Tuesday - Revelation 22 - Amen

 

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VERY good gospel sermon ends with a compelling invitation (including both a promise and a warning). Revelation 22 is an invitation with both a hope-filled promise and a serious warning. The invitation and the warning are both wrapped up in the word "come" (Revelation 22:12, 17 & 20). Having read the whole Bible, it is appropriate that the reader be invited to do something about what he or she has read. And indeed, the invitation to salvation can be presented in so many wonderful ways. Yet here, the call is to partake of the water of life (Revelation 22:1 & 17). What a beautiful and appealing way of putting it. Human souls are thirsty and dry, but Jesus is willing to quench our spiritual thirst. He is willing to satisfy our longings and to give us eternal peace. But the choice is ours.

 

Dear readers, I have made my choice! In Christ, I have a right to the tree of life. I have a place in the New Jerusalem. I expect not only to drink from the river of life, but to swim in it as well. I am looking forward to walking on streets of gold, eating fruit from the tree of life, and serving the Lamb of God forever. I will see my Savior face-to-face (Revelation 22:4). His name will be in my forehead. And friends, the apocalyptic clock could start ticking at any moment (Revelation 22:10). Are you ready? The day will come when it will be too late to switch sides (Revelation 22:11}. Don't think for one moment that God will unravel and undo his entire plan of redemption after it is complete. The time to decide is now. Salvation is a once in a lifetime transaction with eternal blessings and benefits. However, rejecting God's salvation has eternal consequences. Won't you trust Christ today! He died for you! He loves you! Why would you scorn His generosity and grace? He is coming! Don't be left out (Revelation 22:15).  And if you already know Him, share Him with others!

THE END.

Monday - Revelation 21 - Eternal Bliss

 

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NCE every condemned soul and spirit has been locked away securely (Revelation 21:8), then eternity for the redeemed will begin (Revelation 20:1 & 3-7). Forever and ever, the saints and angels will commune together in God's holy presence (Revelation 22:5). The dominating feature of our eternal future will be the place we commonly call heaven. John called it "New Jerusalem." Let's look at the description John presents for us.

 

The greatest characteristic of our eternal home will be the pleasure of basking in God's full presence (Revelation 21:3, 7 & 22). Connected to that will be the absence of sin and temptation - "God shall wipe away all tears from our eyes; and there will be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away" (Revelation 21:4).

 

Now, there will be both a new heaven and a new earth (Genesis 1:1 & Revelation 21:1 & 5). We should take this to mean a new universe; one untouched by sin and untainted by temptation (Revelation 22:3). And the new Jerusalem will evidently be inhabited by the church (Revelation 21:9). The new earth then will be filled with the saints from every other age, including millennium saints who will have escaped death altogether (Revelation 21:24 & 26-27 & 22:2). The significance of Israel in the new earth must not be overlooked either, because there has to be an ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham and of the words of Christ from Matthew 5:5.

 

Notice that the new Jerusalem is presented by John as a mountain with a square base (Revelation 21:10 & 16). We might do well to envision a gigantic pyramid so big that if it were to descend from the sky and land on Nebraska, it would cover most of the United States. This city will also be as tall as it is wide and deep: 1,500 miles! John's words in Revelation 21:11 make it sound like the whole city appears to be built out of clear crystal, but actually, there are many fine and pure substances that will be used in its construction. 

Friday - Revelation 20 - The Last 1000 Years

 

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FTER the Armageddon is over there will be a time of judgment which we should refer to as the judgment of the nations (Matthew 25:31-46). The armies of the antichrist will be dead. The antichrist & the false prophet will be in the lake of fire. Satan will be bound for 1,000 years in a place called the bottomless pit (Revelation 20:1-3). The earth will be ruled by Jesus (in person, along with His saints – 1^st Corinthians 6:2 & Revelation 20:4). The survivors of the Tribulation will be separated according to how they treated Israel during the time of the antichrist. Those who have shown themselves to be humble sheep will live into the kingdom & will naturally repopulate the earth (Psalm 72).

 

The 1^st days of this Millennial Kingdom will have to include the construction of the kingdom temple according to the dimensions & description found in Ezekiel 40-48. Also, the curse will be removed from this earth (Isaiah 11:1-10). Things will not be entirely the same as they were in the Garden of Eden before The Fall, but neither will it be anything like life between The Fall & Armageddon. There will be true peace on earth. Jesus will be the King of the world & we will be with Him on the earth for 1,000 years (Revelation 20:6).

 

There will be many people born during the Kingdom Age. Many of them will willingly worship Christ, but some will only comply outwardly. After 1,000 years of heaven on earth, Satan will be released from his prison. He will be unleashed on this planet one last time in order to reveal what is truly in the hearts of many people who will be living on earth at the very end of time (Revelation 20:7).

Thursday - Revelation 19 - The Second Coming of Christ

 

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E’VE finally reached the end of those 7 abysmal years. We have read about the demise of the economic & religious infrastructures of the world. We have learned of coming ecological disasters, geothermal disruptions, tectonic instability, astronomical anomalies, the ruination of the hydrologic cycle, famines, disease outbreaks, & demonic attacks. By the end of the Tribulation the world will be so battered & torn it will hardly be recognizable as the same planet from which the church was raptured just 7 years earlier. Yet there will still be 2 systems that will have to fall. At the battle of Armageddon Jesus will put down the militaries of the world (as He deposes the antichrist & his international government). This is the 2^nd Advent; the 2^nd Coming of Jesus Christ; the event seen most often & as the most important in all of biblical prophecy.

 

What does this great Day of the Lord will look like? As the fallen world systems smolder in death, the saints of every era will worship Christ & celebrate His exaltation.  At this point, the Judgment Seat of Christ will have ended, & the marriage supper of the Lamb will have been prepared (Ephesians 5:25 & Revelation 19:7-9). Just as Israel was presented in the Old Testament as the wife of Jehovah, in the New Testament the church is portrayed as the wife of Christ. 

Regardless, all saints from all of history will join together with Jesus as He splits the eastern sky above Israel & returns (Zechariah 14:4) in the clouds; riding on a white horse (Revelation 19:11); coming to conquer the world (Jude 1:14- 15). Perhaps we should say that this might be called first & last battle of World War III; Armageddon

Wednesday - Revelation 18 - Economic Babylon

 

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atthew 6:24 reveals to us that Jesus once said, "No man can serve two ... You cannot serve God & mammon." Back in Ecclesiastes 7:12 Solomon wrote, "Wisdom is a defense, & money is a defense: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom gives life to them that have it (see also Proverbs 9:10). Obviously, economics keep many people out of heaven (Matthew 19:23-24). Jesus even said, "Whosoever he be of you that forsakes not all that he has, he cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:33). But perhaps there is no place in the Bible where the damnable distraction of materialism is more distinctly condemned than right here in Revelation 18. The way of Balaam (Jude 1:11), & the modern expression of it (a prosperity gospel - see 1^st Timothy 6:5) will be completely destroyed along with the international economy. The "love of money" (1^st Timothy 6:10) will finally be gutted.

 

Some people may think that the story of human history is a record of the development of various economic systems. From subsistence level agrarian economies, to feudalism, to imperial mercantilism, to capitalism, to socialism, to communism – certainly we've tried just about every method imaginable. But this is only half of the story. In truth, history is a record of Satan using all these systems to distract humanity from the eternal economy. In Matthew 6:19-21 Jesus said, "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth... but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven… where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."  A person doesn't have to live through to the end of the Tribulation in order to see the death of Babylonian economics. We can tear down the walls in our own hearts today.

Tuesday - Revelation 17 - Religious Babylon

 

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ay back in Daniel 2 we were introduced to God's perspective concerning the kingdoms of this world. In a dream, the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar saw a statue. It had a golden head, a silver chest & arms, a brass belly & thighs, iron legs, & – representing the revived Roman Empire under the Antichrist – a mixture of clay & iron for its feet. In Nebuchadnezzar's dream, a stone (representing Jesus) slammed against the feet of the statue & destroyed it completely. Well, here we are (finally) at Revelation 17 & we are at long last face to face with the actual destruction of Babylon. Religiously, economically, politically, philosophically, & literally: Babylon is going to fall.

 

Now, the title "Babylon" is at the same time very broad & highly specific. There is a sense in which all of the human ingenuity, imagination, & organization throughout history has ultimately been aimed at accomplishing success in life apart from God. At least from the tower of Babel on, men & women have been organizing against God (Genesis 11:4 & Psalm 2:2-3). So, Babylon is more than just an ancient empire or a specific city (although those perspectives are true too). Babylon is a system & philosophy. Babylon is a way of living & a manner of judging value. Babylon is the outward earthly expression of a satanic conspiracy that is as old as human governance. Everything that God starts, Satan emulates & pollutes.

Monday - Revelation 16 - Seven Bowls of Judgment

 

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he last seven plagues of the Tribulation Period will surely come rapidly & furiously upon the earth. These seven judgments are described briefly in Revelation 16. Let's look briefly at the contents of each bowl. They are full of God's anger against unrepentant sinners. But specifically, each bowl will bring some new trouble to the inhabitants of the earth. 

 

Bowl # 1 will bring sores on everyone who has the mark of the beast.  Bowl #2 will result in the waters of the oceans turning to blood, which will bring much death. Bowl #3 will turn fresh water into blood. Bowl #4 will cause the sun to change in such a way that it will result in global warming like nobody has ever imagined. Bowl #5 will produce a thick darkness intense enough to bring literal. Bowl #6 will cause the Euphrates River to dry up so that the armies coming from the east to Armageddon can pass quickly & unwittingly on the way to their own demise. Also, there will be a demonically driven amassing of the armies of the world into Israel (Revelation 16:13-14 & 16). Bowl #7 will signal the final judgment before the coming of Jesus Christ. There will be yet another great earthquake, & a hailstorm with 50 lb. projectiles plummeting from the sky.  The earthquake will be so large that the islands of the world will sink into the oceans, & mountains will be shaken flat (Revelation 16:18-20).

Friday - Revelation 15 - God's Anger

 

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OD's anger is always perfectly holy. His anger is always justified. And His expressions of anger are also always pure & right – necessary even. So, when the 7 angels pour out the 7 bowls of God's wrath at the end of the Tribulation Period, every recipient of those plagues will deserve every pain to the fullest.  And God will have already expended much mercy & grace in giving opportunities & options to those being judged. Even His justice is tempered by His patience & compassion (& is therefore better than fair – Ezra 9:13).

 

Here we are again at an important point in the unveiling of God's eternal plans, & wouldn't you know it, more music (vs. 2-4)! This singing & playing will accompany the revelation of God's full wrath against evil. What will such music sound like (as the sons of God go forth to war). Their song will indeed be a celebration of God's holy righteousness & mighty majesty. They will be singing a victory song before the battle even starts, knowing certainly that God will win. 

 

Notice that this song (which the saints in heaven will be singing at the end of the Tribulation) will be called "the song of Moses the servant of God, & the song of the Lamb" (vs. 3).  Our God of righteousness is triumphing over evil. That’s what Revelation 15 is about: God's conquest of evil.  And God will be glorified on that day!  

Thursday - Revelation 14 - Preparing for Armageddon

 

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EVELATION 14 is a stage-setting chapter. In fact, the next 5 chapters are simply more detailed accounts of what is introduced here. It is apparent that the 144,000 witnesses are no longer preaching on earth at his point (vs 1). We may even be down to the last few days or hours of the Tribulation Period. In heaven there will be a mighty song that will be sung by the 144,000 virgins (while God's Son prepares to conquer the earth). It will be a song uniquely fitted for them. 

 

Verses 6-12 reveal that there will be 3 great announcements connected with the end of the end of the time of the kingdoms of the earth. 1. The gospel, 2. the verdict against Babylon (the worldly kingdoms of the devil), & 3. condemnation against Satan's deluded followers. These messages will be the only relevant messages from God in that day. As for any surviving saints at that point, it will be best for them if they are martyred for their faith sooner rather than later (vs. 13). Things have been bad, but they're about to get much worse.

The very end of the Tribulation (with the 7 angels pouring out seven vials & the commencement of Armageddon) will be a more explosive situation than this world has ever seen before.  These moments are represented in this chapter by sharp sickles in the hands of two mighty heavenly characters (vs. 14-17). The summary is shocking. The earth's population (represented by clusters of grapes) is stomped until every drop of juice has been pressed out of them (vs. 18-20). It will be the time when God's full wrath is unleashed against Satan & on the unrepentant sinners of earth. 

Wednesday - Revelation 13 - An Evil & Unholy Trinity

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HE first beast of Revelation 13 is the antichrist. The second beast is the false prophet who helps the antichrist in his evil plot. The dragon who empowers those two beasts will be Satan himself. So, this chapter describes the unholy trinity of evil that will rise up on this earth during the Tribulation period (Revelation 16:13, 19:20 & 20:10). The world will be swallowed up in some new & strange version of the occult, just like Daniel prophesied in Daniel 7. This is as close as Satan will ever come to realizing the idea that he had way back when he fell from heaven in the beginning (Isaiah 14:14). After thousands of years of trying & failing, he will have his moment in the sun. But it won’t last. There will only be 42 months from the time the antichrist takes over the temple until the return of the real Messiah (Revelation 13:5).

 

One of the key traits of the religion of the Tribulation will be blasphemy. Satan, the antichrist, & the false prophet will do everything in their power to vilify the God of heaven. And, as they blaspheme God, the devil & the antichrist will demand (& receive) worship themselves. The world will follow this satanic cult willingly & foolishly right on to their own demise & death (vs. 3 & 7-8). In that day, it will be more dangerous than ever to be a true believer. Just as God’s followers are marked, Satan will mark his as well. But all with Satan’s mark will be hopelessly condemned (Rev. 14:9-11).

Tuesday - Revelation 12 - A Broad & Blessed Analogy

 

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N Revelation 12, John records for us a part of his vision that seems to be something of a review. It is sure that the history of Israel is analogous to the development of this drama. Read Revelation 12 & then consider how each character fits with all that we've learned about Israel's place in God's plan of redemption. The woman of Revelation 12:1 should bring to mind Jacob's wife (Joseph's mother), Rachel (Genesis 37:9-10). The 12 stars then would represent the 12 tribes of Israel. The baby boy of Revelation 12:2, 4 & 5 is none other than Jesus Christ. Israel as a nation existed to a great degree for the purpose of bringing the Messiah into the world. The red dragon of Revelation 12:3 is Lucifer & verse 4 describes his original fall.  The stars of Revelation 12:4 are the fallen angels who followed Satan in his rebellion against God. Verse 4 also communicates the effort which Satan put forth (through Herod) to kill baby Jesus when He was born (Matthew 2:13-18).  Revelation 12:5 presents Christ at both of His advents, the end of His first & the beginning of His second; His ascension & return.

 

Since Satan failed to defeat the Messiah Himself, he has turned his attention toward Israel as a whole (vs. 5-17). Revelation 12:6 & 14 alludes to the last half of the Tribulation Period, when the Jews will have to endure the greatest & most widespread anti-Semitic persecution of their history (Matthew 24:14-22). Satan will certainly have a large majority of the earth's population in his pocket at that point, & they will do all in their power to help him eradicate the Jews (Revelation 12:15). But they will fail (vs. 16). Verses 7-11 relate a final removal of Satan from heaven. And verse 12 gives us a peek into Lucifer's evil mind in his last hours before being (vs. 2-3).

Monday - Revelation 11 - The Time of the Dead

 

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N Revelation 11 we finally get to the 7^th trumpet (which is the 3^rd "Woe").  This event is so severe & intense that the 24 elders refer to it as "the time of the dead" (vs. 18). Now, while it is certainly going to be a time of many deaths, more specifically it is a time when God will finally deal with the spiritually dead population of the world. Our world has been dominated by an unregenerate population since the days of Babel. The end of the Tribulation period will mark the final eradication of that condition.

 

John is given a measuring rod. He is then commanded to measure the temple of God. The temple that he was supposed to measure was evidently the Tribulation temple; the one defiled by the antichrist (2^nd Thessalonians 2:3-4). And just like with a person purchasing a piece of real estate, John was commissioned to come up with a property description for the temple. The publishing of this pending transaction will be placed in the able hands of two unnamed witnesses, whose power will resemble the powers that was exercised by Moses & Elijah in days of old (vs. 5-6). Maybe these 2 guys will actually be Moses & Elijah. After all, these were the two men who appeared with Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration (Luke 9:27-30), & it was indeed prophesied that Elijah would return in the last days (Malachi 4:5). The men will preach God's truth, proclaiming wrath & judging the earth for 3½ years (vs. 3) until the antichrist finally kills them in Jerusalem (vs. 7-8). But they will also be resurrected & received into heaven (vs. 11-12).

 

Friday - Revelation 10 - The End is Near!

 

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EFORE the sounding of the 7^th trumpet, which will be the 3^rd "Woe," John heard the sound of 7thunders in conjunction with the presentation of a 2^nd scroll & a great cry from a mighty angel. While John seemed to understand the significance of it, he was not allowed to record its meaning (vs. 4). If God had wanted us to know, He surely would have had John write it down for us. There are some things that God just doesn't want everyone to know – at least, not yet. We should be satisfied with this. The fact that the angel has a rainbow on his head should give us some comfort concerning the contents of the little book & the 7 thunders, but nonetheless, we are generally left in the dark here.

 

B the time the 7^th angel blows the 7^th trumpet we must be close (chronologically) to the end of the Tribulation. Although the thunders are a mystery, the actual message of the angel is indeed recorded by John. His message was, "Time is up!" (vs. 5-7). God's mysterious program of "redeeming creation" is on its final chapter at this point. The little book must be associated with that reality (vs. 8-10). John was initially pleased with the approach of "the end of God's story," yet as he thought more & more about it, there was a sadness that overtook him.

Thursday - Revelation 9 - Millions of Demons

 

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E know that we are in a war against evil (Ephesians 6:11-13). Satan has been conspiring against God from the moment just before he was cast down from his exalted station (Isaiah 14:12-15). He has a fierce host of demons that rebelled & fell with him (Revelation 12:4). These were once holy angels, but now they are unclean spirits (Mark 6:7 & Revelation 16:3). Some of these demons roam the earth today, but others are imprisoned, waiting for the moments that we read of here.

 

This first "Woe" (which will come upon the earth at the sounding of the fifth trumpet) will involve the release of demons that will torment the earth's population in ways befitting the worst horror film ever. These are the infamous "locusts" of the apocalypse. Some have speculated wildly about what exactly John saw, but does it really matter? Isn't it enough to realize that 5 months of worldwide torture is insanely horrific, regardless of exactly what it will look like? The pain will be so bad that their victims will wish (hopelessly) that they were dead. These demonic creatures will turn this world into a boiling pot of despair & misery. 

 

Now, as if that army of devils isn't enough, the second "Woe" (which will be the sixth trumpet) will bring another army; an army of 200,000,000 spirit-horsemen who will pick up where the demon-locusts leave off. The fallen angels of the fifth trumpet will not kill their victims, but the horsemen of the sixth trumpet will (Revelation 9:18). The tails of the giant locusts will be like scorpion tails, but the tails of these tormentors will be like snake heads.

Wednesday - Revelation 8 - Thy Kingdom Come

 

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 love the book of Psalms. There is a certain beauty in the honesty of David's prayers, a beauty that attracts me back to that book again & again. But there is one particular thing about the prayers of David that has always caused me to pause. David prayed many imprecatory prayers. In other words, David prayed for God's judgment to fall on evil men. Now, we might at first be tempted to dismiss those prayers as unique to the Old Testament, but then what would we do with The Model Prayer? Planted in the heart of it is the little phrase, "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven."   There is only one way for God's kingdom to come, & that is with great wrath & judgment. The oldest prophecy in the Bible involves the bruising of the head of Satan. And we know that the devil is the prince of this world.  The kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord & of His Christ, & He shall reign forever. But this can only happen with the demise of Lucifer & of everyone who follows him (Jude 1:14-15). Just as John the Baptist warned that the first coming of the Lord required a smoothing & a straightening of the runway, when He comes again His coming must necessarily be preceded by a major adjustment of this world.

 

There is much that is said about the prayers of the saints in conjunction with the first 4 trumpet judgments.  (The 7^th & final seal is so significant that it is subdivided into 7 trumpet judgments; the 7^th of which is subdivided again into 7 bowl judgments). What do the prayers of the saints have to do with God judging the world? Well, righteousness requires judgment. Holiness necessitates exclusion. Mercy can't be granted to God's children without justice being meted out to His enemies. 

Tuesday - Revelation 7 - Salvation in Every Dispensation

 

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OD has worked in various ways at different times in human history. Certainly, the Tribulation will be yet another unique dispensation. The paradigm of the church will have passed, but there will be one thing that will still be the same. Salvation will still be available to those who (with repentance & faith) are willing to call upon the name of the Lord. God's mercy & grace will indeed be extended into the day of God's wrath (Habakkuk 3:2).   Revelation 7 makes this grand realization abundantly clear. There is a cutoff point, but God will push it to the end.

 

While we know that the antichrist will have his own ominous mark (666) that he will put in the foreheads & right hands of his unregenerate followers), God will also be marking some foreheads. John saw four angels who will be – in a way – holding back the complete destruction of the earth. Then he saw a fifth angel who was sent to seal 144,000 Jews for the purpose of the preaching of the.  There will be 12,000 from each of the 12 tribes of Israel (note: Dan & Ephraim are not mentioned by name here).

 

These details are not the center of our attention today though; the thing that stands out wondrously is the fact that these many are recipients of God's grace during the Tribulation. And these are not all.  John also saw a grand mob of white robed saints standing before the throne of God (Revelation 7:9 & 13) who will be saved by God's grace during that time (Revelation 14-17). 

Monday - Revelation 6 - The Beginning of Trouble

 

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ESUS talked about "the beginning of sorrows." Jeremiah was amazed by the coming "time of Jacob's trouble." Daniel wrote about "one week" of desolation that would come at the "end of sins." Both Daniel & Jesus prophesied about the last half of this brief time of pain, with Jesus calling it a time of "great tribulation." Paul also foresaw the coming time of the antichrist. Paul called him "the son of perdition" &"that Wicked." In each case, these prophets & preachers were pointing toward the same time period that we find foretold here Revelation 6. We are looking at the 7-year-long Tribulation Period (on earth) that follows the rapture of the church. 

 

The 4 horsemen of the apocalypse might be familiar to you. At this point in John's vision, Jesus began breaking the seals on the scroll (which we read about in the previous chapter). With the opening of each of the first four sections of the scroll, four horses – each with a rider – arrive on the earth (see also Zechariah 6:1-3). These horsemen represent specific troubles that will commence at the beginning of the Tribulation. The first rider will be on a white horse (Revelation 6:2 & Daniel 8:25). He will bring a promise of forced & godless peace to the earth. This rider is surely the antichrist. Then there will be a red horse representing worldwide war, a black horse representing worldwide famine, & a pale horse representing diseases, plagues, & death. There is no reason to imagine that the world will actually see these riders on their horses, but the world will most assuredly feel the impact of what each one represents.

 

 

Friday - Revelation 5 - Worship in Heaven (Part 2)

 

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IMILAR to the way a husband and wife should expect nothing less than sincerity and loyalty from each other, since the day of the fall in Eden God has been calling out a faithful people unto Himself.  Of course He has to plant and culture this faith in us, but nonetheless, He is seeking unpretentious worshippers.

 

Now, God would deserve worship from us even if He never did anything for us. It's an impossible hypothetical, but IF we could become outsiders, strangers to this universe and to all of reality; if we could simply stumble upon God and His creation – then His power, wisdom, perfection, holiness, majesty, creativity, and eternality would merit an infinite measure of worship from us. God is great and is worthy of worship and praise, just because of who He is; because He exists. But in reality, that's not all. God is our Maker. He is our Creator. We owe Him a great debt of worship because He made us, and most specifically because He was gracious enough to make us in His own likeness, with prerogatives and real opportunities for creativity and love. But there is still a greater reason to consider. Through His cross He has transformed us from condemned sinners to conquering saints (Revelation 5:10). This is a gift that demands infinite gratitude. Jesus isn't just A Savior; He is OUR Savior. All "power, riches, wisdom, strength, honor, glory and blessing" rightfully belong to this One who sits on heaven's throne.

Thursday - Revelation 4 - Worship in Heaven (Part 1)

 

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E are only 4 chapters into the book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ, and already we are at point number 3 in the 3 point outline of this book (Revelation 1:19 & 4:1). As we have already seen, Jesus revealed some things to John about the past, the present, & the future. This future is all post-church-age stuff. That is, these events (in heaven and on earth) follow the rapture of the church. 

 

In Revelation 4, the Apostle John and 12 of the 24 elders represent the New Testament church. The other 12 elders represent Old Testament saints. If we think of the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 apostles, this should help us in our understanding.

 

Now, in John's vision, he was raptured up into heaven in a way that is distinctly reminiscent of 1^st Thessalonians  4:13-18,  as  well  as  1^st Corinthians 15:51-55. When we all get to heaven, there we will see the exalted Lord Christ, as John did. There we will wear crowns (Revelation 4:4) and will cast them at the feet of Jesus (Revelation 4:10). There we will be perfect and holy.  There we will see the glory of God and the majesty of His power. There we will join with the angels and the saints of old in worshipping our Almighty Savior, the Lord of heaven. There we will shout and sing, "You are worthy, 0 Lord!" There we will see fully the purpose of all things: that it is for God's own pleasure that He created all things (Revelation 4:11).

Wednesday - Revelation 3 - Each Church is Different (Part 2)

 

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N Revelation 3 the churches of Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea are addressed. Just like the four churches of chapter 2, each one of these is unique. Once again, we should examine ourselves and see if there are traits in our character (as individuals) that fit with the descriptions of these churches. If things are out of line, then we should adjust without hesitation.

 

Sardine Christians might be descried as believers who are doing really well, as long as they are only compared to other believers. We might have a resume that will impress the most nitpicking of critics, but if we lack sincerity in our hearts, then we are in grave spiritual danger (Revelation 3:1-2).  Our reputation is meaningless if our hearts aren't right in the sight of God (verse 2). God did not save us so that we could impress our neighbor.  

 

Like the suffering saints of Smyrna, the faithful saints of the Philadelphian variety receive only commendations from Christ. This type of believer is a wise opportunist.  Philadelphians redeem the time. These believers epitomize God's love: receiving, reciprocating and distributing it.  If we qualify for this label, then we are among those who value God's Word, both in principle and in practice.  

 

Now, Laodiceans are believers, but that's where our commendation ends. "Yet so as by fire" & "by the skin of our teeth" - these are appropriate descriptions for this brand of Christianity (1^st Corinthians 3:15 & Job 19:20). In fact, the word Christian should be hesitantly applied to them. If Christians are called such because of Christlikeness, then Laodiceans leave much to be desired. A Laodicean is carnal, complacent, comfortable, confident, & worldly.

Tuesday - Revelation 2 - Each Church is Different (Part 1)

 

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 have certainly bought into a dispensational interpretation of Revelation 2 & 3. Such an interpretation arises right out of the text. However, that is only one of four true perspectives to consider as we read these two unique chapters. These are the "things that are" (Revelation 1:19). In other words, these chapters are about the present. When John wrote this book, he was living in the church age as we are. So, it's no surprise that the "things which are" are presented in a perfect list of 7 specific, literal churches (Revelation 1:11). These were actual congregations of actual saints living in actual places during the days of John. From a dispensational perspective, these seven churches surely represent periods of time in the church age. But there are local churches today (as well as individuals within single churches) that fit respectively with each and every type of church that Jesus described for John. Focus on the challenges that Jesus issued here to all of His children, including you and me.

 

Four types of believers are addressed in Revelation 2, and the remaining three in chapter 3. We will call the first four kinds Ephesian, Smyrnian, Pergamian and Thyatirian believers. We should look for traits within ourselves that match with these descriptions. Then, we must take to heart what Jesus had to say in response to these traits.

Monday - Revelation 1 - Jesus and His Church

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AUL wrote, "Christ loved the church, and gave Himself for it." (Ephesians 5:25). Without debating the exact point of the commencement of the church age, Christ's church is evidently comprised of believers from the first coming of Jesus until His second coming. John calls the members of the church "Christ's servants" (Revelation 1:1). And obviously the universal church is comprised of many local churches (Revelation 1:11). This great book of prophecy is addressed to all who are the servants of Jesus Christ; to the members of His church. It is a product of God's desire to share His plans with His people (Genesis 18:17 & Revelation 1:1 & 19).

 

Fittingly, this revelation of God's plans is spearheaded with a wonderful description of Christ Himself. Obviously, the apostle knew Jesus firsthand from the 3.5 years that he had been Jesus' personal disciple. Many years had passed since Jesus' ascension. But when Jesus showed up on Patmos, John certainly recognized Him. John had been exiled there to keep him silent, but it didn't work (Revelation 1:9). His greatest and most impactful ministry resulted from this exiling. Glorious descriptions of our glorious Lord came from the pen of this old man who was living alone, waiting to die.

 

This book is both important and applicable now. We have the promise of God that it has the potential to bring great blessings upon those who humbly seek for Him in these pages (Revelation 22:7). Although it is full of war and havoc, the peace of God is obtainable through this book (to those who are willing to take its message to heart - Revelation 1:4). 

 

Friday – Jude - Time to Fight

 

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HIS book is devoted almost entirely to the description of apostates. Remember, an apostate is someone who, knowing the gospel & having followed from afar, is yet guilty of rejecting Christ (vs. 4). An apostate is an unbeliever. Yet not all unbelievers are apostates. Hebrews indicates that apostates are in a hopeless condition (Hebrews 6:4 - 6 & 10:26 - 27). Certainly, there is hope for lost souls in general (which is indicated here in vs. 22 - 23). Still, in our fellowship with God & in our service to Him, there are battles that must be fought. In other words, as we work to bring sheep into the fold (evangelism), there are wolves that we must be willing to ward off.  Jude calls this "contending for the faith" (vs. 3).

 

Jude defines “saints” clearly. We are the ones who are sanctified & preserved (vs. 1). We hold to a "common salvation" - a single faith (vs. 3). We are the recipients of God's grace & the acceptors of the Lord Christ (vs. 4).  We have the Spirit, love, & mercy of God; & eternal life (vs. 19 - 21). We are emissaries of mercy; evangelists bearing the gospel (vs. 22 - 23). To put it simply, we have been saved from our sin (Jude 1:23 - 24). The ungodly apostates (who Jude would have us fight against) have none of these things.

 

An apostate turns from the truth. Jude gives many examples of apostates (& of apostasy in general). Think of the Jews who came out of Egypt, (vs. 5) & the angels who fell with Lucifer (vs. 6). How about the sodomites (vs. 7 & 10). Cain, Balaam & Korah are also examples of men who were guilty of apostasy (Jude 1:11). In every case we can say categorically that they knew better and had opportunities to commit themselves to the truth. EACH ONE chose error instead.

Thursday – 3rd John - Diotrephes & Demetrius

 

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OHN wrote his 3^rd  letter to a man named Gaius. John said that he had a prosperous soul (3^rd John 1:2). This is because he had the truth in him (vs. 3). And the presence of truth in him was evidenced by the fact that he was known for his hospitality to other Christians (vs. 5-6). So, there was plenty to compliment in this man's spiritual life. But that wasn't the main thrust of John's letter.

 

It appears that John simply wanted to encourage Gaius not to let his hospitable tendencies eclipse his spiritual judgment. So, John mentions a couple of men as case examples, so to speak, in order to clarify that some men simply can't be trusted. The 2 men John mentions are Diotrephes & Demetrius (vs. 9 & 12). Diotrephes was evidently a man with much selfish ambition & no hospitality. Demetrius was just the opposite. So, John exhorted Gaius to follow good things, & to accept godly men. He was supposed to be very cautious with religious rebels though (vs. 9 - 11). Gaius had to be on guard.

 

I suppose the dilemma here is not so much the need to be able to tell good men from evil men, but to be able to differentiate between evil men who are our mission field & evil men who are our opponents. They are to be treated differently you know. Jesus interacted regularly & kindly  with  "publicans & sinners" – so much so that he was accused of being like them; of being one of them. On the other hand, Jesus treated the religious leaders of His day with strong & hostile language.  And there was actually a third group too: a group of loyal disciples. 

Wednesday – 2nd John - Truth

 

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LL truth is God's truth. In fact, Jesus even called Himself, "The Truth" (John 15:6). But some truths are more impactful than other truths. When it comes to truth, surely there is no truth more important to us than the gospel (Luke 9:25 & Mark 8:36). The eternal destiny of souls is dependent upon the purity of the gospel of Jesus Christ. So, in this brief book, John the apostle wisely elevates (to the highest level possible) the importance of the accuracy of the doctrine of Jesus Christ.

 

It was the truth about Jesus Christ that drove John to write this letter.  It was THAT truth that John had in common with the "elect lady" to whom he was writing. And it was the truth of Christ that John wanted to promote continually in the life of every believer. Now, as born-again believers, brotherly love is the most important expression of the gospel in us. In fact, we love God by loving each other (Matthew 25:40 1^st John 3:23). It's just another angle on "The Greatest Commandments" presentation of Matthew 22:36-40. Out of His love for humanity, Jesus Christ (the eternal Son of God) became a man. If through faith in Him we have been made His disciples, then His love is in us. If His love is in us, then it will be seen in our interactions with one another (John 13:34-35 & 15:12).

Tuesday – 1st John 5 - Spiritual Confidence

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 know that I'm saved. I have a "know-so" salvation. Now, this spiritual confidence is not the same thing as self-confidence. Self-confidence tells me that I am able. That is intensely evil & dangerous. But a person with spiritual confidence is persuaded fully that God is able.  So, when I say that I know that I know without a doubt that I have eternal life (or even that I know that God has called me to preach the gospel) my statement is NOT about me. My statement is about God. God has made some unequivocally clear promises concerning salvation, & the gift of His Spirit. All we are doing when we latch on to these words is admitting that God is God & that He is good. And be assured, God wants to develop spiritual confidence in all of His children.

 

John clearly wrote this letter to exalt Christ, but in so doing, he was also lifting the confidence of his believing readers to a very high plateau indeed. You should take note of the word "know" in 1^st John (it occurs 27 times). We know who Jesus is. We know that we are His. We know that faith is the key to God's heart, & to our victory in Christ. We know that He has given us His Spirit. We know that the Father, His Son & His Spirit are one & the same; all three eternally divine & unified. We know that God's word is always true. We know that life in Christ is eternal. We know that without Christ, a man has no hope. We know that God hears & answers our humble prayers. We know that God is willing to forgive. We know that our new nature is sinless.  We know that that world is doomed.  And we know that due to all of these spiritual truths (which we know), we have some very real & serious responsibilities. 

Monday – 1st John 4 - God's Only Begotten Son

 

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ESPITE the time designation of Psalm 2:7, Acts 13:33, Hebrews 1:5 & 5:5, the word "begotten" (in reference to Jesus Christ) is a word of relationship, not a word of origination (John 3:16). The "day" designated in those passages is the day of Jesus' resurrection. Of course, even if He had a point of origin – which, He does not – the day of His resurrection couldn't possibly be that day. HE is the originator of all things. Jesus is the one & only eternal Son of the God (Isaiah 9:6). His relationship with His heavenly Father is an eternal relationship. There was a point in time when the Son of God became a human baby (1^st Timothy 3:16), & there was a point in time when He became our perfect intermediary (Hebrews 9:11), but He has always been God's Son. There has never been a time when the Trinity did not exist. God is immutable. He is who He is, & He has always been the same (Malachi 3:6). Jesus is the Creator, not the created (John 1:1 & 17:5). This is a key factor in the true gospel. In fact, the Apostle John makes this theological doctrine the one most important litmus test for determining spiritual orthodoxy (1^st John 4:2-3 & 14-15). It is true that God wants to have many sons (Hebrews 2:10); many human sons (John 1:12). He is working to make many creatures – creations in His own image. But He only has one eternal Son who was, & is, & is to come (John 8:56 & 58). On August 13, 1985, at the age of 10, I became an everlasting son of God (1^st John 3:2). But Jesus alone has always been God's eternal Son.

Friday – 1st John 3 - When He Appears

  

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ERSE 2 is key in understanding the point John is making in chapter. Notice the timing element in John's statement. We are already the children of God, now; presently! But there is also something that we aren't yet.  We aren't yet perfectly holy like Jesus is. We will be someday. When we see Jesus at His coming (in the rapture), we will be changed (1^st Corinthians 15:51 & 52)! We will become completely godly; no longer susceptible to temptations and failures. But for right now, we still lack some things.

 

Verse 3 is almost as important as the previous verse in this context. Everyone who is looking sincerely for Christ to return will be in the process of self-purification (1^st John 3:2). We wouldn't need to purify ourselves if we were already pure and somehow incapable of transgressions. The point of both of these verses is to admit that we are still works-in-progress. This is the foundation for the great calls to sanctification that fill the remainder of this chapter. Without 1^st John 3:2 & 3, this chapter would be a bit harder to swallow. But let's not yank the teeth out of the shark here.

 

The salient point here is that saints cannot continually revel in sin and get away with it. If sin dominates a man professing to be a saint, one of two things should be expected. 1. The saint is actually an ain't or 2. retribution and/or revival is just around the corner. If we are God's children, then God will deal with us like family. If we are imposters or pretenders, then no wonder we can't quite fit in. Saints just can't hang happily and continually with the devil (vs. 6). Like it or not, on the authority of God's Word we must admit that salvation either has a real impact on behavior, or it isn't salvation at all (vs. 3:7, 8 & 10). 

Thursday – 1st John 2 - Light & Darkness

 

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HERE has been some confusion in Christendom throughout the centuries about which perspective is correct concerning the sanctification of the saints. There are basically two views that seem at first to be mutually exclusive. 1. True believers demonstrate the authenticity of their conversion by doing right things. 2. True believers should do right things, but too often we fail to do so. Actually, both views are true. And John addresses both & from multiple angles. Right from the start he instructs us not to sin, but he admits immediately that he we will sin (vs. 1). He gives us a solution for when we do (1^st John 1:9 & 2:1-2). But he turns right around & lists obedience as a basic proof of our conversion (vs. 3). So again, one might ask, "Which one is it? Is obedience a sure thing in the life of every Christian, or isn't it?" To this, we answer, "Yes!"

 

It is part of the plague of having two very different natures existing within one body. Our human nature (inherited from Adam) is absolutely incapable of victoriously holy living (Romans 7:18). On the other hand, our spiritual nature (inherited from Jesus Christ our Savior - see 2^nd Peter 1:4) is absolutely incapable of defeat (1^st John 3:9). Morally, I'm schizophrenic and so am I. As I allow myself to be filled by the Spirit, I can do no wrong. On the other hand, as I fail to yield to the Spirit, I can do nothing right.  This is the awful conflict of which Paul wrote in Romans 7:25. It is the struggle that Peter had in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:38). It is the frustrating dilemma that every honest believer has had since time immemorial. 

Wednesday – 1st John 1 - John's Declaration

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F you think back to John's gospel you will surely remember that (when compared to the other 3 gospel accounts) the apostle's introduction of Jesus Christ was both unique and special. There are distinct and obvious similarities between John 1 and 1^st John 1. In both cases, he properly places Christ on the highest pedestal that he can possibly construct with his words. Here in verses 3 & 5 John tells us that his purpose (and the purpose of all of the apostles) in ministry (and certainly in writing) was to make a clear declaration concerning who Christ was (and is), and to point out just exactly what His gospel message was (and is). Now of course, because of Christ's passion for souls and because of the content of the gospel, John properly weaves our place, privilege, and responsibilities into His writings as well. In fact, whether you are reading his gospel, his letters, or his revelation, there is truly a constant applicability that arises right out of the text. In his Gospel it is abundantly clear that he was calling his readers to believe in Jesus. Here in his first epistle it is again evident what his purpose is. Here he is speaking to believers, and his desire is to promote holiness, confidence, and fellowship among all believers. Not surprisingly, the same tool John used to draw us to salvation in his gospel is the one he uses here to push us forward in sanctification. He exalts Christ. 

Tuesday – 2nd Peter 3 - Willingly Ignorant

 

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HESE are words that I've uttered many times: "I don't want to hear it!" I suppose that in some arenas, I simply have no curiosity. There are certain things that I don't know, and that I have no desire to know. Gossip about you, for example? I'm just not interested. However, when it comes to the things of God, curiosity is a blessing. It is smug ignorance that is dangerous. Think of people who do not believe the Bible. How many of them have actually read it? A few perhaps. It's hard enough to get true believers to read the whole thing. But rejecting the Bible without actually knowing what it says is rather foolish. Peter points out here that many fools are foolish by choice (vs. 5).

 

Looking into the future, Peter saw that there would come a day when the idea of Jesus' return to earth would be mocked in the marketplace, as if the very idea were a complete absurdity (vs. 4).  I believe that such a day has arrived. But Peter also gives us the reason for this unbelief. The worldly mind chooses to ignore the past. Specifically, the story of Noah's flood should be sufficient evidence to convince a man that the same God who judged the human race before will certainly be willing to do it again (vs. 5-6). But no, unbelievers are essentially in denial. They doubt the reality of hell and justice. Never mind that harsh justice does indeed exist all around us in our world today.  It's a strange kind of mushy eschatology that denies our present reality. It isn't worth the paper it's written on.  Our world is not a giant flower nursery.  The souls who sin will die (Ezekiel 18:4).  God will judge the world.

Monday – 2nd Peter 2 - Strange Faith

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 faith that doesn't actually save anyone must indeed be categorized as a strange and wasted religiosity. If Peter presented "like precious faith" in 2^nd Peter 1 (and he did), then here in 2^nd Peter 2 he presents the false apostate philosophies of the many religions; religions that are deviations from the gospel truth.  He labels the proponents of renegade gospels as "false prophets" and "false teachers" (vs. 1). These are heretics in the realest sense.  They are the proponents of heterodoxies that detract from the exclusivity of Christ; espousers of false doctrines that damn every soul that follows their hellish lies.  Peter classifies all of these vain faiths as apostate religions, implying that in every case there was truth in their past that was willingly forsaken (Romans 1). Each religion that teaches anything other than salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ is a strange faith. Faith in a powerless object is blatant foolishness. So, Peter pulls no punches as he decries the evils of any religious teaching that contradicts the gospel of Christ.

 

While the death of Christ was certainly aimed at every soul (vs. 1 & 1^st John 2:2), the leaders of spiritual coups d’état are categorized as hopelessly lost (Psalm 2:1-9, Jude 1:4-19, 1^st John 2:18-19, Hebrews 6:4-8, 10:25-31, 12:8, 15-17 & Revelation 17). Specifically, those who once held the full gospel of Jesus Christ during the dispensation of grace (who were formerly professors of faith in Christ and were appendages of the church - 1^st Timothy 3:15 & Matthew 16:18) are in more trouble than Peter can find ways to describe (vs. 4-9). 

Friday – 2nd Peter 1 - Like Precious Faith

 

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LL of us who own a mansion in heaven (John 14:2) have the very same religion. We may attend churches with different denominational names on the sign out front, but money that is legal tender is legitimate whether it's a 1, 5, 20, 50 or 100. There is only one church, one Lord, one faith, & one experience of regeneration (Ephesians 4:4-6). There is one Bible, one gospel, & one body of truth that has been revealed to us. There are, then, only two kinds of people: those in on this, & those not. So, Peter wrote this letter to an esoteric audience. He only addresses those of us who are born again; who are the followers of Christ; who possess the same precious faith that was preached by Christ & His apostles (vs. 1). We are the ones to whom (through the person of His Son) God has given all good things (vs. 3). He has made marvelous promises to us. We are "partakers of the divine nature" - Hallelujah! We have "escaped the corruption that is in the world" (vs. 4). We are truly blessed beyond measure.

 

But, to whom much is given much is required (Luke 12:48). Peter reminds us of our privileged position in Christ (vs. 1-4), that's for sure. However, he moves on into the deeper waters of obligation & spiritual growth. So, we all possess the same faith. It is our duty, though, to build something eternal on that good foundation (1^st Cor. 3:11-15). We are called to move ever onward & upward to higher plains of virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, kindness & love (1^st Peter 1:5-7). Life & abundant life: that's the recipe, right (vs. 8)? Life alone is not our destination, even though it is eternal (1^st Cor. 3:15). God saved us for some purpose (Eph. 2:10). We must not waste God's grace or space. Our lives are supposed to be invested. Peter exhorts us as believers to confirm our salvation through a continual demonstration of godliness (vs. 9-11).

Thursday – 1st Peter 5 - A Submissive Spirit

 

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NE of the telltale signs of a Satanic influence in a person's life is an evident hatred for authority (1^st Samuel 15:23). The Spirit of Christ in us brings an opposite reaction into our disposition. Jesus Himself was willingly humble, meek, submissive & obedient. His presence produces these good characteristics in His children as well. Peter speaks of this in 1^st Peter 5.

 

He begins with the actions & attitudes of spiritual elders in the church (vs. 2-3). Notice what Peter forbad: self-indulgence, bitterness, greed, stubbornness & authoritarianism.  These are all taboo in the heart & life of a pastor, deacon, elder, apostle, evangelist or teacher. Any Christian who has been given spiritual gifts, influence & responsibility in the church has a duty to carry out their calling with generosity, thoroughness, eagerness, preparedness & authenticity. And, agreeing to do "leadership" this way (that is, God's way) obviously requires a submissive spirit. Good human leadership begins with a recognition & appreciation of God's ultimate authority over us. If that gets messed up, everything else down the line will also be out of whack.

 

Not only should Christian leaders be submissive to God, all Christians should be submissive to each other in general. Elders should be respected, of course.  But no matter where a person stands in the hierarchy of the church, we are all made in the image of God & are saved by the same grace. Every believer owes every other believer a constant debt of humility (vs. 5). Whatever our title or position, we are all required to have a servant's attitude toward every other member of the congregation. 

Wednesday – 1st Peter 4 - The Problem of Pain

 

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. S. Lewis wrote a book entitled, "The Problem of Pain." I have neither the space before me nor the intellect within me to attempt a Lewis style apologetic. However, we have arrived at 1^st Peter 4 & are faced with this problem, so let's deal with it. There are many reasons for pain & suffering in this life. Simply put, Adam's sin has brought a curse of anguish & evil on us that will not be eradicated from the universe until God makes all things new (Romans 8:22 & Revelation 21:1 & 4). But there is both an antecedent & many derivatives of Adam's fall. Obviously, we must wonder why God allowed it in the first place. Knowing His infinite power & goodness, there must be some greater benefit that the possibility of evil & suffering supplied. To me, love is the answer. C.S. Lewis wrote, "Try to exclude the possibility of suffering which the order of nature & the existence of free-wills involve, & you find that you have excluded life itself." I fully agree. A world without choice would be a world without love, faith, or relationship. What glory or pleasure could God get from that kind of a world?

Tuesday – 1st Peter 3 - The Real You

 

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N the Bible there is a perfect mixture of commandments regarding overt morality & instructions concerning our internal spiritual condition. As we saw in the book of James, both are important; & in Hebrews 11, they are also inextricably connected. However, it is the inner man that matters most (1^st Samuel 16:7 & 2^nd Corinthians 4:16). Or, maybe we should say (as Christ did) that it is our inside that matters first (Matthew 23:25-26). Such is the case in our salvation. Our physical baptism is an outward demonstration of an inward reality (1^st Peter 3:20-21). The outside of our cup can be cleaned automatically (as it were) as we focus on making sure that our inside is thoroughly washed (Matthew 15:10-11). Indeed, God fully intends to deal with our entire being (1^st Thessalonians 5:23), but if the outside is all that is adjusted then there will be no lasting benefit (Matthew 23:27-28).  On the other hand, if the real me is adjusted my outer shell will certainly be affected too (2^nd Corinthians 5:17 & James 2:18). Our outward issues are merely platforms upon which our inside is demonstrated.

 

Here in 1^st Peter 3 we find plenty of good counsel on how to be right & do right. First, Peter offers direction for wives & husbands (1^st Peter 3:1-7). It is certain that a sincere love for God is the key ingredient to a successful marriage. And, expressing love for God should definitely begin at home. But Peter doesn't stop there. He moves on & addresses the totality of our spiritual responsibilities, which is to be righteous & to live justly (Micah 6:8). 

Monday – 1st Peter 2 - The Bishop of My Soul

 

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IBLICALLY speaking, a bishop is an overseer or a watcher. According to Peter, Jesus is "the Shepherd & Bishop of our souls" (vs. 25). He watches over my soul. This is why I can sing, "It Is Well with My Soul." Sometimes I feel it & sometimes I don't, but at all times I am actually completely safe & secure in Christ. Our keeper never slumbers or sleeps (Psalm 121:4). We have Christ, & more importantly, He has us. This is all we need. He is The Chosen One; our Messiah and Savior. He is the Chief Cornerstone. He is our Lord & Master. We are safe in Him (Prov. 18:10). We are His fruitful children (1^st Peter 2:9-10); His sheep (Psalm 23 & Isaiah 53:6).

 

The fact that Christ is watching over us constantly should be (first & foremost) a comfort & an inspiration to us. But there is another side to this reality.  Remember that in 1^st Peter 1 we were shown that spiritual purity is God's will for us. Chapter 2 defines for us some of the ways that we can go about living this pure life that Christ has called us into. He is watching us, so to begin with we need to set aside those evil ways of thinking & speaking which we previously cultured throughout our unregenerate life (vs. 1). We have a new direction.  Thirst for biblical truth - this is where it's at.  When Jesus looks over your shoulder & mine to see if we need any help, He should frequently find us pouring over His words (vs. 2). This is where we find Him & His grace (vs. 3-4 & John 5:39). He is "a living stone" foundation & we are His "lively stones" - each of us in our own proper place in His spiritual house (1^st Peter 2:4 & 5).  And, it is our faith in Him that completes this bond (vs. 6-7).

Friday - 1st Peter 1 - Spiritual Purity

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N the long list of advantages that accompany salvation is a wondrous thing that might be properly called "spiritual purity" (Matthew 5:8). After all, we are saved FROM sin, right? In 1^st Peter 1:22 the great Apostle Peter wrote, "Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that you love one another with a pure heart fervently..." In this context Peter was talking about the conversion of his audience as well as their continuation in pure faith. In coming to the Father through faith in the Son, these believers had (and all believers have) "purified souls." Of course, Peter was challenging them to continue on their journey of purity by continually maintaining pure hearts in their interactions with other believers.

 

You may have read somewhere, "Cleanliness is next to godliness." While this might be a utilitarian way to encourage good hygiene or a tidy house, there is a deeper and more significant point to be made with that good proverb. In James 3:17 we read "the wisdom that is from above is first pure..." Certainly, our Savior is nothing if He isn't pure. Which, of course, He is. He is holy (1^st Peter 1:19) and we are called to be holy and pure also (1^st John 3:3 & 1^st Peter 1:15-16). Our heavenly inheritance is a pure one. Peter called it incorruptible (1^st Peter 1:4). The source of our salvation is pure. Again, Peter called it incorruptible (1^st Peter 1:23). Our sinless Messiah is perfect; flawless. The crucifixion demonstrated & proved it once & for all!