Unlocking a Sacred Secret

AWESOME indeed is the vision of the exalted Jesus!  No doubt, if we had been spectators there with the apostle John, we too would have been overcome by that resplendent glory, prostrating ourselves  as he did.  (Revelation 1:10-17) This is superlative inspired vision has been preserved to stimulate us to action today.  Like John, we should show humble appreciation for all that the vision means.  May we always have reverential respect for Jesus' position as enthroned King, High Priest, and judge. - PHILIPPIANS 2:5-11.

"The First and the Last"

Nevertheless, our awe need not give way to morbid fear.  Jesus reassured John, as the apostle next relates:  "And  he laid his right hand upon me and said:  'Do not be fearful.  I am the First and the Last, and the living one."  (Revelation 1:17b,18a)   In Isaiah 44:6, Jehovah rightly describes his own position as the one and only almighty God, saying:  "I am the first and I am the last, and besides me  there is no God."  When Jesus presents himself by the title "the First and the Last,"  he is not claiming equality with Jehovah, the Grand Creator.  He is using a title properly bestowed upon him  by God.  In Isaiah, Jehovah was making a statement about His unique position as the true God. He is God eternal, and besides him there is indeed no God.  (1 Timothy 1:17) In Revelation, Jesus is talking about his bestowed title, calling attention to his unique resurrection. 

Jesus was indeed "the First" human to be so resurrected to immoral spirit life.  (Colossians  1:18) Moreover, he is "the Last" to be so resurrected by Jehovah personally.  Thus, he becomes  "the living one . . . living forever and ever." He enjoys immorality.  In this, he is like his immortal Father, who is called "the living God." (Revelation 7:2; Palm 42:2)  For all others of humanity Jesus himself is "the resurrection and the life."  In harmony with this, he says to John:  "I became dead, but, look! I am living forever and ever, and I have the keys of death and of Hades."  (Revelation 1:18b)  Jehovah had given him the authority to resurrect the dead.  That is why  Jesus can say that he has the keys to unlock the gates for those bound by death and Hades (gravedom). - Compare Matthew 16:18.

Jesus here repeats his command to record the vision, telling John:  "Write down the things you sawm and the things that are and the things that will take place after these." (Revelation 1:19)  What exciting things will John yet make known for our instruction?

Next time:  Unlocking a Sacred Secret - The Stars and the Lampstands

From the jw.org publications

 

John Beholds the Glorified Jesus - In the Lord's Day, Conclusion

 John's description continues:  "Moreover, his head and his hair were white as white wool, as snow, and his eyes as a fiery flame."  (Revelation 1:14)  His snow-white hair indicates wisdom due to length of life.  (Compare  Proverbs 16:31.)   And his fiery eyes show that he is sharp, alert, as he searches. tests, or expresses indignation.  Even Jesus' feet catches John's attention:  "And his feet were like fine copper when glowing in a furnace; and his voice was as the sound of many waters."  (Revelation 1:15)  In the vision, Jesus' feet are like copper, glowing, bright-properly so for one who walks zealously and with a fine standing in the presence of Jehovah God.  Moreover, while in the Bible divine things are often pictured  by gold, so things human are sometimes represented by copper. So Jesus' glowing feet like fine copper remind us of how "comely" his feet were when he walked the earth preaching the good news. - ISAIAH 52:7; ROMANS 10:15.

Indeed, as a perfect human, Jesus had a radiance that was apparent to angels and men. (John 1:14)  His glorious feet also remind us that he is treading  holy ground in Jehovah's organization,  in which  he is High Pries.  (Compare Exodus 3:5.)  Further, his voice resounds thunderously like as huge cascading waterfall.  It is impressive, awe inspiring, as it is fitting for the one officially called the Word of God, the one who comes to judge the inhabited earth in righteousness." - ACTS 17:31; JOHN 1:1.

"And he had in his right hand seven stars, and out of his mouth a sharp two-edged sword was protruding, and his countenance was as the sun when it shines in its power.  And when I saw him, I fell as dead at his feet." (Revelation 1:16, 17a) Jesus himself explains the meaning of the seven stars a little later.  But notice what is coming out of his mouth: "a sharp long two-edged sword." What  a fitting feature!  For Jesus is the one appointed to pronounce Jehovah's judgments against his enemies.  Decisive utterances from his mouth result in the execution of all wicked ones. -  REVELATION 19:13, 15.

Jesus' bright, shining countenance reminds us that Moses' face emitted shining rays  after Jehovah had communed with him on Mount Sinai. (Exodus 24:29, 30)   Remember, too, that when Jesus was transfigured before the three of his apostles almost 2,000 years ago,  "his face shone as the sun, and his outer garments became brilliant as the light." (Matthew 17:2)  Now in a visionary representation of Jesus during the Lord's day, his face similarly reflects the radiant splendor of one who has been in Jehovah's presence.  (2 Corinthians 3:18)   in fact, the overall impression conveyed by John's vision is that of an effulgence of glory.  From the snow-white hair,  the flaming eyes, and shining countenance down to the glowing feet.  It is a superlative vision of the One  who now dwells "in unapproachable light."  (1 Timothy 6:16)  The realism of this spectacle is so vivid!  How did the overawed John react? The apostle tells us:  "And when I saw him, I fell as dead at his feet." - REVELATION1:17.

Today, the colorful, detailed description of John's vision fills God's people with heartfelt appreciation.  Already, we have passed through more than 90 years of the Lord's day, during which the vision continues to have its thrilling fulfillment.  Jesus' Kingdom rule is to us a living present reality, a not a future hope. Hence, it is proper for us as loyal subjects  of the Kingdom to look further with wonder  at what John describes   in this first vision and to listen obediently to the words of the glorified Jesus Christ. 

Next time: Unlocking a Sacred Secret

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John Beholds the Glorified Jesus - In the Lord's Day continued

 Most of the prophecies in Revelation were to be fulfilled after John's time.  They referred to  "The things that will take place after these."  But the counsel to the seven congregations deals  with "things that are," situations that really existed in the seven congregations at that time. The messages were valuable aids to faithful appointed elders in those seven congregations, as well as in all other congregations of anointed Christians of the time.  Since the vision has its prime application in the Lord's day, what Jesus says serves notice that similar conditions are to be expected in the congregation of anointed Christians of our own day. - REVELATION 1:10,19.

In this first vision, John sees the radiant Lord Jesus in His heavenly glory. What could be more fitting for a book of prophecies relating to the great day of this Lord commissioned by heaven?  And what could be more important to us who are now living in that time period and giving careful heed to this every command?  Moreover, how thrilling it is for supporters of Jehovah's sovereignty to be assured that the Messianic Seed, having endured all the tests and persecutions brought by Satan and having suffered an agonizing death when His "heel" was bruised almost 2,000 years ago, is now alive in heaven empowered to bring God's grand purpose to it triumphant completion! - GENESIS 3:15.

It is evident that Jesus is now poised to go into action as enthroned King. He has been appointed as Jehovah's Chief Executioner to carry out Jehovah's final judgments against this  old, wicked system of things and it diabolic god, Satan. He is also on hand to judge those of his congregation of anointed ones and the great crowd of their associates, as well as to judge the world. - REVELATION 7:4, 9; ACTS 17:31.

John turns at the sound of the loud voice, and here is what he sees: "I turned to see the voice that was speaking with me, and, having turned, I saw seven golden lampstands." (Revelation 1:12)   Later, John learns what these seven golden lampstands  symbolize.  But it is the person in the midst of the lampstands that catches his eye.  There was  "In the midst of the lampstands someone like the son of man, clothed in a garment that reached down to the feet, and girded at the breasts  with a golden girdle." (Revelation 1:13)  Jesus, the son of man," here presents himself before the awestruck witness, John, as a magnificent, glowing figure.  He appears in brilliant glory among flaming golden lampstands.  This temple-like setting impresses on John the fact that Jesus is present in the role of Jehovah's great High Priest, with judgment powers.  (Hebrews 4:14; 7:21-25)  His long, impressive garment conforms to his priestly office.  Like the Jewish high priest of old, he wears a girdle-a golden girdle over his breast where it covers his heart.  This signifies that he will whole heartedly carry out his divine commission received from Jehovah God. -EXODUS 28:8, 30; HEBREWS 8:1, 2.

Next time: John Behold the Glorified Jesus - In the Lord's Day Conclusion

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John beholds the Glorified Jesus - In the Lord's Day

 In what time frame does this place the fulfillment of Revelation?  Well, what is the Lord's day? The apostle Paul refers to it as a time of judgment, and of fulfillment of divine promises.  (1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14; Philippians  1:6, 10, 2:16) With the arrival of that "day,"  Jehovah's grand purposes move progressively and triumphantly toward their climax.  That "day" begins with the crowning of Jesus as the heavenly King.  Even after Jesus executes judgment on Satan's world, the Lord's day continues, with the restoration of Paradise and the perfecting of mankind, until Jesus finally "hands over the kingdom to his God and Father. - 1 CORINTHIANSS 15:24-26; REVELATION 6:1, 2. 

 The fulfillment of other Bible prophecies helps us to see when the Lord's day begins.  For example, Daniel described a chopping down of rulership in the line of King David; after  "seven times" It would be known "that the Most High is the Ruler in the kingdom of mankind, and that to the One whom he wants to he gives it;." (Daniel 4:23, 24, 31, 32)  The major fulfillment of that prophecy started  with the desolating of the kingdom of Juda, which is indicated by Bible evidence to have been completed by October 607 B.C.E. Revelation 12:6, 14 shows  that  31/2  times amounts to 1,260 days; hence, seven time (twice that number) must be 2<520 years as the duration of the "seven times." (Ezekiel 4:6) Therefore, Christ Jesus began his heavenly rule in  in the latter part of 1914,   The erupting of the first world war in that year marked  "a beginning of pangs of distress" that have continued to plague mankind.  Since 19:14, how remarkably events in this bloodstained earth have confirmed that year to be the start of the "day of Jesus' presence! -MATTHEW 24:3-14. 

Hence, this first vision and the counsel it contains are for the Lord's day, from 1914 onward this timing is supported by the fact that, later in Revelation, the record describes the execution of God's true and righteous judgments-events in which the Lord Jesus plays and outstanding part.  (Revelation  11:18; 16:15; 17:1; 19:2, 11)   If the fulfillment of the first vision began in 1914, when does it end?  As the messages themselves show, the organization addressed in God's congregations of anointed ones on earth.  The fulfillment of this first vision is raised to end, then, when the last faithful member of that anointed congregation dies and is raised to heavenly life.  Nevertheless, the Lord's Day, with blessings to the earthly other sheep, continues till the end of Jesus Christ's Millennial Rule. - JOHN 10:16; REVELATION  20:4, 5.

In this first vision, before John sees anything, he hears something: "And I heard behind me a strong voice like that of a trumpet, saying:  'What you see write in a scroll and send it to the seven congregations, in Ephesus, and in Smyrna and in Pergamum and in  Thyatira and in Sardis and in Philadelphia and in Laodicea." (Revelation 1:10b, 11)  Authoritative and commanding as a trumpet call, a voice calls on John to write to "the seven congregations." He is to receive a series of messages and to publish the things he will see and hear. Notice that  the congregations mentioned have actually existed in John's day. All of them were situated  in Asia Minor, right across the sea from Patmos. They were easily accessible  to one another by means of the excellent Roman roads that existed in that area.  A messenger would have had no trouble carrying the scroll from one congregation to the next.  These seven congregations would resemble  a section of a modern-day Jehovah's Witnesses. 

Next time: John Beholds the Glorified Jesus -  Continue with In the Lord's Day

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John Beholds the Glorified Jesus

 Vision 1 - Revelation 1:10; 3:22

Subject:  Jesus inspects spiritual Israel on earth and gives warm encouragement.

Time of fulfillment: This feature of the Lord's Day extends from 1914 until the last of the faithful anointed one dies and is resurrected

The first vision in the book of Revelation begins with chapter 1, verse 10.  This vision, like the others in Revelation. is introduced  by a declaration that John  hears or sees something extraordinary. (Revelation 1:10, 12; 4:1; 6:1)  This first vision is presented in a first-century framework in which messages are addressed to seven congregations contemporary with John. But John indicates the time of real application when he says: "By inspiration I came to be in the Lord's day." (Revelation 1:10a) When is this "day"? Do the dramatic events of these tempestuous times have any connection with it?  If, so, we should pay close attention to the prophecy, as affecting our very lives-even our survival. - 1 THESSALONIANS 5:20, 21. 

Next time: John Beholds the Glorified Jesus-In the Lord's Day

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Jesus Comes With Encouragement

 Obtaining Spiritual Food in Difficult Times

During these last days, when Jehovah's Witnesses have suffered so much persecution and hardship, it has been vital for them to receive spiritual food in order to stay strong in faith.  In most cases, adequate sustenance has been provided, often thanks to some remarkable demonstration of Jehovah's power.

For example, in Germany, under Hitler, Witnesses mimeographed and distributed copies of The Watchtower, which was officially banned by the cruel Nazi authorities.  In Hamburg, the Gestapo raided a house where such mimeographing took place.  The house was small, and there was nowhere to hide  anything securely.  The typewriter had been left in a cupboard, and the bulky mimeograph equipment was stored in a potato bin in the basement.   Moreover behind the bin there was a suitcase full of magazines!  Discover seemed inevitable. But what happened?  The officer who opened the cupboard did so in such a way that he did not see the typewriter.  As for the basement, the householder reports :  "The three officers stood in the middle of the room, mind you, right there where the bin stood with the suitcase full of Watchtowers behind it. But none of them  seemed to notice it; it was as though they had been struck blind." Thanks to this remarkable providence, the householder was able to continue supplying spiritual food in difficult and dangerous times.

In the 1960's , there was a civil war between Nigeria and the breakaway province of Biafra.  Since Biafra was completely surrounded  by Nigerian territory, the only link between it and the outside world was an airstrip. This meant that the  Witnesses in Biafra were in danger of being cut off from their supply of spiritual food.  Then, early in 1968, the Biafra authorities assigned one of their civil service staff to an important post in Europe and another was assigned to Biafra airstrip.  These two happened to be Jehovah's Witnesses, and now they  were at both ends of the only link between Biafra and the outside world. The two recognized that the arrangement must have been from Jehovah.  Hence, they volunteered for the delicate and risky task of channeling spiritual food into Biafra.  And they were able to do this all through the war. One of them commented: "The arrangement was beyond something that humans could have planned. 

Next time: John Beholds the Glorified Jesus

From the jw.org publications

Jesus Comes With Encouragement

"The Alpha and the Omega" 

Now, wonder of wonders!  The Sovereign Lord Jehovah himself speaks.  How appropriate this is as preface to the visions that are about to unfold, since he is our Grand Instructor and the ultimate Source of Revelation!  (Isaiah 30:20)  Our God declares: "I am the Alpha and the Omega, . . . the One who is an who was and who is coming, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8)  This is the first of three times in Revelation that Jehovah himself speaks from heaven.  (See also Revelation 21:5-8; 22:12-15.)  First Century Christians  would quickly have recognized the alpha and omega as the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet.  Jehovah's calling himself by those two letters stresses that before him, there was no almighty God, and there will be none after him.  He will bring to a successful conclusion, for all eternity, the issue of Godship.  He will be forever vindicated as the one only almighty God, Supreme Sovereign over all of his creation. - Compare ISAIAH  46:10; 55:10, 11. 

Confident that Jehovah will direct the outcome of matters, John tells his fellow slaves:  "I  John, your brother and a sharer with you in the tribulation and kingdom and endurance in company with Jesus, came to be in the isle  that is called Patmos for speaking about God and bearing witness to Jesus."  (Revelation 1:9)  A prisoner on Patmos for the sake of the good news, enduring tribulations with his brothers, hoping firmly to have a share in the coming Kingdom, the aged John now sees the first of the visions of Revelation.  No doubt he was encouraged greatly by these visions, just as the John class  is stimulated today at seeing their fulfillment. We do not know how John forwarded the scroll of Revelations to the congregations, since he was in confinement at the time.  (Revelation 1:11; 22:18, 19)  Jehovah's angels must have cooperated in getting this done, just as they so often protected faithful Witnesses of Jehovah who serve under bans and restrictions today, so that these have been able to get timely spiritual food to their truth-hungry brothers. - PSALM 34:6, 7.

How deeply John must have appreciated his privilege of being used by Jehovah as His channel of communications to the congregations!  Similarly, the John class today treasures greatly its privilege of providing the household of God with spiritual  "food" at the proper time."  (Matthew 24:45)  May you be one of those strengthened  by this spiritual provision so as to attain the glorious goal of everlasting life! -PROVERBS 3:13-18; John 17:3.

Next time: Jesus Comes With Encouragement - Obtaining Spiritual Food in Difficult Times

From the jw.org publications

  

Jesus Comes With Encouragement

"Coming With the Clouds"

Next, John jubilantly announces: "Look! He is coming in the clouds, and every eye will see him, and those who pierced him; and all the tribes of the earth will beat themselves in grief because of him. Yes, Amen." (Revelation 1:7)  No doubt John was here reminded of Jesus' earlier prophecy concerning the conclusion of the system of things.  Jesus there stated: "Then the sign of the Son of man will appear in heaven, and then all  the tribes of the earth will beat themselves in lamentation, and they will see the Son of man  coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory." (Matthew 24:3,  30)  Thus, Jesus 'comes'  by turning his attention to the executing of Jehovah's judgments  on the nations.  This will result in momentous changes on the earth, and since "all the tribes of the earth" have ignored the reality of Jesus' kingship,  they will indeed experience "the anger of the wrath of God the Almighty." - REVELATION 19:11-21; Psalm 2:2, 3, 8, 9.

During Jesus' last evening with his disciples, he told them: "And a little longer and the world will behold me no more." (John 14:19)   How is it, then,  that "every eye will see him"? We should not expect that Jesus' enemies would see him with physical eyes, for the apostle Paul said, after Jesus' ascension to heaven, that Jesus  now  "dwells in unapproached light," and "not one of man has seen or can see" him. (1 Timothy 6:16)   Evidently, John meant "see" in the sense of  "discern," just as we can see, or discern, God's invisible qualities by means of his creations.  (Romans 1:20) Jesus  "is coming with the clouds," in that he will be just as invisible to the naked eye as the sun is when  it is behind the clouds.  Even when the sun is hidden by clouds  during daytime, we know it is there because of the daylight that surrounds us.  Similarly, though, the Lord Jesus is invisible, he will be revealed like 'a flaming fire, as he brings vengeance upon those who do not obey the good news about him.'  These too will be compelled to "see him." - 2THESSALONIANS  1:6-8; 2:8.

Jesus will be 'seen' also by "those who pierced him."  Who might these be?  When Jesus was executed in 33 C.E., the Roman soldiers pierced him literally.  The guilt of that murder was shared by the Jews, for Peter told some of these at Pentecost:  "God made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you impaled." (Acts 2:5-11, 36; Compare Zechariah 12:10; John 19:37)  Those Romans and Jews have now been dead for close to 2,000 years.  So those who 'pierce him' today must represent nations and peoples that display the same hateful attitude that was shown when Jesus was impaled.  Jesus is no longer here on earth. But when opposers either persecuted Jehovah's Witnesses, who bear witness to Jesus, or passively consent to such treatment, it is just as though such opposers were 'piercing' Jesus  himself. - MATTHEW 25:33, 41-46. 

Next time: Jesus Comes With Encouragement - "The Alpha and the Omega"

From the jw.org publications

 

Jesus Comes With Encouragement

 "The Faithful Witness"

After Jehovah, Jesus is the most glorious person in the universe, as John recognizes,  describing him as  "The Faithful Witness,"  "The firstborn from the dead,' and 'The Ruler of the kings of the earth." (Revelation 1:5b)   Like the moon in the heavens, he has been firmly established as the greatest Witness to Jehovah's Godship. (Psalm 89:37)  After he kept integrity down to sacrificial death, he became   the first from among mankind to be raised to immortal spirit life.  (Colossians 1:18) Now in Jehovah's presence, he is exalted high above all earthly kings, being invested with "all authority . . . .in heaven and on the earth." ( Matthew 28:18; Psalm 89:27; 1 Timothy 6:15)  In 1914 he was installed as King to ruler among the earthly nations. - PSALM 2:6-9.

John continues to express appreciation for the Lord Jesus Christ in these glowing words:  "To him that loves us and that loosed us from our sins by means of his own blood-and he made us to be a kingdom, priests to his God and Father-yes, to him be the glory and the might forever. Amen."  ( Revelation 1:5c, 6)  Jesus gave his perfect human life so that those of the world of mankind who exercise faith in him may be restored to perfect life.  You, dear  reader,  can be included in this! (John 3:16)  But Jesus' sacrificial death opened the way for a special blessing for those who become anointed Christians like John.  These have been declared righteous on the basis of Jesus' ransom sacrifice.  Renouncing all earthly life prospects, as Jesus did, those of the little flock have been begotten by God's spirit, with the expectation of being resurrected to serve as kings and priests with Jesus Christ in his Kingdom.  (Luke 12:32; Romans 8:18; 1 Peter 2:5; Revelation 20:6)  What a grand privilege!  No wonder John exclaimed so affirmatively that the glory and the might belong to Jesus!

Next time: Jesus Comes With Encouragement - "Coming With the Clouds" 

From the jw.org publications 

Jesus Comes With Encouragement

WHAT follows next should be of absorbing interest to everyone associated with the congregation of God's people today.  Here is a series of messages. They  have particular application as "the appointed time" draws near.  (Revelation 1:3)  It is to our everlasting benefit  that we need those pronouncements.  The record reads: "John to the seven congregations that are in the district of Asia:  May you have undeserved kindness and peace from 'The One who is and who was and who is coming,' and from the seven spirits that are before his throne, and from Christ." - REVELATION 1:4, 5a.

Here John addresses  "seven congregations,"  and these are named for us later in the prophecy.  That number "seven" is often repeated in Revelation. It signifies completeness, especially in connection with the things of God and his anointed congregation.  Since the number of God's people worldwide has grown into tens of thousands during the Lord's day, we can be sure that what is said primarily  to the "seven congregations" of anointed ones also applies to all of God's people today.  (Revelation 1:10)  Yes, John has a vital message for all congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses and all who are associated with them, everywhere on the face of the earth.

"Undeserved kindness and peace"-how desirable these are and especially  when we  appreciate the source!  The "One" from whom they flow is the Sovereign Lord Jehovah himself,  "the King of eternity," who lives  "from time indefinite to time indefinite."  (1 Timothy 1:17; Psalm 90:2) Involved here, too, are  "the seven spirits," which term indicates a fullness of operation of God's active force, or holy spirit, as it brings understanding  and blessing to all who pay attention to the prophecy. Also occupying a key role is "Jesus Christ," of whom John later wrote: "He was full of undeserved kindness and truth." (John 1:14)  Thus, John's greeting has the same elements that the apostle Paul mentioned in closing his second letter to the Corinthian congregation:  "The undeserved kindness of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the sharing in the holy spirit be with all of you."  (2 Corinthians 13:14)  May all those words apply also to everyone of us who love truth today! - PSALM 119:97.

Next time: Jesus Comes With Encouragement - "The Faithful Witness" 

From the jw.org publications

 

Things That Must Shortly Take Place - Conclusion of Channel of Communication

 John was faithful in bearing witness to the message that God through Jesus Christ gave to him.  He described in detail "all the things he saw."   The John class has earnestly sought  guidance from God and Jesus Christ in order to understand the prophecy full and make known its fine points to God's people.  For the benefit of the anointed  congregation (and also of the international great crows that God will preserve alive through the great tribulation).  Jon writes: "Happy is he who reads aloud and those who hear the words of this prophecy and who observe the things written in it; for the appointed is near." - REVELATION 1:3.

You will benefit greatly by reading Revelation and even more so by observing the things written in it.  John explained one of his letters:  "This is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments  are not burdensome, because everything that has been born from God conquers the world.  And this is the conquest that has conquered the world of our faith, "  (1 John 5:3, 4) You can become supremely happy by building such a faith!

It is urgent that we observe the words of this prophecy.  "for the appointed time is near."  The appointed time for what?  For the fulfillment of the prophecies of Revelation, including God's judgments.  The time is near for God and Jesus  Christ to execute final judgment on Satan's world system.  When Jesus was here on earth, he stated that only his Father knew  "that day or the hour."  Looking ahead to the troubles that have multiplied  on earth in our day, Jesus also said:  "This generation will by no means pass away until all these things happen."  So the appointed time for executing God's decision must be drawing perilously close.  (Mark 13:8, 30-32)   As Habakkuk 2:3 states: "The vision is yet for the appointed time, and it keeps panting on to the end, and it will not tell a lie.   Even if it should delay, keep in expectation of it; for it will without fail come true.  It will not be late."  Our salvation through  the great tribulation depends on our observing God's prophetic Word. - MATTHEW 24:20-22. 

Next time: Jesus Comes With Encouragement

From the jw.org publications 

 supremel

Things That Must Shortly Take Place -Channel of Communication

 Revelation 1:1b, 2 continue:  "And he [Jesus] sent forth his angel and presented it  [revelation] in signs through him to his slave John, who bore witness to the word God gave to the witness Jesus Christ gave, even to all the the things he saw."  Thus, John received the inspired record through an angelic messenger.  He wrote it in a scroll, transmitting it to the congregations of his time.  Happily for us, God has preserved it for the encouragement of the almost 100,000 congregations of his united servants on earth today.

God had a channel for communicating Revelation in John's day, and John was the earthly part of  that channel.  Likewise, God has a channel for giving spiritual nourishment to his 'slaves' today.  In his great prophecy concerning the conclusion of the system of things, Jesus identified the earthly part of this channel as "the faithful and discreet slave whom his master appointed over his domestics, to give them food at the proper time." (Matthew 24:3, 45-47)  He uses this John class in unlocking the meaning of the prophecy.'

The apostle John writes that Jesus presented Revelation  "in signs," or symbols.  These are vivid and thrilling to examine.  They depict dynamic activity and should, in turn, stir us to zealous efforts in making known the others the prophecy and its meaning.  Revelation presents for us a number of electrifying visions, in each of which John participated either actively or as an observer.   Those of the John class, some of whom have shared for many decades in the fulfillment of these visions, are happy that God's spirit has unlocked the meaning so that they can explain it to others. 

These visions in Revelation are not presented chronological order.  Each  has its own time period of fulfillment.  Many of the visions echo words of earlier prophecies that provide clues as to their interpretation.  For example, Daniel's prophecy described four  fearsome beasts, explaining that these portrayed ruling powers on earth.  Hence, we are helped to understand that the beasts of Revelation represent political entities, including those now existing. - DANIEL 7:1-8, 17; REVELATION 13:2, 11-13; 17:3.

Next time: Things That Must Shortly Take Place - Conclusion of   Channel of Communications

From the jw.org publications

Things That Must Shortly Take Place

YOU should be deeply  concerned about world events today. Why so?  Because this world cannot escape God's execution of judgment. But you can escape. You can do this by making yourself  "no part of the world" that is doomed to destruction.  This does not  mean adopting an austere, monastic way of life.  It means that while enjoying a wholesome, meaningful life, you separate yourself from political corruption, from greedy commercialism, and from God-dishonoring religion, as well as from violent and immoral behavior.  At the same time, you must follow God's high standards of  conduct and seek to do his will. (John 17:14, 16; Zephaniah 2:2, 3; Revelation 21:8)   The Bible book of Revelation shows how important it is for you to apply yourself in these respects, making changes as necessary in your way of life.

The apostle John introduces this grand prophecy with the worlds:  "A revelation by Jesus Christ, which God gave him, to s how his slaves the things that must shortly take place." (Revelation 1:1a)  So it was the resurrected Jesus Christ  who received this weighty message from God.  Far from being a mystic Trinity, Jesus is here shown to be subject to his Father.  In the same way, the "slaves" making up the Christian congregation are subject to Jesus Christ, so they ' 'keep following him wherever he goes.' (Revelation 14:4; Ephesians 5:24) But who today are truly "slaves" of God, and how does Revelation benefit them?

The apostle John, who wrote down Revelation, describes himself as such a slave .  He was the last surviving apostle and one of the select spirit-anointed group of "slaves" that inherit immortal life in the heavens. Today, there are just a few thousand of these remaining on earth.  God has other servants, too, a great crowd of them, men, women, and children, numbering now into the millions.  Under angelic direction, these are sharing with the anointed "slaves" in declaring everlasting good news to all mankind. Oh, how all these "slaves" are expending themselves in order to help the meek ones  of the earth to find salvation!  (Matthew 24:14; Revelation 7:9, 14; 14:6)   Revelation indicates what you must do to benefit from the happifying good news.

How could John say, though, that these "slaves" would be shown  "things must shortly take place"?  Were not those words spoken  more than 1,900 years ago?  From the viewpoint of Jehovah, in whose eyes a thousand years are but  "as yesterday," 1,900 years is a short time when compared to the eons of time that he spent in creating and preparing the earth for human habitation. (Psalm 90:4)  The apostle Paul wrote of his own "eager expectation of hope," for no doubt the reality of his reward seems close at hand to him. (Philippians1:20)  Today, however, the evidence abounds that all the things foretold will take place on schedule.  Never before in history has the survival of mankind been at stake.  Only God has the solution! - ISAIAH 45:21. 

Next time: Things That Must Shortly Take Place - Channel of Communication

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The Grand Theme of the Bible - Babylon the Great

The building of the original Babylon was more than a political enterprise.  Since that city was established in defiance of Jehovah's sovereignty, religion was involved.  Indeed, ancient Babylon became a fountain of religious idolatry.  It priests taught God-dishonoring doctrines such as the survival of a human soul after death and that the hereafter is a place of eternal horror and torment, presided over by demons.  They fostered the worship of creatures and of a multitude of gods and goddesses.  They fabricated myths to explain the origin of the earth and man upon it and performed degrading rituals and sacrifices, supposedly to ensure fertility in childbearing and crop raising, and victory in war.

As the various language groups from Babylon spread out over the earth, they took Babylonish religion with them.  Thus, rites and beliefs similar to those of ancient Babylon flourished  among the original inhabitants of Europe, Africa, the Americas, the Far East, and the South Seas; and of these beliefs  persist to this day.  Appropriately,  then, Revelation refers to the world-embracing empire of false religion  as a city named Babylon the Great. (Revelation chapters 17, 18)  Wherever it has been sown, false religion has  sprouted in oppressive priesthoods, superstition, ignorance, and immorality.  It has been a powerful tool in Satan's hand.  Babylon the Great has always fought fiercely against the true worship of the Sovereign Lord Jehovah.

As a most reprehensible part of the seed of the Serpent, the scribes and Pharisees in first-century Judaism took the lead in persecuting and finally murdering the primary representative of the seed of the woman.  Thus, the Serpent was able to "bruise him [the "seed"] in the heel." (Genesis 3:15; John 8:39-44; Acts 3:12, 15)  Why is this described as only a heel wound?  It is because this wounding touched him only briefly here on earth.  It was not permanent because Jehovah resurrected Jesus on the third day and exalted him to spirit life.  - ACTS 2:32, 33; 1 PETER 3:18. 

The glorified Jesus Christ now serves as God's right hand, judging Jehovah's enemies.  He has already taken action against Satan and his angels, hurling them down and confining activity to this earth-which accounts for the multiplying  of woes in our day.   (Revelation 12:9, 12)  But there will be the foretold removal of Satan's earthly seed when God executes judgment on Babylon the Great and all other segments of Satan's organization on earth. Finally,  the Seed of the God's woman, Jesus Christ will bruise Satan,  that old wily serpent, "in the head," and that will mean his complete annihilation and his social removal from the affairs of mankind. - ROMANS 16:10. 

Next time: Things That Must Shortly Take Place

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The Grand Theme of the Bible -Selfish Commercial Traffickers

 Closely allied to political leaders, there came into view dishonest traffickers in material goods.  Records unearthed in the ruins of ancient Babylon show that business transactions exploiting the unfortunate circumstances of fellow humans were very much is vogue back there.  The world's merchants have continued to work for selfish profit down to this present day, when in many lands a few have become very rich while the majority of the population languishes in poverty.  In this industrious age, the merchants and manufacturers have made great gain by supplying the political powers  with stockpiles of devilish military weapons of destruction, including the weapons of mass destruction that are now a great cause for  "military commanders" and "strong men" as belonging to Satan's wicked seed.  They are all part of the earthly organization that God and Christ judge as deserving of execution.- REVELATION 19:18.

To corrupt politics and greedy commercialism there must be added a third element of human society that merits God's adverse judgment. What is that? You may be surprised by what Revelations says about this  well-known global structure.

Next time: The Grand Theme of the Bible - Babylon the Great

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The Grand Theme of the Bible

 Political Powers Appear

In Babylon there appeared features of human society that developed in defiance of Jehovah's sovereignty.  One of these was political.  As mankind multiplied,  other ambitious  humans followed Nimrod's example in seizing power.  Man began to dominate man to his injury.  (Ecclesiastes 8:9)   During the days of Abraham, for instance, Sodom, Gomorrah and nearby cities fell  under the control of kings from Shinar and other far-distant land. (Genesis 14:1-4) Eventually, military and organizational geniuses carved out huge empires for their own enrichment and glory. The Bible refers some of these, including Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece and Rome. 

Jehovah tolerated the existence of those political powers, and his people rendered  relative obedience to them when they lived in lands  under their control.  (Romans 13:1. 2)   Sometimes, political authorities even served for the furtherance  if God's purposes or as a protection for his people.  (Ezra1:1-4; 7:12-26; Acts 25:11, 12; Revelation 12:15, 16)   Nevertheless,  many political rulers have viciously opposed true worship, showing themselves to be part of the seed of Satan. - 1 JOHN 5:19. 

For the most part, man-rule has failed miserably to bring happiness to us humans  or to solve our problems.  Jehovah has permitted mankind to experiment every form of government, but he does not approve of corruption, or the way governments have misruled the people.  (Proverbs 22:22, 23)  Revelation portrays  oppressive world powers as making up a proud and monstrous wild beast.  - REVELATION 13:1, 2. 

Next time: The Grand Theme of the Bible - Selfish Commercial Traffickers

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The Grand Theme of the Bible

How Enmity Developed

Satan's human seed began to be manifested very early in mankind's history.  For example, there was Cain, the first human born,  "who originated with the wicked one and slaughtered his brother Abel. (1 John 3:12) Later, Enoch spoke of Jehovah's coming "with his holy myriads, to execute judgment against all, and to convict all the ungodly concerning of their godly deeds that they did in an ungodly way, and concerning all the shocking things that ungodly sinner spoke against him." (Jude 14, 15)  Moreover,  rebellious angels joined Satan and became part of his seed.  These "forsook  their  proper dwelling place" in the heavens in order to materialize fleshly bodies and marry the daughters of men.  They produced superhuman hybrid offspring of bullies.  That world became filled with violence and badness, so that God destroyed it in the Deluge, faith Noah and his family being the only human flesh to survive.  The disobedient angels-now demons under Satan's control-were forced to abandon their doomed human wives and hybrid children.  They dematerialized, returning  to the spirit realm where they await God's fast approaching execution of judgment on Satan and his seed. - JUDE 6; GENESIS 6:4-12; 7:21-23; 2 PETER 2:4, 5. 

Shortly after the great Deluge, a tyrant named Nimrod appeared on earth.  The Bible describes him as "a mighty hunter in opposition to Jehovah"-truly part of the Serpent's seed. Like Satan, he showed a spirit of rebellion and build the city of Babel, or Babylon, in defiance of Jehovah's purpose to have mankind spread out to fill the earth.  Babylon's centerpiece was to have been a great tower "with its top in the heavens." God thwarted the would-be builders of that tower.  He confused their language and "scattered them from there over all the surface of the earth" but allowed Babylon itself to remain.  - GENESIS  9:1; 10:8-12; 11:1-9. 

Next time:  The Grand Theme of the Bible - Political Powers Appear

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The Grand Theme of The Bible

 The Seed of the Woman Identified

The prophecy of Genesis 3:15 refers finally  to the seed of the woman.  While Satan was developing his seed, Jehovah was preparing for his "woman," or wife-like celestial  organization, to produce a seed.  For some 4,000 years,  Jehovah progressively revealed to obedient God-fearing humans related to the coming of the seed.  (Isaiah 46:9, 10)  Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and others could thus build faith in the promise that the seed would appear in their genealogical .  (Genesis 22:15-18; 26:4; 28:14)  Satan and his henchmen often persecuted such servants of Jehovah because of their unswerving faith. - HEBREWS 11:1, 2, 32-38. 

At last, in the year 29 of our Common Era, the perfect man Jesus presented himself at the Jordan River ad was baptized.  Jehovah  there begot Jesus with holy spirit, saying: "This is my Son, the beloved whom I have approved.  (Matthew 3:17)  Jesus was there identified as having been sent forth from God's spiritual  organization in heaven.  He was also anointed as the King-Designate of the heavenly Kingdom that would restore  rulership over the earth in Jehovah's name, thus settling once and for all the issue involving government, or sovereignty. (Revelation 11:15)  Jesus, then, is the principal One of the seed of the woman, the foretold Messiah. - Compare GALATIANS 3:16; DANIEL 9:25.

Would the woman's seed be simply one prominent person?  Well, what of Satan's seed?  The Bible identifies Satan's seed  as including a host of wicked angels and God-dishonoring  humans.  It should not surprise us, then, to learn of God's purpose to select 144,000 integrity keepers from mankind to become priestly co-rulers with the Messianic Seed, Jesus Christ. Revelation refers to these when it says that the Devil, in is enmity towards God's womanly organization,  "went off to wage war with the remaining ones of her seed." - REVELATION 12:17; 14:1-4.

In the Bible, spirit anointed Christians are called Jesus'  brothers, and as his brothers, they share the same Father and the same mother. (Hebrews 2:11) Their Father is Jehovah God.  Hence, their mother must be "the woman,"  God's  wife-like celestial organization. They become a secondary part of the seed.  Christ Jesus being the primary part. The congregation  of these spirit-begotten   Christians on earth make up God's visible organization that serves under his womanlike organization in the heavens, where they will be united with Christ Jesus at their resurrection.  (Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 3:16, 29) Though not part of the seed, millions of other sheep out of all the nations are being united to serve God's organization on earth.  Are you one of these other sheep?  Then your happy hope is everlasting in a paradise earth. - JOHN 10:16, 17:1-3. 

Next time:  The Grand Theme of the Bible - How Enmity Developed

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The Grand Theme of the Bible

 Two Seeds in Opposition

Two seeds appear next a Genesis 3:15.We should be deeply interested in these, for they are related to the great issue of rightful sovereignty over the earth.  This involves each one of us, whether young or old.  Which of these seeds do you favor?

First. there is the seed or offspring, of the Serpent.  What is this?  It surely includes those other spirit creatures who joined Satan in his rebellion and who were finally "hurled down with him" to the realm of the earth.  (Revelation 12:9) Since Satan, or Beelzebub, is the ruler of the demons," it is apparent they make up his invisible organization. - MARK 3:22; EPHESIANS 6:12.

Further; Jesus told Jewish religious leaders of his day:  "You are from your father the Devil, and you wish to do the desires of your father." (John 8:44)  By their opposition to God's Son Jesus, those religious leaders showed that they were Satan's offspring.  They were part of Satan's seed, serving him as their figurative father.  Many other humans throughout history have similarly identified themselves by dong Satan's will, particularly in opposing and persecuting the disciples of Jesus. (which is still going today) Collectively, these humans may be described as making up Satan's invisible organization on earth. -See JOHN 15:20; 16:33; 17:15. 

Next time: The Grand Theme of the Bible - The Seed of the Woman Identified

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The Grand Theme of the Bible

The Principals in the Drama

The prophecy of Genesis 3:15 was addressed to the serpent that had lied to Eve, suggesting to her that she would not die for her disobedience but that she would become independent, a goddess.  The serpent thus made Jehovah out to be a liar and insinuated that humans could improve their lot  by rejecting His supreme rulership.  (Genesis 3:1-5) Jehovah's sovereignty was challenged and his good name besmirched.  The book of Revelation describes how the righteous judge, Jehovah, uses his Kingdom of his Son, Jesus Christ, to vindicate his sovereignty and clear all reproach from his name. - REVELATION 12:10; 14:7.

As for that term "serpent," does it apply only to a literal snake?   Not at all!  Revelation identifies for us the infamous spirit creature that spoke through the snake. It was "the great dragon . . . , the original serpent, the one called Satan and Devil, who is misleading the entire inhabited earth, that "seduced  Even by its cunning." - REVELATION 12:9;  2 CORINTHIANS  11:3.

Genesis 3:15 speaks next of " the woman,"  was this Eve?  Possibly she thought so.  (Compare Genesis 4:1.) But  a long-lasting enmity between Eve and Satan became impossible when Eve died more than 5,000 years ago. Further, since the serpent addressed by Jehovah is an invisible spirit, we should expect that the woman also belongs to the spirit realm.  Revelation 12:1, 2  confirms  this, indicating that this figurative woman is Jehovah's heavenly organization of spirit creatures. See also Isaiah 54:1;, 5, 13. 

Next time: The Grand Theme of the Bible - Two Seeds in Opposition

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The Grand Theme of the Bible

 Interpreting the Scriptures  The mysteries locked up in the book of Revelation have for long baffled sincere students of the Bible.  In God's due time, those secrets had to be unlocked, but how, when, and to whom?  Only God's spirit could make known the meaning as the appointed  time drew near.  (Revelation 1:3)  Those sacred secrets would be revealed to God's zealous slaves on earth so that they would be strengthened to make known his judgments.  (Matthew 13:10, 11) It is not claimed that the explanations  in this publication are infallible.  Like Joseph of old, we say:  "Do not interpretations belong to God?"  (Genesis 40:8) At the same time, however, we firmly believe that the explanations set forth herein harmonize with the Bible in its entirety, showing how remarkably divine prophecy has been fulfilled in the world events of our catastrophic times. 

A BIBLE provers says: "Better is the end afterward of a matter than its beginning." (Ecclesiastes 7:8)   It is in the book of  Revelation that we read the dramatic culmination of Jehovah's grand purpose to sanctify his name before all creation.  As God declared time and time again by on one of his earlier prophets: "They will have to know that I am Jehovah." - EZEKIEL 25:17; 38:23. 

Just as Revelation spells out the triumphant end of matters, so their beginning is described for us in earlier books of the Bible.   By examining this record, we are enabled to understand the issues involved and get an overall view of God's purposes. How satisfying this is!  Further, it should rouse us to action, so that we may share in the marvelous future that awaits mankind.  (Psalm 145:16, 20)   At this point, it seems appropriate to discuss the background and theme of the Bible, in order that we may  have in mind the paramount issue that now faces all humankind, as well as God's clearly stated purpose to resolve that issue. 

The Bible's first book, Genesis tells of  "the beginning" and describes GOD'S Creative works,  (not man's)  including his crowning earthly creation, man.  Genesis also sets out the first divine prophecy uttered by God himself in the garden of Eden some 6,000 years ago.  A serpent had just been used to deceive the first woman Eve, she in turn  had persuaded her husband, Adam, to join her in violating Jehovah's   law by eating from "the tree of the knowledge of good and bad."  In passing judgment on the sinful couple, God said to the serpent:  "I shall put enmity between you and the woman and between your seed and her seed.  He will bruise you in the head and you will bruise him in the heel."  ( Genesis 1:1; 2:17; 3:1-6, 14, 15)  That prophecy sets the theme for the whole Bible, including Revelation. 

Immediately after uttering the prophecy, God expelled our first parents from Eden.  No longer could they look forward to everlasting life in Paradise; they would live out their lives in the unprepared earth  outside.  Under sentence of death, they would produce sin-laden children.  (Genesis 3:24-4:1; Romans 5:12)  What, though, does the Edenic prophecy mean?  Who are involved?  How does it link up with Revelation? What message does it have for us today?  In order to gain personal relief from the effects of the tragic event that led to Jehovah's uttering that prophecy, it is of vital concern that we know the answers to these questions.

Next time: The Grand Theme of the Bible - The Principals in the Drama

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Revelation - Its Happy Climax

 Searching Out Divine Secrets

As early as 1917, the Watch Tower Society published the book The Finished Mystery.  This was a verse-by-verse commentary on the books of Ezekiel and Revelation.  Then, as world events continued to unfold in fulfillment of Bible Prophecy, a timely two-volume work entitled Light was prepared, being released in 1930.  This offered an updated study of Revelation.  Light continued to 'flash up for the righteous,' so that in 1963, Jehovah's Witnesses published the 704 page book "Babylon the Great Has Fallen!"  God's Kingdom Rules!  This gave in great detail the history of the rise and fall of Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion, and it was climaxed with a discussion of the final nine chapters of Revelation.  As 'the path of the righteous ones grew brighter,' particularly with regard to congregational activity, there followed in 1969 a 384-page volume,  "Then Is Finished the Mystery of God," which discussed the firs 13 chapters of Revelation. - PSALM 97:11; PROVERBS 4:18. 

Why was another book on Revelation published and reprinted at this present time?  Much of the information that has already appeared is very detailed, and it has not been possible to translate and publish it  worldwide in many languages.  Hence, it was seen fit to provide a book of Revelation in just one volume and in a form that can readily be produced in a number of languages.   Further, the opportunity is taken in this volume to provide teaching aids, including illustrations, charts, and summaries that should help readers to grasp clearly the thrilling import of this marvelous prophecy

An even stronger reason for publishing this book is the need to keep up-to-date with present truthy.  Jehovah is continually shedding greater  light on the meaning of  his Word, and we can expect that our understanding of Revelations, along with other prophecies, will be sharpened as we draw ever closer to the great tribulation.  (Matthew 24:21; Revelation 7:14) It  is important that we are well informed. As the apostle Peter wrote concerning divine prophecy:  "You are doing well in paying attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until day dawns and daystar rises, in your hearts." - 2 PETER 1:19.

Revelation adds it testimony to many other Bible prophecies, showing that Jehovah God purposes to create new heavens and a new earth.  (Isaiah 65:17; 66:22; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1-5)  Primarily, its message is addressed to anointed Christians , whom Jesus  has bought with his blood to become co-rulers with him in the new heavens.  (Revelation 5:9, 10) Nevertheless, this good news will also fortify  the faith of those millions who look forward to everlasting life under Christ's Kingdom.  Are you one of these?  Then Revelation will strengthen your hope of living in Paradise, as part of the new earth, with the enjoyment of an abundance of peace, vibrant health, and overflow of God's provisions that will never end.  (Psalm 37:11. 29, 34; 72:1, 7, 8, 16)  If you want to survive into that new world, it is urgent, yes mandatory, that you pay attention to Revelation's graphic description of the epoch-making climax now at hand. -  ZEPHANIAH 2:3; JOHN 13:17. 

Next time: The Grand Theme of the Bible

From the jw.org publications  

Revelation - Its Happy Climax

Apocalypse-What Is It?

Is not Revelation also called Revelation?  This is so,  "revelation" being the English translation of a-po-ka'ly- psis in the Greek text.  Many people equate Apocalyse  with world destruction by nuclear warfare.  In Texas, U.S.A., city where great numbers of nuclear warheads were made, religiously inclined people used to say,  "We'll be the first to go." Clergymen in that area were reported to have been "convinced that Armageddon is not only  inevitable but also close at hand, and the final battle between the forcers of good and bad, of God and Satan, will take place as  a nuclear holocaust." 

Note: It will be that way. If they actually read ALL the Bible, they would know the truth of everything, but they don't really want to know. They need to know to be fully prepared. They need God in their lives, because he is our saviour who is the only one who will judge us and can save them. Otherwise,  they are in trouble.

But what really is a apocalypse? Though dictionaries define it by using terms such as "an imminent cosmic cataclysm,"  the Greek a-po-ka'ly-psis basically means   "unveiling" or "uncovering." Thus, the last book of the Bible is properly entitled  "A Revelation."  Here we find not a mere  fatalistic message of world doom, but an uncovering of divine truths that should build in our hearts a radiant hope and an unmovable faith.

True, Armageddon is described as "the war of the great day of God the Almighty." (Revelation 16:14. 16)   But it will be far different   from a nuclear holocaust!  Such a holocaust would likely mean the annihilation of all life on earth.  On the contrary, God's Word give the happy assurance that only wicked opposers  of God will destroyed-by forces under God's control.  (Psalm 37:9, 10; 145:20)  A great crowd of humans, out of all the nations, will survive the climax  of divine judgment at Armageddon.  Christ Jesus will then shepherd these to life everlasting in a paradise earth.  Do you want to be one of them?  Happily, Revelation show that you may be! - REVELATION 7:9, 14, 17.

The huge crowd will be all Jehovah's Witnesses who love God and do his will, studies the Bible, and wants to learn the truth that no one else in other religious leaders do, They skip verses they don't want to know or learn and people believe the bull that they tell them.  Everyone needs to actually read the Bible word for word, page for page, then when you're done, read it again, until you learn what it says, and, at the same time, ask God to give you wisdom and discernment  to know and learn what the words say and mean. But you have to be sincere in asking, because he can read your heart and mind.  Just know that God and Jesus Christ are the ones who can save you from destruction. 

Next time: Revelation-Its Happy Climax - Searching Out Divine Secrets

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