THE APOCALYPSE AND THE TEMPLE CODE

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THE PERRY STONE INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED BIBLICAL STUDIES

BREAKING THE APOCALYPSE CODE

Unlocking future prophetic mysteries predicted in the book of Revelation, and understanding how ancient Feasts, Temple, and Priestly codes unlock clues to the Apocalypse

Perry Stone, Jr.

This prophetic teaching syllabus contains outlines and study notes on the subject, “ Breaking the Apocalypse Code. ” These outlines were prepared by Perry Stone and used in his seven DVD teaching series on the book of Revelation. This manual is designed to accompany the DVD series as a home Bible study teaching aid. Copyright 2012 by Voice of Evangelism Ministries, Cleveland, Tennessee. All rights reserved. No part of this study manual or the DVD series may be stored in a retrieval system or reproduced in any form or by any means, including Internet and video websites. However, we do encourage individuals to study to show themselves approved unto God, teaching and preaching the truths that they glean from this study.

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SESSION ONE

THE APOCALYPSE CODE AND THE HEAVENLY TEMPLE

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THE APOCALYPSE CODE AND THE HEAVENLY TEMPLE

The book of Revelation is called the Apocalypse , or in Greek the Apokalupsis , meaning the uncovering of what is hidden .

Why don’t more people study Revelation or ministers preach from it? Some believe:

  

The symbolism is too confusing The message is too negative The prophecy has already occurred

A. The book of Revelation is interpreted 5 different ways:

1. The Preterist interpretation – end-time prophetic events were fulfilled in the 1 st century

2. The Historical interpretation – events were fulfilled from the 1 st century to the return of Christ

3. The Allegorical interpretation – the book is an allegory, symbolizing battles between good and evil

4. The A-millennial interpretation – the book represents seven phases of church history

5. The Futuristic interpretation – events from chapters 4 to 22 deal with the tribulation

After decades of studying the Bible, I view chapters 4 to 22 as futuristic .

B. All Bible prophecy is primarily addressed to one of four groups:

The Message to

The Person(s)

The References in Revelation

1. Individuals

the pastors

Revelation chapters 2 and 3 Revelation chapters 7 and 12 Revelation chapters 8, 9, 15, 16 Revelation chapters 2 and 3

2. Israel the Nation the Jewish people

3. Gentile Nations

the judgments

4. The Church

the seven churches

The Apocalypse reveals God ’s blessings/judgments for the Church, Israel, and Gentile nations.

C. Definition of Important Terms

Biblical Prophet:

A Biblical prophet is a God-called man who, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, could foresee into the future, often through dreams or visions, and relate them through inspired utterances.

Biblical Prophecy:

Biblical prophecy is the writings of holy men of God, as recorded in the Scriptures, which predict events, often thousands of years before they come to pass.

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Eschatology:

Eschatology comes from eschatos , meaning “ last, utmost, or extreme ,” and the word logos , meaning “ word .” Eschatology means the last word, or a study of last things.

The Apocalypse:

Apocalypse is from the Greek word a pokalupsis , meaning “ to uncover or unveil what is hidden .” It is the Greek name given for the book of Revelation, which was a vision given to the apostle John. The book was originally written in Greek.

Apocalyptic Literature:

Both Jewish and Christian history is filled with apocalyptic literature. Some literature is called pseudepigrapha, defined as literature written by someone else who attributed authorship to a holy man or prophet. Apocalyptic literature consists of both Biblical and non-Biblical books.

Jewish Literature

Christian Bible and Tradition

Book of Enoch Book of Jubilees

Book of Revelation

Book of Daniel

Testament of the Twelve Patriarchs

Books of Ezekiel, Isaiah, Zechariah, etc.

The Sibylline Oracles

Book of Enoch

Book of Jasher

The Shepherd of Hermes

Ascension of Moses

The Didache

Note: The Bible is the only source of true inspiration (2 Tim. 3:16, 2 Pet.1:21)

D. The Apocalypse is a vision divided into twenty-two chapters

1. This vision is a summary of Old Testament prophets ’ predictions about the end of days

a. The vision reveals the combined prophecies of Biblical predictions about the time of the end

Visions of Ezekiel and John

 Both were priests or linked to the priesthood  Both were held captive against their will  Both were near water when their visions occurred  Both saw heaven open and saw visions of God

- Ez. 1:3 - Ez. 1:1 - Ez. 1:1 - Ez. 1:26 - Ez. 1:10 - Ez.1:26 - Ez.1:28 - Ez. 2:10 - Ez. 3:1 - Ez. 9:4

- History - Rev. 1:9

- Aegean Sea

- Rev. 4:2 - Rev. 4:7 - Rev. 4:3 - Rev. 4:3

 Both saw the four-faced living creatures

 Both saw the throne of God and the God of the throne

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Both saw a rainbow around the throne

 Both saw a scroll filled with woes and troubles  Both were told to eat a scroll and prophesy  Both saw angels mark the heads of the righteous

- Rev. 6

- Rev. 10:9 - Rev. 7:1-3

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 Both saw the judgments strike Israel and Jerusalem

- Ez. 14

- Rev. 11:13 - Rev. 12:17

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Both saw a Jewish remnant

- Ez. 12:16

2. The vision reveals the types of judgments against the nations

a. Rev. 5-7 There are six judgments released from a seven-sealed book b. Rev. 8-10 There are six judgments released by seven angels with trumpets c. Rev. 16 There are six judgments released by seven angels with vials or bowls d. On the 7 th seal there is silence and the seven angels with trumpets are released. e. On the 7 th trumpet the 7 th angel says, “The kingdoms of the world belong to Christ. ” f. On the 7 th vial judgments the 7 th angel says, “It is done.”

3. The vision contains many references that originate in the Old Testament

The Apocalyptic Vision

The Old Testament Reference

 Woman clothed with the sun, moon and stars (12:1) Joseph’s vision in Gen. 37:9-10  A great tribulation for 42 months (11:2; 13:5) Daniel revealed the time in Dan. 7:25  Gog and Magog battle (20:8) Ezekiel 38 and 39  Michael fighting Satan in a cosmic war (12:7) Daniel spoke of Michael in Dan. 12:1  The beast with ten horns (13:1) Daniel’s vision in Daniel 7:7; 20; 24  The battle of Armageddon (16:16) Zech. 14:1-2-3  The binding of Satan in the abyss/pit (20:2-3) Isaiah ’s prediction in Isa. 14:15  The return of the Messiah to Jerusalem (19-20) Zechariah’s prediction in Zech. 14:4-5

Key: John’s vision pulls it all together (like taking chapters and combining them for one book)

THE INTRODUCTION TO REVELATION

Revelation is the only book in the entire Bible that is completely Apocalyptic in nature. In early history it was called, The Apocalypse of John, The Apocalypse of the Theologian , and the Revelation of Jesus Christ .

Main Verses : Revelation 1:1-8

A. The author of the book (John)

1. John was given care of Mary (John 19:25-27) and the apostles left Jerusalem in 37- 44 AD 2. John settled in Ephesus with Mary (67 AD ) ; lived there 27 years; then he was arrested at age 90 3. John penned his name 3 times (Rev.1:1; 1:4 and 1:9) 4. John wrote the book from Patmos, an island off the coast of Turkey (Rev. 1:9) 5. John was a political prisoner on the island (tradition says for about 18 months) 6. About 93 AD, John was arrested and went to Rome; he was boiled in oil and survived 7. After his survival, the Emperor Domitian ordered him banished to Patmos

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B. The worst political prisoners were taken to Patmos, an island in the Aegean Sea

1. It was located 24 miles off the coast of Asia Minor (now Turkey) and 60 miles from Ephesus 2. It was 10 miles long and 6 miles wide; the coast was jagged rocks 3. John lived in an abandoned cave on top of the island acropolis overlooking the Aegean Sea 4. There was a niche where John slept; it was cal led the “Cave of the Revelation” 5 . A “c ompanion in tribulation ” means “ excruciating distress and pressure ” 6. In 2 BC the island was dedicated to Hermes , the “messenger of the gods”

C. Authentication of the book by the early church fathers

1. Irenaeus (AD 103-202) stated the Apocalypse was written at the end of Domitian’s reign 2. Clement (AD 150-215) said John returned from Patmos after Domitian died (AD 96) 3. Origen (AD 185-254) believed it was written in the time of Domitian 4. Domitian accepted emper or worship and called himself “lord and god” in his letters 5. Saint Jerome mentioned the history of John on Patmos

Note: If the passion was AD 32, then 68 years later would be AD 100

D. The activity of the book

Main Verse : Revelation 1:19

1. The things you have seen 2. The things which are 3. The things which shall be

- Revelation chapter 1

- the resurrected Christ

- Revelation chapters 2 and 3 - Revelation chapters 4 through 22

- the seven churches in Asia - the events in the future

THE PROPHETIC NATURE OF REVELATION

A. The prophetic symbolism of the book

1. The lamb is Christ in 26 of 27 verses

- Rev. 5:6 - Rev. 12:9 - Rev. 17:1

2. The dragon is Satan

3. The harlot on the beast is a false religious system 4. The beast with heads and horns is a final world empire

- Rev. 13:1 and 17

5. The woman giving birth is Israel

- Rev. 12:1

B. The prophetic purpose of the symbolism

1. Prophetic symbolism is found throughout apocalyptic literature such as Daniel and Revelation 2. Prophetic symbolism was used to veil the meaning , especially from the enemies of the Jews 3. Prophetic symbolism is used to allow the wise to search out the truth (Prov. 25:2) 4. Prophetic symbolism is found in the numbers, colors, and imagery of the animal symbols

Note: The Bible interprets itself and Revelation and Daniel are twin books in symbolism!

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C. The prophetic order of the book

1. John is viewing three realms at once

a. John sees in heaven b. John sees on earth

- from inside the heavenly Temple (4:1) - from inside Israel, Jerusalem, and the nations - from inside the abyss (bottomless pit)

c. John sees under the earth

Note: Chapter 11 (Jerusalem), chapter 12 (the wilderness), and chapter 13 (Jerusalem)

D. Prophetically interpreting the vision of Revelation

1. The vision reveals four central revelations

a . It is a revelation of earth’s f inal seven y ears (Daniel’s 70 th week) b. It is a revelation of the final judgments predicted by Old Testament prophets c. It is revelation of the Messiah returning to earth , setting up His Kingdom d . It is a revelation of God’ s eternal plan for His people (everything ends in eternity)

2. The vision reveals Christ’s three fold heavenly ministry

a. John reveals Jesus Christ as High Priest b. John reveals Jesus Christ as Judge c. John reveals Jesus Christ as King d. He was called a Prophet on earth e. He has been a Priest since His ascension f. He will be the King for one thousand years

- Rev. 1:12-18 - Rev. 14:14-20 - Rev. 19:11-16 - Matt. 13:57 - Heb. 4:14-16 - Rev. 19:11-16

3. The vision reveals the “Temple C ode ” throughout the Apocalypse

a. The seven feasts were rehearsals for future events b. The earthly Temple rituals were a reflection of what would occur in the Heavenly Temple c. The Apocalypse reveals certain Temple rituals, customs, and patterns of the feasts

E. There is priestly imagery throughout the book

1. John ’s link to the priesthood in Jerusalem

a . John was acquainted with the High Priest b. John was allowed into the council chamber c. John took Mary to his own house in Jerusalem

- John 18:15-18 - John 18:15-16

- John 19:27

2 . John’s priestly knowledge is revealed in the book

a. Certain verses have allusions to the seven feasts b. Certain verses have allusions to ancient Temple rituals c. Certain verses have allusions to priestly customs

- Rev. 7:9 - Rev. 8:3

- Rev. 16:15

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F. The earthly Tabernacle was patterned from the Heavenly Temple

1. There were four main groups present at the earthly Temple

a. The Chief Priest

- the High Priest

- Lev. 21:10 - Num. 1:50

b. Levites

- the Temple ministers - the night watchmen - those offering sacrifices

c. Watchmen d. Israelites

- Isa. 62:6

- Levi. 23:42

2. The four classes of people at the Heavenly Temple

a. The High Priest b. The Levites c. The Church d. The Israelites

- Jesus Christ - the 24 elders

- Heb. 9:11 - Rev. 4:4 - Rev. 1:6 - Rev. 14:1

- the Saints

- the Jewish Remnant

INTRODUCTION TO THE VISION OF JOHN

Rev. 1:4 - The book begins with grace (a Greek greeting) and peace (a Hebrew greeting) Rev. 1:4 - From Christ to the seven churches in Asia (area of Turkey today)

Main Verse : Revelations 1:9-11

A. John was “in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day” (Rev. 1:10)

1. Some teach it was the Sabbath Day

- He would have said the “ Sabbath day ” - He would have said, “First day of the week” - The day of God’s judgment (Dan. 9:27)

2. Some teach it was Sunday

3. Some teach it was the “Day of the Lord”

Note: In the Greek time, the first day of each month was called the “Imperial Day,” when the emperor was celebrated. This is the possible meaning, as the real King (Christ) is revealing Himself as the true King and is revealing His day – the Day of the Lord – that was coming!

B. Two “ days ” alluded to in the New Testament

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The Day of Christ The Day of the Lord

1. The Day of Christ - (the catching away)

The Day of Christ can allude to the return and the gathering together of the saints

a. Phil. 1:10 b. Phil. 2:16 c. 2 Thess. 2:2 d. 2 Cor. 1:14 e. 1 Cor. 5:5

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Note: This refers to the day Christ returns. We are s aved “in the day . ”

2. The Day of the Lord (refers to the tribulation)

a. 1 Thess. 5:2-4 b. 2 Pet. 3:10

3. The Old Testament prophets saw the Day of the Lord

a. Isa. 2:12 b. Isa. 13:6 c. Jer. 46:10 d. Joel 2:31 e. Amos 5:18

Note: The Day of Christ is when Christ gathers His saints to Himself. The Day of the Lord is when God judges the earth during the tribulation. In one day, Christ gathers His saints; and the same day, the tribulation begins. In one day, Christ will return to earth; and on that one day, Christ’s reign begins.

THE APOCALYPSE IS A REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST

Main verse : Revelation 1:1

A. The revelation of Christ (His positions)

1. In Revelation 1 2. In Revelation 4-6 3. In Revelation 8:1-5 4. In Revelation 14:1-4 5. In Revelation 19:7-9 6. In Revelation 19:14-16 7. In Revelation 20-22

He is the atoning High Priest

He is the Kinsman-Redeemer with the sealed book He is the Priest of judgment at the golden altar He is the High Priest presenting 144,000 (firstfruit Jews)

He is the Bridegroom celebrating with the bride He is the coming King of kings to rule on earth He is the Eternal King ruling from His city

B. The revelation of Christ as an “angel.”

1. He is the angel with the incense 2. He is the angel with the little book 3. He is the Son of man on the clouds

- Rev. 8:3 - Rev. 10:2 - Rev. 14:16

C. The revelation of Christ as the King of kings

1. Christ is now the High Priest, but will be crowned in the future as the King of kings 2. Christ will set up rule for 1,000 years in Jerusalem as King

D. The Heavenly Priesthood

1. The priesthood in the Old Testament

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a. The Melchizedek priest b. The Aaronic priesthood c. The Zadok priesthood

- Gen.14 - Exo. 29

- 1 Kings 1:32

2. The Priesthood of heaven in the New Testament

a. The High Priest (Christ)

- Heb. 3:1 - Rev. 1:6 - Rev. 4:4

b. The kingdom of priests (believers) c. The 24 courses of priests (24 elders)

3. The Priesthood of Christ

“The LORD hath sworn, an d will not repent, thou art a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” - Psalm 110:4

a. Melchizedek was both a king and a priest unto God in Jerusalem (Gen. 14) b. Christ is Priest but will become King in the future, ruling from Jerusalem (Zech. 14:5 and 9)

 In the Apocalypse, the High Priest (Christ) is becoming a King  In the Apocalypse, the High Priest is introducing judgments on the nations  As a Melchizedek Priest, He moves from the High Priest to King of kings (Heb.7:17-21)

E. The priestly garments

Christ is now the atoning Priest

1. The earthly garments

a. A pair of linen breaches

- Exo. 28:42 - Exo. 28:40 - Exo. 28:4 - Exo. 28:40

b. A coat from the shoulder to the floor c. A girdle about the chest to hold coat together

d. A linen bonnet on the head

Note: High Priest wore 8 garments for beauty/ 4 garments for atonement

2. The heavenly garments

a. Christ is wearing a white linen garment b. Christ appears to be barefoot c. Christ is wearing a gold belt d. Christ has feet of polished brass

- Rev. 1:13 - Rev. 1:13 - Rev. 1:13 - Rev. 1:15 - Rev. 1:16 - Rev. 1:18 - Rev. 1:18

e. Christ has a sharp two-edged sword from His mouth f. Christ was dead and is now alive forever g. Christ has the keys of death and hell (Hades)

 Barefoot: It appears the priest wore no shoes as the ground was holy (Exod. 3:5)

 Polished brass: brass and bronze signify judgment in OT and Christ ’s feet were polished by fire. He w ill trample all enemies “under His feet” through judgment.

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 The gold belt: “Girt about the paps” means “a wide belt in the upper mid - chest area.” Normal belts are worn around the waist. Kings often wore a large one in the upper chest area. The belt helped the robe to flow and meant dignity and honor when worn.

 Two-edged sword: Sharp in Greek is used to describe a sour vinegar or medical solution

used to stop severe pain (Mark 15:36); also to cleanse filthy wounds and stop infections. Christ used His words to get the filth, junk, and sickness out of the church. A two-edged sword was a Roman sword, long bladed on a pole to cut at a distance. It was sharp on both sides. The sharp curved sword could cut the enemy in half!

Note: John fell down like he was dead (1:17). See also Gen. 17:3; Josh. 5:14; Dan. 10:15

3. The heavenly garments and Christ’s present mi nistry

a. Christ is in white interceding for us continually at the Heavenly Temple (Heb. 7:25) b. Christ (the Priest) must stand to intercede. Stephen saw him standing (Acts 7:56) c. The High Priest remained in linen until the atonement was completed d. Christ has no crown in chapter one, but many crowns in Revelation chapter 19:12

THE VISION OCCURS AT THE HEAVENLY TEMPLE

A. God’s s even earthly dwellings:

1. He visited man in Eden (Gen 3:8) 2. The Tabernacle of Moses (Ex. 26-33) 3. The Tent of David (1 Chron. 15 & 16) 4. The Temple of Solomon (1 Kings 6 & 7) 5. The S econd Temple ( John 2:21) 6. The human body is the Temple of God (1 Cor. 3:16) 7. The church is His body on earth (1 Cor. 12:27)

B. God’s o ne heavenly dwelling:

1. The Throne room in heaven is a Heavenly Temple

a. In Isa. 6:1, Isaiah saw the Lord lifted up in His Temple b. In 2 Chron. 18:18, Micaiah saw the Lord sitting on His throne c. In Dan. 7:9, Daniel saw the Ancient of Days on His throne d. In Ezek. 1:26, Ezekiel saw the Lord on His throne

C. The Heavenly Temple

The throne room is the heavenly Temple. All activity in the Apocalypse centers here.

1. The sacred Temple in heaven (location)

a. The Temple is in the north (Isa. 14:13; Ps. 48:2; Ezek. 1:4)

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b. The Temple is situated on a mountain (Heb. 12:22) c. The throne of God is the center (Rev. 4:2-5) d. The Temple contains doors (Rev. 15:6; Isa. 6:1-4) e. The men and angels have access (Rev. 11:19; 15:8)

2. The sacred furniture in heaven

a. There is a Menorah in heaven (Rev. 1:12) b. There is a Golden Altar in heaven (Rev. 9:13) c. There is an Ark of His Covenant in heaven (Rev. 11:19)

3. The sacred furniture missing in heaven

a. There is no need for a brass altar; Christ was the final sacrifice b. There is no need for a laver; there is no need for cleansing or washing c. There is no showbread; Christ is the manna from heaven

THE THRONE OF GOD (mentioned 40 times)

Main Verse : Revelation 4:2-3

A. Description of the One on the throne

1. The sardius - first stone on the High Priest’s breastplate - Exod. 28:17 (a sardius) 2. The jasper - last stone on the High Priest’s breastplate - Exod. 28:20 (a jasper)

Jesus said “I am the Alpha and Omega , the First and the L ast.” (Rev. 1:8)

a. First stone was Reuben b. Last stone was Benjamin

- (behold a son)

- the sardius (Exod. 28:17) - the jasper (Exod. 28:20)

- (son of my right hand)

c. Emerald was the 4 th stone - (Judah ’s slot )

- the emerald (Exod. 28:18, KJV)

Traditions: Wearing an emerald kept a woman pure. It was a symbol of fidelity and a wedding stone in ancient times. Giving one expresses love, devotion and adoration. It was also a gift from the rich for the rich. (Modern Bible translations say turquoise was the 4 th stone; but in Jewish history, it was emerald.)

B. Details of the throne

Main verse : Revelation 4:5

a. Thunder b. Lightning

- This represents the voice of God (John 12:28-30) - This represents the power of God (Ps. 144:5-6) - This could be our praise (Rev. 4:5) - This represents the Covenant (Gen. 9:13)

c. Voices

d. Rainbow

Note: Revelation chapter one is a picture of the atoning priestly linen garments!

THE SEVEN LAMPS

Main verse : Revelation 1:20

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A. Christ is standing in the midst of the candlesticks (1:13)

1. The meaning of the seven-branched lamp stand

a. The ancient seven-branched candelabra of gold was called the Menorah – 6 ft. high b. Josephus said it was 100 pounds of gold, with hollow shafts, and 70 ornaments c. Josephus believed the 7 branches represented the 7 planets (including the sun/moon) d. Each bowl held one days worth of oil (it held three eggs)

2. The message of the seven lamp stands

a. The Menorah brought light to the inner court or holy place b. The seven branches represented the 7 churches in Revelation c. Christ is the light of the world (John 8:12) and we are to shine as lights (Phil. 2:12-16) d. The light was to burn continually; fresh oil was added daily (Lev. 24:2) e. Rabbis believe the Menorah is a symbol of the Torah and the Tree of Life f. The seven pipes (lamps) can represent the seven eyes of God over the earth g. There were seven known planets then: the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn

3. The Messiah and the seven lamps

a. The Menorah was to be cleaned, replenished with oil, and relit every day b. The western branch was to continually burn; others were lit from this one branch

THE MEANING OF THE SEVEN STARS

Main verses : Revelation 1:16, 20

A. The seven stars are the seven angels (messengers)

1. These are the seven pastors of the churches, and the message was to seven churches 2. 1,000 cities were in Asia Minor but these 7 were the largest and most pagan cities in the region 3. These 7 were the largest and most influential churches – Paul started many of them 4. Paul died (67 AD); John was the Bishop of these churches for 27 years

B. There may be a dual application

1. There were over 40 major churches in the time of the Apocalypse 2. These 7 stars are the imagery of the Pleiades (constellation) 3. The brightest star is al- cyone which means “the center” (an Arab belief) 4. It has one star surrounded by 7 stars called the “seven sisters” 5. It is located in the constellation of Taurus the bull (the bull was the priest ’ s offering) 6. The 7 churches were located at the base of the Taurus Mountains

Note: The ancient Persians believed 7 stars rising and setting determined beginning and ending of a voyage.

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C. T he “bright and morning star” is Christ (Rev. 22:16)

1. Venus is called the morning star and was named after the Roman goddess of love 2. Venus reaches its maximum brightness before sunrise and shortly after sunset 3. Some months it is first seen before the sun rises; it introduces a new day 4. On June 17 th , 2 BC, Venus seemed to be on a collision course with Jupiter (two brightest stars)

IN REVELATION CHAPTERS 2 AND 3, CHRIST IS PERFORMING A TEMPLE RITUAL

A. Christ is cleaning and relighting the Menorah

1. The lighting procedure of the Menorah at the Temple in Jerusalem

a. The priest was selected by casting lots; then he began a cleansing procedure b. The priest used gold tweezers and a gold jug of first pressed olive oil c. The procedure occurred prior to a new day beginning at the Temple’s morning service

In Revelation, this pictures a new day - the Lord’s Day or the Day of the Lord.

B. Jesus is trimming the Menorah (Revelation 2 and 3)

1. Jesus addressed seven churches located in Asia Minor (Rev. 2 and 3) 2. He rebuked five and commended two of the seven (Rev. 2 and 3) 3. He told one church their light would be snuffed out (Rev. 2:5)

C. Jesus taught to keep our lamps trimmed and burning

1. Our lights are to be continually burning (Luke 12:35) 2. We must keep oil in our lamps to keep the light burning (Matt. 25:7) 3. The Menorah needed fresh oil to continually burn (Exo. 27:20)

Note: As the priest first relit the Menorah – Christ is cleaning & relighting the church!

THE SEVEN CHURCHES IN REVELATION 2 AND

A. Details of the seven churches:

The City

The Reference

Meaning of the name of the City

1. Ephesus 2. Smyrna 3. Pergamos 4. Thyatira

Rev. 2:1-7 Rev. 2:8-11 Rev. 2:12-17 Rev. 2:18-29 Rev. 3:1-6 Rev. 3:7-13 Rev. 3:14-22

desirable

myrrh

height or elevation continual sacrifice

5. Sardis

a remnant

6. Philadelphia

brotherly love

7. Laodicea

the rights (rule) of the people

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B. Brief description of each church

1. The church at Ephesus:

a. It was the 4th greatest city in the world (with Rome, Alexandria, and Antioch) b. It was the largest city in Asia Minor with stadiums, schools of philosophy, temples, gyms c. The best of the seven cities located in a major city with a seaport and many tourists d. People came to see the temple of the Greek goddess Artemis that Romans called Diana e. Slavery, prostitution, bathhouses, and idol worship occurred throughout the city f. There were popular Gladiator fights at the 10,000 seat stadium

Note: Paul had a revival in Ephesus and wrote a powerful letter to the church at Ephesus

2. The church at Smyrna:

a. A seaport city; but the silt increased, making it difficult for ships to enter the ports b. It was wealthy city, with science, medicine and architecture

c. It was a political city and the Christians were poor and persecuted d. The chief goddess was Cybele and hers was the city’s largest temple

e. The followers marked a day when they cut themselves and danced to a frenzy f. The male priests were castrated , becoming “third gender”— not male or female g. Noted for oracles, where spirits would speak through a priestess (this was demonic) h. The saints were poor in material things but rich in their faith and love for the Lord i. An early Bishop of Smyrna was Polycarp, a disciple of John (served Christ 86 years)

Note: The stadium held 20,000 and for years was a site for executing Christians

3. The church at Pergamos

a. Pergamos means “elevation,” b uilt on a hill overlooking the city; Asia Mino r’s capita l b. The city had a temple to Caesar and also Zeus – a stronghold city for idols c. Patron goddess was Athena – she was believed to protect the city d. It was called t he “place where Satan dwells” and where “Satan’s seat” was located (2:13) e. Antipas, a believer, was martyred in this city. It was home of the Nicolaitans (2:15)

4. The church of Thyatira

a. Thyatira was located inland in Asia Minor and was known for its color dyes b. The city was built in a valley with many trade routes running through it c. In Acts 16:14, Lydia was a seller of cloth as far away as Philippi d. The chief deity was Apollo, who was said to be linked with the power of the sun e. They had allowed a Jezebel to seduce the men in the church (2:20)

5. The church at Sardis

a. Sardis was noted for its industry, including carpets; was destroyed by an earthquake b. Gold was found in the area and the kings were very wealthy c. They had a “Royal Road” connecting the city with Persian cities in the east d. The goddess Artemis was the chief deity and was revered as the “mother -goddess ”

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6. The church at Philadelphia

a. It was located at the foot of a mountain plateau in what is today West Central Turkey b. It was built on an important travel route linking the city with Laodicea to the south c. An earthquake struck in 17 AD, but it was rebuilt with help from Emperor Tiberius d. Agriculture, wool, wine making, and leather were the main industries

Note: Sardis and Philadelphia were both destroyed in 17 AD and had been rebuilt

7. The church at Laodicea

a. It was 40 miles from Ephesus and was steeped in Greek culture; had many earthquakes b. It had schools, libraries, and even a banking center and was quite well off financially c. Two salves were made (one for the ears and one for the eyes); a famous medical center Note: The one weakness was the water supply. Water had to be piped into Laodicea. Cold water could come from the abundant supply at Colossae, but by the time it traveled the ten or so miles from the cold springs, it was lukewarm. About six miles away in Hierapolis were hot springs, but that water, too, was lukewarm when it reached Laodicea. If they piped in either cold or hot water, it arrived at Laodicea lukewarm.

C. Each church was given a command to repent or continue in their obedience

1. These were rebuked: Ephesus, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, and Laodicea 2. There were commended: Smyrna and Philadelphia

D. The rebukes or commendations

The Church

The Message from Christ

The Reference

1. Ephesus 2. Smyrna 3. Pergamos 4. Thyatira

They had left their first love

Rev. 2:4 Rev. 2:9

They were enduring tribulation and poverty They were holding to some false doctrines They were being seduced by a woman They had people about to spiritually die They were given an open door and protection They were lukewarm and would be spewed out

Rev. 2:14-15

Rev. 2:20 Rev. 3:2

5. Sardis

6. Philadelphia

Rev. 3:8-10 Rev. 3:15-16

7. Laodicea

E. There is a blessing given for overcoming that is linked to 7,000 years of history

The Church

Historical Backdrop

The Blessing for Overcoming

      

Ephesus Smyrna Pergamos Thyatira

back to Eden

will eat from the tree of life will not be hurt by second death will eat from the hidden manna will be given power over the nations will be dressed in white /Book of Life

the sin of Adam

the Exodus

Joshua and David

Sardis

to crucifixion

Philadelphia

end of church age

will make a pillar in Temple

Laodicea

the millennial

will sit on His throne

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F. The seven churches ages (could also allude to the seven periods of church history)

The Church

The Church Age

The Timeframe

      

Ephesus Smyrna

The Apostolic Church The Persecuted Church The Roman Church

30 to 100 AD 100 to 312 313 to 600 600 to 1517 1517 to 1700

Pergamum

Thyatira

The Dark Ages The Reformation

Sardis

1648 to 21 st century the present situation

Philadelphia

The Missions Church The Lukewarm Church

Laodicea

Seven times the Lord tells the churches, “He that has an ear , let him hear what the Spirit is saying unto the churches” (Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22). Much of the church today is content and lukewarm!

THE PROPHETIC TIME IN THE APOCALYPSE

A. The prophetic time

1. The Apocalypse covers a seven-year time frame, or Daniel’s 70 th week (Dan. 9:27) 2. These seven years are divided into two halves 3. The first half is 42 months; the second half is 42 months (Rev. 11:2; 13:5) 4. The first half is 1,260 days; the second half is 1,260 days (Rev. 11:3; 12:6)

5. The wrath of the Lamb is the first 42 months (Rev. 6:16-17) 6. The wrath of God is the last 42 months (Rev. 14:10; 16:1)

B. The two halves are parallel with the morning and evening services

1. The Jewish day was divided into two halves of 12 hours each (John 11:9)

a. The first part of the day is from six to six, or sunrise to sunset, which is 12 hours b. The second part of the day is from six to six, or sunset to sunrise, which is 12 hours

2. The Temple services were divided into two halves

a. The morning services were sunrise to sunset, or from six to six b. The evening services were from sunset to sunrise, or from six to six

Note: Evening services mentioned in Ps. 92:2-3; Ps. 134; and 1 Chr. 9:33; 23:30

THE FIVE-PHASED MORNING RITUALS AT THE TEMPLE

A. These five parts are seen in the Apocalypse

1. Cleaning the Menorah 2. Offering the Incense 3. Opening the Gate 4. Offering the Lamb 5. Worshipping God

- In Rev. 2 and 3 - In Rev. 5:8 - In Rev. 4:1-2 - In Rev. 5:6 - In Rev. 5:9-14

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B. The Apocalypse is divided into three periods

1. Pre-tribulation 2. Mid-tribulation 3. Post-tribulation

- Rev. 4:1

- Rev. 11, 12 and 13

- Rev. 19:20-21

MANY EVENTS ARE IN LINE WITH THE FEASTS OF ISRAEL

A. The seven feasts (Leviticus 23)

1. Passover 2. Unleavened Bread

3. First fruits 4. Pentecost 5. Trumpets 6. Atonement 7. Tabernacles

Note: The 3 spring feasts reveal the Messiah son of Joseph - the Lamb of God (John 1:29) Note: The 3 fall feasts reveal the Messiah son of David - the Lion of Judah (Rev. 5:5)

B. The three spring feasts

1. Passover

- t he time of Christ’s crucifixion - the sinless Christ was in the tomb - alive as the first fruits of the dead

2. Unleavened Bread

3. First Fruits

C. The three fall feasts, all on 7 th month

1. Trumpets 2. Atonement 3. Tabernacles

- may reveal the Rapture - may reveal the tribulation

- may reveal the thousand year Kingdom

Note: These are the three patterns seen in the book of Revelation

CHRIST ALSO GIVES PRIESTLY (TEMPLE) WARNINGS IN REVELATION

A. Warnings to watch are Temple warnings (Rev. 16:15)

1. The Temple guards

a. The Temple guards would make secret visits at night b. They checked to see if a watchman was sleeping on the job c. Those caught sleeping were punished in a severe manner d. They were beaten and their clothes were burned (Luke 12 - “ beaten with many stripes ” )

2. The door reference (Rev. 3:20)

a. There were many priestly chambers in the earthly Temple

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b. At times of cold, the priests would warm themselves at a fire in a special chamber c. They could fall asleep and the head guard knocked on the door d. They could fellowship with each other if they were not sleeping

3. The names and the white raiment reference (Rev. 3:5)

a. The white raiment was given to a priest who was accepted into the priesthood b. Names were placed in the Temple registry and they were confessed before the Sanhedrin

4. A pillar in the Temple reference (Rev. 3:12)

a. Pillars at Greek temples were carved and placed there to honor dignitaries b. This could mean a pillar in the Temple is carved to honor you c. Gal. 2:9 – there were men who were pillars (main support) of the church

5. The hidden manna and the white stone reference (Rev. 2:17)

a. The priests were permitted every 7 th day to eat the showbread from the table b. White stone was called a victory stone ; conquerors given white stones with their names c. White stones (if pardoned of a crime) black stones (if guilty of a crime)

Note: After examining a priest, he was given a “stone of the sanctuary” to enter it

d. A white stone was given as an admission to public festivals e. Victors at public games were given white stones, allowing them to live on the public tab f . Special guests were given a white stone with a message shared only by the host/guest g. The “n ew name ” is mentioned in Isa. 62:2 , and an “everlasting name” in Is a. 56:5

THE SUMMARY

A. Revelation chapter 1-3

1. John on the island of Patmos received a vision of the “ Day of the Lord ” 2. John sees Christ in Revelation 1 as the atoning High Priest over the Heavenly Temple 3. John is informed to write and send the vision to seven main churches in Asia Minor

After cleaning the Menorah, the gates of the Temple are to be opened for worshippers. The door of heaven will open at the conclusion of the church age.

B. The transition from chapter 3 to chapter 4

Main verse : Revelation 4:1-2

Note: Revelation 4 initiates three different themes at once

1. The conclusion of the church age (notice the phrase, “after this”)

a. We are in the “ dispensation of the grace of God ” (Eph. 3:2) b. We are in the “ dispensation of the gospel ” (1 Cor. 9:18)

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Note: Dispensation is oikonomia , meaning, “stewardship over an administration ” Note: The church is not mentioned again after chapters 2 and 3

2. The church age ends and the door of heaven opens; this is the imagery of the catching up

a. There was a voice of a trumpet

(1 Thess. 4:16-17; 1 Cor.15:52) (Matt. 25:10 - the door was closed) (1 Thess. 4:17 - the voice of archangel)

b. The door was opened for saints to enter

c. The words, “ Come up here ” d. Immediately he was in the Spirit

(Rev. 4:2)

3. The church age ends and the tribulation begins

a . The gospel is preached and the “end comes” (Matt. 24:14) b. The great tribulation is alluded to in Matthew 24:21 and Revelation 7:14 c. It is a seven-year period of time divided into two halves (Dan. 9:27)

4. The door signals a separation from the earthly to the heavenly

a. Revelation 4:1 is a transition that begins the morning service at the Temple b. Revelation 4:1 is when the door (Greek - thura ) of heaven is opened

Note: This is the imagery of the “catching away” or the R apture of the church

C. The Trumpet (Rev. 4:1)

1. Israel used four styles/types of trumpets

a. The long horn of an antelope b. The silver trumpet (Num. 10:1-10) c. The ram’s horn (also a shofar) is the shorter version d. The gold trumpet was used every seventh year

2. Israel blew trumpets

a. During the Feasts of Israel (Lev. 25:9) b. During Jubilee cycles (Lev. 25:9) c. During the new moon (Ps. 81:3) d. During times of war (Josh. 6:5)

e. During Israel’s journey in the wilderness (Num. 10:4) f. During special offerings and sacrifices (Num. 10:10) g. During special processions (2 Sam. 6:15)

3. Israel blew silver trumpets to assemble people at the tabernacle door (Numbers 10:2)

a. Two silver trumpets assemble the people at the door of the tent (Num. 10:3) b. They were sounded to gather the camp together (Num. 10:4) c. Paul spoke of our gathering together unto Christ (2 Thess. 2:1) d. Paul said we would be caught up together (1 Thess. 4:17) e. Paul said in the fullness of time Christ will gather together in one (Eph. 1:9-10)

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Note: The blasts of the silver trumpets in the morning initiated a new day Note: There will be a “trump of God” sounded at the gathering together (1 Thess. 4:16 -17)

4. The heavenly “door” is opened

Christ is opening the gate of heaven to the saints!

a. The priests used a special, large key to open the Temple doors in Jerusalem b. Christ has the keys of death and hell (Rev. 1:18) c. Christ will open the door of the heavenly Temple as the High Priest (Rev. 4:1-2) d. The church (t he “royal priesthood”) will arrive for the Temple procedures Closing: As the church of overcomers gathers in the heavenly Temple, we will view the amazing Temple of God in heaven, where the prophetic activity linked to the seven-year tribulation will begin.

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SESSION TWO

THE HEAVENLY THRONE ROOM, THE PRIESTHOOD, AND THE BEGINNING OF THE TRIBULATION

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THE HEAVENLY THRONE ROOM, THE PRIESTHOOD, AND THE BEGINNING OF THE TRIBULATION

THE SHIFTING SCENE FROM EARTH TO HEAVEN

 The scene changes from Christ in linen to God on the Throne (what was)  The setting changes from the earthly church to the Heavenly Temple (what is)  The substance changes from addressing Christians to judging the nations (what is to come)  Revelation chapters 4 and 5 are the initiation of the tribulation or Daniel’s 70 th week

A. Theologians have three opinions of the timing of the “catching away” in Revelation

1. Pre-tribulation - Christ catches away the overcomers in the church before the tribulation 2. Mid-tribulation - Christ catches away the overcomers in the middle of the tribulation 3. Post-tribulation - Christ catches away the overcomers at the end of the tribulation

B. The pre-tribulation concept from Rev. 4:1-2

Main verse: Revelation 4:1-2

1. There is transition from what is (the church age) to what is to come (after the church age) 2. The catching away occurs after the gospel is preached to all nations (Matt. 24:14) 3. The imagery and the words used in chapter 4:1-2 4. The door in heaven opens (a literal portal) - the parable of the 10 virgins (Matt. 25:10) 5. The voice of a trumpet (the voice of archangel and trump of God) - “come up” (Rev. 11:12) 6. Things hereafter means after the previous events (church age) 7. John was immediately in the Spirit ( a picture of being “ changed ” and “ caught up ” ) 8. The imagery in Rev. 4:1-2 is the gathering together (1 Thess. 4:16-17; Eph. 1:9-10)

THREE ANCIENT TEMPLE RITUALS REFLECT THE RAPTURE OF THE SAINTS

 

The Passover Assembly

The Priestly Ordination Service

 The Concealment of the High Priest before Yom Kippur

A. The Rapture and the Passover assembly

1. There are parallels in the Passover Assembly in Revelation chapters 4 and 5

a. During Passover at the Temple, there were so many sheep the ground was covered white b. There were three blasts blown from a silver trumpet

c. Twelve Levites stood with silver sticks inside the Temple compound d. Twelve Levites stood with gold sticks inside the Temple compound e. The priest wore a red garment to the thighs so no blood would be seen f. The slain lambs are the central theme of Passover at the Temple

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2. The prophetic correlations in the Passover Assembly

a. The heavenly multitude has been redeemed by the Lamb (Rev. 5:9) b. A series of trumpet blasts occur at the Rapture (1 Cor. 15:52) c. There are twenty-four elders who assist at the judgment (Luke 22:30) d. Twelve could be the twelve sons of Jacob (Gen. 35:22-26) e. Twelve are perhaps the twelve Apostles from the New Testament (Matt. 10:2-4) f. The lamb is “slain” at Passover – and we see Christ the “L amb ” (Rev. 5:6)

B. The priestly ordination service

1. This service lasted for seven days (Lev. 8:31-36)

a. A special meal was prepared b. A special place was prepared c. A special service at the altar was prepared

Note: The Temple priests served from Sabbath to Sabbath (for a one week cycle)

2. The Revelation correlation of the priestly ordination

a. The worship beings at the altar at God’s throne when we arrive b. A special place is being prepared (John 14:1-2) c. The special meal will climax at the Marriage Supper (Rev. 19:9)

d. The priest could not go out the door for seven days; we will be in heaven seven years e. We are called “kings and priests” (Rev. 1:6); in Greek this can read “a kingdom of priests”

C. The concealment of the priests before Yom Kippur

1. The 10 Days of Awe (Feast of Trumpets is the next feast to have a prophetic fulfillment for the future)

a. From Trumpets to Atonement is 10 Days of Awe b. For seven days the High Priest was concealed before the Day of Atonement c. He is in a special chamber and cannot come out until the time before atonement d. He is rehearsing for the day God either judges or releases Israel from her sins e. Days of Awe has the same concept as Isaiah’s concealment:

“Come, m y people, enter your chambers, and shut your doors behind you; Hide yourself, as it were, for a little moment, Until the indignation is past. For behold, the LORD comes out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity; The earth will also disclose her blood, And will no more cover her slain.” - Isa. 26:20-21 (NKJV)

2. The concealment of the saints in heaven

a. The Feast of Trumpets has the imagery of the catching away b. The saints are concealed for seven years with Christ, the High Priest in heaven c. After seven years Christ returns to judge the earth and rescue Israel d. The cycle is a Jubilee imagery and is painted in Christ redeeming men out of every nation

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AROUND THE THRONE

A. The four living creatures

Main verse: Revelation 4:7-8

1. The word beast is not the same word as the beast (for the antichrist). This Greek word is zoon. 2. The Greek word zoe is the word for life in the New Testament. They are living creatures. 3. The beast alluding to the antichrist is therion , or a wild beast (Rev. 13:1). 4. Isaiah also saw Seraphim with six wings, full of eyes and crying holy (Isa. 6:1-2).

B. These beasts match the four main tribes at the tabernacle

Location

The Tribe

The Emblem

The Number of Men

   

East West South North

Judah

Lion

74,600 (Num. 1:27) 40,500 (Num. 1:33) 46,500 (Num. 1:21) 62,700 (Num. 1:39)

Ephraim Reuben

Ox

Man

Dan

Eagle

C. The four living creatures and Christ

The Heavenly Emblem

The Imagery of Christ

The Gospel Reference

   

Head of a Lion Head of an Ox Head of a Man Head of an Eagle

Jesus the Lion of Judah

Matthew’s gospel

Jesus the Servant

Mark’s gospel Luke’s gospel John’s gospel

Jesus the Son of man Jesus the Eternal Word

D. There are 24 elders around the throne (Rev. 4:4)

 Elder is presbuteros, meaning one of older age; used of a deacon (James 5:14)  The elders are a picture of the twenty-four courses of priests at the ancient Temple  The elders are the twelve sons of Jacob and twelve apostles of Christ (Luke 22:30)  The twenty-four elders are a picture of the heavenly priesthood – at the Heavenly Temple

1. The earthly Temple correlation

a. The Temple service was overseen by fourteen men called the “ counsel of the Temple ” b. The Temple members were called the “ elders of the priest ” c. In the Heavenly Temple w e are a “ royal priesthood and a holy nation ” (1 Pet. 2:9) d. In the Heavenly Temple we are literally a “ Kingdom of priests ” (Rev. 5:10)

Note: These twenty-four elders remain in the Heavenly Temple throughout the book of Revelation

2. The appearance of the twenty-four elders

a. They are sitting upon 24 seats (in Greek - thronos ). These were seen by Daniel in Dan.7:9.

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b. Their clothing was white raiment – just as the white the ancient priest wore (Rev. 4:4) c. Their headdresses were gold crowns (Greek - stephanos ) – a crown of victory or a prize (Rev. 4:4)

3. The worship of the twenty-four elders

a. They fall when the Lamb is introduced (Rev. 5:8 and 5:14) b. They fall when the angels and beasts begin worship (Rev. 7:11)

c. They fall before the Bema begins (Rev. 11:16) d. They fall after Babylon is judged (Rev. 19:4)

Note: They sing a new song (Rev. 5:9- 10). The word “new” is used 9 times in Revelation .

THE PARALLELS OF SELECTING THE PRIESTS

A. The earthly and heavenly procedure

1. Priestly linage was confirmed 2. Priestly genealogy was confirmed 3. Priests stood before the Sanhedrin 4. They met in the hall of the polished stones

Note: If they were accepted, they received a white garment and were inscribed in the roll book.

5 . 140 things could disqualify a priest from the priesthood – 22 temporarily 6. The disqualified were given a black robe; the qualified were given a white robe 7. The disqualified names were removed from the rolls; qualified were allowed to minister

“ He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” - Revelation 3:5

THE ATTIRE OF THE PRIESTS

Note: All the priests were clothed in linen garments (Ex. 28)

A. Two types of garments are found in Revelation (robes and raiment)

1. White robes are given to martyrs and tribulation saints (Rev. 6:11; 7:9-14) 2. White raiment is promised to the elders and the church (Rev. 3:5; 3:18; 4:4) 3. Martyrs have robes ( stole in Greek) and saints have raiment ( himation in Greek)

B. The white robes and the linen garments

1. In Rev. 1:13 2. In Rev. 4:4 3. In Rev. 6:11

- Jesus is clothed with a garment to the foot

- the twenty-four elders are clothed in white raiment

- the martyrs are given white robes

4. In Rev. 7:14-15

- the tribulation saints are given white robes - all saints are given white linen garments

5. In Rev. 19:8

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