Tag: Book of Revelation

Why Christ Addressed the 7 Churches in Asia Minor

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I find myself reading the Book of Revelation often, sometimes all the way through and sometimes only parts of it. But I’ve really started focusing more on the 7 Churches to see what I could learn from them. What’s interesting is for a while now, I’ve wondered why the Lord Jesus had the Apostle John write to the seven Churches in Asia Minor and not to the Churches in Israel. Of course, I know from all my studies that Asia Minor is today’s Turkey. Which is interesting because the Apostle Paul was a Greek speaking Jew born in the city of Tarsus and often did His evangelizing in Asia Minor. We also know from the Book of Acts that those who follow the Lord Jesus Christ were first known as Christians. So knowing all of this, I was perplexed and would often wonder why the seven Churches in Asia Minor was so important.

But the Holy Spirit being true to His nature, provided the answer. Not an answer I heard audibly, nor through a prophetic dream or vision, but, through the teaching by the reading of the Word. You see, I found myself reading one of the parables known as the Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers. Now, I’ve read this particular parable many times but I was amazed what the Holy Spirit revealed to me. This parable mirrors what will happen to Christ in the coming days and really gives an insight into the hearts of those involved. But what I found very interesting is, Jesus tells the Chief Priests and elders of the people something is going to happen. And when I read it, everything made sense. Jesus tells them;

Matthew 21:43 – Therefore I say to you, the Kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing the fruits of it.

Once I read this statement the Lord Jesus made, I finally understood why the 7 Churches in Asia Minor is so important. This is the whole reason Christ addressed the seven Churches in the Book of Revelation to Asia Minor, because, the Kingdom of God was taken from the Jewish people and given to the Greeks (Gentiles), which was ruled by the Roman Empire, also known as Anatolia.

It’s also the reason the scriptures were written in Greek, Yeshua’s name was transliterated into Greek and then transliterated into English for the name Jesus. Because our language is composed of Latin which the Romans spoke along with Greek during Jesus time.

People, please study your Bible, read the scriptures and re-read them because God always provides the answers in His word.

Jesus and the Third Seal, the Black Horse

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Recently I spoke about Jesus and the Second Seal, the Red Horse, which ushers in the rider who takes peace from the earth. Now let’s turn our attention to the third seal in the Book of Revelation for a  comparison to the teachings of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. It’s important for Christians to be aware what will happen during these difficult times. Personally, it seems we are further along than many realize and we could easily be living in the end of days, or, last days. Which brings up the subject many Christians believe will take place, the Rapture, or being caught up. Which I plan on discussing soon.

But regardless of where we are in the Book of Revelation we are to continue sharing the Good News just as our Lord Jesus Christ instructed. This is so others can learn about God and His great love for mankind and hopefully keep them from the Lake of Fire.

The Third Seal – Famine, Scarcity

Revelation 6:5,6 – When He opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, “Come and See.” So I looked, and behold, a black horse, and he who sat on it had a pair of scales in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, “A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine.”

The third seal introduces the rider on the black horse. But let’s read Matthew, Mark and Luke to see how it aligns with the Third Seal of Revelation.

Matthew 24:7b – And there will be famines.

Mark 13:8c – And there will be famines and troubles.

Luke 21:11b – And famines and pestilences;

For Matthew, I use 7b, for Mark 8c and Luke 11b. The reason I wrote the scriptures in this way is because the earliest manuscripts in Greek did not contain punctuation, spaces between words, had no Chapter Dividers, no individual headings, but, one long, continuous page of words. Man is the one who added punctuation, spaces, chapters and headings for ease of reading. This could be one of the reasons many people do not associate the teachings of Christ to the Seals found in the Book of Revelation. But as you can see, from the very teachings of the Lord Christ Jesus, His words align perfectly with what the Apostle John saw in the Book of Revelation regarding the third seal.

Glory be to God, we are drawing near! Make sure your heart is right with God Almighty and if it’s not REPENT now and follow our King, the Lord Jesus Christ! God bless you all…

Jesus and the Second Seal, the Red Horse

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Recently I spoke about Jesus and the First Seal, the White Horse, which ushers in the false christs. But now it’s time to turn to our attention to the second seal in the Book of Revelation and compare it to the teachings of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. It’s important for Churches to be teaching these things that are leading up to the tribulations, the end times, along with preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ so people can understand what will take place and what the Lord Jesus Christ said about this difficult time.

The Second Seal – Peace From Earth, War

Revelation 6:3,4 – When He opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, “Come and See.” Another horse, fiery red, went out. And it was granted to the one who sat on it to take peace from the earth, and that people should kill one another; and there was given to him a great sword.

The second seal introduces the rider on the red horse. But let’s read Matthew, Mark and Luke to see how it aligns with the Second Seal of Revelation.

Matthew 24:6,7a – And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.

Mark 13:7,8a – But when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be troubled; for such things must happen, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.

Luke 21:9,10 – But when you hear of wars and commotions, do not be terrified; for these things must come to pass first, but the end will not come immediately. Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.

Notice in Matthew, I use 7a and in Mark 8a. The reason I wrote the scriptures in this way is because the earliest manuscripts in Greek did not contain punctuation, spaces between words, had no Chapter Dividers, no individual headings, but, one long, continuous page of words. Man is the one who added punctuation, spaces, chapters and headings for ease of reading. This could be one of the reasons many people do not associate the teachings of Christ to the Seals found in the Book of Revelation. But as you can see, from the very teachings of the Lord Christ Jesus, His words aligns perfectly with what the Apostle John saw in the Book of Revelation regarding the second seal.

Glory be to God, we are drawing near! Make sure your heart is right with God Almighty and if it’s not REPENT now and follow our King, the Lord Jesus Christ! God bless you all…

Jesus and the First Seal, the White Horse

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When Christians begin reading the Book of Revelation they often find themselves confused by the language regarding the Seals, the Trumpets, the Bowls, God’s Judgment and the Harvest. But I will show you how Matthew, Mark, and Luke all mirror the seven seals spoken of in the Book of Revelation. Starting with the first seal I will apply each of the scriptures and show how they connect to one of the 7 Seals.

The First Seal – The Conqueror

Revelation 6:1,2 – Now I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals; and I heard one of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, “Come and See.” And I looked, and behold, a white horse. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.

So we see that the first seal is a rider on a white horse. But let’s read Matthew, Mark Luke and John and see how it aligns with the First Seal of Revelation.

Matthew 24:4,5 – And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My Name, saying, I am the Christ, and will deceive many.”

Mark 13:5,6 – And Jesus, answering them, began to say: Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My Name, saying I am He, and will deceive many.

Luke 21:8,9 – And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived.” For many will come in My Name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’

These three Gospels align with what the Apostle John sees in the Book of Revelation regarding the first seal.

It’s at this stage that many connect Him to Christ since Christ rides a white horse. But to prove the rider on the White Horse is NOT Christ, let’s see how Christ is described when He is seen riding the White Horse, the Scriptures read;

Revelation 19:11,13 – Now I saw heaven opened, and He who sat on Him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called the Word of God.

As one can see from this description found in Revelation, the only time Christ rides a white horse is when He comes to strike the nations.

There is another point I would like to make, there isn’t any scriptures stating Christ with a bow, but, there are many which speaks of Jesus as a Sword or baring a Sword. For instance, Jesus tells us;

Matthew 10:34 – Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword.

Jesus Christ is the Word of God and we know from the Armor of God that the Sword of the Spirit, is the Word of God!

The rider of the first seal, with one crown is none other than those who represent false christs who claim to be the Lord Jesus Christ, which also includes the antichrist. Many will come in His name and these false Christ will use His name to deceive many. Think Jim Jones, David Koresh and many others…

Jesus warned us, do not be deceived!

Reading the Bible Symbolically

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Reading and understanding the Book of Revelation can often be a daunting task, but, the Bible does tell us that the Holy Spirit will guide, teach and direct us. He may lead us to someone that’s more knowledgeable but He will always teach us. But regardless, there is a rule of thumb when reading the Bible.

Regardless where you’re reading in the Bible, you should read the text as it is written without any symbolic interpretation UNLESS the Bible tells you to. Meaning, if the interpretation isn’t necessary you just read the text as it appears and don’t interpret it. If the text is symbolic, the scripture will interpret itself usually further down within the scriptures.

Let’s look at an example found in Revelation 11, which refers to the 2 witnesses.

And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which is spiritually called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. Revelation 11:8

So how would one interpret this scripture?

You don’t interpret it, instead, you read it just the way it’s written. This scripture is letting the reader know there will be 2 witnesses that will be killed and their bodies will remain in the street. But what else does it say? It says in the great city, which is spiritually called Sodom and Egypt, where our Lord was crucified.

How do we interpret the phrase, spiritually called Sodom and Egypt? Again, you don’t because if you continue reading the answer is provided. It provides the answer when it states, where also our Lord was crucified. Where was our Lord Jesus crucified? JERUSALEM.

Even within the different books of the prophets an angel would appear to interpret the prophet’s dream. So all one needs to do is continue reading and let the Bible guide you.

It’s important to understand one shouldn’t make assumptions when reading the Bible. We want to focus where the Bible focuses, and be silent when the bible is silent on any particular subject. When the Bible speaks symbolically, the text will interpret itself.

Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy!

The 5th Seal – Persecution

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In our world there has never been any form of faith that has endured as much persecution as Christianity. Christians all over the world are being punished, imprisoned, beaten, kidnapped, tortured, raped and executed. All because of their faith in our Lord Jesus the Christ.

In the Open Doors watch list over 360 million Christians suffered high levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith. Among the Open Doors information it states 1 in 7 Christians are persecuted worldwide. And that doesn’t include the many churches and facilities that are destroyed.

Why are so many Christians being persecuted world wide?

The Bible tells us exactly why Christians are being persecuted so let’s examine the Bible to see what it says. In the Book of Revelation the Apostle John is providing information from his vision for the 7 churches located in Asia Minor (Turkey) and this is what he says regarding the souls that are martyred;

When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the souls of those who had been killed because of the word of God, and because of the testimony which they had maintained; and they cried out with a loud voice, saying, how long, O Lord, holy and true, will You refrain from judging and avenging our blood on those who live on the earth? And a white robe was given to each of them; and they were told that they were to rest for a little while longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers and sisters who were to be killed even as they had been, was completed also. Revelation 6:9-11

The early Church has always endured persecution whether from the Jewish Pharisees, the Roman Empire or their Muslim neighbors. And as a Christian we each have a duty to prepare ourselves, our family and the Church for what’s coming. How? By building up our faith. We do this through Prayer, Worship, Fasting, Bible Study, and my all time favorite, learning scriptures.

Because when the antichrist appears on the scene Christians must be prepared to do battle, even to death!

Top Ten Countries known for persecuting Christians;

  • Afghanistan
  • North Korea
  • Somalia
  • Libya
  • Yemen
  • Eritrea
  • Nigeria
  • Pakistan
  • Iran
  • India

Coming of the Authoritarianism Beast

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Our country is headed in the wrong direction and it pains me to say this, but, there are those among us who believe the government should be running everything. That’s NOT a democracy, it’s authoritarianism. The reason this is so important to grasp is it’s the EXACT system the antichrist will be using. How do I know? Look what the Bible says;

And he is given power to give breath to the image of the beast, so that the image of the beast will even [appear to] speak, and cause those who do not bow down and worship the image of the beast to be put to death. Also he compels all, the small and the great, the rich and the poor, and the free men and the slaves, to be given a mark on their right hand or on their forehead [signifying allegiance to the beast], and that no one will be able to buy or sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast or the number of his name.

Revelation 13:15

Do you understand what I’m saying?

It’s exactly the reason why laws are being passed in our country so big brother can snoop in our bank accounts. But they don’t want to just monitor them, NO, they want to see EVERYTHING you’re spending money on. Why? Because the Feds are launching a digital dollar pilot program with the big banks. You can also read about it on reuters, which says, Banking Giants and New York Fed Start 12 Week digital Dollar Pilot.

Several things must happen before the beast system can be implemented. Governments of super countries must fall, be brought to their knees, meaning, chaos will reign. Laws must be passed to ensure “True Christians” will have no rights while the sexual immoral, the liars, the false teachers, false religions, the Sabbath breakers and the lawless are protected.

Take a look around and you can see this already happening! No cash bails, smash and grabs, destructive rioting, mandated vaccines, assaults, murders, gender ideology, supply chain issues, food processing plants and warehouses catching fire, gas shortages, weather manipulation, rolling blackouts and the New Climate Control 10 Commandments fiasco. Of course, that doesn’t begin to cover what they’re spraying into our atmosphere, the latest, sulfur!

Let’s not forget all the major players and elites would love to see Israel split into a two-state solution and luckily for the citizens of Israel Naftali Bennett doesn’t support it. Don’t get me wrong, I would prefer Palestine and Israel to work together, realistically, it won’t happen. But remember, God gave the land to the Israelites so man shouldn’t be interferring. The Abraham Accords were signed September 15, 2020 and it’s a peace treaty between Muslim countries and the Jewish state of Israel so we’ll see what happens around March 2024 because that’s the 3 1/2 year period. Just saying….

Then, a digital monetary program must be in place in all countries before the beast system is rolled out. This way it will make for a smoother transition when the antichrist comes into power and want take years to implement.

So people, make sure your faith is strong because when the antichrist comes to power you need to know what side you stand on, even to death.

Hour of Trial

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Believers and non-believers alike try every way possible to avoid this conversation. But it’s a FACT, Christ is returning, and, from the state of this world it may be alot sooner than many have anticipated. We need to have an HONEST conversation with one another and be willing to ask the difficult question, are you ready? Meaning, have you prepared your heart? Are you living a righteous life? Are you repenting of your sin? Are you forgiving others? Are you listening to the Holy Spirit? Because there are several scriptures I want to point out in this post.

First, I want to repeat what Jesus says when He’s providing the signs to the Apostles regarding the End Times. Jesus says;

But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.

Matthew 24:37,38

What really stands out from this scripture for me is, basically, mankind will continue doing what it’s always done. Focusing on their own wants, needs, and the things of this world without the slightest thought of Christ returning. But as a Christian this needs to be addressed from a BIBLICAL perspective! I know many believe Christ Church will be raptured up, or, caught up before the tribulations, but, that’s not what Jesus taught. Just look at the Book of Revelation it was written to reveal to the CHURCHES what would transpire in the last days, because, God always gives warning to His people before He acts!

Jesus gave the signs in Matthew 24 but there’s something which He says that makes me believe we will know exactly when the tribulation begins. This is what Jesus says;

Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My names’s sake.

Matthew 24:9

Clearly Christ is referring to the nation of Israel and the coming war which ushers in the antichrist. But if you read Matthew 24:4-8 you’ll notice Jesus ended that portion of the conversation with, All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then as Christ once again starts talking He says, they will deliver you up to tribulation. Personally, I believe this is the beginning of the tribulations which also means, Christians will be on this earth during the tribulations. But for comparison, let’s read the scripture when Jesus is speaking to the Churches, there He says;

Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

Revelation 3:10-13

This particular scripture is loaded with information but for clarification purposes Christ is referring to the Philadelphia Church, which is the Faithful, Persevering Church. First, Christ tells us this is the ONLY CHURCH which will be kept from the hour of trial which comes upon the WHOLE earth. Christ also states that the name of My God, the name of the city of My God, which is the NEW JERUSALEM, which comes down out of heaven from My God along with His NEW NAME will be written on that person. This is the SEAL which will PROTECT them from the Hour of Trial. But, this is the ONLY church that receives protection. Remember, there are 7 Churches in all which means 6 others will go through the hour of trial. The remaining Christians will be among the Lukewarm Church, the Dead Church, the Persecuted Church, the Loveless Church, the Corrupt Church, and the Compromising Church.

So it’s important to know the signs, to understand the information Christ provided and to ask yourself, which Church do I belong to?

Because if it’s not the Faithful, Persevering Church, you may want to start REPENTING!

The Churches of Revelation Messages

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Just like many Christians, I struggle with Bible Prophecy. It can be difficult to understand, partly due to the translations of the languages and the ancient cultures found in the Bible. Since I’m naturally drawn to the different Prophecy sections in the Bible, I realized, the only way for me to comprehend these writings was to pray and ask God for wisdom and understanding. Today I found myself being led back to the Book of Revelations and the seven churches. Obviously, the Holy Spirit is letting me know there’s a message here that myself and Christians need to hear and obey. So let’s talk about the seven churches and the message Christ has for His people.

In the first chapter of the Book of Revelation, John was instructed to write on a scroll and to send it to each of the seven churches in Asia Minor. But today, I’m interested in what the actual message was that Jesus had for each of these churches.

Ephesus Church – After reading everything christ has to say about this church, He tells them they have left their first love, but, look what else He says;

Lost the Love for God, Loveless Church

But I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Therefore, remember where you have fallen, and repent, and do the deeds you did at first; or else I am coming to you and I will remove your lampstand from its place-unless you repent.

Revelation 2:4,5

Smyrna Church – Christ tells this church that some of them will be thrown into prison, will be tested and endure tribulations. But look at His message to them;

The Persecuted Church

Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulations for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.

Revelations 2:10

Pergamum Church – Christ tells this church they held firmly to His name and did not deny His faith, even in the days of Antipas, His witness, His faithful one, who was killed among them, where Satan dwells. Christ says;

False Teachings, False Doctrines, Idol Worship, Compromising, Sexual Immorality Church

But I have a few thing against you, because you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who kept teaching Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit sexual immorality. So you too, have some who in the same way hold to the teachings of the Nicolaitans. Therefore, repent; or else I am coming to you quickly, and I will wage war against them with the sword of my mouth.

Revelation 2:14-16

Thyatira Church – Christ tells this church He knows their deeds, their love, faith, service and perserverance and their deeds now or greater than the first. But look what Christ says;

False Prophet, False Teachings, Sexual Immorality, Idol Worship, Compromising Church

But I have this against you, that you tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, and she teaches and leads My bond-servants astray so that they commit sexual immorality and things sacrificed to idols. But I say to you, the rest who are in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who have not known the deep things of Satan, as they call them-I place no other burden on you. Nevertheless what you have, hold firmly till I come.

Revelations 2:20,24,25

Sardis Church – Christ tells the Sardis Church that He knows their deeds, you have a name( or reputation) that you’re alive, but, you’re dead. But Christ also says;

The Dead Church

Be constantly alert, and strengthen the things that remain, which were about to die; for I have not found your deeds completed in the sight of My God. So remember what you have received and heard; and keep it, and repent. Then if you are not alert, I will come like a thief in the night, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you. But you have a few people in Sardis who has not soiled their garments; and they will walk with me in white, for they are worthy.

Revelation 3:2-4

Philadelphia Church – Christ says to this church that He has put before them an open door which no one can shut, because you have a little power, and have followed My word, and have not denied My name. But Christ says something different here, look what He says;

Faithful, Perservering Church

Behold, I will make those of the Synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie–I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and make them know that I have loved you. Because you have kept my word of perserverance, I also will keep you from the hour of the testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who live on the earth. I am coming quickly; hold firmly to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.

Revelation 3:9-11

Laodicea Church – Christ tells this church that they are neither cold nor hot; and I wish they were cold or hot. But, because they’re lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, He is going to vomit them out of His mouth. But look what else Christ says;

The Lukewarm Church

Because you say, I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have no need for anything, and you do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked, I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to apply to your eyes so that you may see. Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent.

Revelation 3:17-19

As I was reading and typing each of these messages, I noticed a repetitive sentence. While it’s only a few short words, I believe it packs a punch! It says;

The one who has an ear, let Him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

The messages Christ sent to the churches of Asia Minor is also for us. As Christians we must be diligent, alert and love the Lord God with all our heart, all our soul and all our mind. Because when we do we’ll be faithful, able to persevere and do good works. It’ll be harder for us to be deceived by the false prophets, false teachings, false doctrines, Idolatry, sexual immorality, and compromises many churches today are making.

But something else to think about, Christ only told ONE CHURCH they would be spared from the hour of testing, the hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who live on the earth.

Knowing what Christ said and seeing everything going on in our world today, the signs are everywhere. I’m even hearing about Christian persecution in America, and knowing this, guess my question is, are you ready?

The Black Horse

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When the Lamb opens the third seal, the “spirit” of the black horse and it’s rider explode onto the scene. What’s key to understanding all these horse and riders is that each of them will bring death to people. Let’s read the actual scripture found in Revelation;

When He (the Lamb) broke open the third seal, I heard the third living creature call out, “Come”. I looked, and behold a black horse (of famine); and the rider had in his hand a pair of scales (a balance). And I heard something like a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, “A quart of wheat for a denarius (a day’s wages), and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not damage the oil and wine.”

Revelation 6:5,6

From reading this scripture we know it’s linked to famine. This means there will be a shortage of wheat and barley which will cause hyperinflation and shortages for all bread products, flour, wheat, cereals or any food items which uses wheat and barley. In fact, the price will be so expensive many will not be able to afford these basic items. Notice what Jesus says in Matthew;

For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes in divers places.

Matthew 24:7

So again you can see how we can cross-reference the scripture found in Revelation with what Jesus taught in the Book of Matthew. What I find interesting is the way this particular scripture is written and reads seems to indicate that when these nations and kingdoms go against one another a ripple affect is triggered which ushers in famine, pestilences and earthquakes.

Now some believe that these “beginning of sorrows” which Jesus spoke of is caused by Satan being thrown down onto the earth. But since I’m a bit of a skeptic, I had to see what God’s word had to say about that. And look at the piece of gold nugget I found in Ezekiel;

For thus says the Lord GOD, “How much more when I send my four severe judgments against Jerusalem sword, famine, predatory beasts, and virulent disease, to cut off man and animal from it! Yet, behold, survivors will be left in it (escaping the judgments), both sons and daughters. Listen carefully, they are going to come out to you (in Babylon) and you will see their (wicked) conduct and (despicable) actions; then you will be at peace in regard to the disaster which I have brought against Jerusalem for everything which I have brought on it (has been deserved).

Ezekiel 14:21,22

Since we know GOD is consistent He is telling us what will occur. See how GOD’s judgments mirrors the seals? So, it’s not because of Satan being thrown down onto the earth, NO, it’s because GOD has warned Isreal over and over again to turn from their ways are there will be punishment.

Now to understand this one must realize that the Bible “centers” around GOD’s chosen people, the “children of Israel” and just like any good parent when your child disobeys they receive your “judgment” for what they did. But not only do they receive your “judgment” but that judgment carries a “punishment”. Remember, in Hebrews 12, “GOD disciplines” those He loves. GOD tells us He will inflict judgments for the “children of Israel” and “anyone living in Isreal” for setting up idols in their hearts, for failing to repent of their wickedness, from turning away from GOD.

But it’s not just the “children of Israel”, it’s “all” people who commits “idolatry” and refuse to “repent” of their ways, who flat out refuse to live righteously. Remember, GOD sent His only Son Jesus Christ to die on the cross for our sins, and it’s through the blood of Jesus we are saved. To be born again, you must believe and trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, this is the “ONLY” way you will not perish but have everlasting life. But it is a choice.

And just as in the days of old, GOD will dish out His judgments again, because, people have “forgotten” who He is, who JESUS is and have turned away. They continue loving this world and embracing every wicked deed found within it. They refuse to give up their idols, their wicked ways and turn back to GOD through repentance. But remember this;

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.

Revelation 22:13 & 16

If you’ve strayed or refused GOD’s invitation to follow Him this scripture alone should frighten you. And if it doesn’t, remember this, judgment is coming and the price of punishment is ETERNAL LIFE or ETERNAL DEATH! Every single person on this planet should be afraid, very, very, very afraid!

The Rider on the White Horse

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Many have speculative over the rider of the white horse and it’s significance. Probably the majority of Christians believe that this rider is Jesus Christ. I’m not so sure, so, I thought I would explore the scriptures to see what they have to say. In Revelation it says;

I looked, and behold, a white horse, and the one who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.

Revelation 6:2

It’s easy to understand why Christians would believe this rider is Christ, after all, he’s wearing a crown and he’s riding a white horse. So, it makes perfect sense! But, there are a few things I would like to point out.

  • The words conquering and conquer
  • The Bow with no arrows
  • The Crown

Let’s start with the word conquer or conquering. To conquer means to overcome and take control of a place, or people, often by military force. Many would say that’s what Jesus did, but, not quite. Christ gave people a choice, choose me or not. It was always left up to the person. People were “called” to Christ, he didn’t force himself on anyone, the person was always in control. And, Christ didn’t have a military presence it was always Christ, his Apostles and His followers.

The rider of the white horse has an agenda which is to conquer and to take control of other places or people even by military force. Meaning a person doesn’t really have a choice because they’re being controlled.

The Bow is an instrument of war and indicates someone who has power and authority over the military forces.

The Crown indicates someone with authority. Often represents a King or someone in a high position of government.

Now, let’s take a look at what Jesus said on the Mount of Olives to his disciples when they approached him privately. Jesus says;

And Jesus answered and said to them, see to it that no one misleads you. For many will come in my name saying, I am the Christ, and they will mislead many people.

Matthew 24:5

If you study the Mount of Olives teaching you’ll see a correlation between the Seals and Christ teaching. By reading Christ words on Mount Olives in the scripture above, Christ is giving us a warning. He’s saying there will be those who claim to be Christ. Unfortunately, those who are not familiar with Christ teaching will be mislead.

Then if anyone says to you, Behold, here is the Christ, or He is over here, do not believe him. For false christs and false prophets will arise and will provide great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect.

Matthew 24:23,24

In this scripture Jesus blatantly tells us there will be false christs and false prophets who will rise up to mislead people. In fact, Jesus says, even the very elect if that were possible.

So for me, it’s pretty clear the rider on the white horse when the first seal is opened is none other than the antichrist.

Why do I believe it’s the antichrist when Jesus says many will come in his name?

Because this particular rider of the white horse is given authority to conquer nations, kingdoms and people using a military backing. False prophets and false christ don’t have that authority except for one, the antichrist.

The 7 Churches in Revelation

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The 7 Churches in Revelation
Tutku Tours Turkey

While studying in the Bible I wanted to know more about the 7 Churches which is mentioned in the Book of Revelation. Since many pastors, theologians and even Christians believe they will be raptured out before the tribulations, or midway through it, I felt a need to really examine it. But first I wanted to know the exact location.

The first map listed is of the 7 churches which are scattered in the Asia Minor area. But if you look at the second map posted, you’ll notice these 7 churches are what is now known as modern day Turkey. I’ve provided a link below the picture where you can book tours of the ancient ruins or do some interesting reading.

What really caught my attention is in the letter to Pergamos, which is also known as Pergamum, and what Christ says. He says;

I know where you dwell, where satan’s throne is; and you hold firmly to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days of Antipas, My witness, My faithful one, who was killed among you, where satan dwells.

Revelation 2:13

So in this scripture Christ is telling us that he knows that satan’s throne is located in Asia Minor, in Pergamos. With this information if we know the 7 churches are located in modern day Turkey, along with satan’s throne, doesn’t it make more sense that the antichrist will come from Turkey?

Second, Christ had some words for the Smyrna church. In fact, he speaks of the sufferings and death some of them would go through. Why does this matter?

Again, many Christians, mainstream Pastors and theologians believe the church will be raptured out before the tribulations. But that makes no sense, because the early churches were persecuted even to death. And sense God is consistent, we know Christians will be persecuted and not raptured out of the tribulations. Christ even says, in Matthew 24 they will be handed over, persecuted and killed which leads directly into the Apostasy or falling away. Paul tells us it’s the last trumpet. In the Book of Revelations, the last trumpet is after the tribulations. Christ will mark his elect before his wrath, but, He nor none of the Apostles ever taught the Church would be raptured before the tribulations. In fact, it was just the opposite!

Third, in all the messages to the churches look what Christ says to the Philadelphia Church, He says;

Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.

Revelation 3:10

Christ is telling us, the whole world is going to be tested! Christians are not going to be pulled out. But, He is going to provide a mark for his elect.

Don’t take my word for it, do your own research and read the scriptures for yourselves. It makes a difference because Christ wants us to be faithful till the end, to not be deceived by false prophets, false teachers and false doctrines. Know the Truth because your soul is at risk!