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THE VISION OF CHRIST, THE REDEEMING LAMB

#721 THE VISION OF CHRIST, THE REDEEMING LAMB

Scripture Revelation 1:9-20, NIV Orig. 9/3/1978

Rewr. 2/5/1989

Passage: 9 I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, 11 which said: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches:

to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.” 12 I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and among the lampstands was someone like a son of man,[a] dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. 14 The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. 15 His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. 16 In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. 17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.

19 “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. 20 The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels[b] of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.”

Purpose: Continuing a series of lessons for adults in Church Training, here showing John’s detailed description of the Christ.

Keywords: Christ, Authority Christ, Nature Christ, Suffering

Timeline/Series: Revelation

Introduction

I know of one preacher who makes it plain that his knowledge of Bible languages is limited. Because the scriptural material was originally written in Hebrew and Greek, however, there has to be some use of these languages to teach a Bible passage. The preacher then explained that he did know a little Hebrew and a little Greek. The little Hebrew has a dry goods store in Lake Providence, and the little Greek owns a hotdog stand in Delhi.

To know enough to know where to look is a major factor in interpreting Revelation. Whatever position millennially that we hold, the book was written in code, and we have to work at breaking this code.

A series of programs was on public television recently that had to do with governments and their secret communications. One program had to do with Germany during World War II. A major step toward victory was achieved when their military codes were broken and the Allies knew what the next moves would be. Another program addressed the crisis between the USA and Russia over compromised military information.

John wrote in a code known by the early church. He spoke in a language that was the major means of communication throughout the Roman world. Culturally, most of these people shared the same evolving cycle. The early history of the church was Jewish. But the last half of The Book of Acts clearly reveals a change to a gentile church. There were Jewish believers, the leaders were Jewish, but the largest numbers of the converts were coming from gentile or pagan backgrounds. The message given to John was with these multitudes in mind.

I. Last Major Reading in Lesson II was “The Christ John Knew.” V4 “From the One who is, . . . was, . . will be; . . . and from Jesus.”

V5a Who is: “faithful witness”

V5b Who was: “firstborn from the dead”

V5c Who will be: “prince of kings”

II. This Lesson Begins with the Christ John Heard. V10 “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet.”

We must not be in too much hurry, and pass by such a significant truth. John was in the Spirit (pneumati). It was the Lord’s day. What happens in our measure of understanding—the awe of expectancy, the authenticity of divinity.

How John came to Patmos (Aegean Sea). Description: covers about 13 square miles of Dodecanese Islands (12), 70 miles southwest of Ephesus, 160 miles ESE of Athens. Circumstance: (a) by command of God; (b) in order to preach; (c) as punishment for preaching.

What John is to do with the revelation. He was to write it down. Then, it would be available to seven congregations: Ephesus (70 miles SE on coast of Asia Minor); Smyrna (40 miles north on coast); Pergamum (50 miles north, inland); Thyatira (30 miles ESE); Sardis (40 miles SSE—65 miles east of Smyrna); Philadelphia (60 miles ESE); Laodicea (30 miles ESE—100 miles east of Ephesus). Its circulation was not limited to these seven churches; they were not time warps of the church; they were churches manifesting the many problems needing confrontation. The word, write (graphon) is imperative—1:11/1:19/seven times in 2-3/14:13/19:9.

One thing more, John’s mention of tribulation (thilipsei)—pictures grindstone: 54-68 Nero—persecutions (fire), 81-96 Domitian—persecutions (Caesar is Lord). Issues with which John deals in letters—lukewarmness, wealth, backsliding, poverty, false doctrine.

III. The Next Lesson is the Christ John Saw. V12 “I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me.”

John shows us the posture of a learner. He turns as is necessary for fuller comprehension. The word: epistrepsas—to turn. Same word used by James 5:19, 20—“He which converteth the sinner from.” We must be careful with the application, but John intended to be in a learning posture.

What we can make of what John saw.

Seven golden candlesticks—v20 tells us: these are the churches, seven the mystic number of completeness. They, of course, represent light in darkness. “An unlighted candlestick is just something else to run over in the dark.”

· There are the symbols of royalty.

· The tribunal garments of the judge—“a robe reaching to his feet with a golden sash about his chest.” Lad in New Iberia leading music for Rod. The girdle encircles his heart as an expression of fidelity of love. Various factors of appearance. Hair: white (purity) eternality, similar to Daniel 7:9c.

· Eyes were as flame of fire: suggesting infallible knowledge. Matthew 6:22 “If thine eye be single”; Matthew 7:5 “Cast out the beam”; Matthew 18:9 “If thine eye offend.” Hebrews 4:13 (GNV) “There is nothing that can be hid from God; everything in all creation is exposed and lies open before his eyes.”

· His feet: like brass which is symbol of judgment. Serpent John 3:14; see Revelation 19:15 “tread the winepress.”

· His voice: many waters—gentle rain/driven storm, brook/flood/hurricane season. Mississippi off Sullivan’s Island.

· There are symbolisms of deity; 1:8 “alpha and omega” (no v11) bounds of vocabulary/communication; the link with Jehovah God—Three times vv. 8, 17, 18; “I am” used for “being” not “becoming.” “Almighty” v8 equivalent “El Shaddai”: Genesis 17:1f “I am the Almighty.” Exodus 3:14 “I am hath sent me.”

IV. There Follows from This Christ His Message to the Churches. V17f “Fear not; I am the first and the last: . . . he that liveth, . . . having the keys of hell and death. Write what you have seen, . . . what is, . . . what will be.”

A reassuring statement of sovereignty. As John has perceived him. He is all that and more.

There is a reminder of his humanity and of his suffering. V18 “I am he that liveth, and was dead.” Gospel writers attest to that life. Foregleam of Suffering Servant—Isaiah 53.

An attestation of the ultimate victory that awaits the people of faith. “I am alive forevermore, . . . (I) have the keys of hell and of death.” V18

· Ephesus: “he that holdeth the seven stars. V16 “he had in right hand seven stars.”

· Smyrna: “the first and the last, dead but alive.” 17c/18a “I am the first/last.”

· Pergamum: “having the sharp two-edged sword.” V16 “Out of his mouth went the sharp two-edged sword.” The word both saves and slays. Emblem: Ephesians 6:17, Hebrews 4:12.

· Thyatira: “eyes as flaming fire, feet of bronze,” V14b-15a as above.

· Sardis: “Seven spirits and seven stars,” v16, 20; seven stars, v4, seven spirits.

· Philadelphia: “key of David,” v18 “keys of hell and of death.”

· Laodicea: “Faithful and true witness,” v5 “faithful witness.”

· a) 1:18, The living one with “keys” of hell and death.

· b) 3:7, The one with “the key of David.”

· c) 3:20, Must stand outside the church at Laodicea and knock to gain entrance.

Conclusion

The last verse gives us the promise of the revealed word. We are to search where not made plain.

Fritha Dinwiddie 3/11/24 Fritha Dinwiddie 3/11/24

SARDIS: ONE LAST CHANCE

#230b SARDIS: ONE LAST CHANCE

Scripture Revelation 3:1-6, NIV Orig. 2/13/1965

Rewr. 3/15/1989

Passage: “To the angel[a] of the church in Sardis write:

These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits[b] of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. 2 Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. 3 Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.

4 Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. 5 The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels. 6 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

Purpose: Teaching Revelation to adults in Church Training

Keywords: Church Faithfulness Judgment Repentance

Timeline/Series: Revelation Letters Sardis

Introduction

Most of us do not take last chance messages very seriously. They refer to opportunities to buy gasoline before the price goes up. On a trip we are forewarned about the last “comfort” stop for 31 miles. Or, it is a message with which we cajole our children to do what we want them to do.

Reports from air disasters often contain such language. The Flight Florida crash in the tidal basin in Washington was one. The report indicated a point as the plane lumbered down the runway at which it had one final opportunity to abort the flight. A last chance for 75 people to live.

Sardis is given such a chance.

I. The Need for Watchfulness. V2 KJV “Be watchful!” NIV “Wake up!”

It was for spiritual “watchfulness”—schooling/nutrition/medical/work; what about unto the Lord?

Scripture compels

· Lamentations 3:40 “Let us search/try our ways.”

· Romans 13:11 “It is high time to wake”

· Philippians 3:8 “Whatsoever things are . . . think on these things.”

· Better starting than finishing

· Faith under stress was no fun. Enshrined organization/cemeteries

· Sardis history: 546 BC Cyrus siege, no guard on watchtower, Again following Alexander the Great.

Watchful morally.

· Cybele worship: deified sensuality.

· Church: what is its interest?

· Church in Gary, IN.

The danger of judgment. “As a thief.”

· Judgment based on knowledge “seven spirits of God” v1

· Second coming

· Matthew 24:42 “ye know not at what hour.”

· I Thessalonians 5:2 “day of the Lord cometh.”

II. They Were to Be Careful About Their Works. V2 “Establish the things that remain, which are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God.”

What is our standard for measurement? Additions, money, program? Opportunities to help other people?

Their imperfect works were to be reviewed.

· Remember and repent.

· “Perfected” means they were failing to reach their potential.

· Priorities were “good” but unessential things.

The church of today: untroubled by heresy, undisturbed by persecution, unthreatened by personal losses.

The unchanged advice. Repent, v3. Renew, v2. Remain, v5.

III. Watchfulness and Works Result in a Worthy Walk. V4 “Thou hast a few . . . they shall walk with me in white for they are worthy.”

Clothed in white raiment—color of the apparel of heaven

· 4:4 elders wearing white

· 6:11 martyrs

· 7:4 redeemed multitudes before the lamb

· Luke 9:29 “his raiment was white and glistening.”

Leading industry was colorful cloths

Their names were to remain etched in book of life.

· Names there without substance to be removed.

· All trusting Christ have redeeming faith, some make more use of that faith than others.

· Difference between intellectual/saving faith.

· The believer is secure forever. Romans could have names removed from municipal rolls, left with no sense of community. Young Mennonite in Transylvania.

Conclusion

Bunyan’s story of one trying to extinguish the flame, but it continued to burn. Then he saw One, almost hidden, pouring oil on the flame. Likened to church: satan tries to put it out; God keeps it burning.

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SARDIS: ONE LAST CHANCE

#230a SARDIS: ONE LAST CHANCE

Scripture Revelation 3:1-6, NIV Orig. 2/13/1965

Rewr. 2/1982, 10/1/1986

Passage: “To the angel[a] of the church in Sardis write:

Purpose: Continuing the series on Revelation letters, so that my people may consider the deeper vitality of a faith that does not falter amidst easy living.

Keywords: Church Faithfulness Judgment Repentance

Timeline/Series: Revelation Letters Sardis

Introduction

Many of us watched the news report with a rather detached concern. It drew as much interest as it did because it happened in our nation’s capital. Another air disaster had claimed its victims. You remember Flight Florida back in January of ’82, seventy-five people were killed, at least one an infant. As I recall, some deaths occurred among motorists who happened to be on their way home at the wrong time. Lives were snuffed out in an instant. Perhaps some were oblivious to the danger they were suddenly in. It was winter, the tidal basin was iced over. The people on the plane were on their way to Florida, sunny Florida. In a matter of three hours they would have been there.

We were given all the gory details. There were heroes: [Lenny] Skutnik (Jackson, Miss.) who went into the water to help some who were out of the plane. A passenger from Atlanta gave up a ride on the rescue chopper several times, and when it went back the last time, he could not be found.

One of the news reports told about the little black boxes, recovered from the plane. The reconstructed flight took two minutes. As the plane, with ice covered wings lumbered down the runway, the report indicated a point just before take-off “The last point at which the flight could be aborted.” This was their last chance. One foot farther, and this ice-covered coffin would be 200 miles per hour pell-mell to disaster.

We don’t take “last chances” seriously, you and I. To us, it means “thirty more miles before you can buy gasoline.” It threatens us with a protracted distance before we find a rest-room. Or maybe, it’s no more than an empty threat that we use to our children when our patience is exhausted. Rarely, in our lives is it used in any life-threatening way. But, at Sardis, it meant exactly that. “Last chance coming up!”

I. Their Last Chance Involved Watchfulness. V2 KJV “Be watchful”—NIV “Wake up!”

They were to be “watchful” spiritually. Interesting how careful we can be about some things—schooling/nutrition/workplace—while totally detached from others. Scripture compels.

· Lamentations 3:40 “Let us search and try our ways.”

· Romans 13:11 “It is high time to wake out of sleep.”

· Philippians 4:8 “Whatever things are true, . . . honest, . . . just, . . . pure, . . . lovely, . . . are of good report; if there be any virtue, . . . praise, think on these things.”

What was basically wrong was that they were better starting than finishing; talking than doing.

Faith under stress was not exciting to them. Thought God owed them something; church organized to serve, but they wanted to enshrine the organization. We do well to remember that there are few things any better organized than cemeteries. Faith under fire does not appeal to most Christians today, but extracts a far greater price from the devil.

There was a history lesson that citizens of Sardis should remember. In 546 BC (Ezra led Israel back to the homeland) Sardis came under siege to Cyrus of Persia. The city was so thoroughly protected by battlement and walls, that when an entry was found, the Persians found no guard on the watchtower. The same thing 200 years later after Alexander the Great’s death in battle over territory.

They were to be watchful morally. At Sardis was Cybele worship, deified sensuality. The church in any age will begin to reflect what captures its interest. [Ex.] church in Gary, Ind., with the penchant for fishing trips.

The danger was not only the loss of spiritual respectability, but also the threat of judgment. V3 “I will come on thee as a thief.” By the way, you have heard about the cross-eyed javelin thrower, he never won any meets, but he sure kept the crowd alert.

They will be judged by the One who knows. V1 “These things saith he that hath the seven spirits of God.” Every church is unique unto itself. God’s will is similar, but set apart. His judgment reflects faith amidst fortune. God warns of His “coming” “as a thief.” Matthew 24:42 “Watch therefore for ye know not at what hour your Lord shall come.” I Thessalonians 5:2 “The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night . . . Ye are not in darkness that the day should overtake you as a thief.”

II. In Addition to Being Watchful, They Were to be Careful about Their Works. V2 “. . . Establish the things that remain, which were ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God.”

What kind of standard of measurement do we select for ourselves? Everything human and social suggests we judge additions/money/program. But God’s standard is the human heart. How we feel about His Word, about His church, about opportunities to help. [Nathaniel] Hawthorne “No man can for any considerable time, wear one face to himself, and another to the multitude, without getting bewildered as to which one is the true one.”1

Their imperfect works are to be reconsidered. V3 “Remember what you have received and heard.” “Perfected: simply means that they are not fulfilling their potential. They have slipped their priorities to “good” but unessential things. A church untroubled by heresy, undisturbed by persecution, unthreatened by the loss of goods/skills. What they are instructed to do: “Repent” because you love Jesus; “renew” (v2), “remain” (v3). Micah 6:8, “What doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly before thy God.”

III. Finally, Then, Watchfulness and Works Result in a Worthy Walk of Faith. V4 “Thou has a few names in Sardis that did not defile their garments: and they shall walk with me in white for they are worthy.”

They were to be clothed in white raiment: The color of the apparel of heaven; the essence of the glorified body: Revelation 4:4 (24 elders wearing white), Revelation 6:11 (martyrs were wearing white), Revelation 7:4 (redeemed multitudes before the lamb in white robes). Luke 9:29 Transfiguration: “His raiment was white and glistening.” Special significance at Sardis—leading industry produced a bright-colored cloth.

Their names were to remain etched in the so-called Book of Life. Some to be removed, they were placed there without substance. Pretty easy to get name on roll. All who trust Christ have redeeming faith, some make more use of that faith than others. Great difference between intellectual and saving faith. Those names remaining suggest the true security of the believer, the one who truly “faithed” Christ is safe forever.

In these Roman states, it was possible to have one’s name removed from the municipal roll. It took away their sense of community, of who they were. But the believer could not be so torn. Young Mennonite in Transylvania.

Conclusion

In a vision, John Bunyan reported having seen a man standing over a flame trying to put out the fire by pouring water on it. It confused him that in spite of the man’s effort, the flame continued to burn. Then he saw, One almost hidden from view, pouring oil on the fire. Bunyan likened this to Satan’s effort to extinguish the flame that is the true symbol of the church in the world, but God’s never-ending grace keeps the flame burning strongly.

1Hawthorne, N. (1878) The Scarlet Letter. Boston, J.R. Osgood and Company.

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REPENTING CHURCHES MUST BE FOUND FAITHFUL—Ephesus and Smyrna

#722 REPENTING CHURCHES MUST BE FOUND FAITHFUL—Ephesus and Smyrna

Scripture Orig. 9/7/1978

Revelation 2:1-11, NIV Rewr. 2/18/1989

Passage: “To the angel[a] of the church in Ephesus write:

These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. 2 I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3 You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.

4 Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. 5 Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place. 6 But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

7 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.

8 “To the angel of the church in Smyrna write:

These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. 9 I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.

11 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.

Purpose: In a Bible study series on Revelation call attention to the need within all churches for repentance and faithfulness.

Keywords: Bible Study Faithfulness Repentance Revelation

Timeline/Series: Revelation Ephesus and Smyrna

Introduction

One doesn’t have to be all that good at imagining to imagine the difficulties with which the early church had to deal. They were struggling against what we would take to be impossible odds. They had little, or no material resource. There was no political power base. In fact, the opposite was true. During the last 1/3 of the first century, Rome not only looked with a critical eye at the followers of Jesus, she persecuted these believers inside and outside of the law.

It is different for us today. How often, do you suppose, a man could be elected who outspokenly opposed traditional religious values? Too often we find such office seekers using these values under false pretenses.

We, today, have a political power base. We have resources. Never in the history of the world has the so-called Christian church had more to do with than we do today. But just as surely as inflation eats away at church ledger sheets, even to a greater degree, indifference eats away at the very soul of the church.

The discipleship crisis of the first century was having leaders to take the place of faithful witnesses sacrificed to Rome. Our discipleship crisis is having leaders who fall not before the on-slaughts of Satan, but of sin. They resume their places as if nothing had happened.

Discipleship begins with repentance, and from there it rushes pell-mell toward faithfulness to Christ. The altar of repentance is a regular spot of visitation for every believer.https://biblearchaeologyreport.com/2019/08/17/three-things-in-ephesus-timothy-likely-saw/

I. Ephesus: Eager but Indigent. “Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write, . . . I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience . . . . Nevertheless . . . thou hast left thy first love.”

A look at background: Perhaps the chief city of Asia: “Lumen Asiae.” Harbor city: “market of Asia.” Temple of Artemis (Diana) Acts 19:28. This last one of seven wonders: [377x180’] with 120 columns 60’ high. Traded in religious amulets Acts 19:24. Steeped in immorality with sacred temple prostitutes.

Particulars about the church. It was nearest to Patmos. Paul probably started (at Ephesus on 2nd/3rd

missionary journey). John spent 25 years as pastor, itinerant evangelist. Place identified as quarters of Mary.

Considering the message to the church. It is unquestionably from the Lord. Ephesus represented by candlestand. Christ is referred to as “alpha and omega” Revelation 1:11; “Son of man” Revelation 1:13,

Acts 7:56 (by Stephen) and Psalm 8:4-5; “he that liveth and was dead” Revelation 1:18; the unpardonable sin, Matthew 12:31f. Stars are identified as angels of the seven churches.

How the message reaches the church—through John by means of this angel; angel may be pastor, messenger, some spiritual entity called to serve. Christ holds not just the star but “the seven stars” 2:1 in His hand: the whole of believers; individual churches of believers. John 10:27f “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish neither shall any pick them out of my hand.”

Kratov—here accusative “hold entirely”, genitive—“hold on to.” Have someone hold a chair, then a marble.

The message is one of declining love, v4. The message received is one of instruction. V4 “I have somewhat against thee . . . remember [the height from which you have fallen]”. Involving what has been: Diligence to duty—work-service rendered, labor-toil at the cost of pain, patience [----text lost----], Galatians 6:9 “Let us not be weary in well-doing”; Zealous against evil—v2 “cannot bear [evil] ones.” The Lord, in His omniscience, knows what they have left undone: Sins of commission, sins of omission; not in the sense of deserting cause as Demas “hath forsaken” 2 Timothy 4:10; as in neglect—they were busy, but not for Christ’s glory. Parable of seeds/soil—some spring up quickly, but without root, they died.

Leaving instruction, there is injunction. “Remember . . . or else.” Injunction to “remember” the glorious years of faithful service to Christ. Injunction to “repent”—resisting change. 2 Corinthians 7:9f “I rejoiced, . . . that ye sorrowed unto repentance. Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of.” (Leaves no regret.) Injunction to return—“the first works do”—a restored mind/heart state; serve out of love for Christ.

The message Ephesus received is a simple one. The church’s charter is temporary, valid only with faithfulness to her Lord. The lampstand isn’t snatched away, it becomes a barrier to grace: kineo—to set in motion—cinema; churches, like people, slow to die.

II. Smyrna: Suffering but Secure. V8 “And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna, write; . . . I know thy works . . . tribulation . . . poverty, . . . be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”

First, a brief look at Smyrna’s surroundings. A city of great beauty: from 1000 BC/ destroyed 600 BC/ rebuilt 200 BC as a planned metropolis. Aristides: “a flower of beauty such as earth and sun had never showed to mankind.” Christians maligned for laying no store by such surroundings. On the Aegean: trade capital of Hermus Valley. Only one of the seven that survives, [Now known as the] Turkish city Izmir.

A look at the church. Believers who were losing everything because of their faith. Some, however, were renouncing their faith to keep their goods.

There is a five-part message. (a) Smyrna’s Saviour: (v8) myrrh—had to be crushed to emit fragrance; He knew all that was happening; their loyalty. (b) Smyrna’s loyalty: word for works does not appear—“I know you”; a church surviving in an antagonistic environment. (Places in the world today.) Penia—one who has nothing extra. Ptocheia—one who has nothing. (c) Smyrna’s satanic surroundings: v9 reverted to Jewish faith to keep their goods. Problems caused by Jews: Acts 13:50, 14:2,5,19; 17:5. Anti-semitism is still a sin.

Smyrna’s suffering: v10 Significance of ten (10) (a) literal, (b) ten imperial persecutions (Nero 64 to 312), (c) a brief period, (d) extreme. Church age from 170 to 312.

Smyrna’s Salvation: v10 (a) crown—not royal, but victor (stephanas), (b) Mt. Pagos—crown of Smyrna, (c) shall not, never, (d) Second death—rabbinic term for death of wicked in next world: physical death, final punishment, unpardonable sin.

Conclusion

Bettenson’s Documents of the Christian Church

Proconsul: Curse the Christ

Polycarp: Eighty and six years have I served.

Proconsul: Swear by the genius of Caesar.

Polycarp: I am a Christian.

Proconsul: I have wild beasts, repent or I will throw.

Polycarp: Send for them, repentance from better to worse is not a change permitted us.

Proconsul: I will make thee to be consumed by fire.

Polycarp: Thou threatenest the fire that burns [for an hour and in a little while is quenched; for thou knowest not the fire of judgment to come, and the fire of eternal punishment reserved for the ungodly.]1

1 Bettenson, H. (Ed.), (1967) Documents of the Christian Church (1st edition). Oxford: Oxford University.

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THE BOOK OF REVELATION

#602 THE BOOK OF REVELATION

Scripture Revelation

Timeline/Series: Bible Study, Book of Revelation

Introduction

Preface 1:1-8

I. The Lamb 1:9-20

II. The Lamb and the Churches 2:1-3:22

A. Ephesus—Identification, Commendation, Complaint, Warning, Promise, Counsel, Judgment

B. Smyrna

C. Pergamum

D. Thyatira

E. Sardis

F. Philadelphia

G. Laodicea

III. The Lamb and the Sealed Book 4:1-5:14

A. The Sovereign 4:1-11

B. The Redeeming Lamb 5:1-14

1- Purchased for God v9

2- Through His blood

3- For all

4- Establishes a kingdom v10

IV. The Lamb Opens the Seals 6:1-11:19

A. The Title Deed to Souls

1- First Seal, White Horse: Conquest 6:1-2

2- Second Seal, Red Horse: W ar 6:3-4

3- Third Seal, Black Horse: Famine 6:5-6

4- Fourth Seal, Pale Horse: Pestilence 6:7-8

5- Fifth Seal, Martyred Saints: Persecution 6:9-11

6- Sixth Seal, Earthquake: Judgment 6:12-17

B. Provisions for the Redeemed 7:1-17

1- The Redeemed of Israel 7:1-8

2- The Redeemed of the Nations 7:9-17

C. The Final Seal, Incense: Victory 8:1-5

1- Interlude 8:1-2

2- Incense 8:3-5

a) First Trumpet/Woes upon land 8:7

b) The Second Trumpet/Upon the sea 8:8

c) The Third Trumpet/Upon fresh waters 8:1

d) The Fourth Trumpet/Upon the heavens 8:12

e) The Fifth Trumpet/The foes of God’s people face natural calamity, internal decadence 9:1-12

f) The Sixth Trumpet/External invasion 9:13-21 (See Gibbon, The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire)

D. Announcement of Retribution 10:1-11:13

1- The angel and the seven thunders 10:1-7

a) The trumpets are warning enough

b) The time of the end has come

c) No more delay 10:6

2- The little book 10:8-11

3- Measuring the temple 11:1-2

4- The two witnesses 11:3-13

5- The Seventh Trumpet, Covenant 11:14-19

V. The Lamb and the Conflict 12:1 –20:10

A. The Radiant Woman and Her Children 12:1-2, 5-6, 14-17

B. The Red Dragon and his forces 12:3, 4, 7-9

C. Michael 12:7

1 Gibbon, E. (1996). The history of the decline and fall of the Roman empire (D. Womersley, Ed.). Penguin Classics.

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THE PERSEVERING SAVIOUR Thyatira

#225 THE PERSEVERING SAVIOUR

Thyatira

Scripture Revelation 2:18-29, NIV Orig. 3/6/1989

Passage: 18 To the angel of the church in Thyatira write: These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze. 19 I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first. 20 Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. 21 I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. 22 So I will cast her on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways. 23 I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds. 24 Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan’s so-called deep secrets, ‘I will not impose any other burden on you, 25 except to hold on to what you have until I come.’

26 To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations— 27 that one ‘will rule them with an iron scepter and will dash them to pieces like pottery’[a]—just as I have received authority from my Father. 28 I will also give that one the morning star. 29 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

Purpose: Teaching a Bible study for adults from this material

Keywords: Bible Study

Timeline/Series: Revelation Letters Thyatira

Introduction

We first encountered Thyatira as a small but important industrial city. It was known for works in clay, leather, bronze, and for its dyes and dyeing. I grew up in small, Southern, cotton-mill towns in Georgia, Alabama. There were even trade guilds in Thyatira for these labor groups.

We came upon this city in Acts 16:14. Paul was in Philippi. Lydia heard him preach. She believed, invited Paul [and] party, to her home, and this church may be the result. Lydia was the first recorded convert to Christianity on European soil.

I. Persevering Sovereignty. V18 “These things saith the son of God, who hath his eyes like a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass.”

Qualifications of sovereignty. The Son of God: see Luke 1:35 (birth); see Mark 9:7 (Annunciation); see John 19:7 (crucifixion); see I John 4:15 (faith/link); omniscience: See Proverbs 15:3 (eyes of the Lord); see Acts 1:24 (knoweth the hearts); see Hebrews 4:13 (all things).

The message delivered out of sovereignty.

· He knows all the good being done.

· He knows all of their failures.

· He knows always when repentance is needed.

II. Persevering Repentance. V20f “Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, . . . And I gave . . . space to repent . . . and she repented not.”

Repentance demands God’s view of sin. Uninitiated hear it sermonized, see sin in lives of loved ones, rationalize repentance. Come to see sin as sophistication, overzealousness.

We must understand that God’s sentence is on sin. Sin has within itself its own punishment. Jezebel: daughter of Ethbaal, Zidonian; married Ahab; I Kings 16:31f. II Kings 23: RG Lee “Payday Someday”; in any sexual deviation it is the family that hurts. Nothing shows God’s love like an offer to any Jezebel to repent. Only unbelief can not be forgiven. Rank heresies can be repented.

III. Persevering Truth. V23b “I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: I will give unto every one of you according to your works.” “Reins”—nephros, kidney (nephritis)—seat of emotions, feelings.

He refutes errant doctrine. “You who do not hold her teaching, Satan’s depths”: Satanic influence, Failure to deal with error; No evidence of Lydia, name probably not Jezebel. Jezebel didn’t try to stop Jehovah worship, she just wanted to add Baal worship.

He refuses to add to their teaching. V24b “I will put upon you no other burden.” Báros. Acts 15:28 “For it seemed good . . . that we lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things.”

Christ reaffirms His coming. V25 “That which you have, hold fast till I come.” They were to appraise the teaching. It will make a difference for us. I John 2:28, “. . . Abide in him, that when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.”

He ratifies a coming day of judgment. V26 “He that overcometh and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations.” Satan promised Jesus “power over the nations.” Matthew 4:8. It was a power not his to grant. It is in the power of Jesus.

Conclusion

Storm clouds are on the horizon. Those who are wise will recognize the dangers and prepare themselves for what is before them. People in Biloxi area threw “hurricane” parties.

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THYATIRA AND HER PERSEVERING SAVIOUR

#225 THYATIRA AND HER PERSEVERING SAVIOUR

Scripture Revelation 2:18-29, NIV Orig. 2/6/1966 (10/1978)

Rewr. 9/25/1988

Purpose: Continuing the Revelation Letter series calling attention to the Holy Spirit reminding believers of their need to possess their possessions.

Keywords: Christian Life Judgment Perseverance

Timeline/Series: Revelation Letters Thyatira

Introduction

We encounter Thyatira early in the New Testament textual materials. It was a small city compared to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, but a very important one. Important for its industry and labor intensity. It was known for works in clay, for the tanning of skins, for artisanship in bronze, as well as for dyes and dyeing. It should not surprise us to discover that there were trade guilds for each of these industries.

The first mention of Thyatira is noted in Acts 16:14. Paul was in Philippi of Macedonia on the second missionary journey. While preaching there, he was heard by “Lydia, a seller of purple in Thyatira.” At this time, she believed, and she and her household were baptized. Paul and those with him were invited to her home. It is entirely appropriate to believe that the church in Thyatira was begun in her home. Lydia was the first recorded convert to Christianity on European soil.

Amidst the trappings of such success, the church had its beginnings in that place. But later, other things precipitated a lapse into spiritual lethargy. There must be a return to spiritual fervor. As things now stand the danger is that they will begin to judge themselves, not by spiritual standards, but by material ones.

Perhaps the couplet from Aurora Leigh (Elizabeth Barrett Browning) describes what is happening: “Earth’s crammed with heaven, and every common bush aflame with God. But only those who see take off their shoes. The rest sit round it, and pluck blackberries.” (Book 7.) 1

I. Persevering Sovereignty. V18 “These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass.”

“What are the qualifications of such sovereignty? First He is called the Son of God. Identified at His birth. Luke 1:35 “Therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. At the annunciation (disciples), Mark 9:7 “. . . And a voice came out of the cloud saying. ‘This is my beloved son, hear him.’” It was the basis for the crucifixion, John 19:7 “. . . We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the son of God.” It sustains a strong link to faith. 1 John 4:15 “Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him and he in God.” He is all-knowing—“eyes like unto a flame of fire.” Genesis 16:13, Hagar [about] Ishmael “Thou God seest me!” Proverbs 15:3 “The eyes of the Lord are in every place beholding the evil and the good.” Acts 1:24 (selection) “Thou, Lord, which knoweth the hearts of all men.” Kardiognosta, [Greek for “heart-knower”]. Hebrews 4:13 “. . . All things are naked and open before the eyes of him [with] whom we have to do.”

As this Sovereignty relates to us today John 2:24 “He knew what was in man.” John 6:64 “Jesus knew who would believe not.” John 1:48 Nathaniel/He could read what was on people’s hearts. Also the woman of Samaria and Simon Peter (denial).

Consider the message that He speaks to them out of His sovereignty. He knows all the good things that they are doing. He knows the things that they are failing to do that they should. Some are believing. Others are driven from faith. They are to go to their knees in repentance.

II. We Come Next to Persevering Repentance. V20f “Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, . . . and I gave . . . space to repent . . . and she repented not.”

True repentance requires God’s view of sin. We too often see it as unimportant. We rationalize by other’s sins.

Why youth has such difficulty. They hear it sermonized but see sin in those they love. Ideologized from lack of experience. Experienced mainly through media sophisticates. Conclude that sin isn’t all that bad.

But try to see it from God’s point of view. He sees beyond the drunk driver to the accident waiting to happen. Picture in Newsweek 9/23/1985 mangled car (2 dead). Passed the gaiety of cocktail party to the home crushed under oppression of alcoholic mother/father. He sees marijuana become cocaine become death. Greg Louganis testimonial. He sees the cigarette/cancer link when its purveyors deny it. He sees sex experimentation become dissolution.

Do you remember why revivals were so important a few years ago? W.E. Sangster used to tell his revival audiences what revival would do: “It would pay old debts; reduce sexual immorality; disinfect the theater; cut the divorce rate; reduce juvenile crime; lessen the prison population; improve the quality, and increase the output of work; restore to the nation a high sense of destiny; make the nation invincible in the war of ideas; give happiness and peace to the people.”

It is time again to understand God’s sentence on sin. Sin has within itself the seedpod of punishment. Jezebel—Old Testament counterpart, daughter of Ethbaal, king of Zidonians/married Ahab (II Kings 23). Josiah’s revival revived them from this/RG Lee Payday Someday. Revived from worship of sexual deviation. The family unit is what is hurt the most.

Nothing quite shows the love of God quite like the offer to Jezebel to repent. All sin save that of unbelief is forgivable. Rank heresies can be repented of. Moonies/Cults (Jim Jones)/Satanism.

III. Finally, Persevering Truth. V23b “I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: I will give unto every one of you according to your works.” Nephros—reins (mind, thoughts).

First, He refutes errant doctrine. It is satanic influence. It is congregational ineptitude in refusing to confront it. Interpreting the error. Not a shred of evidence that this is Lydia. Name probably not Jezebel. Her influence was like that of Old Testament Jezebel on Ahab of Israel. She didn’t try to stop Jehovah-worship, she just wanted to include Baal-worship. Innumerable ways the church can face corrupting influences.

Christ refuses to add to their teaching. 24b “I will put upon you no other burden.” Acts 15 leaders in Jerusalem sent instructions to Antioch, Syria, Cilicia/v28. “For it seemed good unto the Holy Ghost and to us, that we lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things.”

Christ reaffirms His coming. V25 “But that which ye have already hold fast till I come.” Nothing sets us to the task at hand like a reappraisal of His coming. I John 2:28 “. . . abide in Him that when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.”

And lastly, He ratifies a day of judgment. V26 “And he that overcometh, and keepeth my work unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations.” Satan promised Jesus “power over the nations.” Matthew 4:8. A power not his to grant, But within Jesus’ power to grant. The promise of “the morning star.”

Conclusion

Thus, the ending is the call to faithfulness. They are to perceive the Christian life as one of obedience. A storm is on the horizon. They are to prepare themselves through faith for that tempest. The wise person is the one who learns of the dangers fraught in the storm and who prepares for the struggle to come. All of us have heard of the hurricane parties held in the face of impending dangers when a storm is announced.

1Browning, E. B. (1890) Aurora Leigh, a poem. New York: Worthington Co.

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FAITHFULNESS OR FORFEITURE Pergamum

#222 FAITHFULNESS OR FORFEITURE

Pergamum

Scripture Revelation 2:12-17, NIV Orig. 9-14-1978

Rewr. 3-6-1989

Passage: 12 “To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. 13 I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives. 14 Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality. 15 Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

17 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.

Purpose: Leading a Bible study for adults in Church Training

Keywords: Bible Study Revelation

Timeline/Series: Revelation Letters Pergamum

Introduction

An appropriate beginning place this evening is an overview of these seven letters. All consist of the same seven units. (Turn to one, follow.)

1. Superscription to the church. 1, 8, 12, 18, 1, 7, 14

2. Description of the divine author.

3. Account of spiritual condition. 1

4. Message of praise or censure.

5. Exhortation of some special need.

6. Promise to the one overcoming. 7, 11, 17, 26, 5, 12, 21

7. Attention commanded to Spirit.

With that we come to Pergamos, the sensual church, the church in the world. Its name speaks of unholy union. Name means “very thoroughly married.” We encounter a church in a very worldly city more caught up in the city and its enterprises than in her Lord.

I. Reminder of the Spirit’s Passion to Protect. V12 “These things saith he that hath the sharp sword with two edges.”

The knowledge of their Lord is complete. He knows. He wills to protect (faith/failure). He does not hesitate to chide.

His weapon is two-edged sword. For care: to chasten. One for war; one for wit. Same blade to prune, to cut away the churlish undergrowth.

He knows the circumstance in Pergamos. Pliny: “The most famous city in Asia.” Provincial capital for 400 years (from 133b). Library of 200,000 parchment rolls, vellum invented here: Aristophanes [librarian of Alexandria was] enticed. Ptolemy locked him up. Religious center: Acropolis; Altar-Zeus; Asclepios, god of healing; center for emperor worship. “Where Satan’s seat.”

One other thought on “sword”: proconsul had right of sword over lives of people. They had protector.

II. A Record of Those Who Are Faithful to Obey. V13 “I know where thou dwellest, . . . and thou holdest fast my name, and didst not deny my faith.”

Word for “live” suggests permanent residency. Believers often looked upon as sojourners, outsiders. Smyrna—“I know you.” Pergamos—“I know where you live.”

In the midst of such surroundings they were faithful. Works are seen as commitment under fire. Some were making supreme sacrifice.

Pergamum puts me in mind of New Orleans. “The city that care forgot”—Mardi Gras—“Fat City.” Twelve pastors in New Orleans still, who were before me. Nolan Johnson died at his desk.

III. A Reaction Against Satanic Influence. V14 “Thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, . . . So . . . also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans.”

Old Testament reference to Balaam. Doctrine—“teaching about”; See Numbers 23: temptation of Israel to idol worship.

Reference to Nicolaitans: prior in 2:6: compare Ephesians 4:14f, 5:11 “Have no fellowship with unfruitful works of darkness.”

IV. A Reminder of Individual Christian Duty. V15 “Repent; or else I will come to thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.”

As at Ephesus, they were to repent. There, they were technically correct, but had an unloving spirit. Here an error pervaded their witness, and went unchallenged.

The weapon of discipline is the same as the weapon of defense. 1:16 “Out of his mouth . . . a sharp double-edged sword”; 19:15 “Out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword; that with it he should smite the nations.” The sword of Rome was in heavy use. By His word Christ would win the war.

Two promises for the overcomers. The hidden manna: (Exodus 16:32f/Hebrews 9:4): secreted by Jeremiah (II Maccabees) to be restored to the Messiah. The white stone: mined near, used extensively—Tried and acquitted of crime; freed from slavery; victor in the games; warrior home from wars.

***THE REMAINDER OF THIS SERMON HAS BEEN LOST***

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THE UNVEILING OF JESUS CHRIST

#239 THE UNVEILING OF JESUS CHRIST

Scripture Revelation 1:1-8, NIV Orig. 2/5/1989

`` Rev. 10/17/1999

Attached: 10/17/1999 for Alabama Baptist Church

Passage: Prologue 1 The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, 2 who testifies to everything he saw—that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

Greetings and Doxology 4 John, To the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits[a] before his throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.

To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, 6 and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.

7 “Look, he is coming with the clouds,”[b]
and “every eye will see him,
even those who pierced him”;
and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.”[c]
So shall it be! Amen.

8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”

Purpose: Continuing a Revelation study for adults in Church Training, here unveiling the Christ whom John has known.

Keywords: Bible Study Parable Christ the Lord Revelation

Timeline/Series: Revelation

Introduction

We talked last week about our own comprehension of the importance of this book. The little test was designed to fix a value quotient in your minds. It was interesting that you assigned a much higher value than many believers would have done, and it was established that most of us have read through The Revelation on our own recently.

You may not be aware, however, that the book itself encourages us. Though many of its symbols seem strange to us, most are explained in the book or in some part of the Bible.

Daniel, you recall, was told to “seal up” the words of his prophecy until the “time of the end” (Daniel 12:4). This was not the end of time, but the “time” of the end of the gentiles. John, however, reverses that predilection. He says that the words of this “prophecy” are not to be “sealed” for “the time is at hand” (Revelation 22:10).

Herbert Lockyer1 (A36p359) makes an interesting point about the symbolism of this book. He says that this symbolism in the early chapters is related to Christ and his church; in the middle chapters, to Israel; and in the concluding chapters, to the nations.

The material is apocalyptic, meaning that veiled messages are being revealed. It is prophetic, meaning that it deals with both the declaration of the unknown, and boldly proclaiming what is known. And its symbolism suggests the parabolic. And a parable, you remember, is a story with a hidden meaning.

I. The Outline of Chapter One May be Perceived as Follows:

· Seeing what John saw, a risen, glorious Lord.

o Introduction vv1-3

o The Christ John knew vv4-8 lo

o The Christ John heard vv9-11

o The Christ John saw vv12-18

o Conclusion vv19-20

· It is interesting that the chapter begins with a constitution and ends with a commission.

o Constitution v1—“The Revelation of Jesus Christ which God gave to show to his servants.”

o Commission v19—“Write.”

· We have reason to look at a brief overview of the book.

o The things which thou hast seen 1:9-20

o The things which are [ch] 2,3

o The things which shall come to pass [ch] 4-22

II. A Brief Look at Symbols Unveiled

First, our Lord’s nature. Alpha and Omega, Lord, Word, Jesus, Christ, King, Master, Lamb, Lion, Bridegroom, Morning Star.

Secondly, Jesus’ activities. (1)He chastens the church. (2)Restores the Jews. (3)Judges the world. (4)Judges Satan and his host. (5)Judges the wicked. (6)As King He reigns.

Finally, His relations. (1)To the Father. (2)To the Holy Spirit. (3)With angels, saints, sinners, heaven, earth, and hell.

III. A Further Look at the Constitution. “The Revelation . . . blessing the one reading, hearing, . . . and keeping these words for the time is at hand.”

They are things shortly coming to pass. Does John mean soon, quickly, in the near future, with speed? He “must” John 4:4. With “speed,” “suddenness” may be best. The idea is “with little warning.” Keep Peter’s scale (II Peter 3:8) in mind.

The Revelation Beatitude of which there are 7. “Blessed is he”—1:3, 16:15, 20:6, 22:7. “Blessed are they”—19:9, 22:14. “Blessed are the dead”—14:13. We would do well to remember here that the blessing is for those who “read” and “hear,” that “keep these words.”

Remember that the “time is at hand.” Again, from 22:10. Remember, this was first of all a message of hope for believers then. Written during 90-95 in time of persecution. Domitian died in 96 A.D., and persecutions would never be so bad again.

III. The Christ John Knew, Vv 4-8

V4 “John to the seven churches which are in Asia: grace and peace unto you from the One who is, and was, and will be, and from the seven spirits before His throne; and from Jesus.”

While John doesn’t talk about a “trinity,” he shows his perception of the godhead—the eternal One; the mediating One “seven spirits”; Jesus.

               His message to the seven churches is of grace and peace.  “Grace”—chári---unmerited favor.  “Peace”—eiríni—to rest in God.

               The seven spirits.  Remember that the number seven represents completeness.  Isaiah (11:2) describes such spirit: spirit of the Lord, wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, fear of Lord.

               He thus describes his Christ.  Faithful witness—martus.   First begotten of the dead.  Ruler of kings (archó̱n).   John’s doxology: unto him that loved/washed/loosed, whether washed or loosed through the blood.  We are kings, priests in him before God, to Jesus be glory/dominion forever.  Back to the kingship of Jesus, recall that the reason for persecution was the obligation to call Caesar “Lord.”  Only One, Jesus, could hold that title.

               Now a word of Jesus’ return.  Declared by Jesus” Matthew 10:23, 16:28, 24:27, 42.  Acts (1:11) so opens “This same Jesus.”  Paul (I Corinthians 3:4), I Peter 5:4, Jude 14, James 5:8, Hebrews 10:37.  John’s description of his coming.  Precision—“with clouds.”  Preparation—“every eye”: “joy”—they “pierced,” “judgment.”  Proclamation—“all will wail”: unbeliever—judgment; believer—reminded of cost, of things undone, of loved ones lost, of joy in fulfillment.

               As a reminder of whose revelation this is, then Christ speaks. “I am alpha and omega, the beginning and ending.”  First and last letters in Greek alphabet; a commonly used phrase for completeness; an acknowledgment of His eternality; a secondary reference to His coming; a reminder again of His place in the godhead.

Refer to seven truths—Robinson (R30p152). (1)Sovereignty of God. (2)Lordship of Jesus. (3)Centrality of a community of saints in mankind. (4)Divine meaning of history, his-story. (5) Crises: struggle between good and evil. (6)Perennial: final judgment. (7)Sure goal of history.

Conclusion

We spoke briefly about the number seven as a reference to completeness. Let’s look a little further. Pythagoras (R30p150) the mathematician started a system of religion in which religious values were equated with numbers. One (1) was for unity, wholeness, aloneness. Two (2) meant companionship, courage, increased strength. Three (3) was divine number (Judaism, eastern). Four (4) cosmic number (N.E.W.S.) universe/world. Seven (7) the number of completeness. Add four/three. Found 54 times in Revelation. What would six be? (less than perfection)=666. Ten (10) human completeness (fingers/toes). Twelve (12) organized religion (three times four) tribes, apostles.

For Alabama Baptist Church on 10/17/1999: Revelation Letters

Superscription to the church—“To the angel of the church in Smyrna.”

2:1, 8, 12, 18; 3:1, 7, 14

Description of the divine author—“These are the words of Him who is the first and the last.”

2:1, 8, 12, 18; 3:1, 7, 14

Account of their spiritual conditions—“I know your afflictions and your poverty.”

2:2, 9, 13, 19; 3:1, 8, 15

Message of praise or censure—“Do not be afraid.”

2:2-4, 9-10, 13-14, 19-20; 3:1-2, 8, 15-16

Exhortation of some special need—“Do not be afraid.”

2:4, 10, 16, 20-22; 3:3, 9, 16

Promise to the one overcoming—“Be faithful . . . and I will give you the crown of life.”

2:7, 10, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 20

Attention commanded to the Spirit—“He who has an ear let him hear.”

2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22

1Lockyer, H. (1980). Revelation: Drama of the Ages. Eugene, OR: Harvest House.

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SMYRNA, SAVED TO SUFFER

#219 SMYRNA, SAVED TO SUFFER

Scripture Revelation 2:8-11 NIV Orig. Date 1/23/1966

Rewr. Dates 9/12/1986

Attached: 10/17/1999 for Alabama Baptist Church

Passage: 8 “To the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. 9 I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.

11 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.

Purpose: Continuing a series from the Revelation letters, showing how a church under severe persecution was secure in the care of God.

Keywords: Church Faithfulness Suffering

Timeline/Series: Revelation Letters

Introduction

Smyrna is the only one of the cities listed among these seven that still survives. It is the modern Turkish city of Izmir. It was near to Ephesus, about 35 miles north on the Aegean coast. Documents survive that tell of Polycarp, an early pastor, and his martyrdom.

The following account of Polycarp’s death is recorded in Bettenson’s Documents of the Christian Church1:

Polycarp was brought before the proconsul in the stadium at Smyrna. At the time it was filled with a mob, itching for a blood-letting.

Proconsul: “Curse the Christ.”

Polycarp: “Eighty-six years have I served Him and He hath done me no wrong; how can I blaspheme my king who saved me?”

Proconsul: “Swear by the genius of Caesar.”

Polycarp: “I am a Christian.”

Proconsul: “I have wild beasts, repent or I will throw you to them.”

Polycarp: “Send for them, for repentance from better to worse is not a change permitted us.”

Proconsul: “I will make thee to be consumed by fire if thou repentest not.”

Polycarp: “Thou threatenest the fire that burns for an hour and in a little while is quenched; for thou knowest not the fire of judgment to come, and the fire of eternal punishment reserved for the ungodly.”1

I. The Text First Tells of Smyrna’s Saviour.

The church needed to know that this message was from the Lord. V8 “These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive.” To Ephesus—It had been the One walking “amidst . . . seven golden candlesticks.” Ephesus needed to remember sovereignty. Smyrna needed the message of hope in face of tribulation.

The message was with great clarity The One dead for their sin. The One alive to make intercession.

We need to be reminded about this church. The name Smyrna means myrrh. Myrrh had to be crushed to emit its fragrance. Not a church [in a] magnificent building but one gathering in caves and catacombs; hated, outlawed, persecuted.

The Lord reminds them of His positional sovereignty. He knows their works; tribulation, poverty, blasphemy of enemies. He knows how to counsel their struggles.

II. The Text Next Teaches of Smyrna’s Spirituality.

The spirituality of work: actually, the word “works” does not appear. The rendering is “I know you.” In the Christian faith, there is no difference between us and our works.

The spirituality of tribulation: literally, the pressure of crushing weight, used of woman in childbirth, city under siege. 2 Corinthians 1:6: “And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation.” See 2 Corinthians 11;24-30.

The spirituality of poverty: it is the term for one destitute of wealth. 2 Corinthians 8:9 “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.” Luke 6:20 “Blessed are ye poor.” They live in an antagonistic environment. Think of the Jews during World War II. Blacks in South Africa today. Believers in Russia.

Penia—one who has nothing extra. Ptocheia—one who has nothing. Christians were from lower classes, often were slaves.

III. The Text Goes on to Describe Smyrna’s Satanic Surroundings. V9 “I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are of the synagogue of Satan.”

There were ex-church members who became Jews to prevent losing their few possessions. Their problems were brought on by Jews. Antioch—Acts 13:50; Iconium—Acts 14:2,5; Lystra—Acts 14:19; Thessalonica—Acts 17:5. The Christian does not have the option of anti-semitism: Christ was a Jew.

These were, in reality, Jews who had sold out their religious heritage by worshiping the emperor. Romans 2:28-29 “For he is not a Jew which is one outwardly. . . . But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter. . . .”

IV. The Teaching Goes on to Include Smyrna’s Suffering. V10 “The devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried, and ye shall have tribulation ten days.”

Tribulation—same word as before.

The significance of “Ten.” Literal ten days; ten imperial persecutions—from Nero (64 AD to 312 AD) there were ten imperial persecutions; a brief period; extreme, complete persecution.

Remember significance of name—myrrh. They would be cast into prison. Prisons were to await execution. Matthew 10:28 “Fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul.”

The futurists believe that Smyrna represented the church age between AD 170-312.

V. Finally, the Text Declares Smyrna’s Salvation. V10 “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. Not the diadema (royal crown) but the stephanos (victor wreath).

Smyrna was famous for its games (Olympic). Location of Mt. Pagos—crown of Smyrna.

The promise to the overcomer. V11 “He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.” Shall not, never. “Second death”—Rabbinic term for death of wicked in next world. Death in the sense of physical demise. Romans 6:23 “Wages of sin is death.” Death in the sense of final punishment. Death in the sense of unpardonable sin.

Conclusion

Here having our first encounter with numbers we are required to deal with what we may expect. Later we will encounter 666, the number of the beast, the facilitation of evil. It is so because it comes short of the perfect number 777. When Nero Caesar was transposed into Hebrew from Greek, the number assignments totaled 666. The name Jesus, totaled 888. By contrast, we see the personification of evil in Nero; and the personification of good in Christ (888). We will have much to learn from these number evaluations as they appear in Revelation.

For Alabama Baptist Church on 10/17/1999: Revelation Letters

Superscription to the church—“To the angel of the church in Smyrna.”

2:1, 8, 12, 18; 3:1, 7, 14

Description of the divine author—“These are the words of Him who is the first and the last.”

2:1, 8, 12, 18; 3:1, 7, 14

Account of their spiritual conditions—“I know your afflictions and your poverty.”

2:2, 9, 13, 19; 3:1, 8, 15

Message of praise or censure—“Do not be afraid.”

2:2-4, 9-10, 13-14, 19-20; 3:1-2, 8, 15-16

Exhortation of some special need—“Do not be afraid.”

2:4, 10, 16, 20-22; 3:3, 9, 16

Promise to the one overcoming—“Be faithful . . . and I will give you the crown of life.”

2:7, 10, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 20

Attention commanded to the Spirit—“He who has an ear let him hear.”

2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22

1 Bettenson, H. (Ed.), (1967) Documents of the Christian Church (1st edition). Oxford: Oxford University.