15We say unto you by the Word of the Lord,that we which are alive and remain unto the COMING of the Lord shall not prevent (precede) them which are asleep.
(Comment:Daniel prophesied:Dan.12:1
- At that time(END of Time) shall Michael stand up to fight against the red Dragon,whose satanic religious body has 7 heads,10 horns and a TAIL- Revelation 12:9-12;
- then there shall be a time of trouble (great tribulation), such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time( Matthew 24:21);
- and at that time(current time)thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book ( Revelation 7:1-14).
Furthermore,in this current time or now,even now,from now on,the Devil shall be cast down into the bottomless pit(Re.20:1-3).
Daniel 12:2-THERE WILL BE RESURRECTION SIMULTANEOUSLY
And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake(according to the prophecy of Isaiah 26:19-21.Take a look), some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.
Comment: So, there also shall be resurrection in fulfillment of prophecy of Isaiah combined with 1Thessalonians 4:16, as follow:
16 For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout (shall descend from the 3rd heaven,we believers are still in the 2nd heaven-Ephesians1:3-8 combined with Philippians 3:20-21),with the voice of the archangel-MICHAEL- , and with the trump of GOD: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
1 Thes. 4:17 - Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds( Isaiah 60:8, and 1Corinthians 15:51 combined with Philippians 3:20-21 and Revelation 5:8-14), to meet the Lord in the air(in the 3rd heavenly environment-3rd heaven-far above of the current second heaven- Luke 20:35-36 combined with Matthew 25:6): and so shall we ever be with the Lord.(Where?- Revelation 11:15-18 and Re. 5:10, and Matthew 5:5, and John 17:24. Take a look).
Ecclesiastes 7:29 KJV: Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions.
We see similar references to God's creation of man such as in Psalm 139 and it seems clear that there is nothing wrong with God's design at least in how it was originally intended. Therefore even with the fallen nature due to Adam's sin that we all inherit even unregenerate man is responsible for his actions which are contrary to a nature in which "God has set eternity in their hearts." ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). Man originally was made in the image of God; now it may be argued that we bear some resemblance to what we were originally but now we are also in the image of man; that is of the physical appearance of our parents.
Another thing we must consider is how the great prophets all responded in the presence of God. We can examine Isaiah 6:5 as well as the Prophet Ezekiel and Daniel and John in Revelation 1. Even John recognized he wasn't worthy to open the seals and wept ( Revelation 5:4). Keep in mind that this was the Disciple closest to our Lord when He was physically on earth but he realized that only Christ was worthy. We therefore have value because of Him; it is His righteousness that gives us that.
That is why I prefer to view His righteousness as coming from the inside out; not as some cloak over us. There is indeed His perfection in a believer but also the vesiges of who we were even if in actuality not who we still are in light of the promised glorification. Again; only a TRUE believer can claim these promises; or more accurately can have Christ claim to be His own.
I get the sense that some who claim never to sin again think that they can be in God's presence without being flat on their faces. Going boldly into His presence still involves humility and is expressed by an intimate communication and fellowship between BOTH parties.
I am sure to start a fire on this one; praying these conversations can be edifying.
So Who is this Jesus? A creation from Mary's womb, another deity in Heaven alongside God, or from the Person of the One God Who was the Expression of God's Love through His Life & His Death. I believe that God sent forth that part of Himself, as He does with His Spirit, to become man "for the suffering of death" ( Hebrews 2:9). And now Jesus receives the worship as only God must receive ( Revelation 5:11-14), when prior to His incarnation, all Glory was His within the Person of the One God ( John 17:5).
Sorry for this long post - you had posed many good questions, which I'm unsure that fully dealt with your expectations. Blessings.
A look at the Pre Trib rapture and the madness to come
Revelation 5:12 describes those in heaven praising God but we also see evidence that ALL those on earth will also do the same; even those who are under the earth (possibly the dead souls in hades). I have said before that if the rapture is hidden the RESURRECTION of the dead saints from graves all over the world surely WON'T be able to remain hidden.
There are several themes in scripture that this reminds us of. First the state of all the angels praising God as seen in Job 38:7.
Lucifer fell AFTER this event; how quickly it is unknown but it may have seemed to be a shock to the 2/3 that remained faithful to their state of holiness to see 1/3 fall away with him ( Revelation 12:4 shows the end result). Of course the fall of man brought sudden issues as well. It didn't take long for the first murder to occur with Adam's firstborn son. And we could see shades of the same thing at the tower of Babel shortly after the flood.
What man will crave will be brought about; no doubt by Antichrist's delusion of peace at the first seal ( Rev. 6:1-2). This is going to appear to be a great light of hope (see 2 Cor. 11:14). Shades of the peace and security now will come to the climax with the Daniel 9:27 covenant being CONFIRMED or an original one made stronger (likely what is now known as the Abraham accords).
Whatever illusion of peace that comes will be short lived as the inevitable decay of society will result in the rest of the seal judgments of war; famine and pestilence to kill 1/4 of men (which appears to all occur BEFORE the mark of the Beast).
Those who end up following Antichrist will also worship the dragon (Satan) as seen in Rev. 13:14-18 who gives power to the Beast. They eventually end up fighting God as we see from Psalm 2 and Revelation 19.
Many have argued that out of fear men will be somehow tricked or coerced to take the mark. Revelation 13:8 seems to argue against this as WORSHIP occurs.
15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. (Combined with Matthew 5:5 and Revelation 5:10)
16 And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God,
17 Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.
18 And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
John 3:
31 ...He that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.
32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.
33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that GOD is true.
34 For he whom GOD hath sent speaketh the words of GOD: for GOD giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.
35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.
36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abideth on him.
Jesus, prior to his incarnation (Becoming human), has always been eternal and divine.
Yet, by impregnating a human woman by God's Spirit, He became a man.
His essence was still deity, remembering that essence is that inward part that cannot be seen, which is the internal makeup of His personage - who he was in reality.
Yet, He became fully man as well, having a human mother Mary; and as a human had the attributes of a man, remembering that attributes are the outward expression, the behaviors, actions and limitations of humanity, which included death.
The Incarnation
Of all the mysteries of God the incarnation is perhaps the most mysterious.
The fact that Jesus Christ has always been the eternal Son of God, who "became begotten" - born of men.
One Scripture that shows both of these aspects, His divinity and his humanity is Isaiah 9:6-7, which states:
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this."
This Old Testament prophecy points out that the Messiah to come, who in time is known as Jesus of Nazareth; He would be born as a child; yet He was a son - He is called The mighty God.
Jesus, during his incarnation was fully God and fully man; and here's the big surprise; Jesus is still fully God and fully man as he sits upon the throne of His Father awaiting His Own throne, remember what Revelation 5:3-4 concerns, that a "man" was "worthy" to "open the book," which is later identified as Jesus.
The grammar is present tense meaning that Jesus is still a man, while also fully God.
Well, now will be established the 3rd heaven in this WORLD, i.e. the 3rd celestial environment where John Apostle was caught up as a guest- Revelation 4:1- and Paul Apostle was caught up in vision, and through revelations of the Lord he heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. 2 Corinthians 12:2-3
Again Luke 20:35-36: They which shall be accounted worthy to obtain(to reach) that WORLD(i.e. the 3rd HEAVEN to be established here in the Earth- Matthew 5:5 combined with Revelation 5:v.10 among others references), and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage: Neither can they die any more: for they are EQUAL unto the angels; and are the children of GOD(John1:v.12), being the children of the resurrection. And 1Cor. 15:22 reveals: For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.
Therefore, in this new millennium, there will be another NATURE, i.e. the NATURE of all things will be changed here in this Earth which was CURSED by GOD because of man, so instead of the CURSE, the blessing. This will be LITERALLY fulfilled from now on. Remember: The Word is GOD, the Word is self-executing according was preestablished and revealed by the Word of GOD.
Philippians 3:20-21 - 20 Our conversation is in heaven(current 2nd heaven, understand?); FROM WHENCE also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body( 1 Corinthians 15:51-55.Take a look.)-, according to the working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto himself. (the nature will be changed)
1 Cor.15:24-27
24 The END cometh when He shall have delivered up the Kingdom to GOD, even the Father; when He shall have PUT DOWN ALL RULE and ALL AUTHORITY and power( Revelation 11:15-18. Take a look)
25 For He must reign, till He hath put all enemies under His feet.
26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.
The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. (By the way,remember that "Blessed are the meek:for they shall inherit the earth"- Matthew 5:5 combined with Revelation 5:10.)
16And the four and twenty elders,which sat before GOD on their seats,fell upon their faces,and worshipped GOD,
17Saying, We give thee thanks,O Lord God Almighty,which art,and wast,and art to come;because thou hast taken to thee thy great power,and hast reigned.
18And the NATIONS were(WILL BE)angry,and thy WRATH is come,and the time of the dead,that they should be Judged,and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets,and to the saints,and them that fear thy name,small and great;and shouldest DESTROY them which destroy the earth.
There will be WAR in heaven:Michael and his angels fought(will fight)against the Dragon;and the Dragon fought(will fight)and his angels-Re.12:7.
And I saw one of his heads(one of his 7 heads) as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the Beast(Beast of sea-the Gentile Beast).And they worshipped the Dragon(the Devil-son of perdition- 2Thessalonians 2:2-3)which gave power unto the Beast(Beast of sea):and they worshipped the Beast,saying,Who is like unto the Beast?who is able to make WAR with him?- Revelation 13:3-4.(Michael is.The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the kingdoms of our Lord,and of His Christ;and He shall reign for ever and ever)
Re.6:15-17: 15And the kings of the earth,and the great men,and the rich men,and the chief captains,and the mighty men,and every bondman,and every free man,hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;
16And said to the mountains and rocks,Fall on us,and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne,and from the wrath of the Lamb:
17 For the great Day of his WRATH is come;who shall be able to stand?
The most important thing is what JESUS said: Luke 20:35-36
35 But they which shall be accounted WORTHY to obtain that world (next world-the Kingdom of GOD- Revelation 11:15-18, among other biblical references), and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage:
36 Neither can they die any more: for they are EQUAL unto the ANGELS; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection.
Revelation 5:10
10 And hast made us unto our GOD kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
Matthew 5:5
5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
Act 1:9-11
9 And when JESUS had spoken these things, while they beheld, He was taken up; and a CLOUD received Him out of their sight. ( Matthew 17:5-5 While JESUS yet spake, behold, a bright CLOUD overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.
10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same JESUS, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
Let's step back and think for a moment. What is heaven exactly? Surely a large factor there is that we will SERVE God forever.
John 12:26 says in KJV: If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
Let us examine the same verse in the amplified version:
If anyone serves Me, he must [continue to faithfully] follow Me [without hesitation, holding steadfastly to Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me]; and wherever I am [in heaven's glory], there will My servant be also. If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.
I am not an expert on translations but it would seem eternally serving God is a theme here! Revelation 7:13-15 and Revelation 22:3 make this abundantly clear as to the serving of God eternally of His saints. Worship is also inextricably tied to being a servant; and the ruling and reigning with Christ is part and parcel with the destiny of the church as Kings and Priests before the throne as well ( Revelation 5:10; etal).
Now as we assess this life; surely we see this attitude of service begins here; and Christ of course laid out the perfect example with His life. Mark 10:45 shows how Christ came not to be served but to serve; if God incarnate followed that principal surely His disciples must do the same.
As to work in heaven; surely it won't be a drudgery. The curse with the thorns and sweat on the brow will be gone that we inherited in the garden. We won't have unreasonable taskmasters; stressful deadlines; and other difficulties. Work no doubt will be a cooperative effort since we will all be together in performing tasks. No doubt individual things will be suitable for us as well.
The world at large cannot serve without some benefit for themselves; just like we can't love unconditionally (see Matthew 5:34).
Sorting out the firstfruits: From Christ to the 144,000
For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. ( 1 Cor. 15:20-22).
Revelation 5:9-10 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
Revelation 14:1-5
1And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads. 2And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: 3And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. 4These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. 5And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.
As I mentioned in earlier postings; the firstfruits originated with Christ Himself being lifted up; those who rose from the dead (a sort of gleaning) in Matthew 27:53. Then there is the Rapture where the church appears in Revelation 5 (although firstfruits isn't in that text) and finally the 144,000 mentioned as firstfruits in Rev. 14. It would seem that in this case those of Jewish descent would be the focus here. There is a new song shared here along with the church in Revelation 5. It would seem the 144,000 come after the midpoint of the Tribulation.
Yes, Jesus is our "KINSMAN" redeemer.. I emphasize Kinsman because of what is discussed in this thread. In Revelation 5:4-10 Ir states that NO MAN was found to open the book. It had to be a man to fulfill the role! And Jesus qualifies being born of a woman to be our Kinsman.
Galatians 4:3-5 "Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:
But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,
To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons
We learn much about this in type in the book of Ruth and in other places on the OT.
I know you are at work, and you don't even have to reply. I know we can have civil conversations without insulting each other knowing we love the word of God. Just a thought on Revelation 5:3-4 the word here for man in these two verses, oudeis could mean no man, but a better meaning or translation is no one, nothing, it rules out anything but Christ the Lamb of God. The Greek word anthrpos is a word just for man one of the human race. I feel if it was saying a man was in heaven the word anthrpos would have been used, this does not show me a man was in heaven.
Certainly, I can provide some insight into the subject for God-fearing people who are concerned about their loving pets during the rapture, drawing from the verse Adam reply - mentioned, Revelation 5:13.
The verse he quoted is part of the biblical book of Revelation, a book that contains visions and prophecies about the end times and the return of Jesus Christ. In this particular verse, John, the author of Revelation, describes a vision of worship in heaven. Every creature in heaven, on earth, under the earth, and in the sea is heard praising God and the Lamb (Jesus Christ) with blessings, honour, glory, and power.
While the Bible does not explicitly address the fate of pets during the rapture or in heaven, some theologians and religious scholars have explored this topic with different perspectives.
1. No Direct Scriptural Mention: As you noted, the verse in Revelation 5:13 refers to creatures in general, but it does not specifically mention animals or pets. This absence of direct scriptural mention makes it difficult to provide a definitive answer. The Bible primarily focuses on humanity's relationship with God and the salvation of souls.
2. God's Love and Care: Many God-fearing individuals believe in God's love and care for all of His creations. Since God cares for His creation, it is not unreasonable to think that He would also care for animals, including our beloved pets.
3. Theological Speculation: Some theologians speculate that since pets are part of God's creation and bring joy and companionship to people, they might have a place in God's eternal plan. They suggest that animals may be part of the new heaven and new earth mentioned in Revelation 21:1, where God will make all things new.
4. Symbolic Representation: In some interpretations, animals are seen as symbolic representations of God's goodness, beauty, and creativity. They are considered a reflection of His attributes, and in that sense, their presence in heaven is understood metaphorically.
Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth - Matthew 5:5KJV combined with Revelation 5:10
It's impressive, but it has been two thousand years since JESUS came here, think well about it, passing two thousand years is a gigantic space of time, in fact a huge gap or interval in space and time, but it passed, but will continue to pass. The time is infinite, like the space is infinite too.
And now JESUS WILL RETURN AGAIN HERE IN THE SAME PLACE from where He ascended to the third heavenly environment and a cloud RECEIVED Him ( Acts 1:11) , yes, He will again return now to the same place from where He ascended, and He will reign and lead us in new celestial environment ( Ephesians 1:3) by His power, for a period of 1.000 years(the cloud also will appear again, understand?) , as it is revealed in Philippians 3:20-21: -->20 For our conversation is in heaven (heaven: Ephesians 1:3. Take a look.)-; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: 21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body, according to the working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto himself. By the way, He made it very clear when He said: All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth- Matthew 28:18KJV.
Get ready, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him- Matthew 25:6KJV - .
Lets pray
Unfortunately , there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Hello Ashley. In my understanding, there are two aspects for those who belong to Jesus at their death: the mortal body goes into the ground & the immortal spirit returns to God ( Ecclesiastes 12:7). Some believe that both the spirit/soul & body remain together in the ground.
In Daniel 12:1,2, we read about the resurrection of the body in that final day, but there is no mention of the fate of the spirit of the deceased. Then in the account that Jesus gave of the wealthy man & poor Lazarus ( Luke 16:19-31), we note that Jesus spoke of three men: one in torment in hell's flames, one in relative peace & comfort in paradise, & with Abraham at his side. If any of these men just remained in the grave, Jesus would not have spoken of life beyond the grave soon after their deaths & such a life where either torment or peace can be experienced.
Even the Apostle Paul expressed his desire to leave this Earth ( Philippians 1:21-24) & to be with Christ, though he was required to continue to be used of God in the Gospel for a little longer. Paul didn't expect to lie in the grave, but his hope was that death would actually be welcome, for it meant that he would be with his Lord & Savior. And in passages such as Revelation 4:4; Revelation 5:5-10; Revelation 19:4; etc. we read about the Elders around God's Throne in Heaven. So I believe that at death our spirits return to God to join the host of Heaven worshiping the Lord of Glory. And when Jesus returns in the clouds to receive His beloved, those who have died in Christ will have their bodies re-formed to join their spirits, & those believers alive at that time will arise physically to be with the Lord forever. All this points to Jesus snatching away His people off the Earth before the awful Judgements of God come upon the unbelieving world. And then we all reign with Christ on the Earth in the Millennium period.
Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Mat.5:5
And has made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. Rev. 5:10
Question:
How can the meek inherit the earth?
The answer is here: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts- Zechariah 4:6
Zechariah 4:1-6
1 And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a MAN that is wakened out of his sleep.
2 And said unto me, What seest thou?
And I said, I have looked, and
behold (1) a candlestick all of gold
with (2) a bowl upon the top of it,
and (3) his seven lamps thereon,
and (4)seven pipes to the seven lamps, which are upon the top thereof:
3 And two olive trees by it, one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof.
Interpreting the above Scriptures:
1 Candlestick is the Church(Rev.1:19)of the LORD- His body;
2 with a bowl upon the top of it: -the bowl is for storing and conserving the oil produced by the two olive trees to the Candlestick-that is for the anointed Church of the LORD;
3 and his seven lamps thereon:-the seven lamps are the seven Spirits of God-Rev.4:v.5;
4 and seven pipes to the seven lamps which are upon the top thereof: the 7 lamps -7 spirits of GOD- are placed on the top of the pipes to enlighten the Church of the LORD mainly in this time of Apocalypse -the END of the times and establishment of GOD's Kingdom Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts, and confirmed by Mat.5:5 combined with Revelation 5:10, among other biblical references.
4 So I answered and spake to the angel that talked with me, saying, What are these my lord?
5 Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No my lord.
6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying,This is the Word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.
In general; there is a set series of events that are going to consume the time period known as "Jacob's trouble" ( Jeremiah 30:7).
The incense of the prayers of the saints which encompass the initial scene in Revelation 5:8 prior to the seal judgments; and Revelation 8:3-4 (in that case before the Trumpet Judgments) show a sort of collective mass of prayers; either reflecting directly the persecutions on the earth at the time; or answering Millennia old prayers of saints long since forgotten by man; but held by God. (see Psalm 56:8).
Because of this; we see a difference in prophetic utterances such as Acts 21:10; and Acts 11:27-28. Such utterances indicate that the choices made (i.e. Paul heading straight to Jerusalem; preparing for a famine) certainly make these things conditional.
In Revelation it is generally structured indicating great events with associated signs and wonders that are already designed and predicted in detail. However; as with anything else there is latitude apparently for the two prophets to cause things as they wish in regard to droughts; etc. ( Rev. 11:6). Undoubtably some details are not straightforward (such as which part of the world the 1/4 die in the seal judgments). Safe to say it ain't going to be a fun time here on planet earth; that's for sure.
Looking at the Second Coming of Christ; no doubt great deception will occur with multitudes of false prophets at the time of the end. Antichrist Himself will basically act as a substitute for Christ; and will be the only man other than Judas Iscariot to be doomed to perdition. ( John 17:12; 2 Thess. 2:3). God will use him to make rulers agree to submit to his authority; as well as destroying the false "Mystery Babylon" which encompasses all the world's false religions sort of rolled into one. ( Revelation 18:17).
There are suspect individuals that certainly match many characteristics of such an individual. More in next post.
I know this has been discussed before and we have different understandings, but just have a couple of thoughts to consider, I will not go over all this prophecy just the first of 9:27.
If I am correct, it is thought the 69th week ended when Jesus' ride into Jerusalem fulfilling Zech. 9:9. Dan. 9:26 says 69 weeks unto the Messiah, should we look over the 3.5 years from when Jesus was baptized and anointed with the Holy Spirit? Look at the multitude that met Him when He rode in, they knew who He was, He came for the lost sheep of Israel.
The antichrist will make a covenant with Israel. We go to Dan. 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: So here we have the last week/7 years and he is said to be the antichrist.
"He shall confirm the covenant with many", could he in this verse fit Jesus? Psalms 105:8-11Isaiah 42:6Isaiah 49:8Isaiah 49:6Romans 15:8Galatians 3:17Hebrews 13:20 I could list many more. The word confirm does not mean make, it shows us the covenant already existed. Confirm means to strengthen, to be stronger.
God made a covenant with Abraham and Abraham said God would provide Himself a Lamb, Genesis 22:7-8, was Jesus this Lamb, Isaiah 53:7John 1:29Revelation 5:6. This covenant is with many, Zechariah 2:11Isaiah 53:11Matthew 20:28Matthew 26:28Romans 5:15,19. Jesus was sent to confirm the promise/covenant made unto Abraham, Romans 15:8. Could Jesus be this he?
"In the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease" Sacrifice and Oblation, the first word is talking about the daily sacrifices, the Tamid, the morning and evening lamb the same time Jesus was on the cross 9 AM the first to 3 PM the last. Then the second word refers to all of the other offerings presented to the Lord.
Do you think the sacrifice and oblation was designed by God to completely cease upon the finished work of Jesus on the cross? Hebrews 9.
This Psalm begins in verse 1 with a "new song". The "right arm" which gets the victory along with openly showing His righteousness (verse 2) shows His return after Armageddon to begin ruling with a rod of iron but with justice ( Rev. 2:27; Psalm 9:8).
There is a new song earlier sung by the 144,000 in heaven at an earlier date ( Rev. 14:3). There is one earlier on though; in Revelation 5:9 which appears to be those raptured and singing to the One worthy to open the seals who has overcome.
Verses 3 through 6 remind us of His presence being known throughout the earth and celebration to be given with instruments. His mercy and truth to the House of Israel mentioned in verse 3 makes it clear that God has once again salvaged Israel and restored it's covenant promises.
God judging the world with "equity" is true balanced judgment; not perverted sorts of methodologies which we see so often today. No doubt the prophecy in Isaiah 2:4 will be appropriate as swords are beaten into plowshares. That verse mentions settling "many disputes" as well; and no doubt we will rule and reign with Him in a supporting role over "many cities" for those faithfully following Him now ( Luke 19:17).
The mention of the sea roaring in verse 7 once again shows this as a Millennial event; as no more sea exists at the end of that time period.
I agree with you on it has to be a Kinsman Redeemer.
So he had to be able to suffer death to qualify and open the book.
Only Jesus could fulfill that role. So it had to be a man, "We share Jesus humanity"
However the emphasis is WHERE John looked! ( And no man in heaven,) nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book...
And when he opened the book this same group in which John searched for the redeemer sung this;
"And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. Revelation 5:8-10.
I also hold the view that this redeemed group is the Church.
I was going through some old replies that I haven't read and here's a question you asked me that I never answered.
Your question was;
Is there any verse in the Bible that says at any time we go to heaven?
There's verses in the Bible that look ahead and show us "IN" heaven. Revelation 5:3 AND NO MAN in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.
Hi Vince, God blessed us with the ability to have fun and happy lovable pets. While the Bible doesn't answer this specifically, the Bible describes heaven as an amazing place full of love, joy, and probably every possible positive emotion on earth we experience times a million. Those who described the visions of heaven seemed to lack the words to even convey how awesome it is. Total love and happiness with no downside. So, basically, you have nothing to be concerned about. Many of these answers will only be revealed then.
This verse suggests there could be animals in heaven:
"And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever." Revelation 5:13 KJV
On the other hand, I don't think people who died of dog attacks, snake bites or shark attacks, etc will be forced to live in fear with those same creatures in heaven. I think God has it under control where people have nothing to worry about. To me its not like looking for an apartment. There's only one super obvious positive choice, and one super horrible choice.
A biblical concept of worship involves praising God and giving Him glory with our lips and our lives, with our words and our deeds, with our physical bodies and our spiritual hearts. Worship that pleases God is authentic, offered with clean hands and a pure heart ( Psalm 24:3-4; Isaiah 66:2).
King David danced "before the Lord with all his might" ( 2 Samuel 6:14)
Revelation 5:8-11
twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they *sang a new song, saying, " Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals
Psalms 149:3 - Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. Psalms 150:1 - 127:6 - Praise ye the LORD
Luke 2:13-14
And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased
Colossians 3:14-17
And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Not sure if this is exactly what you are looking for but here's a few of many references of a future Kingdom here on earth.
Revelation 5:10
And have made us kings and priests to our God;
AND WE SHALL REIGN ON THE EARTH.
Psalm 2:6-8
"Yet I have set My King
On My holy hill of Zion." "I will declare the decree:
The LORD has said to Me,
'You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You.
Ask of Me, and I will give You
The nations for Your inheritance,
And the ends of the earth for Your possession.
Daniel 2:34-35
You watched while a stone was cut out without hands, which struck the image on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces. Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold were crushed together, and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors; the wind carried them away so that no trace of them was found. And the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and FILLED THE WHOLE EARTH.
Zechariah 14:9-11.
Zechariah 14:16-19
And it shall come to pass that everyone who is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles. And it shall be that whichever of the families of the earth do not come up to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, on them there will be no rain. If the family of Egypt will not come up and enter in, they shall have no rain; they shall receive the plague with which the LORD strikes the nations who do not come up to keep the Feast of Tabernacles. This shall be the punishment of Egypt and the punishment of all the nations that do not come up to keep the Feast of Tabernacles.
We learn a lot about the 24 elders Revelation 5:9-10.
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast REDEEMED US TO GOD BY THY BLOOD out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
And hast made us unto our God KINGS AND PRIESTS: and we shall REIGN ON THE EARTH.
1) We know they were redeemed.
2) They were made Kings and priests.
3) They shall reign on earth.
I believe this represents the Church.
Here's why.
They were redeemed out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation. Ephesians 1:7.
They were made kings and Priests.
1st Peter 1:9.
These kings and Priests shall reign on earth.
Revelation 1:5-6.
And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,
And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Paul prophesied:1Tessalonians 4:15
15We say unto you by the Word of the Lord,that we which are alive and remain unto the COMING of the Lord shall not prevent (precede) them which are asleep.
(Comment:Daniel prophesied:Dan.12:1
- At that time(END of Time) shall Michael stand up to fight against the red Dragon,whose satanic religious body has 7 heads,10 horns and a TAIL- Revelation 12:9-12;
- then there shall be a time of trouble (great tribulation), such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time( Matthew 24:21);
- and at that time(current time)thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book ( Revelation 7:1-14).
Furthermore,in this current time or now,even now,from now on,the Devil shall be cast down into the bottomless pit(Re.20:1-3).
Daniel 12:2-THERE WILL BE RESURRECTION SIMULTANEOUSLY
And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake(according to the prophecy of Isaiah 26:19-21.Take a look), some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.
Comment: So, there also shall be resurrection in fulfillment of prophecy of Isaiah combined with 1Thessalonians 4:16, as follow:
16 For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout (shall descend from the 3rd heaven,we believers are still in the 2nd heaven-Ephesians1:3-8 combined with Philippians 3:20-21),with the voice of the archangel-MICHAEL- , and with the trump of GOD: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
1 Thes. 4:17 - Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds( Isaiah 60:8, and 1Corinthians 15:51 combined with Philippians 3:20-21 and Revelation 5:8-14), to meet the Lord in the air(in the 3rd heavenly environment-3rd heaven-far above of the current second heaven- Luke 20:35-36 combined with Matthew 25:6): and so shall we ever be with the Lord.(Where?- Revelation 11:15-18 and Re. 5:10, and Matthew 5:5, and John 17:24. Take a look).
That's for your meditation
We see similar references to God's creation of man such as in Psalm 139 and it seems clear that there is nothing wrong with God's design at least in how it was originally intended. Therefore even with the fallen nature due to Adam's sin that we all inherit even unregenerate man is responsible for his actions which are contrary to a nature in which "God has set eternity in their hearts." ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). Man originally was made in the image of God; now it may be argued that we bear some resemblance to what we were originally but now we are also in the image of man; that is of the physical appearance of our parents.
Another thing we must consider is how the great prophets all responded in the presence of God. We can examine Isaiah 6:5 as well as the Prophet Ezekiel and Daniel and John in Revelation 1. Even John recognized he wasn't worthy to open the seals and wept ( Revelation 5:4). Keep in mind that this was the Disciple closest to our Lord when He was physically on earth but he realized that only Christ was worthy. We therefore have value because of Him; it is His righteousness that gives us that.
That is why I prefer to view His righteousness as coming from the inside out; not as some cloak over us. There is indeed His perfection in a believer but also the vesiges of who we were even if in actuality not who we still are in light of the promised glorification. Again; only a TRUE believer can claim these promises; or more accurately can have Christ claim to be His own.
I get the sense that some who claim never to sin again think that they can be in God's presence without being flat on their faces. Going boldly into His presence still involves humility and is expressed by an intimate communication and fellowship between BOTH parties.
I am sure to start a fire on this one; praying these conversations can be edifying.
So Who is this Jesus? A creation from Mary's womb, another deity in Heaven alongside God, or from the Person of the One God Who was the Expression of God's Love through His Life & His Death. I believe that God sent forth that part of Himself, as He does with His Spirit, to become man "for the suffering of death" ( Hebrews 2:9). And now Jesus receives the worship as only God must receive ( Revelation 5:11-14), when prior to His incarnation, all Glory was His within the Person of the One God ( John 17:5).
Sorry for this long post - you had posed many good questions, which I'm unsure that fully dealt with your expectations. Blessings.
Revelation 5:12 describes those in heaven praising God but we also see evidence that ALL those on earth will also do the same; even those who are under the earth (possibly the dead souls in hades). I have said before that if the rapture is hidden the RESURRECTION of the dead saints from graves all over the world surely WON'T be able to remain hidden.
There are several themes in scripture that this reminds us of. First the state of all the angels praising God as seen in Job 38:7.
Lucifer fell AFTER this event; how quickly it is unknown but it may have seemed to be a shock to the 2/3 that remained faithful to their state of holiness to see 1/3 fall away with him ( Revelation 12:4 shows the end result). Of course the fall of man brought sudden issues as well. It didn't take long for the first murder to occur with Adam's firstborn son. And we could see shades of the same thing at the tower of Babel shortly after the flood.
What man will crave will be brought about; no doubt by Antichrist's delusion of peace at the first seal ( Rev. 6:1-2). This is going to appear to be a great light of hope (see 2 Cor. 11:14). Shades of the peace and security now will come to the climax with the Daniel 9:27 covenant being CONFIRMED or an original one made stronger (likely what is now known as the Abraham accords).
Whatever illusion of peace that comes will be short lived as the inevitable decay of society will result in the rest of the seal judgments of war; famine and pestilence to kill 1/4 of men (which appears to all occur BEFORE the mark of the Beast).
Those who end up following Antichrist will also worship the dragon (Satan) as seen in Rev. 13:14-18 who gives power to the Beast. They eventually end up fighting God as we see from Psalm 2 and Revelation 19.
Many have argued that out of fear men will be somehow tricked or coerced to take the mark. Revelation 13:8 seems to argue against this as WORSHIP occurs.
15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. (Combined with Matthew 5:5 and Revelation 5:10)
16 And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God,
17 Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.
18 And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
John 3:
31 ...He that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.
32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.
33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that GOD is true.
34 For he whom GOD hath sent speaketh the words of GOD: for GOD giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.
35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.
36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abideth on him.
Part 7.
Jesus, prior to his incarnation (Becoming human), has always been eternal and divine.
Yet, by impregnating a human woman by God's Spirit, He became a man.
His essence was still deity, remembering that essence is that inward part that cannot be seen, which is the internal makeup of His personage - who he was in reality.
Yet, He became fully man as well, having a human mother Mary; and as a human had the attributes of a man, remembering that attributes are the outward expression, the behaviors, actions and limitations of humanity, which included death.
The Incarnation
Of all the mysteries of God the incarnation is perhaps the most mysterious.
The fact that Jesus Christ has always been the eternal Son of God, who "became begotten" - born of men.
One Scripture that shows both of these aspects, His divinity and his humanity is Isaiah 9:6-7, which states:
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this."
This Old Testament prophecy points out that the Messiah to come, who in time is known as Jesus of Nazareth; He would be born as a child; yet He was a son - He is called The mighty God.
Jesus, during his incarnation was fully God and fully man; and here's the big surprise; Jesus is still fully God and fully man as he sits upon the throne of His Father awaiting His Own throne, remember what Revelation 5:3-4 concerns, that a "man" was "worthy" to "open the book," which is later identified as Jesus.
The grammar is present tense meaning that Jesus is still a man, while also fully God.
See Part 8
Well, now will be established the 3rd heaven in this WORLD, i.e. the 3rd celestial environment where John Apostle was caught up as a guest- Revelation 4:1- and Paul Apostle was caught up in vision, and through revelations of the Lord he heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. 2 Corinthians 12:2-3
Again Luke 20:35-36: They which shall be accounted worthy to obtain(to reach) that WORLD(i.e. the 3rd HEAVEN to be established here in the Earth- Matthew 5:5 combined with Revelation 5:v.10 among others references), and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage: Neither can they die any more: for they are EQUAL unto the angels; and are the children of GOD(John1:v.12), being the children of the resurrection. And 1Cor. 15:22 reveals: For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.
Therefore, in this new millennium, there will be another NATURE, i.e. the NATURE of all things will be changed here in this Earth which was CURSED by GOD because of man, so instead of the CURSE, the blessing. This will be LITERALLY fulfilled from now on. Remember: The Word is GOD, the Word is self-executing according was preestablished and revealed by the Word of GOD.
Philippians 3:20-21 - 20 Our conversation is in heaven(current 2nd heaven, understand?); FROM WHENCE also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body( 1 Corinthians 15:51-55.Take a look.)-, according to the working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto himself. (the nature will be changed)
1 Cor.15:24-27
24 The END cometh when He shall have delivered up the Kingdom to GOD, even the Father; when He shall have PUT DOWN ALL RULE and ALL AUTHORITY and power( Revelation 11:15-18. Take a look)
25 For He must reign, till He hath put all enemies under His feet.
26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.
Get ready
Yes,Jema, as you said:"Thy Kingdom Come."
Re.11:15-18
The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. (By the way,remember that "Blessed are the meek:for they shall inherit the earth"- Matthew 5:5 combined with Revelation 5:10.)
16And the four and twenty elders,which sat before GOD on their seats,fell upon their faces,and worshipped GOD,
17Saying, We give thee thanks,O Lord God Almighty,which art,and wast,and art to come;because thou hast taken to thee thy great power,and hast reigned.
18And the NATIONS were(WILL BE)angry,and thy WRATH is come,and the time of the dead,that they should be Judged,and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets,and to the saints,and them that fear thy name,small and great;and shouldest DESTROY them which destroy the earth.
There will be WAR in heaven:Michael and his angels fought(will fight)against the Dragon;and the Dragon fought(will fight)and his angels-Re.12:7.
And I saw one of his heads(one of his 7 heads) as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the Beast(Beast of sea-the Gentile Beast).And they worshipped the Dragon(the Devil-son of perdition- 2Thessalonians 2:2-3)which gave power unto the Beast(Beast of sea):and they worshipped the Beast,saying,Who is like unto the Beast?who is able to make WAR with him?- Revelation 13:3-4.(Michael is.The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the kingdoms of our Lord,and of His Christ;and He shall reign for ever and ever)
Re.6:15-17: 15And the kings of the earth,and the great men,and the rich men,and the chief captains,and the mighty men,and every bondman,and every free man,hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;
16And said to the mountains and rocks,Fall on us,and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne,and from the wrath of the Lamb:
17 For the great Day of his WRATH is come;who shall be able to stand?
The most important thing is what JESUS said: Luke 20:35-36
35 But they which shall be accounted WORTHY to obtain that world (next world-the Kingdom of GOD- Revelation 11:15-18, among other biblical references), and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage:
36 Neither can they die any more: for they are EQUAL unto the ANGELS; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection.
Revelation 5:10
10 And hast made us unto our GOD kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
Matthew 5:5
5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
Act 1:9-11
9 And when JESUS had spoken these things, while they beheld, He was taken up; and a CLOUD received Him out of their sight. ( Matthew 17:5-5 While JESUS yet spake, behold, a bright CLOUD overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.
10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same JESUS, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
Let's step back and think for a moment. What is heaven exactly? Surely a large factor there is that we will SERVE God forever.
John 12:26 says in KJV: If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
Let us examine the same verse in the amplified version:
If anyone serves Me, he must [continue to faithfully] follow Me [without hesitation, holding steadfastly to Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me]; and wherever I am [in heaven's glory], there will My servant be also. If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.
I am not an expert on translations but it would seem eternally serving God is a theme here! Revelation 7:13-15 and Revelation 22:3 make this abundantly clear as to the serving of God eternally of His saints. Worship is also inextricably tied to being a servant; and the ruling and reigning with Christ is part and parcel with the destiny of the church as Kings and Priests before the throne as well ( Revelation 5:10; etal).
Now as we assess this life; surely we see this attitude of service begins here; and Christ of course laid out the perfect example with His life. Mark 10:45 shows how Christ came not to be served but to serve; if God incarnate followed that principal surely His disciples must do the same.
As to work in heaven; surely it won't be a drudgery. The curse with the thorns and sweat on the brow will be gone that we inherited in the garden. We won't have unreasonable taskmasters; stressful deadlines; and other difficulties. Work no doubt will be a cooperative effort since we will all be together in performing tasks. No doubt individual things will be suitable for us as well.
The world at large cannot serve without some benefit for themselves; just like we can't love unconditionally (see Matthew 5:34).
The last enemy destroyed is deateh (1COR15:26
For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. ( 1 Cor. 15:20-22).
Revelation 5:9-10 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
Revelation 14:1-5
1And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads. 2And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: 3And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. 4These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. 5And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.
As I mentioned in earlier postings; the firstfruits originated with Christ Himself being lifted up; those who rose from the dead (a sort of gleaning) in Matthew 27:53. Then there is the Rapture where the church appears in Revelation 5 (although firstfruits isn't in that text) and finally the 144,000 mentioned as firstfruits in Rev. 14. It would seem that in this case those of Jewish descent would be the focus here. There is a new song shared here along with the church in Revelation 5. It would seem the 144,000 come after the midpoint of the Tribulation.
Yes, Jesus is our "KINSMAN" redeemer.. I emphasize Kinsman because of what is discussed in this thread. In Revelation 5:4-10 Ir states that NO MAN was found to open the book. It had to be a man to fulfill the role! And Jesus qualifies being born of a woman to be our Kinsman.
Galatians 4:3-5 "Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:
But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,
To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons
We learn much about this in type in the book of Ruth and in other places on the OT.
GB.
I know you are at work, and you don't even have to reply. I know we can have civil conversations without insulting each other knowing we love the word of God. Just a thought on Revelation 5:3-4 the word here for man in these two verses, oudeis could mean no man, but a better meaning or translation is no one, nothing, it rules out anything but Christ the Lamb of God. The Greek word anthrpos is a word just for man one of the human race. I feel if it was saying a man was in heaven the word anthrpos would have been used, this does not show me a man was in heaven.
Have a good week and God bless,
RLW
I enjoyed the weekend, Hopefully you did as well.
Your reference to Acts is David's body/tent. David is with the Lord, it's his body that will be ressurerected.
And yes we will go to heaven.
We see that in Revelation 5:3 "And no man in heaven,
nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.
God bless.
The verse he quoted is part of the biblical book of Revelation, a book that contains visions and prophecies about the end times and the return of Jesus Christ. In this particular verse, John, the author of Revelation, describes a vision of worship in heaven. Every creature in heaven, on earth, under the earth, and in the sea is heard praising God and the Lamb (Jesus Christ) with blessings, honour, glory, and power.
While the Bible does not explicitly address the fate of pets during the rapture or in heaven, some theologians and religious scholars have explored this topic with different perspectives.
1. No Direct Scriptural Mention: As you noted, the verse in Revelation 5:13 refers to creatures in general, but it does not specifically mention animals or pets. This absence of direct scriptural mention makes it difficult to provide a definitive answer. The Bible primarily focuses on humanity's relationship with God and the salvation of souls.
2. God's Love and Care: Many God-fearing individuals believe in God's love and care for all of His creations. Since God cares for His creation, it is not unreasonable to think that He would also care for animals, including our beloved pets.
3. Theological Speculation: Some theologians speculate that since pets are part of God's creation and bring joy and companionship to people, they might have a place in God's eternal plan. They suggest that animals may be part of the new heaven and new earth mentioned in Revelation 21:1, where God will make all things new.
4. Symbolic Representation: In some interpretations, animals are seen as symbolic representations of God's goodness, beauty, and creativity. They are considered a reflection of His attributes, and in that sense, their presence in heaven is understood metaphorically.
Greetings in Christ JESUS
Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth - Matthew 5:5KJV combined with Revelation 5:10
It's impressive, but it has been two thousand years since JESUS came here, think well about it, passing two thousand years is a gigantic space of time, in fact a huge gap or interval in space and time, but it passed, but will continue to pass. The time is infinite, like the space is infinite too.
And now JESUS WILL RETURN AGAIN HERE IN THE SAME PLACE from where He ascended to the third heavenly environment and a cloud RECEIVED Him ( Acts 1:11) , yes, He will again return now to the same place from where He ascended, and He will reign and lead us in new celestial environment ( Ephesians 1:3) by His power, for a period of 1.000 years(the cloud also will appear again, understand?) , as it is revealed in Philippians 3:20-21: -->20 For our conversation is in heaven (heaven: Ephesians 1:3. Take a look.)-; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: 21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body, according to the working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto himself. By the way, He made it very clear when He said: All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth- Matthew 28:18KJV.
Get ready, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him- Matthew 25:6KJV - .
Lets pray
Unfortunately , there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
In Daniel 12:1,2, we read about the resurrection of the body in that final day, but there is no mention of the fate of the spirit of the deceased. Then in the account that Jesus gave of the wealthy man & poor Lazarus ( Luke 16:19-31), we note that Jesus spoke of three men: one in torment in hell's flames, one in relative peace & comfort in paradise, & with Abraham at his side. If any of these men just remained in the grave, Jesus would not have spoken of life beyond the grave soon after their deaths & such a life where either torment or peace can be experienced.
Even the Apostle Paul expressed his desire to leave this Earth ( Philippians 1:21-24) & to be with Christ, though he was required to continue to be used of God in the Gospel for a little longer. Paul didn't expect to lie in the grave, but his hope was that death would actually be welcome, for it meant that he would be with his Lord & Savior. And in passages such as Revelation 4:4; Revelation 5:5-10; Revelation 19:4; etc. we read about the Elders around God's Throne in Heaven. So I believe that at death our spirits return to God to join the host of Heaven worshiping the Lord of Glory. And when Jesus returns in the clouds to receive His beloved, those who have died in Christ will have their bodies re-formed to join their spirits, & those believers alive at that time will arise physically to be with the Lord forever. All this points to Jesus snatching away His people off the Earth before the awful Judgements of God come upon the unbelieving world. And then we all reign with Christ on the Earth in the Millennium period.
JESUS SAID:
Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Mat.5:5
And has made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. Rev. 5:10
Question:
How can the meek inherit the earth?
The answer is here: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts- Zechariah 4:6
Zechariah 4:1-6
1 And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a MAN that is wakened out of his sleep.
2 And said unto me, What seest thou?
And I said, I have looked, and
behold (1) a candlestick all of gold
with (2) a bowl upon the top of it,
and (3) his seven lamps thereon,
and (4)seven pipes to the seven lamps, which are upon the top thereof:
3 And two olive trees by it, one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof.
Interpreting the above Scriptures:
1 Candlestick is the Church(Rev.1:19)of the LORD- His body;
2 with a bowl upon the top of it: -the bowl is for storing and conserving the oil produced by the two olive trees to the Candlestick-that is for the anointed Church of the LORD;
3 and his seven lamps thereon:-the seven lamps are the seven Spirits of God-Rev.4:v.5;
4 and seven pipes to the seven lamps which are upon the top thereof: the 7 lamps -7 spirits of GOD- are placed on the top of the pipes to enlighten the Church of the LORD mainly in this time of Apocalypse -the END of the times and establishment of GOD's Kingdom Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts, and confirmed by Mat.5:5 combined with Revelation 5:10, among other biblical references.
4 So I answered and spake to the angel that talked with me, saying, What are these my lord?
5 Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No my lord.
6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying,This is the Word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.
In general; there is a set series of events that are going to consume the time period known as "Jacob's trouble" ( Jeremiah 30:7).
The incense of the prayers of the saints which encompass the initial scene in Revelation 5:8 prior to the seal judgments; and Revelation 8:3-4 (in that case before the Trumpet Judgments) show a sort of collective mass of prayers; either reflecting directly the persecutions on the earth at the time; or answering Millennia old prayers of saints long since forgotten by man; but held by God. (see Psalm 56:8).
Because of this; we see a difference in prophetic utterances such as Acts 21:10; and Acts 11:27-28. Such utterances indicate that the choices made (i.e. Paul heading straight to Jerusalem; preparing for a famine) certainly make these things conditional.
In Revelation it is generally structured indicating great events with associated signs and wonders that are already designed and predicted in detail. However; as with anything else there is latitude apparently for the two prophets to cause things as they wish in regard to droughts; etc. ( Rev. 11:6). Undoubtably some details are not straightforward (such as which part of the world the 1/4 die in the seal judgments). Safe to say it ain't going to be a fun time here on planet earth; that's for sure.
Looking at the Second Coming of Christ; no doubt great deception will occur with multitudes of false prophets at the time of the end. Antichrist Himself will basically act as a substitute for Christ; and will be the only man other than Judas Iscariot to be doomed to perdition. ( John 17:12; 2 Thess. 2:3). God will use him to make rulers agree to submit to his authority; as well as destroying the false "Mystery Babylon" which encompasses all the world's false religions sort of rolled into one. ( Revelation 18:17).
There are suspect individuals that certainly match many characteristics of such an individual. More in next post.
I know this has been discussed before and we have different understandings, but just have a couple of thoughts to consider, I will not go over all this prophecy just the first of 9:27.
If I am correct, it is thought the 69th week ended when Jesus' ride into Jerusalem fulfilling Zech. 9:9. Dan. 9:26 says 69 weeks unto the Messiah, should we look over the 3.5 years from when Jesus was baptized and anointed with the Holy Spirit? Look at the multitude that met Him when He rode in, they knew who He was, He came for the lost sheep of Israel.
The antichrist will make a covenant with Israel. We go to Dan. 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: So here we have the last week/7 years and he is said to be the antichrist.
"He shall confirm the covenant with many", could he in this verse fit Jesus? Psalms 105:8-11 Isaiah 42:6 Isaiah 49:8 Isaiah 49:6 Romans 15:8 Galatians 3:17 Hebrews 13:20 I could list many more. The word confirm does not mean make, it shows us the covenant already existed. Confirm means to strengthen, to be stronger.
God made a covenant with Abraham and Abraham said God would provide Himself a Lamb, Genesis 22:7-8, was Jesus this Lamb, Isaiah 53:7 John 1:29 Revelation 5:6. This covenant is with many, Zechariah 2:11 Isaiah 53:11 Matthew 20:28 Matthew 26:28 Romans 5:15,19. Jesus was sent to confirm the promise/covenant made unto Abraham, Romans 15:8. Could Jesus be this he?
"In the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease" Sacrifice and Oblation, the first word is talking about the daily sacrifices, the Tamid, the morning and evening lamb the same time Jesus was on the cross 9 AM the first to 3 PM the last. Then the second word refers to all of the other offerings presented to the Lord.
Do you think the sacrifice and oblation was designed by God to completely cease upon the finished work of Jesus on the cross? Hebrews 9.
God bless,
RLW
This Psalm begins in verse 1 with a "new song". The "right arm" which gets the victory along with openly showing His righteousness (verse 2) shows His return after Armageddon to begin ruling with a rod of iron but with justice ( Rev. 2:27; Psalm 9:8).
There is a new song earlier sung by the 144,000 in heaven at an earlier date ( Rev. 14:3). There is one earlier on though; in Revelation 5:9 which appears to be those raptured and singing to the One worthy to open the seals who has overcome.
Verses 3 through 6 remind us of His presence being known throughout the earth and celebration to be given with instruments. His mercy and truth to the House of Israel mentioned in verse 3 makes it clear that God has once again salvaged Israel and restored it's covenant promises.
God judging the world with "equity" is true balanced judgment; not perverted sorts of methodologies which we see so often today. No doubt the prophecy in Isaiah 2:4 will be appropriate as swords are beaten into plowshares. That verse mentions settling "many disputes" as well; and no doubt we will rule and reign with Him in a supporting role over "many cities" for those faithfully following Him now ( Luke 19:17).
The mention of the sea roaring in verse 7 once again shows this as a Millennial event; as no more sea exists at the end of that time period.
I agree with you on it has to be a Kinsman Redeemer.
So he had to be able to suffer death to qualify and open the book.
Only Jesus could fulfill that role. So it had to be a man, "We share Jesus humanity"
However the emphasis is WHERE John looked! ( And no man in heaven,) nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book...
And when he opened the book this same group in which John searched for the redeemer sung this;
"And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. Revelation 5:8-10.
I also hold the view that this redeemed group is the Church.
God bless.
I was going through some old replies that I haven't read and here's a question you asked me that I never answered.
Your question was;
Is there any verse in the Bible that says at any time we go to heaven?
There's verses in the Bible that look ahead and show us "IN" heaven. Revelation 5:3 AND NO MAN in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.
Also read all of ch 5.
Better late then never.
God bless.
This verse suggests there could be animals in heaven:
"And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever." Revelation 5:13 KJV
On the other hand, I don't think people who died of dog attacks, snake bites or shark attacks, etc will be forced to live in fear with those same creatures in heaven. I think God has it under control where people have nothing to worry about. To me its not like looking for an apartment. There's only one super obvious positive choice, and one super horrible choice.
A biblical concept of worship involves praising God and giving Him glory with our lips and our lives, with our words and our deeds, with our physical bodies and our spiritual hearts. Worship that pleases God is authentic, offered with clean hands and a pure heart ( Psalm 24:3-4; Isaiah 66:2).
King David danced "before the Lord with all his might" ( 2 Samuel 6:14)
Revelation 5:8-11
twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they *sang a new song, saying, " Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals
Psalms 149:3 - Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. Psalms 150:1 - 127:6 - Praise ye the LORD
Luke 2:13-14
And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased
Colossians 3:14-17
And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Not sure if this is exactly what you are looking for but here's a few of many references of a future Kingdom here on earth.
Revelation 5:10
And have made us kings and priests to our God;
AND WE SHALL REIGN ON THE EARTH.
Psalm 2:6-8
"Yet I have set My King
On My holy hill of Zion." "I will declare the decree:
The LORD has said to Me,
'You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You.
Ask of Me, and I will give You
The nations for Your inheritance,
And the ends of the earth for Your possession.
Daniel 2:34-35
You watched while a stone was cut out without hands, which struck the image on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces. Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold were crushed together, and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors; the wind carried them away so that no trace of them was found. And the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and FILLED THE WHOLE EARTH.
Zechariah 14:9-11.
Zechariah 14:16-19
And it shall come to pass that everyone who is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles. And it shall be that whichever of the families of the earth do not come up to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, on them there will be no rain. If the family of Egypt will not come up and enter in, they shall have no rain; they shall receive the plague with which the LORD strikes the nations who do not come up to keep the Feast of Tabernacles. This shall be the punishment of Egypt and the punishment of all the nations that do not come up to keep the Feast of Tabernacles.
Matthew 6:10
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
"ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN."
Matthew 5:5.
Matthew 25:31-34.
Isaiah 2:2.
Jeremiah 30:10.
Ezekiel 34:25-31.
Daniel 2:44.
Micah 4:1-2.
Zechariah 8:1-3.
Revelation 11:5.
God bless you.
Goodnight.
We learn a lot about the 24 elders Revelation 5:9-10.
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast REDEEMED US TO GOD BY THY BLOOD out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
And hast made us unto our God KINGS AND PRIESTS: and we shall REIGN ON THE EARTH.
1) We know they were redeemed.
2) They were made Kings and priests.
3) They shall reign on earth.
I believe this represents the Church.
Here's why.
They were redeemed out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation. Ephesians 1:7.
They were made kings and Priests.
1st Peter 1:9.
These kings and Priests shall reign on earth.
Revelation 1:5-6.
And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,
And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
I hope this helps.
God bless.