of the Christian era and prophesied the culmination of that preaching work during the time of the end. (Matthew 4:23; Mark 13:10) It is likewise appropriate that one of the 24 elders should reveal to John that Jesus is the one to open the seals. Why? Because these elders sit on thrones and wear crowns, being joint heirs with Christ in his Kingdom. -Romans 8:17; Revelation 4:4.
Next time: 'The Lamb That Was Slaughtered'
9.20.2007
"Who Is Worth To Open The Scroll?"
Sublime Awe Inspiring! Such is the stirring vision of Jehovah's throne in its setting amid the lamps of fire, the cherubs, the 24 elders and the glassy sea. But John, who do you see next? John focuses on the very center of this heavenly scene, tell us: "And I saw in the right hand of the One seated upon the throne a scroll written within and on the reverse side, sealed tight with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice: 'Who is worthy to open the scroll and loose its seals?' But neither heaven nor upon earth nor underneath the earth was there a single one able to open the scroll or to look upon it. And I gave way to a great deal of weeping because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to look into it." -Revelation 5:1-4.
Jehovah himself, Sovereign Lord of all creation, is holding out that scroll. It must be full of vital information, for it has writing on the front and on the back. Our curiosity is arouse. What does the scroll contain? We recall Jehovah's invitation to John: "Come on up here, and I shall show you the things that must take place." (Revelation 4:1) With tingling expectation, we look forward to leaning about those things. But alas, the scroll is tightly closed, sealed shut with seven seals!
Will the strong angel find someone worthy to open the scroll? According to the Kingdom Interlinear, the scroll is located "upon the right hand" of Jehovah. this suggests that he holds it out on his open palm. But it appears that no one in heaven or on earth is worthy to accept and open that scroll. No even underneath the earth, among faithful servants of God who have died, is anyone qualified high honor. No wonder that John is visibly upset! Perhaps he is not going to lean "the things that must take place" after all. In our day, too, God's anointed people have anxiously waited for Jehovah to send forth his light and truth on Revelation. This he would do progressively at the appointed time for the prophecy's fulfillment, in order to lead his people in the way of a "grand salvation." -Psalm 43:3, 5.
Next time: The Worthy One.
Jehovah himself, Sovereign Lord of all creation, is holding out that scroll. It must be full of vital information, for it has writing on the front and on the back. Our curiosity is arouse. What does the scroll contain? We recall Jehovah's invitation to John: "Come on up here, and I shall show you the things that must take place." (Revelation 4:1) With tingling expectation, we look forward to leaning about those things. But alas, the scroll is tightly closed, sealed shut with seven seals!
Will the strong angel find someone worthy to open the scroll? According to the Kingdom Interlinear, the scroll is located "upon the right hand" of Jehovah. this suggests that he holds it out on his open palm. But it appears that no one in heaven or on earth is worthy to accept and open that scroll. No even underneath the earth, among faithful servants of God who have died, is anyone qualified high honor. No wonder that John is visibly upset! Perhaps he is not going to lean "the things that must take place" after all. In our day, too, God's anointed people have anxiously waited for Jehovah to send forth his light and truth on Revelation. This he would do progressively at the appointed time for the prophecy's fulfillment, in order to lead his people in the way of a "grand salvation." -Psalm 43:3, 5.
Next time: The Worthy One.
9.19.2007
Continue with Jehovah's Praises Ring Out
The 24 elders have the same mental attitude that Jesus displays, even casting their crowns down before Jehovah. it is furthest from their minds to exalt themselves in the presence of God. They humbly recognize that the only purpose of their kingship is to bring honor and glory to him, just as Jesus always does. (Philippians 2:5, 6, 9-11) Submissively, they acknowledge their own inferiority and confess that their ruler ship is dependent on the sovereignty of Jehovah. Thus, they are in heartfelt harmony with the cherubs and the rest of the faithful creation in giving praise and glory to the God who created all things.-Psalm 150:1-6.
Who can remain unmoved at reading John's account of this vision? It is splendorous, grand! But what must the reality b like? Jehovah's very majesty must enliven anyone with an appreciative heart to join the four living creatures and the 24 elders in praising Him, both in prayer and by publicly proclaiming His name. this is the God for whom Christians are privileged to be witnesses today. (Isaiah 43:10) Remember that John's vision applies to the Lord's day, where we now are. "The seven spirits" are ever at hand to guide and strengthen us. (Galatians 5:16-18) God's Word is available today to help us to be holy in serving a holy God. (1 Peter 1:14-16) Certainly, we are happy to read aloud the words of this prophecy. (Revelation 1:3) What an inducement they provide to be faithful to Jehovah and not allow the world to distract us from actively singing his praises!- 1 John 2:15-17.
So far, John has described what he sees when he is invited to approach through that opened door in heaven. Most outstandingly, he reports that Jehovah, in all the magnificence of His majesty and dignity, is seated on his celestial throne. He is surrounded by the mightiest of all organizations-radiant in its splendor and loyalty. The divine Court is in session. (Daniel 7:9, 10, 18) The stage is set for something extraordinary to happen. What is it, and how does it affect us today? let us watch as the scene unfolds!
Next time: "Who Is Worthy To Open The Scroll?"
Who can remain unmoved at reading John's account of this vision? It is splendorous, grand! But what must the reality b like? Jehovah's very majesty must enliven anyone with an appreciative heart to join the four living creatures and the 24 elders in praising Him, both in prayer and by publicly proclaiming His name. this is the God for whom Christians are privileged to be witnesses today. (Isaiah 43:10) Remember that John's vision applies to the Lord's day, where we now are. "The seven spirits" are ever at hand to guide and strengthen us. (Galatians 5:16-18) God's Word is available today to help us to be holy in serving a holy God. (1 Peter 1:14-16) Certainly, we are happy to read aloud the words of this prophecy. (Revelation 1:3) What an inducement they provide to be faithful to Jehovah and not allow the world to distract us from actively singing his praises!- 1 John 2:15-17.
So far, John has described what he sees when he is invited to approach through that opened door in heaven. Most outstandingly, he reports that Jehovah, in all the magnificence of His majesty and dignity, is seated on his celestial throne. He is surrounded by the mightiest of all organizations-radiant in its splendor and loyalty. The divine Court is in session. (Daniel 7:9, 10, 18) The stage is set for something extraordinary to happen. What is it, and how does it affect us today? let us watch as the scene unfolds!
Next time: "Who Is Worthy To Open The Scroll?"
9.18.2007
Jehovah's Praises Ring Out
John continues his description: "And as for the four living creatures, each one of them respectively has six wings; round about and underneath they are full of eyes. And they have not rest day and night as they say: 'Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is coming.' " (Revelation 4:8) This fullness of eyes suggests complete and farsighted vision. The four living creatures exercise this unceasingly, as they have no need of sleep. They imitate the One of whom it is written: "As regards Jehovah, his eyes are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him." (2 Chronicles 16:9) Having so great a number of eyes, the cherubs can see everywhere. Nothing escapes their attention. Thus they are well-equipped to serve God in his work of judging. OF him it is said: " The eyes of Jehovah are in every place, keeping watch upon the bad ones and the good ones." (Proverbs 15:5) And with three pairs of wings-the number three being used in the Bible for emphasis-the cherubs can move with lightning swiftness to herald Jehovah's judgments and execute them.
Listen! Melodious, soul stirring, is the song of praise that the cherubs render to Jehovah: "Holy, holy,holy is Jehovah god, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is coming." Again, the threeness indicates intensity. The cherubs strongly affirm the holiness of Jehovah God. He is the Source and the ultimate Standard of holiness. he is also "King of eternity," always "the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end."( 1 Timothy 1:17; Revelation 22:13) The cherubs take no rest periods as they proclaim the matchless qualities of Jehovah before all creation.
The heaven of heavens resounds with praises to Jehovah! John's description continues: " And whenever the living creatures offer glory and honor and thanksgiving to the one seated upon the throne, the one that lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before the one seated upon the throne and worship the One that lives forever and ever, and they cast their crowns before the throne, saying: 'You are worthy, Jehovah, even our God, to receive the glory and the honor and the power, because you created all things, and because of your will they existed and were created.' " (Revelation 4:9-11) In all Scripture, this is one of the grandest declarations of homage to Jehovah, our God and Sovereign Lord!
Next time: Continue with the above subject.
Listen! Melodious, soul stirring, is the song of praise that the cherubs render to Jehovah: "Holy, holy,holy is Jehovah god, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is coming." Again, the threeness indicates intensity. The cherubs strongly affirm the holiness of Jehovah God. He is the Source and the ultimate Standard of holiness. he is also "King of eternity," always "the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end."( 1 Timothy 1:17; Revelation 22:13) The cherubs take no rest periods as they proclaim the matchless qualities of Jehovah before all creation.
The heaven of heavens resounds with praises to Jehovah! John's description continues: " And whenever the living creatures offer glory and honor and thanksgiving to the one seated upon the throne, the one that lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before the one seated upon the throne and worship the One that lives forever and ever, and they cast their crowns before the throne, saying: 'You are worthy, Jehovah, even our God, to receive the glory and the honor and the power, because you created all things, and because of your will they existed and were created.' " (Revelation 4:9-11) In all Scripture, this is one of the grandest declarations of homage to Jehovah, our God and Sovereign Lord!
Next time: Continue with the above subject.
9.17.2007
Continue with Behold-"Four Living Creatures"
John continues: "And the first living creature is like a lion, and the second living creature is like a young bull, and the third living creature has face like a man's, and the fourth living creature is like a flying eagle." (Revelation 4:7) Why do these four living creatures look so different, one from another? These distinctive living creatures evidently highlight specific godly qualities. Firs, there is the lion. A lion is used in the Bible as a symbol of courage, especially in the pursuit of justice and righteousness. (2 Samuel 17:10; Proverbs 28:1) Thus, the lion represents the godly quality of courageous justice. (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 89:14) The second living creature resembles a young bull. What quality does bull bring to your mind? To the Israelites the bull was a valuable possession because of its power. (Proverbs 14:4; See also Job 39:9-11). The young bull, then, represents power, dynamic energy as supplied by Jehovah.-Psalm 62:11; Isaiah 40:26.
The third living creature has a face like a man's. This must represent godlike love, since on earth man alone was created in God's image, with the superlative quality of love. (Genesis 1:26-28; Matthew 22:36-40; 1 John 4:8, 16) Undoubtedly, the cherubs display this quality as they serve around Jehovah's throne. What now of the fourth living creature? This one is like a flying eagle in appearance. Jehovah himself calls attention to the eagle's great vision: "Far into the distance its eyes keep looking." (Job 39:29) Hence, the eagle well symbolizes farsighted wisdom. Jehovah is the Source of wisdom. His cherubs exercise divine wisdom as they obey his commands.-Proverbs 2:6; James 3:17.
Next time: Jehovah's Praises Ring Out.
The third living creature has a face like a man's. This must represent godlike love, since on earth man alone was created in God's image, with the superlative quality of love. (Genesis 1:26-28; Matthew 22:36-40; 1 John 4:8, 16) Undoubtedly, the cherubs display this quality as they serve around Jehovah's throne. What now of the fourth living creature? This one is like a flying eagle in appearance. Jehovah himself calls attention to the eagle's great vision: "Far into the distance its eyes keep looking." (Job 39:29) Hence, the eagle well symbolizes farsighted wisdom. Jehovah is the Source of wisdom. His cherubs exercise divine wisdom as they obey his commands.-Proverbs 2:6; James 3:17.
Next time: Jehovah's Praises Ring Out.
9.16.2007
Behold-"Four Living Creatures"!
John now observes another feature. He writes: " And in the midst of the throne and around the throne there are four living creatures that are full of eyes in front and behind."-Revelation 4:6b.
What do these creatures picture? A vision reported by another prophet, Ezekiel, helps us to find the answer. Ezekiel saw Jehovah enthroned on a celestial chariot, which was accompanied by living creatures embodying characteristics similar to those described by John. (Ezekiel 1:5-11, 22-28) Later, Ezekiel again saw that chariot throne accompanied by the living creatures. This time, however, he referred to the living creatures as cherubs. (Ezekiel 10:9-15) The four living creatures that John sees must represent the many cherubs of God-creatures of high rank in His spirit organization. John would not think it unusual to see cherubs positioned so close to Jehovah's person, since in the ancient tabernacle arrangement, two cherubs of gold were displayed upon the lid of the Ark of the Convenant, which represented Jehovah's throne. From between these cherubs, Jehovah's voice issued commandments to the nation. -Exodus 25:22; Psalm 80:1.
These four living creatures are "in the midst of the throne and around the throne." Exactly what does this mean? It could signal that they are positioned around the throne in such a way that one is standing in the middle of each side. Thus, the translators of Today's English Version paraphrased the original Greek expression in this way: "surrounding the throne on each of its sides." Alternately, the expression could mean that the four living creatures are in the central position in heaven where the throne is. Likely, that is why The Jerusalem Bible renders the phrase: "in the centre, grouped around the throne itself." The important thing is the closeness of the cherubs to Jehovah's throne, comparable to that of the cherubs that Ezekiel 1: 15-22) All of this harmonizes with the words of Psalm 99:1: "Jehovah himself has become king. . . . He is sitting upon the cherubs."
Next time: Continue with the above subject.
What do these creatures picture? A vision reported by another prophet, Ezekiel, helps us to find the answer. Ezekiel saw Jehovah enthroned on a celestial chariot, which was accompanied by living creatures embodying characteristics similar to those described by John. (Ezekiel 1:5-11, 22-28) Later, Ezekiel again saw that chariot throne accompanied by the living creatures. This time, however, he referred to the living creatures as cherubs. (Ezekiel 10:9-15) The four living creatures that John sees must represent the many cherubs of God-creatures of high rank in His spirit organization. John would not think it unusual to see cherubs positioned so close to Jehovah's person, since in the ancient tabernacle arrangement, two cherubs of gold were displayed upon the lid of the Ark of the Convenant, which represented Jehovah's throne. From between these cherubs, Jehovah's voice issued commandments to the nation. -Exodus 25:22; Psalm 80:1.
These four living creatures are "in the midst of the throne and around the throne." Exactly what does this mean? It could signal that they are positioned around the throne in such a way that one is standing in the middle of each side. Thus, the translators of Today's English Version paraphrased the original Greek expression in this way: "surrounding the throne on each of its sides." Alternately, the expression could mean that the four living creatures are in the central position in heaven where the throne is. Likely, that is why The Jerusalem Bible renders the phrase: "in the centre, grouped around the throne itself." The important thing is the closeness of the cherubs to Jehovah's throne, comparable to that of the cherubs that Ezekiel 1: 15-22) All of this harmonizes with the words of Psalm 99:1: "Jehovah himself has become king. . . . He is sitting upon the cherubs."
Next time: Continue with the above subject.
9.15.2007
Lamps Of Fire And A Glassy Sea
What does John further see? This: "And there are seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, and these mean the seven spirits of God. And before the throne there is, as it were, a glassy sea like crystal." (Revelation 4:5b, 6a) John himself tells us the significance of the seven lamps: "These mean the seven spirits of God." The number seven symbolize divine completeness; so the seven lamps must represent the fullness of the enlightening force of the holy spirit. How grateful the John class today is that it has been entrusted with this enlightenment, together with the responsibility to pass it on to the spiritually hungry peoples of the earth! How glad we are that each year over 200 million copies of the Watchtower magazine continue to beam forth this light in more than a hundred languages!- Psalm 43:3.
John sees also a "glassy sea like crystal." What would this symbolize with regard to those invited into Jehovah's heavenly court? Paul spoke of the way that Jesus sanctified the congregation, "cleansing it with the bath of water by means of the word." (Ephesians 5:26) Before his death, Jesus told his disciples: " You are already clean because of the word that I have spoken to you." (John 15:3) Hence, this glassy sea like crystal must represent the cleansing, recorded Word of God. Those of the royal priesthood who come into Jehovah's presence must have been thoroughly cleansed by his Word.
Next time: Behold- "Four Living Creatures"!
John sees also a "glassy sea like crystal." What would this symbolize with regard to those invited into Jehovah's heavenly court? Paul spoke of the way that Jesus sanctified the congregation, "cleansing it with the bath of water by means of the word." (Ephesians 5:26) Before his death, Jesus told his disciples: " You are already clean because of the word that I have spoken to you." (John 15:3) Hence, this glassy sea like crystal must represent the cleansing, recorded Word of God. Those of the royal priesthood who come into Jehovah's presence must have been thoroughly cleansed by his Word.
Next time: Behold- "Four Living Creatures"!
9.14.2007
Lightnings, Voices And Thunders
What does John next see and hear? "And out of the throne there are proceeding lightnings and voices and thunders." (Revelation 4:5a) How reminiscent of other awesome manifestations of Jehovah's celestial power! For example, when Jehovah "came down" on Mount Sinai, Moses reported: " On the third day when it became morning it came about that thunders and lightnings began occurring, and a heavy cloud upon the mountain and a very loud sound of a horn. . . . When the sound of the horn became continually louder and louder, Moses began to speak and the true God began to answer him with a voice."-Exodus 19:16-19.
During the Lord's day, Jehovah makes his power and presence manifest in a sublime way. No, not by literal lightning, for John is seeing signs. What, then, do the lightnings represent? Well, flashes of lightning can illuminate, but they can also strike one dead. Therefore these lightnings issuing from Jehovah's throne well picture the flashes of enlightenment that he has continually granted his people and, even more significantly, his fiery judgment messages. -Compare Psalm 18:14; 144:5, 6; Matthew 4:14-17; 24:27.
What of the voices? During Jehovah's descent onto Mount Sinai, a voice spoke to Moses. (Exodus 19:19) Voices from heaven issued many of the commands and proclamations in the book of Revelation. (Revelation 4:1; 10:4, 8; 11:12; 12:10; 14:13; 16:1, 17; 18:4; 19:5; 21:3) Today, Jehovah has also issued commands and proclamations to his people, illuminating their understanding of Bible prophecies and principles. Enlightening information has often been disclosed at international conventions, and such Bible truths have, in turn, been proclaimed worldwide. The apostle Paul said of faithful preachers of the good news: "Why, in fact, 'into all the earth their sound went out, and to the extremities of the inhabited earth their utterances.' " -Romans 10:18.
Thunder usually follows lightning. David referred to literal thunder as "the voice of Jehovah." (Psalm 29:3, 4) When Jehovah fought for David against his enemies, thunder was said to come from Him. (2 Samuel 22:14; Psalm 18:13) Elihu told Job that Jehovah's voice sounded like thunder, as He does "great things that we cannot know." (Job 37:4, 5) During this part of the Lord's day, Jehovah has 'thundered,' warning of the great acts he will perform against his enemies. These symbolic peals of thunder have echoed and reechoed throughout the earth. Happy your are if you have paid attention to these thunderous proclamations and are making wise use of your tongue in adding their volume! -Isaiah 50:4, 5; 61:1, 2.
Next time: Lamps Of Fire And A Glassy Sea.
During the Lord's day, Jehovah makes his power and presence manifest in a sublime way. No, not by literal lightning, for John is seeing signs. What, then, do the lightnings represent? Well, flashes of lightning can illuminate, but they can also strike one dead. Therefore these lightnings issuing from Jehovah's throne well picture the flashes of enlightenment that he has continually granted his people and, even more significantly, his fiery judgment messages. -Compare Psalm 18:14; 144:5, 6; Matthew 4:14-17; 24:27.
What of the voices? During Jehovah's descent onto Mount Sinai, a voice spoke to Moses. (Exodus 19:19) Voices from heaven issued many of the commands and proclamations in the book of Revelation. (Revelation 4:1; 10:4, 8; 11:12; 12:10; 14:13; 16:1, 17; 18:4; 19:5; 21:3) Today, Jehovah has also issued commands and proclamations to his people, illuminating their understanding of Bible prophecies and principles. Enlightening information has often been disclosed at international conventions, and such Bible truths have, in turn, been proclaimed worldwide. The apostle Paul said of faithful preachers of the good news: "Why, in fact, 'into all the earth their sound went out, and to the extremities of the inhabited earth their utterances.' " -Romans 10:18.
Thunder usually follows lightning. David referred to literal thunder as "the voice of Jehovah." (Psalm 29:3, 4) When Jehovah fought for David against his enemies, thunder was said to come from Him. (2 Samuel 22:14; Psalm 18:13) Elihu told Job that Jehovah's voice sounded like thunder, as He does "great things that we cannot know." (Job 37:4, 5) During this part of the Lord's day, Jehovah has 'thundered,' warning of the great acts he will perform against his enemies. These symbolic peals of thunder have echoed and reechoed throughout the earth. Happy your are if you have paid attention to these thunderous proclamations and are making wise use of your tongue in adding their volume! -Isaiah 50:4, 5; 61:1, 2.
Next time: Lamps Of Fire And A Glassy Sea.
9.13.2007
Identifying The 24 Elders
John knew that priests were appointed to serve in the ancient tabernacle. So he may have been surprised at seeing what he describes next: " And round about the throne there are twenty-four thrones, and upon these thrones I saw seated twenty-four elders dressed in white outer garments, and upon their heads golden crowns." (Revelation 4:4) Yes, instead of priests, there are 24 elders, enthroned and crowned like kings. Who are these elders? They are none other than the anointed ones of the Christian congregation, resurrected and occupying the heavenly position Jehovah promised them. How do we know that?
First of all, they are wearing crowns. The Bible speaks of anointed Christians as gaining 'an incorruptible crown' and attaining to an endless life-immortality. (1 Corinthians 9:25; 15:53,54) But since these elders are sitting on thrones, the golden crowns in this context represent royal authority. (Compare Revelation 6:2; 14:14) This supports the conclusion that the 24 elders portray Jesus' anointed footstep followers in their heavenly position, for Jesus made a covenant with them to sit on thrones in his Kingdom. (Luke 22:28-30) Only Jesus and these 24 elders - not even the angels - are described as ruling in heaven in Jehovah's presence.
This harmonizes with the promise that Jesus made to the Laodicean congregation: "To the one that conquers I will grant to sit down with me on my throne." (Revelation 3:21) But the heavenly assignment of the 24 elders is not limited to governmental rule. In the introduction to the book of Revelation, John said of Jesus: "He made us to be a kingdom, priests to his God and Father." (Revelation 1:5, 6) These ones are both kings and priests. "They will be priests of God and of the Christ, and will rule as kings with him for the thousand years." - Revelation 20:6.
What is significant about the number 24, in that John sees 24 elders around the throne? In many respects, these were foreshadowed by the faithful priests of ancient Israel. The apostle Peter wrote to anointed Christians: "You are 'a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for special possession.' " (1 Peter 2:9) Interestingly, that ancient Jewish priesthood came to be divided into 24 divisions. Each division was assigned its own weeks in the year to serve before Jehovah, so that sacred service was rendered without a break. (1 Chronicles 24:5-19) It is fitting, then, that there are 24 elders depicted in John's vision of the heavenly priesthood because this priesthood serves Jehovah continually, without ceasing . When completed, there will be 24 divisions, each with 6,000 conquerors, for Revelation 14:1-4 tells us that 144,000 (24x 6000) are "bought from among mankind" to stand on the heavenly Mount Zion with the lamb, Jesus Christ. Since the number 12 signifies a divinely balanced organization, 24 doubles - or strengthens - such an arrangement.
Next time: Lightnings, Voices And Thunders.
First of all, they are wearing crowns. The Bible speaks of anointed Christians as gaining 'an incorruptible crown' and attaining to an endless life-immortality. (1 Corinthians 9:25; 15:53,54) But since these elders are sitting on thrones, the golden crowns in this context represent royal authority. (Compare Revelation 6:2; 14:14) This supports the conclusion that the 24 elders portray Jesus' anointed footstep followers in their heavenly position, for Jesus made a covenant with them to sit on thrones in his Kingdom. (Luke 22:28-30) Only Jesus and these 24 elders - not even the angels - are described as ruling in heaven in Jehovah's presence.
This harmonizes with the promise that Jesus made to the Laodicean congregation: "To the one that conquers I will grant to sit down with me on my throne." (Revelation 3:21) But the heavenly assignment of the 24 elders is not limited to governmental rule. In the introduction to the book of Revelation, John said of Jesus: "He made us to be a kingdom, priests to his God and Father." (Revelation 1:5, 6) These ones are both kings and priests. "They will be priests of God and of the Christ, and will rule as kings with him for the thousand years." - Revelation 20:6.
What is significant about the number 24, in that John sees 24 elders around the throne? In many respects, these were foreshadowed by the faithful priests of ancient Israel. The apostle Peter wrote to anointed Christians: "You are 'a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for special possession.' " (1 Peter 2:9) Interestingly, that ancient Jewish priesthood came to be divided into 24 divisions. Each division was assigned its own weeks in the year to serve before Jehovah, so that sacred service was rendered without a break. (1 Chronicles 24:5-19) It is fitting, then, that there are 24 elders depicted in John's vision of the heavenly priesthood because this priesthood serves Jehovah continually, without ceasing . When completed, there will be 24 divisions, each with 6,000 conquerors, for Revelation 14:1-4 tells us that 144,000 (24x 6000) are "bought from among mankind" to stand on the heavenly Mount Zion with the lamb, Jesus Christ. Since the number 12 signifies a divinely balanced organization, 24 doubles - or strengthens - such an arrangement.
Next time: Lightnings, Voices And Thunders.
9.12.2007
Jehovah's Resplendent Presence
What does John see? Listen, as he now shares with us his grand experience. "After these things I immediately came to be in the power of the spirit: and, look! A throne was in its position in heaven, and there is one seated upon the throne." (Revelation 4:2) In an instant of time, John is spiritually transported by God's active force to the very throne of Jehovah. How thrilling for John! Here he is given a dazzling preview of those very heavens wherein he and other anointed Christians have reserved for them "an incorruptible and undefiled and unfading inheritance." (1 Peter 1:3-5; Philippians 3:20) For those whose hope it is to live forever on earth, John's vision also has profound meaning. It helps them to comprehend the glory of Jehovah's presence and of the heavenly ruling structure used by Jehovah in judging the nations and afterward in governing human lives on earth. Jehovah is indeed the God of superb organization!
Much of what John observes up there in heaven resembles features of the tabernacle in the wilderness. This was constructed about 1,600 years earlier as a sanctuary of true worship for the Israelites. In the Holy of Holies of that tabernacle was the Ark of the covenant, and it was from above the solid gold cover of that Ark that Jehovah himself spoke. (Exodus 25:17-22; Hebrews 9:5) Hence, the cover of the Ark served as symbol of Jehovah's throne. John now sees the reality of that symbolic representation: the Sovereign Lord Jehovah himself sitting in Exquisite grandeur on his lofty heavenly throne!
Unlike earlier prophets who had visions of Jehovah's throne, John does not describe in detail the Holy One who occupies it. (Ezekiel 1:26, 27; Daniel 7:9, 10) But John gives us his impression of the enthroned One in these words: "And the one seated is, in appearance, like a jasper stone and a precious red-colored stone, and round about the throne there is a rainbow like and emerald in appearance." (Revelation 4:3) What incomparable magnificence! John perceives a serene, scintillating beauty like that of lustrous, gleaming gemstones. How appropriately this agrees with the disciple James' description of Jehovah as "the Father of the celestial lights"! (James 1:17) Shortly after writing Revelation, John himself stated: "God is light and there is no darkness at all in union with him." (1John 1:5) What a superbly glorious Personage Jehovah really is!
Notice that John sees around the throne a rainbow, colored emerald green. The Greek word here translated below (ir'is) suggests a completely circular form. The rainbow is first mentioned in the Bible in connection with Noah's day. After the waters of the deluge subsided, Jehovah cause a rainbow to appear in the cloud, and he explained what it symbolized in these words.: "My rainbow I do give in the cloud, and it must serve as sign of the covenant between me and the earth. And I shall certainly remember my covenant which is between me and you and every living soul among all flesh; and no more will the waters become a deluge to bring all flesh to ruin." (Genesis 9:13, 15) What, then, would the heavenly vision bring to John's mind? The rainbow that he saw must have reminded him of the need for a peaceful relationship with Jehovah,m such as the John class enjoys today. It would also impress him with the serenity and peace of Jehovah's presence,a serenity that will extend to all obedient humans when Jehovah spreads his tent over mankind in the new earth society. -Psalm 119:165; Philippians 4:7; Revelation 21:1-4.
Next time: Identifying The 24 Elders.
Much of what John observes up there in heaven resembles features of the tabernacle in the wilderness. This was constructed about 1,600 years earlier as a sanctuary of true worship for the Israelites. In the Holy of Holies of that tabernacle was the Ark of the covenant, and it was from above the solid gold cover of that Ark that Jehovah himself spoke. (Exodus 25:17-22; Hebrews 9:5) Hence, the cover of the Ark served as symbol of Jehovah's throne. John now sees the reality of that symbolic representation: the Sovereign Lord Jehovah himself sitting in Exquisite grandeur on his lofty heavenly throne!
Unlike earlier prophets who had visions of Jehovah's throne, John does not describe in detail the Holy One who occupies it. (Ezekiel 1:26, 27; Daniel 7:9, 10) But John gives us his impression of the enthroned One in these words: "And the one seated is, in appearance, like a jasper stone and a precious red-colored stone, and round about the throne there is a rainbow like and emerald in appearance." (Revelation 4:3) What incomparable magnificence! John perceives a serene, scintillating beauty like that of lustrous, gleaming gemstones. How appropriately this agrees with the disciple James' description of Jehovah as "the Father of the celestial lights"! (James 1:17) Shortly after writing Revelation, John himself stated: "God is light and there is no darkness at all in union with him." (1John 1:5) What a superbly glorious Personage Jehovah really is!
Notice that John sees around the throne a rainbow, colored emerald green. The Greek word here translated below (ir'is) suggests a completely circular form. The rainbow is first mentioned in the Bible in connection with Noah's day. After the waters of the deluge subsided, Jehovah cause a rainbow to appear in the cloud, and he explained what it symbolized in these words.: "My rainbow I do give in the cloud, and it must serve as sign of the covenant between me and the earth. And I shall certainly remember my covenant which is between me and you and every living soul among all flesh; and no more will the waters become a deluge to bring all flesh to ruin." (Genesis 9:13, 15) What, then, would the heavenly vision bring to John's mind? The rainbow that he saw must have reminded him of the need for a peaceful relationship with Jehovah,m such as the John class enjoys today. It would also impress him with the serenity and peace of Jehovah's presence,a serenity that will extend to all obedient humans when Jehovah spreads his tent over mankind in the new earth society. -Psalm 119:165; Philippians 4:7; Revelation 21:1-4.
Next time: Identifying The 24 Elders.
9.11.2007
The Magnificence Of Jehovah's Celestial Throne
John begins to share with us further soul-stirring visions. By inspiration he is still in the Lord's day. So, what he describes has deep meaning for us who are actually living in that day. By means of these visions, Jehovah lifts the veil of invisibility on heavenly realities and give us his own view of his judgments to be executed on earth. Moreover, whether we have a heavenly or an earthly hope, these revelations help us to see our place in Jehovah's purpose. All of us, therefore, should continue to be keenly interested in John's expression: "Happy is he who reads aloud and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and who observe the things written in it."-Revelation 1:3.
What John sees next beholds surpasses anything presented by video to 20Th-century man! He writes: " After these things I saw, and look! and opened door in heaven, and the first voice that I heard was as of a trumpet, speaking with me, saying: ' Come on up here, and I shall show you the things that mus take place.' " (Revelation 4:1) John in vision penetrates the invisible heavens of Jehovah's presence, exalted far above physical outer space as explored by modern astronauts, even far above the galaxies of the material universe. As though by entering an opened door, John is invited to feast his eyes on a breathtaking panorama of the ultimate spirit heavens where Jehovah himself is enthroned! (Psalm 11:4; Isaiah 66;1) What a privilege!
The Bible does not identify this "first voice." Like Jesus' strong voice heard earlier, it has commanding trumpet like sound. (Revelation 1:10, 11) It brings to mind the penetrating horn blast that signaled Jehovah's presence at Mount Sinai. (Exodus 19:18-20) Undoubtedly, Jehovah is the majestic source of the summons. (Revelation 1:1) He has opened the door so that John, in vision, can enter the most holy location in all the vast realm of Jehovah's sovereignty.
Next time: Jehovah's Resplendent Presence.
What John sees next beholds surpasses anything presented by video to 20Th-century man! He writes: " After these things I saw, and look! and opened door in heaven, and the first voice that I heard was as of a trumpet, speaking with me, saying: ' Come on up here, and I shall show you the things that mus take place.' " (Revelation 4:1) John in vision penetrates the invisible heavens of Jehovah's presence, exalted far above physical outer space as explored by modern astronauts, even far above the galaxies of the material universe. As though by entering an opened door, John is invited to feast his eyes on a breathtaking panorama of the ultimate spirit heavens where Jehovah himself is enthroned! (Psalm 11:4; Isaiah 66;1) What a privilege!
The Bible does not identify this "first voice." Like Jesus' strong voice heard earlier, it has commanding trumpet like sound. (Revelation 1:10, 11) It brings to mind the penetrating horn blast that signaled Jehovah's presence at Mount Sinai. (Exodus 19:18-20) Undoubtedly, Jehovah is the majestic source of the summons. (Revelation 1:1) He has opened the door so that John, in vision, can enter the most holy location in all the vast realm of Jehovah's sovereignty.
Next time: Jehovah's Resplendent Presence.
9.10.2007
A Throne For The Conquerors
Jesus speaks of a further reward, saying : "To the one that conquers I will grant to sit down with me on my throne, even as I conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne." (Revelation 3:21) In fulfillment of David's words at Psalm 110:1, 2, the integrity-keeping Jesus, having conquered the world, was resurrected in 33 C.E. and exalted to sit down with his Father on his heavenly throne. (Acts 2:32, 33) In another crucial year, 1914, Jesus arrived to sit down on his own Messianic throne as King and Judge. The judgment began in 1918 with professed Christians. Anointed conquerors who died before that time would then be resurrected and join Jesus in his Kingdom. (Matthew 25:31; 1 Peter 4:17) He had promised this to them when instituting the Memorial of his death, saying to his disciples: "I make a covenant with you, just as my Father has made a covenant with me, for a kingdom, that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones to judge the twelve tribes of Israel."-Luke 22:28-30.
What a marvelous assignment - to sit with the reigning King during "the recreation" and share with him, on the basis of his perfect sacrifice, in raising the world of obedient mankind to Edenic perfection! (Matthew 19:28; 20:28) As John informs us, Jesus makes those who conquer to be "a kingdom, priests to his God and Father," to occupy thrones around Jehovah's own magnificent heavenly throne. (Revelation 1:6; 4:4) Let all of us - whether of the anointed or of the new earth society that hopes to share in restoring Paradise - take to heart the words of Jesus to the Laodiceans!- 2 Peter 3:13; Acts 3:19-21.
As with previous messages, Jesus ends this one with words of exhortation: "Let the one who has an ear hear what the spirit says to the congregations." (Revelation 3:22) We are living deep in the time of the end. The evidence is all around us that Christendom is cold as far as love is concerned. In contrast, may we as true Christians respond fervently to Jesus' message to the congregation in Laodicea, yes, to all seven of our Lord's messages to the congregations. This we can do by having a vigorous share in the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy for our day: "And this good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come." - Matthew 24:12-14.
Jesus' counsel to the seven congregations is ended. He does not speak to John again in Revelation until the final chapter; but he participates in many of the visions, for example, in executing Jehovah's judgments. Let us now join the John class in examining the second remarkable vision revealed by the Lord Jesus Christ.
Next time:The Magnificence Of Jehovah's Celestial Throne.
What a marvelous assignment - to sit with the reigning King during "the recreation" and share with him, on the basis of his perfect sacrifice, in raising the world of obedient mankind to Edenic perfection! (Matthew 19:28; 20:28) As John informs us, Jesus makes those who conquer to be "a kingdom, priests to his God and Father," to occupy thrones around Jehovah's own magnificent heavenly throne. (Revelation 1:6; 4:4) Let all of us - whether of the anointed or of the new earth society that hopes to share in restoring Paradise - take to heart the words of Jesus to the Laodiceans!- 2 Peter 3:13; Acts 3:19-21.
As with previous messages, Jesus ends this one with words of exhortation: "Let the one who has an ear hear what the spirit says to the congregations." (Revelation 3:22) We are living deep in the time of the end. The evidence is all around us that Christendom is cold as far as love is concerned. In contrast, may we as true Christians respond fervently to Jesus' message to the congregation in Laodicea, yes, to all seven of our Lord's messages to the congregations. This we can do by having a vigorous share in the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy for our day: "And this good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come." - Matthew 24:12-14.
Jesus' counsel to the seven congregations is ended. He does not speak to John again in Revelation until the final chapter; but he participates in many of the visions, for example, in executing Jehovah's judgments. Let us now join the John class in examining the second remarkable vision revealed by the Lord Jesus Christ.
Next time:The Magnificence Of Jehovah's Celestial Throne.
9.09.2007
Continue with 'Take The Evening Meal'
Even within the true Congregation, there have been lukewarm individuals who are like a drink that is neither stimulatingly hot nor refreshingly cold. But Jesus still warmly loves his congregation. He makes himself available to Christians who respond hospitably, and many have welcomed him, as though to an evening meal. As a result, from 1919 onward their eyes have been opened to the meaning of Bible prophecies. They have enjoyed a period of great enlightenment.-Psalm 97:11; 2 Peter 1:19.
In addressing the Laodiceans, Jesus may also have had another evening meal in mind. Later in Revelation we read: " Happy are those invited to the evening meal of the Lamb's marriage." This is the majestic victory banquet in praise of Jehovah after he has executed judgment on false religion-a banquet shared by Christ and his completed bride of 144,000 in heaven. (Revelation 19:1-9) Responsive members of that ancient Laodicean congregation-yes, and faithful brothers of Christ Jesus today, who wear clean garments of identification as genuine anointed Christians - will all feast with their Bridegoom at that evening meal. (Matthew 22:2-13) What a powerful inducement to be zealous and repent!
Next time: A Throne For The Conquerors.
In addressing the Laodiceans, Jesus may also have had another evening meal in mind. Later in Revelation we read: " Happy are those invited to the evening meal of the Lamb's marriage." This is the majestic victory banquet in praise of Jehovah after he has executed judgment on false religion-a banquet shared by Christ and his completed bride of 144,000 in heaven. (Revelation 19:1-9) Responsive members of that ancient Laodicean congregation-yes, and faithful brothers of Christ Jesus today, who wear clean garments of identification as genuine anointed Christians - will all feast with their Bridegoom at that evening meal. (Matthew 22:2-13) What a powerful inducement to be zealous and repent!
Next time: A Throne For The Conquerors.
9.08.2007
'Take The Evening Meal'
Jesus goes on to say: Look! I am standing at the door and knocking. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into his house and take the evening meal with him and he with me." (Revelation 3:20) IF the Laodicean Christians will only welcome Jesus into their congregation, he will help them to overcome their lukewarmness!- Matthew 18:20
Jesus' mention of the evening meal doubtless reminds the Laodiceans of the times when he ate meals with his disciples. (John 12:1-8) Such occasions always brought spiritual blessings for those present. Likewise, there were notable occasions after Jesus' resurrection when he was present at a meal with his disciples, which occasions greatly strengthened them. (Luke 24:28-32; John 21:9-19) Hence, his promise to come into the Laodicean congregation and take the evening meal with them is a promise to bring them rich spiritual benefits if only they will receive him.
Jesus' loving exhortation to the Laodiceans has great significance for the remaining anointed Christians today. Some of these remember that , as the Lord's day began, Christendom's religionists were lukewarm to an appalling degree. Instead of welcoming our Lord's return in 1914, her clergy got embroiled in the slaughter of World War I, in which 24 of the 28 contending nations claimed to be Christian. How great their bloodguilt! During World War II, which was also fought largely in Christendom, false religion's sins again "massed together clear up to heaven." (Revelation 18:5) Further, the clergy have turned their back on Jehovah's incoming Kingdom by supporting the League of Nations, the United Nations and nationalistic,revolutionary movements, none of which can solve mankind's problems. Jesus has long since rejected the clergy, judging them adversely and throwing them away, just as a fisherman disposes unsuitable fish caught in his dragnet. The miserable plight of Christendom's churches today testifies to that judgment of her. May her eventual fate serve as a warning to us!-Matthew 13:47-50.
Next Time: Continue with 'Take The Evening Meal'
Jesus' mention of the evening meal doubtless reminds the Laodiceans of the times when he ate meals with his disciples. (John 12:1-8) Such occasions always brought spiritual blessings for those present. Likewise, there were notable occasions after Jesus' resurrection when he was present at a meal with his disciples, which occasions greatly strengthened them. (Luke 24:28-32; John 21:9-19) Hence, his promise to come into the Laodicean congregation and take the evening meal with them is a promise to bring them rich spiritual benefits if only they will receive him.
Jesus' loving exhortation to the Laodiceans has great significance for the remaining anointed Christians today. Some of these remember that , as the Lord's day began, Christendom's religionists were lukewarm to an appalling degree. Instead of welcoming our Lord's return in 1914, her clergy got embroiled in the slaughter of World War I, in which 24 of the 28 contending nations claimed to be Christian. How great their bloodguilt! During World War II, which was also fought largely in Christendom, false religion's sins again "massed together clear up to heaven." (Revelation 18:5) Further, the clergy have turned their back on Jehovah's incoming Kingdom by supporting the League of Nations, the United Nations and nationalistic,revolutionary movements, none of which can solve mankind's problems. Jesus has long since rejected the clergy, judging them adversely and throwing them away, just as a fisherman disposes unsuitable fish caught in his dragnet. The miserable plight of Christendom's churches today testifies to that judgment of her. May her eventual fate serve as a warning to us!-Matthew 13:47-50.
Next Time: Continue with 'Take The Evening Meal'
9.07.2007
Benefiting From Reproof And Discipline
Let us return to the Laodiceans. How will they respond to the severe counsel from Jesus? Should they be disheartened and feel that Jesus no longer wants them as his followers? No, that is not the case at all. The message goes on to say:" All those for whom I have affection I reprove and discipline. Therefore be zealous and repent." (Revelation 3:19) As with discipline from Jehovah, Jesus' discipline is a sign of his love. (Hebrews 12:4-7) The Laodicean congregation should take advantage of his affectionate concern and apply his counsel. They should repent, recognizing that their lukewarmness amounts to sinning. (Hebrews 3:12, 13; James 4:17) Let their elders put materialistic ways behind them and "stir up like a fire" the gift they have from God. With the spiritual eye salve taking effect, let all in the congregation find refreshment as from a cooling draft of cold spring water. 2 Timothy 1:6; Proverbs 3:5-8; Luke 21:34.
What of us today? Jesus continues to 'love his own that are in the world.' this he will do "all the days until the conclusion of the system of things." (John 13:1; Matthew 28:20) His love and affection are displayed through the modern-day John class and the stars, or elders, in the Christian congregation. (Revelation 1:20) In these very trying times, the elders are deeply interested in helping all of us, old and young, to keep within the confines of the theocratic fold, resisting the independence, the materialistic greed and the immoral filth of the world. If we receive strong counsel or discipline at times, remember that "the reproofs of discipline are the way of life." (Proverbs 6:23) All of us are imperfect and should be zealous to repent as necessary so that we may be readjusted and remain in God's love.- 2 Corinthians 13:11.
We must not allow materialism, riches, or the lack of riches to make us lukewarm. Wealth can aid in opening up new possibilities of service, but it can also be dangerous. (Matthew 19:24) A well-to-do person may feel that he does not need to be as zealous in the preaching work as others,provided that he makes sizable donations from time to time. Or he may feel that being wealthy entitles him to favors. Additionally, there are many pleasures and pastimes open to a wealthy person that others cannot afford. But those diversions take up time and may draw the unwary away from Christian ministry, thus making the indiscreet one lukewarm. May we avoid all such snares and keep "working hard and exerting ourselves" wholeheartedly, with everlasting life in view.- 1 Timothy 4:8-10; 6:9-12.
'Taking The Evening Meal'
What of us today? Jesus continues to 'love his own that are in the world.' this he will do "all the days until the conclusion of the system of things." (John 13:1; Matthew 28:20) His love and affection are displayed through the modern-day John class and the stars, or elders, in the Christian congregation. (Revelation 1:20) In these very trying times, the elders are deeply interested in helping all of us, old and young, to keep within the confines of the theocratic fold, resisting the independence, the materialistic greed and the immoral filth of the world. If we receive strong counsel or discipline at times, remember that "the reproofs of discipline are the way of life." (Proverbs 6:23) All of us are imperfect and should be zealous to repent as necessary so that we may be readjusted and remain in God's love.- 2 Corinthians 13:11.
We must not allow materialism, riches, or the lack of riches to make us lukewarm. Wealth can aid in opening up new possibilities of service, but it can also be dangerous. (Matthew 19:24) A well-to-do person may feel that he does not need to be as zealous in the preaching work as others,provided that he makes sizable donations from time to time. Or he may feel that being wealthy entitles him to favors. Additionally, there are many pleasures and pastimes open to a wealthy person that others cannot afford. But those diversions take up time and may draw the unwary away from Christian ministry, thus making the indiscreet one lukewarm. May we avoid all such snares and keep "working hard and exerting ourselves" wholeheartedly, with everlasting life in view.- 1 Timothy 4:8-10; 6:9-12.
'Taking The Evening Meal'
9.06.2007
Applying Spiritual Eye Salve
Jesus also sternly admonishes those Laodiceans: "Buy. . . white outer garments that you may become dressed and that the shame of your nakedness may not become manifested, and eye salve to rub in your eyes that you may see." (Revelation3:18b) They should seek a cure for their spiritual blindness by purchasing curative eye salve, not that of the local healers, but of the kind that only Jesus can provide. This would help them to get spiritual discernment, helping them to walk in "the path of the righteous ones" with their beaming eyes focused on doing God's will. (Proverbs 4:18, 25-27) Thus they may put on, not the costly garments of black wool made locally in Laodicea, but fine "white outer garments" that proclaim their privileged identity as followers of Jesus Christ. -Compare 1 Timothy 2:9, 10; 1Peter 3:3-5.
Is spiritual eye salve available in modern times? Assuredly it is! In 1879 Pastor Russell, as he was affectionately called, began to publish in defense of truth, the magazine that is known worldwide today as The Watchtower Announcing Jehovah's Kingdom. In its second issue, he declared: "[this magazine] has, we believe, Jehovah for its backer, and while this is the case it will never beg nor petition men for support. When he who says: 'All the gold and silver of the mountains are mine,' fails to provide necessary funds, we will understand it to be time to suspend the publication." Some 20Th century television evangelists have amassed vast fortunes and live in shameless (and sometimes immoral) luxury. (Compare Revelation 18:3.) In contrast, the Bible students, known today as Jehovah's Witnesses, have used all the unsolicited contributions received to organize and advance the worldwide preaching of Jehovah's incoming Kingdom. The John class to this day directs the publishing of The Watchtower and Awake! which magazines had a combined circulation in 1988 of more than 20 million. The Watchtower is available in more than a hundred languages. it is the official journal of a congregation of more than three million Christians who have used such spiritual eye salve in getting their eyes opened to false religion and to the urgency of preaching the good news in all the nations.- Mark 13:10.
Next time: Benefiting From Reproof And Discipline.
Is spiritual eye salve available in modern times? Assuredly it is! In 1879 Pastor Russell, as he was affectionately called, began to publish in defense of truth, the magazine that is known worldwide today as The Watchtower Announcing Jehovah's Kingdom. In its second issue, he declared: "[this magazine] has, we believe, Jehovah for its backer, and while this is the case it will never beg nor petition men for support. When he who says: 'All the gold and silver of the mountains are mine,' fails to provide necessary funds, we will understand it to be time to suspend the publication." Some 20Th century television evangelists have amassed vast fortunes and live in shameless (and sometimes immoral) luxury. (Compare Revelation 18:3.) In contrast, the Bible students, known today as Jehovah's Witnesses, have used all the unsolicited contributions received to organize and advance the worldwide preaching of Jehovah's incoming Kingdom. The John class to this day directs the publishing of The Watchtower and Awake! which magazines had a combined circulation in 1988 of more than 20 million. The Watchtower is available in more than a hundred languages. it is the official journal of a congregation of more than three million Christians who have used such spiritual eye salve in getting their eyes opened to false religion and to the urgency of preaching the good news in all the nations.- Mark 13:10.
Next time: Benefiting From Reproof And Discipline.
9.05.2007
Counsel On 'Becoming Rich'
Is there a cure for the sad situation in Laodicea? Yes, if those Christians will follow Jesus' counsel: "I advise you to buy from me gold refined by fire that you may become rich." (Revelation 3:18a) True Christians "gold," refined by fire and with all the dross removed, will make them "rich toward God." (Luke 12:21) Where can they buy such gold? Not from the local bankers but from Jesus! The apostle Paul explained what that gold is when he told Timothy to give orders to wealthy Christians "to work at good, to be rich in fine works, to be liberal, ready to share, safely treasuring up for themselves a fine foundation for the future." Only by expending themselves in this way could they "get a firm hold on the real life." (1Timothy 6:17-19) The materially wealthy Laodiceans should have followed Paul's advice and thus become spiritually rich.- See also Proverbs 3:13-18.
Are there modern-day examples of those buying "gold refined by fire? Yes, there are! Even while the Lord's day was approaching, a small group of Bible students was awakening to the falsity of Christendom's many Babylonish teachings, such as the Trinity, immorality of the soul, hellfire, torment, infant baptism, and worship of images (including the cross and those of Mary). In championing Bible truth, these Christians proclaimed Jehovah's Kingdom as mankind's only hope and Jesus' ransom sacrifice as the basis for salvation. Almost 40 years ahead of time, they pointed to 1914 as the year marked in Bible prophecy as the end of the times of the Gentiles, when civil and ecclesiastical powers would be shaken.- Revelation 1:10; Luke 21:24-26, King James Version.
Taking the lead among these awakening Christians was Charles Taze Russell, who, in the early 1870's, formed a Bible study class in Allegheny (now part of Pittsburgh), Pennsylvania, U.S.A. When he started his search for truth, Russell was in partnership with his father and on his way to becoming a millionaire. But he sold out his chain-store business interests and spent his fortune in helping to finance the publishing of God's Kingdom in all the earth. In 1884 Russell became the first president of the corporation now known as the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. In 1916 he died on a train near El Paso, Texas, en route to New York, exhausted by his final preaching tour of the western United States. He set an outstanding example of storing up spiritual treasures in heaven, an example that is followed by hundreds of thousands of self-sacrificing pioneer ministers in these late 1900's. - Hebrews 13:7; Luke 12:33, 34; compare 1 Corinthians 9:16; 11:1.
Next time: Applying Spiritual Eye Salve
Are there modern-day examples of those buying "gold refined by fire? Yes, there are! Even while the Lord's day was approaching, a small group of Bible students was awakening to the falsity of Christendom's many Babylonish teachings, such as the Trinity, immorality of the soul, hellfire, torment, infant baptism, and worship of images (including the cross and those of Mary). In championing Bible truth, these Christians proclaimed Jehovah's Kingdom as mankind's only hope and Jesus' ransom sacrifice as the basis for salvation. Almost 40 years ahead of time, they pointed to 1914 as the year marked in Bible prophecy as the end of the times of the Gentiles, when civil and ecclesiastical powers would be shaken.- Revelation 1:10; Luke 21:24-26, King James Version.
Taking the lead among these awakening Christians was Charles Taze Russell, who, in the early 1870's, formed a Bible study class in Allegheny (now part of Pittsburgh), Pennsylvania, U.S.A. When he started his search for truth, Russell was in partnership with his father and on his way to becoming a millionaire. But he sold out his chain-store business interests and spent his fortune in helping to finance the publishing of God's Kingdom in all the earth. In 1884 Russell became the first president of the corporation now known as the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania. In 1916 he died on a train near El Paso, Texas, en route to New York, exhausted by his final preaching tour of the western United States. He set an outstanding example of storing up spiritual treasures in heaven, an example that is followed by hundreds of thousands of self-sacrificing pioneer ministers in these late 1900's. - Hebrews 13:7; Luke 12:33, 34; compare 1 Corinthians 9:16; 11:1.
Next time: Applying Spiritual Eye Salve
9.04.2007
"You Say: 'I Am Rich' "
What really is the root of the Laodiceans' problem? We get a good idea from Jesus' next words: "Because you say: 'I am rich and have acquired riches and do not need anything at all,' but you do not know you are miserable and pitiable and poor and blind and naked." (Revelation 3:17; compare Luke 12:16-21.) Living in a wealthy city, they feel confident because of their riches. Likely, their way of life has been affected by the stadium, theaters and gymnasiums, so that they have become "lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God." (2Timothy 3:4) But the materially rich Laodiceans are impoverished spiritually. They have few, if any, 'treasures stored up in haven.' (Matthew 6:19-21) They have not kept their eye simple, giving first place in their lives to God's Kingdom. They are really in darkness, blind, with not spiritual vision. (Matthew 6:22, 23, 33) Moreover, in spite of the fine garments that their material wealth may have purchased, in Jesus' eyes they are naked. they have not spiritual garments to identify them as Christians.-Compare Revelation 16:15.
What a shocking condition! But do we not often see a similar situation nowadays? What it the root cause? It is a self-confident attitude that springs from reliance upon material possessions and human resources. Like Christendom's churchgoers, some of Jehovah's people have deceived themselves, thinking that they can please God by merely attending meetings occasionally. They try to get by as merely token "doers of the word." (James 1:22) Despite repeated warnings from the John class, they set their hearts on stylish clothes, cars, homes and on life centered on recreation and pleasure. (1Timothy 6:9, 10; 1John 2:15-17) All of this results in a dulling of spiritual perception. (Hebrews 5:11, 12) Instead of being listlessly lukewarm, they need to rekindle "the fire of the spirit" and show refreshing eagerness to p"preach the word." -1Thessalonians 5:19; 2 Timothy 4:2, 5.
How does Jesus regard lukewarm Christians? His candid words should jolt them: "You do not know your are miserable and pitiable and poor and blind and naked." Their consciences are numbered to the point that they do not even realize their appalling state. (Compare Proverbs 16:2; 21:2.) This serious condition in the congregation cannot be lightly brushed aside. By setting fine example of zeal and by shepherding in love, elders and others assigned by them may be able to awaken these straying "sheep" to their former joy of wholehearted service.-Luke 15:3-7.
Next time: Counsel On 'Becoming Rich.'
What a shocking condition! But do we not often see a similar situation nowadays? What it the root cause? It is a self-confident attitude that springs from reliance upon material possessions and human resources. Like Christendom's churchgoers, some of Jehovah's people have deceived themselves, thinking that they can please God by merely attending meetings occasionally. They try to get by as merely token "doers of the word." (James 1:22) Despite repeated warnings from the John class, they set their hearts on stylish clothes, cars, homes and on life centered on recreation and pleasure. (1Timothy 6:9, 10; 1John 2:15-17) All of this results in a dulling of spiritual perception. (Hebrews 5:11, 12) Instead of being listlessly lukewarm, they need to rekindle "the fire of the spirit" and show refreshing eagerness to p"preach the word." -1Thessalonians 5:19; 2 Timothy 4:2, 5.
How does Jesus regard lukewarm Christians? His candid words should jolt them: "You do not know your are miserable and pitiable and poor and blind and naked." Their consciences are numbered to the point that they do not even realize their appalling state. (Compare Proverbs 16:2; 21:2.) This serious condition in the congregation cannot be lightly brushed aside. By setting fine example of zeal and by shepherding in love, elders and others assigned by them may be able to awaken these straying "sheep" to their former joy of wholehearted service.-Luke 15:3-7.
Next time: Counsel On 'Becoming Rich.'
9.03.2007
Continue with Gold Refined By Fire
Why does Jehovah call himself "the Amen"? This title adds judicial weight to his message. "Amen" is a translation of a Hebrew word meaning "surely," so be it," and is used at the end of prayers to affirm the sentiments expressed therein. (1Corinthians 14:16) Jesus is "the Amen" because of his flawless integrity and sacrificial death confirmed and guaranteed the fulfillment of all Jehovah's precious promises. (2Corinthians 1:20) Sine that time, all prayers are properly addressed to Jehovah through Jesus.-John 15:16; 16:23, 24.
Jesus is also "the faithful and true witness." In prophecy he is often associated with faithfulness, truth and righteousness, for he is completely trustworthy as a servant of Jehovah God. (Psalm 45:4; Isaiah 11:4, 5;Revelation 1:5; 19:11) He is the greatest Witness for Jehovah. In fact,as "the beginning of the creation by God," Jesus has declared God's glory from the very start. (Proverbs 8:22-30) As a man on earth, he bore witness to the truth. (John 18:36, 37; 1 Timothy 6:13) After his resurrection, he promised holy spirit to his disciples and told them: " You will be witnesses of me both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the most distant part of the earth." From Pentecost 33 C.E. onward, Jesus directed these anointed Christians in preaching the good news "in all creation that is under heaven." (Acts 1:6-8; Colossians 1:23) Truly, Jesus deserves to be called the faithful and true witness. The anointed Christians in Laodicea would benefit by listening to his words.
What message does Jesus have for the Laodiceans? He has no word of commendation. Frankly, he tells them: "I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or else hot. So, because you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of my mouth." (Revelation 3:15, 16) How would you respond to such a message from the Lord Jesus Christ? Would you not awaken and examine yourself? Surely, those Laodiceans need to bestir themselves, for they have become spiritually indolent, apparently taking too much for granted. (Compare 2 Corinthians 6:1) Jesus, whom they as Christians should have imitated, always displays a fiery zeal for Jehovah and his service. (John 2:17) Further, meek ones have found him to be always gentle and mild, as refreshing as a cup of cold water on a sweltering hot day. (Matthew 11:28, 29) But the Christians in Laodicea are neither hot nor cold. Like the waters that flow down into their city, they have become tepid, lukewarm. They are liable to be completely rejected by Jesus, 'vomited out of his mouth'! May we for our par always strive zealously, as did Jesus, to provide spiritual refreshment for others.- Matthew 9:35-38.
Next time: "You Say: 'I Am Rich' "
Jesus is also "the faithful and true witness." In prophecy he is often associated with faithfulness, truth and righteousness, for he is completely trustworthy as a servant of Jehovah God. (Psalm 45:4; Isaiah 11:4, 5;Revelation 1:5; 19:11) He is the greatest Witness for Jehovah. In fact,as "the beginning of the creation by God," Jesus has declared God's glory from the very start. (Proverbs 8:22-30) As a man on earth, he bore witness to the truth. (John 18:36, 37; 1 Timothy 6:13) After his resurrection, he promised holy spirit to his disciples and told them: " You will be witnesses of me both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the most distant part of the earth." From Pentecost 33 C.E. onward, Jesus directed these anointed Christians in preaching the good news "in all creation that is under heaven." (Acts 1:6-8; Colossians 1:23) Truly, Jesus deserves to be called the faithful and true witness. The anointed Christians in Laodicea would benefit by listening to his words.
What message does Jesus have for the Laodiceans? He has no word of commendation. Frankly, he tells them: "I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or else hot. So, because you are lukewarm and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of my mouth." (Revelation 3:15, 16) How would you respond to such a message from the Lord Jesus Christ? Would you not awaken and examine yourself? Surely, those Laodiceans need to bestir themselves, for they have become spiritually indolent, apparently taking too much for granted. (Compare 2 Corinthians 6:1) Jesus, whom they as Christians should have imitated, always displays a fiery zeal for Jehovah and his service. (John 2:17) Further, meek ones have found him to be always gentle and mild, as refreshing as a cup of cold water on a sweltering hot day. (Matthew 11:28, 29) But the Christians in Laodicea are neither hot nor cold. Like the waters that flow down into their city, they have become tepid, lukewarm. They are liable to be completely rejected by Jesus, 'vomited out of his mouth'! May we for our par always strive zealously, as did Jesus, to provide spiritual refreshment for others.- Matthew 9:35-38.
Next time: "You Say: 'I Am Rich' "
9.02.2007
Buy Gold Refined By Fire
Laodecea is last of the seven congregations to receive a message from the resurrected Jesus. And what eye-opening, stimulating information it conveys!
Today, you would find the ruins of Laodicea near Denizli, about 55 miles southeast of Alasehir. In the first century, Laodicea was a prosperous city. Sitting on a major road junction, it was a key center for banking and commerce. Sale of a well-known eye salve added to its wealth, and it was also famous for its high-quality garments produced locally from a fine black wool. Lack of water, a major problem for the city, had been overcome by channeling water down from hot springs some distance away. Thus, the water would be only lukewarm by the time it arrived in the city.
Laodicea was near Colossae. In writing to the Colossians, the apostle Paul mentions a letter that he had sent to the Laodiceans. (Colossians 4:15, 16) We do not know what Paul wrote in that letter, but the message that Jesus now sends to the Laodiceans shows that they have fallen into a woeful spiritual condition. As usual, though, Jesus first cites his own credentials, saying: " And to the angel of the congregations in Laodicea write: " These are the things that the Amen says, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation by God.:-Revelation 3:14.
Next time: Continue with the above subject.
Today, you would find the ruins of Laodicea near Denizli, about 55 miles southeast of Alasehir. In the first century, Laodicea was a prosperous city. Sitting on a major road junction, it was a key center for banking and commerce. Sale of a well-known eye salve added to its wealth, and it was also famous for its high-quality garments produced locally from a fine black wool. Lack of water, a major problem for the city, had been overcome by channeling water down from hot springs some distance away. Thus, the water would be only lukewarm by the time it arrived in the city.
Laodicea was near Colossae. In writing to the Colossians, the apostle Paul mentions a letter that he had sent to the Laodiceans. (Colossians 4:15, 16) We do not know what Paul wrote in that letter, but the message that Jesus now sends to the Laodiceans shows that they have fallen into a woeful spiritual condition. As usual, though, Jesus first cites his own credentials, saying: " And to the angel of the congregations in Laodicea write: " These are the things that the Amen says, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation by God.:-Revelation 3:14.
Next time: Continue with the above subject.
9.01.2007
Continue with The Conqueror's Blessings
Jesus continues, saying; " And I will write upon him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem which descends out of heaven from my God, and that new name of mine." (Revelation 3:12b) Yes, these conquerors have written on them the name of Jehovah-their God and Jesus' God. This shows clearly that Jehovah and Jesus are two separate persons and not two parts of a tribune God, or Trinity. (John 14:28; 20:17) All creation must come to see that these anointed ones belong to Jehovah. They are his witnesses. They also have written on them the name of the new Jerusalem, the heavenly city that descends out of heaven in the sense that it extends its benevolent rule over all faithful mankind. (Revelation 21:9-14) All the earthly Christian sheep will thus also know that these anointed conquerors are citizens of the Kingdom, the heavenly Jerusalem.-Psalm 87:5, 6; Matthew 25:33, 34; Philippians 3:20; Hebrews 12:22.
Finally, anointed overcomers have written on them Jesus' new name. This refers to Jesus' new office and the unique privileges granted to him by Jehovah. (Philippians 2:9-11; Revelation 19:12) No one else gets to know that name, in the sense that no one else has those privileges. However, when Jesus writes his name on his faithful brothers, they come into an intimate relationship with him in that heavenly realm and even share in his privileges. (Luke 22:29, 30) It is no wonder that Jesus concludes his message to such anointed ones by repeating the exhortation: "Let the one who has an ear hear what the spirit says to the congregations."-Revelation 3:13.
What grand encouragement that message must have been to the faithful Christians in Philadelphia! And it certainly has a powerful lesson for the John class now, during the Lord's day. But its principles are important for each individual Christian, whether of the anointed or of the other sheep. (John 10:16) Each of us would do well to keep producing Kingdom fruitage as did those Christians in Philadelphia. All of us can do something in Jehovah's service. Let us use this power! With regard to increased Kingdom privileges, let us be alert to enter any door that is open for us. We can even pray for Jehovah to open such a door. (Colossians 4:2, 3) As we follow Jesus' pattern of endurance and prove true to is name, we will show that we, too, have an ear to hear what God's holy spirit says to the congregations.
Next time: Buy Gold Refined By Fire
Finally, anointed overcomers have written on them Jesus' new name. This refers to Jesus' new office and the unique privileges granted to him by Jehovah. (Philippians 2:9-11; Revelation 19:12) No one else gets to know that name, in the sense that no one else has those privileges. However, when Jesus writes his name on his faithful brothers, they come into an intimate relationship with him in that heavenly realm and even share in his privileges. (Luke 22:29, 30) It is no wonder that Jesus concludes his message to such anointed ones by repeating the exhortation: "Let the one who has an ear hear what the spirit says to the congregations."-Revelation 3:13.
What grand encouragement that message must have been to the faithful Christians in Philadelphia! And it certainly has a powerful lesson for the John class now, during the Lord's day. But its principles are important for each individual Christian, whether of the anointed or of the other sheep. (John 10:16) Each of us would do well to keep producing Kingdom fruitage as did those Christians in Philadelphia. All of us can do something in Jehovah's service. Let us use this power! With regard to increased Kingdom privileges, let us be alert to enter any door that is open for us. We can even pray for Jehovah to open such a door. (Colossians 4:2, 3) As we follow Jesus' pattern of endurance and prove true to is name, we will show that we, too, have an ear to hear what God's holy spirit says to the congregations.
Next time: Buy Gold Refined By Fire
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