Summary:
The Lamb and the 144,000
Verses 1-5
John saw the Lamb before him, standing on Mount Zion. The 144,000 were with Him, those with His Name and His Father's Name written on their foreheads. He heard a sound from heaven like the roar of rushing waters, a loud peal of thunder, and the sound of harps being played. The 144,000 sang a new song before the throne, the living creatures, and the elders. No one could learn it except those who had been redeemed from the earth, who had not defiled themselves with women, who had kept pure, who always followed the Lamb, were purchesed from mankind and offered to God and the Lamb. No lie was found in them; they are blameless.
The Three Angels
Verses 6-13
John saw an angel flying in midair. He had the eternal gospel to proclaim to everyone on earth. He called out that we should fear and give glory to God, because the judgment hour has come. We are to worship the Creator. A second angel called out that Babylon had fallen. Babylon the Great had made all nations drink "the maddening wine of her adulteries" (Verse 8b).
The third angel called out that, if anyone worships the beast, his image, and receives his mark, they will drink of the wine of God's fury, which has been poured out full strength into the cup of His wrath. They will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and the Lamb. The smoke of their torment rises forever. There will be no rest for these people.
The saints who obey God's commands and remain faithful to Jesus must be patient and endure.
A loud voice from heaven told John to write that the dead who die in the Lord from now on are blessed. The Spirit said that they will rest from their labor and their deeds will follow them.
The Harvest of the Earth
Verses 14-20
John saw a white cloud before him, with one like the Son of Man seated on it. He had a crown of gold and a sharp sickle in His hand. An angel came out of the temple and called out to Him - to reap with the sickle, because the time to reap had come and the harvest was ripe. So, the Son of Man reaped with His sickle.
Another angel came out of the temple, with a sharp sickle. An angel in charge of fire came from the altar and told the previous angel to gather the clusters of grapes from the earth's vine, because its grapes were ripe. This angel swung his sickle, gathered the grapes, and threw them into the great winepress of God's wrath. They will be trampled in the winepress outside the city and blood will flow out. The blood will rise as high as horses' bridles for 1,600 stadia (~180 miles).
Lori's Thoughts:
Who are the 144,000? They can't be everyone that will go to heaven, because they mention that others will die for Christ later.
This new song seems beautiful. Stop and imagine - rushing water. Not a brook, but an ocean wave crashing through some tall rocks. Then, thunder. Now, harps. . . . I love it!
Only the pure will learn this new song. It seems as if these 144,000 never sinned. Are they like Elijah, who was taken to heaven before he could die on earth, or are they sinless because they are covered by the blood of the Lamb?
. . .
The Three Angels' Proclamations:
1. Worship God because judgment has come.
2. That which deceives mankind has fallen.
3. Those that devote themselves to anyone but God will be destroyed.
Those of us who hold on to Christ will be given rest. Even if we die in this world, we are blessed because we are His and will receive eternal life.
The people of the earth will be harvested. First, the children of God will be taken by the Son of Man, that is, Jesus Christ. Second, the rebellious will be harvested for destruction.
I do not need to fear, for I choose to lead a life of love. Love taught to me by no human I've encountered. I will also live in awareness that there is a great deceiver trying to bring us down with him. I will not give him a foothold, God help me. I will hold onto the arms of the One who loves me more than I will ever deserve. You can too. His arms are big enough.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Friday, April 8, 2011
II Chronicles 2 (NIV)
Summary:
Preparations for Building the Temple
Verses 1-18
Solomon gave orders to build a temple for the Name of the Lord and for a royal palace for himself. He took a census of the foreigners in Israel, giving these people assignments to keep them working. He conscripted 70,000 men as carriers; 80,000 men as stonecutters; and 3,600 men as their supervisors.
Solomon sent a message to Hiram king of Tyre. Hiram had sent cedar to David for building his palace, and now, Solomon was about to build a temple for God. At this temple, he would burn fragrant incense for God, set out the consecrated bread regularly, and make burnt offerings every morning, evening, Sabbath, New Moon, and appointed feast. This would be a lasting ordinance for Israel. The temple would be great, because God is greater than any other god. Solomon asked who was he to build a temple for God, when even the highest heavens couldn't contain Him.
This was Solomon's request to Hiram:
- a man skilled to work in gold & silver, bronze & iron, purple, crimson, & blue yarn, and experienced in engraving
- cedar, pine, algum (possibly juniper) logs from Lebanon (Tyre had skilled woodcutters)
- Solomon would send his men to help with the lumber
- payment - 20,000 cors (~ 1 million gallons) of ground wheat; 20,000 cors of barley; 20,000 baths (~115,000 gallons) of wine; 20,000 baths of olive oil
Hiram's response: the Lord loves Israel, so he made Solomon their king. He praised God, the Creator of heaven and earth, for giving David a wise, intelligent, and discerning son, who would build God a temple and a palace for himself. He was sending them Huram-Abi, a highly skilled artist, whose mother was from Dan and whose father was from Tyre (his ethnicity was a combo of Israelite & Tyrite). Huram-Abi could work with all of the items Solomon had listed (a jack-of-all-arts, if you will). Hiram asked Solomon to send the payment, and he would send the logs from Lebanon on rafts by sea down to Joppa for Solomon to take them to Jerusalem.
Lori's Thoughts:
Of all the art projects ever undertaken, I think this was greatest, hands down! Of all the people to delve into this project wholeheartedly, Solomon was it! David was a man after God's own heart. He dedicated his son Solomon to also live for and love the Lord. You can tell by how intricately detailed this magnificent temple turned out to be. I encourage you to read I Kings, Chapters 6 & 7. This construction was incredible! (My favorite is the Sea.)
I wish I could have been there to witness this construction project. Imagine lodes and lodes of timber riding down the sea on rafts! I'm sure you've been impressed by vast numbers of ships in movies like the latest Robin Hood. And imagine the sweet, sweet smell of hundreds of cedar logs floating down. Now, I know Solomon was smart enough to practice sustainability and plant more trees after cutting them down.
If my siblings and I were working with them, I imagine I'd be working with the yarn to make some cool designs, my brother would be an engraver, my younger sister would paint, and my youngest sister would insist on being a lumberjack (lumberjane?). Anway, it would have been awesome to be there. Who says serving God isn't fun?!
Preparations for Building the Temple
Verses 1-18
Solomon gave orders to build a temple for the Name of the Lord and for a royal palace for himself. He took a census of the foreigners in Israel, giving these people assignments to keep them working. He conscripted 70,000 men as carriers; 80,000 men as stonecutters; and 3,600 men as their supervisors.
Solomon sent a message to Hiram king of Tyre. Hiram had sent cedar to David for building his palace, and now, Solomon was about to build a temple for God. At this temple, he would burn fragrant incense for God, set out the consecrated bread regularly, and make burnt offerings every morning, evening, Sabbath, New Moon, and appointed feast. This would be a lasting ordinance for Israel. The temple would be great, because God is greater than any other god. Solomon asked who was he to build a temple for God, when even the highest heavens couldn't contain Him.
This was Solomon's request to Hiram:
- a man skilled to work in gold & silver, bronze & iron, purple, crimson, & blue yarn, and experienced in engraving
- cedar, pine, algum (possibly juniper) logs from Lebanon (Tyre had skilled woodcutters)
- Solomon would send his men to help with the lumber
- payment - 20,000 cors (~ 1 million gallons) of ground wheat; 20,000 cors of barley; 20,000 baths (~115,000 gallons) of wine; 20,000 baths of olive oil
Hiram's response: the Lord loves Israel, so he made Solomon their king. He praised God, the Creator of heaven and earth, for giving David a wise, intelligent, and discerning son, who would build God a temple and a palace for himself. He was sending them Huram-Abi, a highly skilled artist, whose mother was from Dan and whose father was from Tyre (his ethnicity was a combo of Israelite & Tyrite). Huram-Abi could work with all of the items Solomon had listed (a jack-of-all-arts, if you will). Hiram asked Solomon to send the payment, and he would send the logs from Lebanon on rafts by sea down to Joppa for Solomon to take them to Jerusalem.
Lori's Thoughts:
Of all the art projects ever undertaken, I think this was greatest, hands down! Of all the people to delve into this project wholeheartedly, Solomon was it! David was a man after God's own heart. He dedicated his son Solomon to also live for and love the Lord. You can tell by how intricately detailed this magnificent temple turned out to be. I encourage you to read I Kings, Chapters 6 & 7. This construction was incredible! (My favorite is the Sea.)
I wish I could have been there to witness this construction project. Imagine lodes and lodes of timber riding down the sea on rafts! I'm sure you've been impressed by vast numbers of ships in movies like the latest Robin Hood. And imagine the sweet, sweet smell of hundreds of cedar logs floating down. Now, I know Solomon was smart enough to practice sustainability and plant more trees after cutting them down.
If my siblings and I were working with them, I imagine I'd be working with the yarn to make some cool designs, my brother would be an engraver, my younger sister would paint, and my youngest sister would insist on being a lumberjack (lumberjane?). Anway, it would have been awesome to be there. Who says serving God isn't fun?!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Revelation 13 (NIV)
Summary:
Verse 1a
"And the dragon stood on the shore of the sea."
The Beast Out of the Sea
Verses 1b-10
John saw a beast come out of the sea. This beast had 10 horns, 7 heads, and 10 crowns on his horns. Each head had a blasphemous name. The beast was like a leopard, with feet like a bear, and a mouth like a lion. He was given power, the throne, and great authority from the dragon. One of the heads seemed to have had a fatal wound, but it had been healed. The whole world was astonished and followed the beast.
Men worshiped the dragon, because he had given authority to the beast. They worshiped the beast, claiming that no one was like him and that no one could wage war against him. The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies, as well as the ability to exercise authority for 42 months (3 1/2 years). The beast will blaspheme God, slandering His Name, dwelling place, and those that live in heaven. The beast will be given the power to make war against the saints and conquer them. He will have authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation. All the earth's inhabitants will worship the beast, that is, those whose names are not written in the book of life that belongs to the Lamb that was slain, which had been the plan since creation.
"He who has an ear, let him hear. If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity he will go. If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword he will be killed. This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints." (Verses 9-10)
The Beast Out of the Earth
Verses 11-18
John saw a beast come out of the earth. It had 2 horns like that of a lamb and spoke like a dragon. He exercised the authority of the 1st beast, on his behalf and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the 1st beast, whose fatal wound was healed. The 2nd beast performed miracles - even fire came down from heaven, in everyone's full view, thus, deceiving the earth's inhabitants. He ordered the people to set up an image in honor of the 1st beast, who had been wounded by the sword, yet lived. The 2nd beast was given power to give breath to this image, so that it could speak. The 2nd beast caused all who refused to worship the image to be killed. He forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave to receive a mark on his right hand or forehead. No one will be able to buy or sell without this mark. The mark is the name of the beast or the number of his name.
"This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man's number. His number is 666." (Verse 18)
Lori's Thoughts:
**Disclaimer: I am human, so I do not claim authority on the interpretation of this chapter. Take God's word above mine. Do not take the following as law.**
The first verse is so poetic. I'm thinking of the Voyage of the Dawn Treader, the last Chronicles of Narnia film, with Eustace as a dragon, standing on the remote beach. Well, the dragon in Revelation is malevolent, but those who trust in the Almighty need not fear.
So, the devil will conjure up two beasts - one from the sea and one from the land. Maybe one is a foreigner and the other is native. I'm assuming these beasts to be political leaders, who legislate who and how we worship. If the devil is trying to create a one world government (see the bold print under Verses 1b-10), as Adolf Hitler tried to create a one ethnic world, maybe this is why the 1st beast has 1 body with 7 heads. Maybe the 7 heads are the 7 continents. All continents will be merged under one government body.
There are 10 horns. 7 = 1. There are 3 extra horns...why?
One of the heads seemed to have received a fatal wound, but it was healed. Asia? More specifically, Japan? Or is it Africa?... Either way, those that have not been sealed by God will be deceived and pledge themselves to this beast. This leader empowered by Satan. This beast will verbally defy God and persecute His people. We who are His must endure and not lose hope when some of us are imprisoned or killed.
I wonder if the 2nd beast resembles a lamb because he will try to deceive people that he is a Christian. But, his words are like that of a dragon. We will know he is not of Christ because of what he says. This is why we must test the spirits of everyone, before we believe them, as it says in I John 4: 1-6. The 1st beast will give the 2nd beast power and authority. The 2nd beast will force people to worship the 1st beast. The 2nd beast can perform miracles, like bringing fire down from heave, as God did for Elijah, and causing the idol of the 1st beast to speak. But, unlike Elijah, this beast's power comes from Satan not God. So, bear in mind that not all miracles come from God. Know His voice and know whom people serve.
The 2nd beast will kill those who refuse to worship the image. This reminds me of King Nebuchadnezzar's idol, and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refusing to worship the idol. They were thrown into a furnace, but were saved by God. However, it is God's choice to save us from harm in the end times. Whether we die for Christ or endure for Christ, we will be with Him in paradise, after the world ends, for eternity.
When it comes time for the mark of the beast, which will override any economic transactions, do not be deceived, but, remember this verse: "And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
Verse 1a
"And the dragon stood on the shore of the sea."
The Beast Out of the Sea
Verses 1b-10
John saw a beast come out of the sea. This beast had 10 horns, 7 heads, and 10 crowns on his horns. Each head had a blasphemous name. The beast was like a leopard, with feet like a bear, and a mouth like a lion. He was given power, the throne, and great authority from the dragon. One of the heads seemed to have had a fatal wound, but it had been healed. The whole world was astonished and followed the beast.
Men worshiped the dragon, because he had given authority to the beast. They worshiped the beast, claiming that no one was like him and that no one could wage war against him. The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies, as well as the ability to exercise authority for 42 months (3 1/2 years). The beast will blaspheme God, slandering His Name, dwelling place, and those that live in heaven. The beast will be given the power to make war against the saints and conquer them. He will have authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation. All the earth's inhabitants will worship the beast, that is, those whose names are not written in the book of life that belongs to the Lamb that was slain, which had been the plan since creation.
"He who has an ear, let him hear. If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity he will go. If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword he will be killed. This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints." (Verses 9-10)
The Beast Out of the Earth
Verses 11-18
John saw a beast come out of the earth. It had 2 horns like that of a lamb and spoke like a dragon. He exercised the authority of the 1st beast, on his behalf and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the 1st beast, whose fatal wound was healed. The 2nd beast performed miracles - even fire came down from heaven, in everyone's full view, thus, deceiving the earth's inhabitants. He ordered the people to set up an image in honor of the 1st beast, who had been wounded by the sword, yet lived. The 2nd beast was given power to give breath to this image, so that it could speak. The 2nd beast caused all who refused to worship the image to be killed. He forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave to receive a mark on his right hand or forehead. No one will be able to buy or sell without this mark. The mark is the name of the beast or the number of his name.
"This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man's number. His number is 666." (Verse 18)
Lori's Thoughts:
**Disclaimer: I am human, so I do not claim authority on the interpretation of this chapter. Take God's word above mine. Do not take the following as law.**
The first verse is so poetic. I'm thinking of the Voyage of the Dawn Treader, the last Chronicles of Narnia film, with Eustace as a dragon, standing on the remote beach. Well, the dragon in Revelation is malevolent, but those who trust in the Almighty need not fear.
So, the devil will conjure up two beasts - one from the sea and one from the land. Maybe one is a foreigner and the other is native. I'm assuming these beasts to be political leaders, who legislate who and how we worship. If the devil is trying to create a one world government (see the bold print under Verses 1b-10), as Adolf Hitler tried to create a one ethnic world, maybe this is why the 1st beast has 1 body with 7 heads. Maybe the 7 heads are the 7 continents. All continents will be merged under one government body.
There are 10 horns. 7 = 1. There are 3 extra horns...why?
One of the heads seemed to have received a fatal wound, but it was healed. Asia? More specifically, Japan? Or is it Africa?... Either way, those that have not been sealed by God will be deceived and pledge themselves to this beast. This leader empowered by Satan. This beast will verbally defy God and persecute His people. We who are His must endure and not lose hope when some of us are imprisoned or killed.
I wonder if the 2nd beast resembles a lamb because he will try to deceive people that he is a Christian. But, his words are like that of a dragon. We will know he is not of Christ because of what he says. This is why we must test the spirits of everyone, before we believe them, as it says in I John 4: 1-6. The 1st beast will give the 2nd beast power and authority. The 2nd beast will force people to worship the 1st beast. The 2nd beast can perform miracles, like bringing fire down from heave, as God did for Elijah, and causing the idol of the 1st beast to speak. But, unlike Elijah, this beast's power comes from Satan not God. So, bear in mind that not all miracles come from God. Know His voice and know whom people serve.
The 2nd beast will kill those who refuse to worship the image. This reminds me of King Nebuchadnezzar's idol, and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refusing to worship the idol. They were thrown into a furnace, but were saved by God. However, it is God's choice to save us from harm in the end times. Whether we die for Christ or endure for Christ, we will be with Him in paradise, after the world ends, for eternity.
When it comes time for the mark of the beast, which will override any economic transactions, do not be deceived, but, remember this verse: "And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
II Chronicles 1 (NIV)
Summary:
Solomon Asks for Wisdom
Verses 1-17
Solomon, son of David, established himself firmly in his kingdom, for God was with him and made him exceedingly great. Solomon addressed all of Israel - the commanders of thousands and hundreds, the judges, leaders, and heads of families. They all went to the high place at Gibeon, where God's Tent of Meeting was located. Moses, God's servant, had built it there in the desert. David had brought up the ark from Kiriath Jearim and pitched a tent for it in Jerusalem. Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, had made the bronze altar in Gibeon, in front of the Lord's tabernacle. Solomon and the assembly inquired of God there. Solomon offered 1,000 burnt offerings to God on the altar.
That night, God appeared to Solomon and told him to ask for whatever he wanted. Solomon said that God had been kind to him and his father, making them king. Solomon asked for God's promise to David to be confirmed. God had made Solomon king of a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. He asked for wisdom and knowledge to lead God's people Israel. God told Saul that he had not asked for wealth, riches, honor, death for his enemies, or a long life. Since Solomon's heart's desire was wisdom and knowledge, God would give him these as well as wealth, riches, and honor, more than any king before or after him.
Solomon went to Jerusalem and reigned over Israel. He accumulated 1,400 chariots and 12,000 horses, which he kept in chariot cities as well as Jerusalem. Solomon made silver and gold as common as stones and cedar as plentiful as sycamore-fig trees in the foothills. The horses were imported from Eypyt and Kue. Kue was where the royal merchants bought their horses. They also imported an Egyptian chariot for 600 shekels (~15lbs) of silver and a horse for 150 shekels (~3 3/4lbs) of silver. They exported their goods to all the kings of the Hittites and Arameans.
Lori's Thoughts:
When Solomon made his sacrifice of 1,000 burnt offerings, I imagine he did so out of humility and immense gratitude. God had already greatly blessed him, so he must have been overflowing with love for God. God knows our hearts. If Solomon had made this great sacrifice out of pride or a desire to intimidate onlookers, I don't think God would have offered Solomon a blank check.
Here's the thing, if Solomon had asked for wealth, God would have given it to him. If he had asked for battle success and glory, God would have given them to him. Anything he would have asked, God would have given it to him. I think any human would ask for materials, health, or fame. But, Solomon's soul was in touch with the Holy Spirit. When he made the sacrifices, his thoughts were on God. When he made his prayer request, his thoughts were on everyone else, that is, his people. (Do you remember the two commandments I wrote about yesterday?) When God blessed, His thougths were on Solomon.
I thought David overflowed with wealth. Well, God blessed Solomon all the more. I told you He wants us to prosper.
Do you believe He'll do the same for you?
Solomon Asks for Wisdom
Verses 1-17
Solomon, son of David, established himself firmly in his kingdom, for God was with him and made him exceedingly great. Solomon addressed all of Israel - the commanders of thousands and hundreds, the judges, leaders, and heads of families. They all went to the high place at Gibeon, where God's Tent of Meeting was located. Moses, God's servant, had built it there in the desert. David had brought up the ark from Kiriath Jearim and pitched a tent for it in Jerusalem. Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, had made the bronze altar in Gibeon, in front of the Lord's tabernacle. Solomon and the assembly inquired of God there. Solomon offered 1,000 burnt offerings to God on the altar.
That night, God appeared to Solomon and told him to ask for whatever he wanted. Solomon said that God had been kind to him and his father, making them king. Solomon asked for God's promise to David to be confirmed. God had made Solomon king of a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. He asked for wisdom and knowledge to lead God's people Israel. God told Saul that he had not asked for wealth, riches, honor, death for his enemies, or a long life. Since Solomon's heart's desire was wisdom and knowledge, God would give him these as well as wealth, riches, and honor, more than any king before or after him.
Solomon went to Jerusalem and reigned over Israel. He accumulated 1,400 chariots and 12,000 horses, which he kept in chariot cities as well as Jerusalem. Solomon made silver and gold as common as stones and cedar as plentiful as sycamore-fig trees in the foothills. The horses were imported from Eypyt and Kue. Kue was where the royal merchants bought their horses. They also imported an Egyptian chariot for 600 shekels (~15lbs) of silver and a horse for 150 shekels (~3 3/4lbs) of silver. They exported their goods to all the kings of the Hittites and Arameans.
Lori's Thoughts:
When Solomon made his sacrifice of 1,000 burnt offerings, I imagine he did so out of humility and immense gratitude. God had already greatly blessed him, so he must have been overflowing with love for God. God knows our hearts. If Solomon had made this great sacrifice out of pride or a desire to intimidate onlookers, I don't think God would have offered Solomon a blank check.
Here's the thing, if Solomon had asked for wealth, God would have given it to him. If he had asked for battle success and glory, God would have given them to him. Anything he would have asked, God would have given it to him. I think any human would ask for materials, health, or fame. But, Solomon's soul was in touch with the Holy Spirit. When he made the sacrifices, his thoughts were on God. When he made his prayer request, his thoughts were on everyone else, that is, his people. (Do you remember the two commandments I wrote about yesterday?) When God blessed, His thougths were on Solomon.
I thought David overflowed with wealth. Well, God blessed Solomon all the more. I told you He wants us to prosper.
Do you believe He'll do the same for you?
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Revelation 12 (NIV)
Summary:
The Woman and the Dragon
Verses 1-17
John saw a wondrous sign appear in heaven. A woman appeared, clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and with a crown of 12 stars on her head. She was pregnant and cried out in pain, as if about to give birth. An enormous red dragon, with 7 heads, 10 horns, and 7 crowns on its heads appeared. Its tail swept 1/3 of the stars from the sky and flung them to earth. The dragon stood in front of the woman to devour her child as soon as He was born. She gave birth to a son, who will rule the nations with an iron scepter. The child was snatched up to God and to His throne. The woman fled to the desert, to the place prepared for her, by God, where she will be cared for 1,260 days.
There was war in heaven. Michael and His angels vs. the dragon and his angels. "But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down - that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him." (Verses 8-9)
John heard a loud voice in heaven anounce: salvation, power, the kingdom of our God, and the authority of Christ have now come. "For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down." (Verse 10b) "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death." (Verse 11) Therefore, those who dwell in heaven should rejoice, but woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil is down there. He is furious because he knows his time is short.
The dragon, once on earth, pursued the woman. The woman was given the two wings of a great eagle, so that she could fly to her haven in the desert, being cared for a time, times, and half a time. She will be out of the serpent's reach. The serpent will spew out if his mouth water like a river to sweep her away. The earth will help her by opening its mouth and swallowing the river. The dragon was enraged at the woman and left to make war against the rest of her offspring. Her offspring are those that obey God's commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus.
Lori's Thoughts:
The woman is Mary, mother of Jesus Christ. The devil tried to kill Jesus through King Herod, but God sent a message to Joseph, Jesus' adopted father, to warn him of Herod's plot to kill this future king. The dragon took 1/3 of the stars out when thrown out of heaven. The dragon is the devil and the stars are angels. The devil deceived 1/3 of God's angels, so you better believe he is capable of deceiving humans. Since he failed to get Jesus, he turned on the vessel that brought Him to earth. He failed to get her as well, so he turned on the rest of her children. That is, symbolic children - those who share with what Christ taught.
God gave us the tools to overcome deception. We are covered, symbolically, by Christ's blood. Christ paid our entrance fee to heaven. The devil doesn't want us to know this. And he goes to heaven to try and deceive God by telling Him that we're sinners and, by default, cannot go to heaven. We can only enter if we accept that only Christ is worthy and He wants to share eternity with us. God provided a way for Mary to escape the jaws of the devil. Not only escape, but receive everything she needed. You can be sure He'll do the same for her offspring (that is, you).
God wants us to obey His commandments:
1) Love God
2) Love All Others
*see Matthew 22:37-38
And, He wants us to accept Christ's sacrifice for us. It's simple.
Remember, the devil was not strong enough to defeat Christ. If you're on His side, the devil is not strong enough to beat you either, because Christ has got you covered. :)
The Woman and the Dragon
Verses 1-17
John saw a wondrous sign appear in heaven. A woman appeared, clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and with a crown of 12 stars on her head. She was pregnant and cried out in pain, as if about to give birth. An enormous red dragon, with 7 heads, 10 horns, and 7 crowns on its heads appeared. Its tail swept 1/3 of the stars from the sky and flung them to earth. The dragon stood in front of the woman to devour her child as soon as He was born. She gave birth to a son, who will rule the nations with an iron scepter. The child was snatched up to God and to His throne. The woman fled to the desert, to the place prepared for her, by God, where she will be cared for 1,260 days.
There was war in heaven. Michael and His angels vs. the dragon and his angels. "But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down - that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him." (Verses 8-9)
John heard a loud voice in heaven anounce: salvation, power, the kingdom of our God, and the authority of Christ have now come. "For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down." (Verse 10b) "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death." (Verse 11) Therefore, those who dwell in heaven should rejoice, but woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil is down there. He is furious because he knows his time is short.
The dragon, once on earth, pursued the woman. The woman was given the two wings of a great eagle, so that she could fly to her haven in the desert, being cared for a time, times, and half a time. She will be out of the serpent's reach. The serpent will spew out if his mouth water like a river to sweep her away. The earth will help her by opening its mouth and swallowing the river. The dragon was enraged at the woman and left to make war against the rest of her offspring. Her offspring are those that obey God's commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus.
Lori's Thoughts:
The woman is Mary, mother of Jesus Christ. The devil tried to kill Jesus through King Herod, but God sent a message to Joseph, Jesus' adopted father, to warn him of Herod's plot to kill this future king. The dragon took 1/3 of the stars out when thrown out of heaven. The dragon is the devil and the stars are angels. The devil deceived 1/3 of God's angels, so you better believe he is capable of deceiving humans. Since he failed to get Jesus, he turned on the vessel that brought Him to earth. He failed to get her as well, so he turned on the rest of her children. That is, symbolic children - those who share with what Christ taught.
God gave us the tools to overcome deception. We are covered, symbolically, by Christ's blood. Christ paid our entrance fee to heaven. The devil doesn't want us to know this. And he goes to heaven to try and deceive God by telling Him that we're sinners and, by default, cannot go to heaven. We can only enter if we accept that only Christ is worthy and He wants to share eternity with us. God provided a way for Mary to escape the jaws of the devil. Not only escape, but receive everything she needed. You can be sure He'll do the same for her offspring (that is, you).
God wants us to obey His commandments:
1) Love God
2) Love All Others
*see Matthew 22:37-38
And, He wants us to accept Christ's sacrifice for us. It's simple.
Remember, the devil was not strong enough to defeat Christ. If you're on His side, the devil is not strong enough to beat you either, because Christ has got you covered. :)
Monday, April 4, 2011
I Chronicles 29 (NIV)
Summary:
Gifts for Building the Temple
Verses 1-9
King David told the assembly that his son, Solomon, whom God had chosen, was young and inexperienced. He had been given the great task of building a palatial structure for God. David had provided, in great quantity, the following supplies: gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, onyx, turquoise, various colored stones, various fine stones, and marble. David now offered above what was needed: 3,000 talents (~110 tons) of gold of Ophir; and 7,000 talents (~260 tons) of refined silver for the overlayings of the walls, for the gold and silver work, and for the craftsmen's work.
David asked if anyone was willing to dedicate themself to God that day. The leaders of the families, tribe officers, commanders of thousands and hundreds, and officials in charge of the king's work willingly gave: 5,000 talents and 10,000 darics (~190 tons and 185 lbs) of gold; 10,000 talents (~375 tons) of silver; 18,000 talents (~675 tons) of bronze; and 100,000 (~3,750 tons) of iron. They also gave precious stones for the temple treasury, in the custody of Jehiel the Gershonite.
King David and the people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, because they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord.
David's Prayer
Verses 10-20
David praised God in the assembly's presence. He acknowledged Him as their God, attributing to Him greatness, power, glory, majesty, and splendor. He acknowledged Him as the owner of everything in heaven and earth. The kingdom belonged to God for He is above all. He provides wealth and honor. He is the ruler of all things. In His hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. David thanked and praised his glorious name, on behalf of himself and his people.
David claimed that all the gifts given had come from God. God's people were returning some of what He had provided. They were strangers in God's sight, for their days were like shadows without hope. (I think David is saying that we are nothing compared to God.) God tests our hearts and is pleased with integrity. He has seen with joy how willingly His people had given that day. David asked for God to keep that desire and loyalty to God in the people's hearts forever. He asked for God to give Solomon wholehearted devotion, obedience to God's commands, and the ability to build the palatial structure. David told the assembly to praise God. They bowed low and fell prostrate (on their faces) before the Lord and the king.
Solomon Acknowledged as King
Verses 21-25
The next day, the people sacrificed to God: 1,000 bulls; 1,000 rams; 1,000 male lambs; drink offerings; and other sacrifices in abundance. They ate and drank, with great joy, in God's presence. They acknowledged Solomons as king, for a second time. They anointed him as king and Zadok as priest before the Lord. Solomon took the throne and prospered. The Israelites obeyed him. All the officers, mighty men, and David's sons pledged submission to Solomon. The Lord exalted and gave Solomon splendor over any king before him.
The Death of David
Verses 26-30
David ruled for 40 years: 7 years in Hebron, 33 in Jerusalem. He died at a good old age and had enjoyed a long life, wealth, and honor. His other events are written in the records of Samuel the seer, Nathan the prophet, and Gad the seer. This includes the circumstances that surrounded him, Israel, and the kingdoms of the other lands.
Lori's Thoughts:
Without God, things become tainted. King David was wealthier than anything I have ever experienced or witnessed. But, he was not arrogant or greedy, as most wealthy people tend to become, when they do not have God as their Lord. David was right when he said that their gift already belonged to God. God is the Creator and our Provider. What He desires is a willing heart and mind, more than things.
We should imitate David in his generosity, as well as in his praise for God. We need to tell God what He means to us. Not that He doesn't already know who He is, but we need to be reminded of who He is. God also enjoys being loved and praised as well as loving and praising us. He loved Solomon by call Himself his Father, and He exalted Solomon by making him the greatest king to date.
We should also pray for each other, that we will not lose our desire for God or our willingness to give Him everything - our possessions and our devotion. What will God give us in return? He gave David a long life, wealth, and honor. He wants us to prosper as well. I'm only 26, barely making ends meet, and without a lofty position. But, I have never been destitute and I overflow with peace and joy. I am rich. I am blessed.
Don't compare what you have to what others have. Stop looking around. Look up. Trust that He will give you everything you need. If He sees fit, He will give you more. If not, He is still good, holy, and perfect.
Gifts for Building the Temple
Verses 1-9
King David told the assembly that his son, Solomon, whom God had chosen, was young and inexperienced. He had been given the great task of building a palatial structure for God. David had provided, in great quantity, the following supplies: gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, onyx, turquoise, various colored stones, various fine stones, and marble. David now offered above what was needed: 3,000 talents (~110 tons) of gold of Ophir; and 7,000 talents (~260 tons) of refined silver for the overlayings of the walls, for the gold and silver work, and for the craftsmen's work.
David asked if anyone was willing to dedicate themself to God that day. The leaders of the families, tribe officers, commanders of thousands and hundreds, and officials in charge of the king's work willingly gave: 5,000 talents and 10,000 darics (~190 tons and 185 lbs) of gold; 10,000 talents (~375 tons) of silver; 18,000 talents (~675 tons) of bronze; and 100,000 (~3,750 tons) of iron. They also gave precious stones for the temple treasury, in the custody of Jehiel the Gershonite.
King David and the people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, because they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord.
David's Prayer
Verses 10-20
David praised God in the assembly's presence. He acknowledged Him as their God, attributing to Him greatness, power, glory, majesty, and splendor. He acknowledged Him as the owner of everything in heaven and earth. The kingdom belonged to God for He is above all. He provides wealth and honor. He is the ruler of all things. In His hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. David thanked and praised his glorious name, on behalf of himself and his people.
David claimed that all the gifts given had come from God. God's people were returning some of what He had provided. They were strangers in God's sight, for their days were like shadows without hope. (I think David is saying that we are nothing compared to God.) God tests our hearts and is pleased with integrity. He has seen with joy how willingly His people had given that day. David asked for God to keep that desire and loyalty to God in the people's hearts forever. He asked for God to give Solomon wholehearted devotion, obedience to God's commands, and the ability to build the palatial structure. David told the assembly to praise God. They bowed low and fell prostrate (on their faces) before the Lord and the king.
Solomon Acknowledged as King
Verses 21-25
The next day, the people sacrificed to God: 1,000 bulls; 1,000 rams; 1,000 male lambs; drink offerings; and other sacrifices in abundance. They ate and drank, with great joy, in God's presence. They acknowledged Solomons as king, for a second time. They anointed him as king and Zadok as priest before the Lord. Solomon took the throne and prospered. The Israelites obeyed him. All the officers, mighty men, and David's sons pledged submission to Solomon. The Lord exalted and gave Solomon splendor over any king before him.
The Death of David
Verses 26-30
David ruled for 40 years: 7 years in Hebron, 33 in Jerusalem. He died at a good old age and had enjoyed a long life, wealth, and honor. His other events are written in the records of Samuel the seer, Nathan the prophet, and Gad the seer. This includes the circumstances that surrounded him, Israel, and the kingdoms of the other lands.
Lori's Thoughts:
Without God, things become tainted. King David was wealthier than anything I have ever experienced or witnessed. But, he was not arrogant or greedy, as most wealthy people tend to become, when they do not have God as their Lord. David was right when he said that their gift already belonged to God. God is the Creator and our Provider. What He desires is a willing heart and mind, more than things.
We should imitate David in his generosity, as well as in his praise for God. We need to tell God what He means to us. Not that He doesn't already know who He is, but we need to be reminded of who He is. God also enjoys being loved and praised as well as loving and praising us. He loved Solomon by call Himself his Father, and He exalted Solomon by making him the greatest king to date.
We should also pray for each other, that we will not lose our desire for God or our willingness to give Him everything - our possessions and our devotion. What will God give us in return? He gave David a long life, wealth, and honor. He wants us to prosper as well. I'm only 26, barely making ends meet, and without a lofty position. But, I have never been destitute and I overflow with peace and joy. I am rich. I am blessed.
Don't compare what you have to what others have. Stop looking around. Look up. Trust that He will give you everything you need. If He sees fit, He will give you more. If not, He is still good, holy, and perfect.
Revelation 11 (NIV)
Summary:
The Two Witnesses
Verses 1-14
John was given a reed like a measuring rod. He was told to measure God's temple and altar, and to count the worshipers. He was to exclude the outer court, because it was given to the Gentiles, who will trample on the holy city for 42 months (3 1/2 years).
God will give power to His two witnesses. They will prophesy for 1,260 days (3 years, 5 1/2 months). They are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth. If anyone tries to harm them, fire comes from their mouths and devours their enemies. This is how anyone that wants to harm them must die. They have the power to shut up the sky, so it won't rain when they are prophesying. They have the power to turn water to blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they want. When they have finished their testimony, the beast that comes from the Abyss will attack, overpower, and kill them. Their boides will lie in the street of the great city, figuratively called Sodom and Egypt, where Christ was crucified.
For 3 1/2 days, men from every people, tribe, language, and nation will gaze on the witnesses' bodies and refuse them burial. The inhabitants of the earth will gloat over them and celebrate by sending each other gifts, because the two prophets had tormented those who live on the earth. After the 3 1/2 days, a breath of life from God will enter them. They will stand and strike terror in those who see them. They will hear a loud voice from heaven calling them up there, and they will ascend in a cloud, as their enemies look on. At that hour, a severe earthquake and 1/10 of the city collapsed. 7,000 people were killed. The survivors were terrified and gave glory to God of heaven. The 2nd woe has passed; the 3rd is soon to come.
The Seventh Trumpet
Verses 15-19
The 7th angel sounded his trumpet. There were loud voices in heaven saying that the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of Christ, who will reign forever. The 24 elders, seated on their thrones before God, fell on their faces and worshiped God. They gave thanks to the Almighty, the One who is and was, because He took up His great power and had begun to reign. The nations were angry and His wrath came. The time had come for judging the dead, rewarding His servants the prophets and the saints, who revere His name, both small and great. The time had also come to destroy those who destroy the earth.
Then, God's temple in heaven opened. Within was seen the ark of His covenant. There were flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and a great hailstorm.
Lori's Thoughts:
Jesus was taken to Pilate, the Roman governor, where he was tried and condemned to die. Rome is where the Vatican City resides. This chapter says that the two witnesses will be killed and lie in the streets of the great city, where Christ was crucified. Considering the prominence of Catholicism, I would say that the Vatican is a great city. Probably the great city written of in this chapter.
I think the great city is different from the holy city, on which the Gentiles will trample on. Jerusalem is where the temple was built, where David built his palace, and where Solomon built the temple for God, to house the ark of the covenant. I think, at this time, those who belong to God will be divided from those that do not, like the separation of the sheep and goats that Christ spoke of in Matthew 25. The Gentiles, those who don't believe in God, will trample on the holy city for 3 1/2 years. I don't know what this number really means. I do know that Jerusalem is a highly contested area. Israel's ownership is a huge point of contention. It is now in 3 pieces - Israel, the Gaza Strip, and the West Bank. Jerusalem is no longer considered the capital by the majority of the people. Tel Aviv is the functional capital. Jerusalem is a dangerous place to be, which is too bad, because I would have loved to visit. One thing's for sure. There definitely is some "trampling" going on there.
These two witnesses, they're represented by lampstands, which in the first chapter are defined as churches. They're also represented by olive trees. I know Jesus was at the Mount of Olives to pray before he was arrested. But, that's the only connection I made... So, churches, with prophets that have the power to control the weather, water, and earth. They can destroy it if they will. They also destroy those trying to harm them. Who are they? Are they the ones to prophesy about the demise of the wicked? Maybe that's why they're being attacked.
The beast from the Abyss (anyone else thinking of the balrog from Lord of the Rings?) will come out and kill the two witnesses. The wicked will gloat, but after 3 1/2 days (meaning?), God will breathe life back into them, and they will be brought up to heaven. Some will glorify God once they witness this and survive the resulting earthquake. Another chance to choose God and be saved?
The 7th angel will sound his trumpet again and declare that Christ's kingdom is (finally!!!) established. The elders will worship Him and declare that it is time for judgment, reward, and destruction. The heavenly ark of the covenant will be revealed and the forces of nature will wreak havoc. When Christ died, the earthly temple was ruined, because the old covenant was done away with. Christ is the final sacrifice. He will be declared as king to all when the heavenly temple of the new covenant is opened.
The Two Witnesses
Verses 1-14
John was given a reed like a measuring rod. He was told to measure God's temple and altar, and to count the worshipers. He was to exclude the outer court, because it was given to the Gentiles, who will trample on the holy city for 42 months (3 1/2 years).
God will give power to His two witnesses. They will prophesy for 1,260 days (3 years, 5 1/2 months). They are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth. If anyone tries to harm them, fire comes from their mouths and devours their enemies. This is how anyone that wants to harm them must die. They have the power to shut up the sky, so it won't rain when they are prophesying. They have the power to turn water to blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they want. When they have finished their testimony, the beast that comes from the Abyss will attack, overpower, and kill them. Their boides will lie in the street of the great city, figuratively called Sodom and Egypt, where Christ was crucified.
For 3 1/2 days, men from every people, tribe, language, and nation will gaze on the witnesses' bodies and refuse them burial. The inhabitants of the earth will gloat over them and celebrate by sending each other gifts, because the two prophets had tormented those who live on the earth. After the 3 1/2 days, a breath of life from God will enter them. They will stand and strike terror in those who see them. They will hear a loud voice from heaven calling them up there, and they will ascend in a cloud, as their enemies look on. At that hour, a severe earthquake and 1/10 of the city collapsed. 7,000 people were killed. The survivors were terrified and gave glory to God of heaven. The 2nd woe has passed; the 3rd is soon to come.
The Seventh Trumpet
Verses 15-19
The 7th angel sounded his trumpet. There were loud voices in heaven saying that the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of Christ, who will reign forever. The 24 elders, seated on their thrones before God, fell on their faces and worshiped God. They gave thanks to the Almighty, the One who is and was, because He took up His great power and had begun to reign. The nations were angry and His wrath came. The time had come for judging the dead, rewarding His servants the prophets and the saints, who revere His name, both small and great. The time had also come to destroy those who destroy the earth.
Then, God's temple in heaven opened. Within was seen the ark of His covenant. There were flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and a great hailstorm.
Lori's Thoughts:
Jesus was taken to Pilate, the Roman governor, where he was tried and condemned to die. Rome is where the Vatican City resides. This chapter says that the two witnesses will be killed and lie in the streets of the great city, where Christ was crucified. Considering the prominence of Catholicism, I would say that the Vatican is a great city. Probably the great city written of in this chapter.
I think the great city is different from the holy city, on which the Gentiles will trample on. Jerusalem is where the temple was built, where David built his palace, and where Solomon built the temple for God, to house the ark of the covenant. I think, at this time, those who belong to God will be divided from those that do not, like the separation of the sheep and goats that Christ spoke of in Matthew 25. The Gentiles, those who don't believe in God, will trample on the holy city for 3 1/2 years. I don't know what this number really means. I do know that Jerusalem is a highly contested area. Israel's ownership is a huge point of contention. It is now in 3 pieces - Israel, the Gaza Strip, and the West Bank. Jerusalem is no longer considered the capital by the majority of the people. Tel Aviv is the functional capital. Jerusalem is a dangerous place to be, which is too bad, because I would have loved to visit. One thing's for sure. There definitely is some "trampling" going on there.
These two witnesses, they're represented by lampstands, which in the first chapter are defined as churches. They're also represented by olive trees. I know Jesus was at the Mount of Olives to pray before he was arrested. But, that's the only connection I made... So, churches, with prophets that have the power to control the weather, water, and earth. They can destroy it if they will. They also destroy those trying to harm them. Who are they? Are they the ones to prophesy about the demise of the wicked? Maybe that's why they're being attacked.
The beast from the Abyss (anyone else thinking of the balrog from Lord of the Rings?) will come out and kill the two witnesses. The wicked will gloat, but after 3 1/2 days (meaning?), God will breathe life back into them, and they will be brought up to heaven. Some will glorify God once they witness this and survive the resulting earthquake. Another chance to choose God and be saved?
The 7th angel will sound his trumpet again and declare that Christ's kingdom is (finally!!!) established. The elders will worship Him and declare that it is time for judgment, reward, and destruction. The heavenly ark of the covenant will be revealed and the forces of nature will wreak havoc. When Christ died, the earthly temple was ruined, because the old covenant was done away with. Christ is the final sacrifice. He will be declared as king to all when the heavenly temple of the new covenant is opened.
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