The Book of Revelation: Chapter 1: vs. 1 - 6

The Book of Revelation is the culmination of Bible prophecy - 

The point at which all the prophecies of the ages converge and find their ultimate fulfillment.

Revelation discloses the future of the Jew, Gentile, and the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Within its pages are specific details concerning the Savior's return, the establishment of His Millennial Kingdom and, finally, the eternal state of both the saved and the lost.

The word revelation comes from the Greek apokalupsis, meaning "an uncovering or unveiling."

For this reason, the Book of Revelation is also known as the Apocalypse. In either case, the definition reflects the fact that God has made known to mankind those eternal, supernatural truths and realities which man, on his own, could never realize or discover.

The Book of Revelation is the final work of the New Testament and the Revelation of Jesus Christ which details world history from the time of John (the Early Church Age) to eternity.

It constitutes God's last special revelation to mankind this side of heaven. Simply stated, Bible prophecy and Revelation are history written in advance. They form God's description of future facts and events. Such prophecy is completely trustworthy because God is Omniscient, He knows all things, whether they be actual or merely possible, and He knows them perfectly from all eternity. Acts 15:18 states: Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world. Thus, the Almighty is able to fully and accurately describe the future in advance of its actual occurrence.

Current international events reflect exactly the conditions and happenings predicted throughout the Bible for the last days of this age.

Yet, comparatively little prophetic teaching and preaching are currently taking place. This is probably due to the fact that this field of endeavor involves a great amount of research and study (see II Timothy 2:15). Millions more prefer not to have prophecy explained to them because they would rather live by the world's standards and dictates. As individuals who are seeking satisfaction and rewards in this life, they are obviously not anxiously anticipating Christ's return.

As we walk through the Book of Revelation together, remember that this special message has been given to reveal God's truth, not conceal it; and to clarify God's eternal purpose, not mystify it.

I will not present an elaborate outline or engage in the use of heavy theological terminology. My goal is a simple verse-by-verse analysis. I trust that, as a result, each reader will gain a clear understanding of the blessed truths that the Book of Revelation contains.

Chapter 1

Verse 1: The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John.

We begin our study by immediately recognizing that the noun is revelation, singular, not revelations, plural.

This term comes from the Greek word Apokalupsis and means "an unveiling or uncovering." It is often used in the epistles as a "manifestation" (Romans 8:19), a "coming" (1 Corinthians 1:7), a "revealing" (2 Thessalonians 1:7), and an "appearing" (1 Peter 1:7). 

The Book of Revelation, then, concerns the unveiling or appearing of our precious Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. 

It is not the unfolding of the story of St. John the Divine, or even of prophetical truth, but rather the message of the "appearing of Christ." This appearing takes place at the Rapture (chapter 4, verse 1), as well as at the hour of His return to earth when every eye shall see Him (chapter 1, verse 7).

Secondly, we see that this revelation was given to Jesus Christ, as is everything, for Jesus said, All things are delivered unto me of my Father (Matthew 11:27). They are presented unto Him to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass.

The term shortly in the original means "rapidity of action once there is a beginning." This certainly pictures the present hour when signs pointing to His return are beginning to appear with alarming frequency. These truths, then, are sent and signified by Christ's angel unto John, the writer of the book, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. 

 Notice that the first four letters of the word signified spell SIGN. Why?

The Book of Revelation is a study of signs. There is the sign of the Holy Spirit presented as seven spirits (verse 4) and the sign of the seven golden candlesticks and the seven stars (verse 20). 

Thus, through signs, we come to an understanding of this gloriously revealed portion of Scripture.

Verse 2: [John] bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.

This statement is self-explanatory.

Verse 3: Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.

Verse three proves that the apocalypse is not some deep, mysterious, confusing book.

God would not be an omniscient, all-knowing God if He promised a special blessing to those who read, hear, and keep what they read and hear, if they were unable to comprehend the truth. No, the Book of Revelation is understandable and fills the heart with joy once one sees its glorious message concerning the Savior.

One reason that readers and hearers are to keep that which they have heard is because the time of Christ's return is at hand.

The words at hand mean "imminent." Near and imminent are not synonymous. Imminent means "impending." Hence, the event could happen immediately or within ten minutes, ten months, or even ten years. "Imminence" is always the meaning of at hand when speaking about the return of the Lord. For example, Romans 13:12 says, The night is far spent, the day is at hand [imminent]. Philippians 4:5 declares, Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. And 1 Peter 4:7 says, But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. 

Thus, the next event on God's calendar, the return of Christ for His Church, may happen momentarily. That is why we, as Christians, should keep our eyes fixed heavenward, looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13).

Verse 4: John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven spirits which are before his throne;

John now focuses his attention on seven local churches located in a land area called Asia.

This is not Asia as we know it today, but probably a portion of Turkey. Only seven churches are mentioned, although there were undoubtedly more in existence. Seven is God's number of perfection. The number also pictures seven different sets of conditions reflecting the history of God's people through the Church Age.

God's salutation, found in nineteen of the twenty-seven books of the New Testament, is presented here as well: Grace be unto you, and peace.

It is not "peace and grace" but "grace and peace," because this is God's program for sinners. They cannot have peace until He has shown them His lovely grace. God must show His unmerited favor and love, called "grace," before one can experience peace. 

This grace is shown through the sacrifice of Calvary and is freely bestowed upon all who believe and receive Christ. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8,9). 

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men (Titus 2:11).

When grace has done its job, peace follows:

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1). This peace was made through the blood of his cross (Colossians 1:20). Thus, Romans 15:13 states: Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. 

Only Jesus can give this peace. An unsaved psychiatrist is unable to do the job. Psychiatrists need the same peace that they strive to give. Thus, we must turn our problems over to the Son of God.

We also find that the message of grace and peace is from the entire Trinity.

First, the Father which is, which was, and which is to come; then from the seven Spirits which are before the throne (a designation of the blessed Holy Spirit in all of His holiness, for seven means perfection)...

Verse 5: 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,

The question is often asked, "Why is Christ the first begotten from the dead, when Lazarus and others were raised first?" The answer is simple.

Others were raised to life, but they died again. They were raised from physical death to physical life only to eventually die a second time. Jesus Christ was raised from the dead to immortality—never to die again! He is the first to have been resurrected with a new never-dying body. This is why Christ should be the first that should rise from the dead (Acts 26:23)...and why He only hath immortality (1 Timothy 6:16). 

Five times Christ is called "the first begotten" or "the firstborn from the dead." Another five times He is called "the only begotten." The term "only begotten" refers to His incarnation, whereas "first begotten (or firstborn) refers to His resurrection. For instance, he bringeth in the first begotten into the world (Hebrews 1:6). [Christ] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn [first begotten] of every creature (Colossians 1:15). And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn [first begotten] from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence (Colossians 1:18).

Romans 8:29 declares, For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn [yea, the first begotten] among many brethren. 

Think these verses through carefully so that no cultist can trip you up on the terms "first begotten" and "firstborn," in his attempts to make the eternal Christ have a beginning. No, praise God, Christ is from of old, from everlasting (Micah 5:2). Yea, He is one with the everlasting Father (Isaiah 9:6).

The Lord Jesus Christ is also called the prince of the kings of the earth.

This, of course, refers to the future, when the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) returns to earth as the KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS (Revelation 19:16). This glorious event will be the fulfillment of Psalm 2:6, which states: [I have] set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. At that time the Lord Jesus shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth (Psalm 72:8).

Verse 6: And [He] hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Verses 5 and 6 contain three glorious statements concerning Christ's work on our behalf:

(1) He loved us. 

(2) He washed us from our sins in His own blood. 

(3) He hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father.

The order is beautiful. Let's examine it in detail.

First, the Lord Jesus had to love us in order to wash us and make us kings and priests. 

However, it is even more thrilling when one sees that His love is in the present tense, meaning that He continues loving those He has washed.

This is why John 13:1 triumphantly declares, [Jesus], having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end. 

Can you understand such love? Oh, that you may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge (Ephesians 3:18,19). 

This love is forever.

That is why Paul declared in Romans 8:37-39: Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

The love which Jesus Christ has bestowed upon each born-again believer should manifest itself in daily living, for He said to His own, A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another (John 13:34,35). This love for you and me brought Christ from heaven's glory to the cruel cross of Golgotha's hill. Love made Him shed His blood for the remission of our sins.

Secondly, He washed us!

Some do not like the teaching about the blood.

They want to earn heaven by their own meritorious works. However, being whitewashed is not the same as being washed white. There is a vast difference! It is not less toil that solves the difficulty, it is no toil. Listen to God: Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration (Titus 3:5). 

When one trusts in the merits of Christ's shed blood, his sins are gone, As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us (Psalm 103:12). 

Isaiah 38:17 declares, Thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back. God says, I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins (Isaiah 44:22). 

Yes, He has cast all our sins into the depths of the sea (Micah 7:19). Oh, come to Jesus and He will lift all your load. 

Here's proof! To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins (Acts 10:43). 

It matters not how far astray the wayward son or daughter has gone, the blood of Jesus Christ [God's] Son cleanseth us from all sin (1 John 1:7).

Thirdly, because of His love and the washing of regeneration, Christ is able to make us kings and priests unto God and his Father.

"Priest" is the title of every believer. 

It is also the reason one does not need a minister to help him get closer to God. 

If you have been born again, you are a priest in the eyes of the Almighty. 

You can bring your own petitions to God. 

One is not heard any more rapidly because he has been ordained by men, for all born-again believers are on the same level. 

All are members of a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that [we] should shew forth the praises of him who hath called [us] out of darkness into his marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). 

What a calling! Thank you, Jesus.

John adds, To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen

A MESSAGE OF HOPE FROM DR. JACK VAN IMPE

A Spiritual Checkup (4)

'Jesus knew what they were thinking . . . [in their hearts].' Luke 11:17 GNT

For a spiritual checkup to be effective, you must examine the following three areas:


(1) Forgiveness. 
'Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace...' (Colossians 3:13-15 NLT).

Are you quick to forgive those who have hurt you?
Do you try to resolve conflicts as soon as possible?
Are you harbouring resentment? 

(2) Soul winning.
'Go therefore and make disciples of all nations...teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you...' (Matthew 28:19-20 NKJV).

Do you have a concern for lost souls?
Do you seize every opportunity to share your faith?
Does your life show what your lips say? 

(3) Prayer. 
'Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face evermore' (1 Chronicles 16:11 NKJV)!

Do you have a consistent prayer life?
Do you pray faithfully for the needs of others?
Have you learned to pray in faith, standing on God's Word and believing Him for great things?
Do you see the results of your prayer life?
Has your prayer life led you to a deeper intimacy with the Lord?

If you're serious about in-depth change, growth in your spiritual walk, and developing a Christ-like character, spend time with the Lord today and say, 'Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my [thoughts] ... lead me in the way everlasting' (Psalm 139:23-24 NKJV).

Soul Food: Dan 3-4, Matt 8:1-9, Ps 84, Pr 2:16-19

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Saturday, 18 January 2014

APPS available here

A Spiritual Checkup (3)

'He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit...' Romans 8:27 NIV

Doing a spiritual checkup means examining things like:



(1) Priorities.
'Seek first the Kingdom of God...and all these things shall be added to you' (Matthew 6:33 NKJV).

Do you submit your schedule to God for His approval?
Does your cheque book show that He is first in your financial decisions? 

(2) Values. 
'You died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God...Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience' (Colossians 3:3;12 NLT).

Do you love what God loves and hate what God hates?
Do you value highly the things that please Him?
Are your desires and goals governed by God's Word? 

(3) Sacrifice.
'I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for Whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ...I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him...' (Philippians 3:8-10 NIV).

Are you fully surrendered to God?
Is there anything you value more than Him? 

If there is, pray: 
'Father, forgive me for taking back control of my life. I come before You surrendering, repenting and asking You to cleanse me. Renew me and fill me with Your Spirit. I renounce my selfish ways and make You Lord of my life. You said that You would rather I was hot or cold, but not lukewarm. Light a fire in me today that will burn so brightly, others will be drawn to You.'

Soul Food: Dan 1-2, Matt 7:24-29, Ps 81, Pr 2:11-15

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Friday, 17 January 2014

APPS available here

A Spiritual Checkup (1)

'...The Lord searches every heart and understands every motive...' 1 Chronicles 28:9 NIV

The Psalmist prayed, 'Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting' (Psalm 139:23-24 NKJV).

If you're wise:

You'll visit your doctor and get regular physical checkups. 

You'll also go to God for regular spiritual checkups.

In what areas? 

(1) Your salvation.
'If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new' (2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV).

Was there ever a time in your life when you repented of your sin and placed your trust in Jesus to save you?
Have you surrendered to Him and made Him Lord of your life?

(2) Your devotional life. 
'I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day' (Psalm 119:97 NKJV). 'Your Word is very pure; therefore Your servant loves it' (Psalm 119:140 NKJV).

Do you read and meditate on God's Word each day?
Are your personal devotions consistent and meaningful?
Do you try to apply the principles of Scripture to each circumstance you're in? 

(3) Your humility. 
God says: '...I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones' (Isaiah 57:15 NKJV).

Are you quick to recognise and agree with God when you have sinned?
Are you quick to admit to others when you are wrong?
Can you rejoice at others' successes, even when yours goes unnoticed?
Do you esteem others as better than yourself (Romans 12:10)?
Do you live with a sense of dependence upon God?

Soul Food: Lev 26-27, Matt 7:1-12, Ps 74:12-23, Pr 2:7-8

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Wednesday, 15 January 2014

APPS available here

A Spiritual Checkup (2)

'I, the Lord, search the heart...' Jeremiah 17:10 NIV

when it comes to:

(1) Obedience. 
'Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you' (Hebrews 13:17 NKJV).

Do you consistently obey the things you know God wants you to do?
Do you submit to the guidance of those God has placed over you?
Do you pray for them and thank God for the deposits they make into your life? 

(2) A pure heart.
'If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness' (1 John 1:8-9 NKJV).

Do you confess your sins specifically and by name?
Do you purpose to forsake your sin the moment God reveals it to you?
What about your unsurrendered areas?
Are you willing to give up all sin for God?

(3) A clear conscience. 
'I...strive to have a conscience without offence toward God and men' (Acts 24:16 NKJV).

Do you seek forgiveness from those you've offended?
Is your conscience clear with God and man? 

(4) Confidence before God.
'If our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight' (1 John 3:21-22 NKJV).

Have you moved beyond merely 'right or wrong', and asked yourself, 'How will this affect my confidence before God?'

Soul Food: Phil 1-4, Matt 7:13-23, Ps 79, Pr 2:9-10

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Thursday, 16 January 2014

APPS available here

Learn to Wait

'My times are in Your hand...' Psalm 31:15 NKJV

The Psalmist writes, '...I trust in You, O Lord; I say, "You are my God." My times are in Your hand...' (Psalm 31:14-15 NKJV). As you walk with God, you'll find you spend more time waiting than you do receiving. And when you receive what you're waiting for, then you'll begin waiting for something else! So if you don't learn to wait with joy, you'll live in frustration.

Paul writes, 'Let us not grow weary while doing good: for in due season we shall reap, if we do not lose heart' (Galatians 6:9 NKJV). 'Due season' is when God knows the time is right, not when you think it is. God has a set time for accomplishing things in your life, so you might as well settle down and wait because that's when it will happen, and not before. God knows what you need, when you need it, and how to get it to you.

You ask, 'And what am I supposed to do while I'm waiting?' Trust Him!

One Bible teacher writes: 'God has taught me to keep living the life I now have while I'm waiting for the things that are in my heart to come to pass. We become so intent on trying to give birth to the next thing, that we neither enjoy nor take care of the things at hand. I had a vision from God ten years before I began to see it fulfilled. During those years I believe I missed a lot of joy by trying to give birth outside of God's timing. Learn to enjoy where you are, while you are waiting to get to where you want to be.'

Soul Food: Lev 23:26 - 25:55, Matt 6:25-34, Ps 74:1-11, Pr 2:6

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Tuesday, 14 January 2014

APPS available here

Complacent or Committed?

'Daniel purposed in his heart...' Daniel 1:8 KJV

The Bible says, 'Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with...the king's meat.' Daniel had settled the issue, before the challenge arose.

Joseph had also decided his values; therefore he was able to say 'no' to Potiphar's wife.
The three Hebrew children already knew what they were going to do, fiery furnace or not: '...Our God...is able to deliver us...and He will...But if not...we do not serve your gods...' (Daniel 3:17-18 NKJV).

What do you believe about God? 

If you think He might fail you, you'll never totally commit yourself to Him. 

Commitment grows! 

You can't make big commitments until you've first made small ones. The three Hebrew children first said 'no' to the king's food; later they were able to say 'no' to worshipping his idols.

You don't get that kind of faith suddenly.

Most of us can look back over the years and identify a point at which our lives changed significantly. Because of a readiness within us, we made a choice that would affect us from that point forward.

But before you can make a real commitment to anything you must overcome three problems:

(1) The security problem. Insecure people fear taking risks. They have a 'Plan B' in case God doesn't come through for them; they depend on themselves rather than on Him.
(2) The success problem. When you've had some success you want to guard it. You want people to continue thinking well of you, so you start living defensively.
(3) The satisfaction problem. The lukewarm Laodicean church said, 'I [have]...increased with goods, and have need of nothing' (Revelation 3:17 KJV). 

So

Soul Food: Lev 21:1 - 23:25, Matt 6:19-24, Ps 71:17-24, Pr 2:3-5

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Monday, 13 January 2014

APPS available here

What about nuclear war?

The Bible says the
"elements shall melt with fervent heat."

Would this refer to nuclear devastation?

Let's look at what the Bible says about this kind of firepower-and when such annihilation might occur. We read in 2 Peter 3:10 a clear description of the last days: "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up." God does not need man's modern inventions to produce the mass devastation mentioned in this text.

Atoms have been here since God created heaven and earth (Genesis 1:1). 

Only in our day has science learned to harness what has always existed. God could have brought the components together at any time to produce the effects predicted in this prophecy. This text pictures the renovation of the world. 

Since God's Word promises a final day of rest, there can be no complete renovation of the earth until Christ has reigned for one thousand years. 

Therefore, this text refers to events to be fulfilled after the Millennium-the thousand-year reign of Christ. However, scores of other texts predict nuclear war for the Tribulation Hour.

Here's the startling truth portrayed in this portion of scripture: Humanity today has the potential to carry out that which prophecy has long predicted for the human race. Because science has harnessed this power, and because God's predictions for the Tribulation Hour promise massive fiery devastation, the hour is most certainly at hand. God is able to carry out everything mentioned in Revelation 8:7 and 9:18.

He, the omnipotent One, needs no assistance from the world's Atomic Energy Commissions or the Pentagon. These verses indicate that humans will use atoms during the Tribulation period and at the end of the Millennium.

Modem science tells us there are three primary effects of an A- or H-bomb blast. 

First, there is the tremendous mushrooming effect as it ascends into the heavens upon detonation. 

Second, as the blast begins its descent, it disintegrates, dissolves, and melts even steel. In fact, a five-hundred-foot steel tower melted into nothingness in the desert of New Mexico during past experiments. 

Finally, the heat made the same desert a blazing inferno.

Now, observe the statement Peter made under the direction of the Holy Spirit nineteen centuries ago. First, the heavens shall pass away with a great noise. Second, the elements shall melt with fervent heat. God said that the elements would melt. 

Go to any library and make a study of atomic weaponry.

The materials will be classified under the letter E under the term elements-the very word God used. Think of it! Twentieth-century scientists continue to use the same language God employed nineteen hundred years ago. 

Finally, Peter states, "The earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up" (2 Peter 3:10). The three major effects of nuclear detonations are identical to Peter's prophecies and the catastrophic bombardments of earth predicted for the coming Tribulation Hour. In numerous other scriptural texts, undoubtedly, World War HI will be one of incineration. 

Revelation 9:18 states, "By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone." I have stood in Japan, near Hiroshima, and remembered with sadness the reports of mayhem and destruction that emanated from the two Japanese cities struck by the atomic bomb during World War II.

My mind was troubled. Then I thought about the Tribulation Hour. Zechariah 14:12 pictures an atomic devastation beyond comprehension. The prophet said, "Their flesh shall consume away while they stand upon their feet, and their eyes shall consume away in their holes, and their tongue shall consume away in their mouth."

This is the precise effect of humankind's newest weapon-the neutron bomb that destroys people but not property! All of this could take place in the near future. Then, after the millennial reign of Christ, the final atomic renovation of 2 Peter 3:10 will occur.

While believers will not endure the horror of the Tribulation, we must know the times so as to be faithful witnesses. That is why we must study and take the time to understand the prophecies in this startling chapter. They are vivid reminders that the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ is near. At a time when the world mocks His return, reveling in its atomic weaponry and false sense of security, and during an era when the sixth day is about to expire, Christ could return momentarily. The clock is ticking away its last fateful seconds. Little time remains. If you do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ and have not accepted Him as your Savior and Lord, you, too, will be left behind with those who refuse to believe. All laughter will end when the fire begins to fall (Genesis 19:14, 24, 25; Luke 17:28-30). It will then be eternally too late. "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation" (2 Corinthians 6:2).

In Conclusion ...

I have an important question for you.

In Matthew 24:3, Christ's disciples asked, "What shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world [literally, age]?" The Savior proceeded to provide a list of cataclysmic world events, which would both usher in His return and culminate in the Day of the Lord. He added in Luke 21:28, "And when these things begin to come to pass [or begin to occur simultaneously], then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh."

Concerning this great day, the apostle Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3, "But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them."

Never in the pages of world history have we witnessed such a proliferation of the signs Jesus predicted would be in place immediately before His return. No longer are the days of simultaneous war, famine, pestilence, earthquakes, and cultic activity limited to the pages of the Bible.

All we need to do today is glance at the morning headlines or listen for five minutes to CNN (or watch the tawdry afternoon television "peep shows") to realize that these signs of Christ's return are in evidence worldwide and increasing both in frequency and intensity. Is it any wonder that the scientists who control the famed "doomsday clock" are moving its hands ever closer to midnight?

is History Written in Advance. 

The questions I have tried my best to answer in the preceding newsletters have dealt with the "tip of the iceberg" when it comes to the stream of end-time events that will usher in the Tribulation-a period of unparalleled terror.

I remind you, Christians will not be a part of this horrendous time (Revelation 3:10). In answer to your many questions, I have endeavored to deal with most of the major New Testament prophecies that relate to the return of our Lord in the light of current international events.

Remember that prophecy is simply history written in advance. 

It is God's declaration and description of future events. As such, prophecy cannot, has not, and will never fail in even the smallest detail until all has been fulfilled. The day of that ultimate fulfillment is upon us. My personal prayer is that, upon completing this book, you will renew your vow of love, service, and allegiance to the Savior. If you do not yet know the Lord of lords and King of kings, it is my earnest prayer that you will open your heart and your life to Jesus today.

Do not be left behind. Do not say, "I wish I had taken the words of prophecy more seriously."

Will it be easy for us in the years before the Tribulation? 
I think not. 

We will still be compelled to deal with runaway crime, abortions, drug abuse, plagues, pestilence, AIDS, wars, and rumors of wars, and an unprecedented hostility toward the gospel.

The question is,

Will you be strong in your love for Christ, or will you sell your birthright for a few thrills during the challenging times that are sure to lie ahead?
Will you be an end-time hero for the faith?
Alternatively, will you be found wanting? 

The apostle John, thrown into a cauldron of boiling oil, survived the painful ordeal but was disfigured for life and banned to the isle of Patmos. The beloved apostle Paul was beheaded. Two of the New Testament writers, Jude and Peter, were crucified. Another Gospel writer, James, was battered to death with a fuller's club.

Now let us look at the larger picture: 

Soon the great hour will have arrived, and all God's children will be present as the investigation begins.  What will you say as you stand with such an array of heroes-believers who gave their all and who proved their first love for Christ during an entire lifetime and even unto death?

Only you know the answer. Christ's return may be tomorrow, next week, next month, or next year. We do not know the day or the hour when Jesus will break through the blue to call us home. However, we do know that it is near, even at the doors.

Therefore, my closing questions to you are: 

Are you ready for Christ's imminent return? 

Could you bear the investigative judgment if it were to take place tomorrow? 

Is your present disobedience worth such heartache?  

Would tears of sorrow flow from your eyes for an entire millennial age? 

Would you be ashamed, embarrassed, red-faced, even brokenhearted?  

Would you not rather serve God with all your heart and hear Him say with a loud voice: "Well done, thou good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21)?

It is not too late to make a change, to reverse your lifestyle, and put Christ first in your life. 

If you do not know the Savior, I urge you to obey John 1:12 and Romans 10:13. If you are away from the Lord, I plead with you to act upon 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Do it.
Make the right decision.

Then live the remainder of your days for Him, short as those days might be. It will be worth it all when we see Jesus. Maranatha! The King is coming!

A MESSAGE OF HOPE FROM DR. JACK VAN IMPE
January 6, 2014

Blessing Will Come on You

“All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God.” (Deuteronomy 28:2, NIV)

All the time, I hear testimonies of what God is doing in the lives of His people. Even recently, a man told me how he received a check in the mail unexpectedly, an inheritance from a loved one he had never met. With that one check, he was able to pay off his house which was a desire of his heart. He thought it was going to take him 30 years, but God had other plans. It happened in a fraction of the time!

Friend, when you're in covenant with God, when you keep His commands and honor Him with your tithes and offerings, you are positioning yourself under an open window of heaven. He'll do things for you in a fraction of the time of what it would take anybody else! His blessings will come on you and overtake you!

Why don't you take the limits off of your life today by stepping out in faith? 

Do what the Word says and keep an attitude of faith and expectancy.
Know that He loves you with an everlasting love, and He wants to overtake you with His blessings today!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, I come to You with an open and humble heart. Thank You for surprising me with Your love and blessings today. Keep me close to You and help me to always follow Your Word in Jesus’ name. Amen.

By Joel & Victoria Osteen

Pray a Prayer of Release

' . . . [The] curse does not come to rest.' Proverbs 26:2 NIV

Author Stormie Omartian grew up with a mother who told her she was worthless. She locked Stormie in a closet because she couldn't 'stand to see her daughter's face'!

Stormie writes: 'I was raised by a mentally ill mother . . . and . . . her behaviour left me with guilt, hopelessness, helplessness and deep emotional pain. By the time I was a young woman I was still locked in - only the boundaries were emotional not physical - a deep, ever-present pain which expressed itself through self-destruction and paralysing fear. 

Years later [with help from a Christian counsellor] I learned that unforgiveness as deeply rooted as mine...must be unravelled one layer at a time. 

One day I felt led to pray, "Lord, give me a heart like Yours for my mother."

Immediately I had a vision of her as a beautiful, fun-loving, gifted woman with no resemblance to the person I knew . . . I was seeing her the way God made her to be, not the way she'd become. 

What an amazing revelation!

In an instant I put together the pieces of her past - 

. . . her mother's tragic death

. . . the suicide of her beloved uncle and foster father, her feelings of abandonment, guilt, bitterness and unforgiveness

. . . Touching the heart of God brought such forgiveness that when she died

. . . I had no bad feelings. In fact, the more I forgave her the more God brought to mind good memories

. . . People are often the way they are because of how life shaped them, and only God knows their history. 

To enjoy everything God has for you, pray a prayer of release and let go of the past.'

Only then can you move on.

Soul Food: Lev 15-17, Matt 6:1-8, Ps 46, Pr 1:32-33

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Friday, 10 January 2014

APPS available here

Why You Can Depend on God's Word (2)

'...The Word of God which...effectively works in you...' 1 Thessalonians 2:13 NKJV

Observe two things:

(1) God's Word is inspired. 

Chuck Swindoll writes: 'We've no problem with the Giver of truth...but wasn't the truth corrupted when He relayed it through sinful men?

This is the perfect moment to get acquainted with revelation, inspiration and illumination.

Revelation occurred when God gave His truth, inspiration when writers received and recorded it, and illumination when we understand and apply it. Your confidence in the Bible is directly related to your confidence in its inspiration.

How can we be sure it's error-free and trustworthy? 

Paul provides help answering this question:
"All Scripture is inspired by God...for teaching...showing people what is wrong in their lives... correcting faults, and for teaching how to live right" (2 Timothy 3:16 NCV). When God revealed His truth to human writers He "breathed out" His Word. When we dictate a letter we "breathe out a message" and someone else types it.

So did the writers simply take dictation?

If you know much about the Bible you realise...Peter doesn't sound like John. John doesn't sound like David. Somehow each writer's personality was preserved without corrupting the text...That rules out the idea of dictation.

Peter says, "...No...Scripture ever came from the prophet's own understanding, or...human initiative...[They] were moved by the Holy Spirit, and...spoke from God" (2 Peter 1:20-21 NLT).

That answers that question!

(2) It'll hold you up.

When you go through chaotic experiences, God's Word gives you stability.
No other counsel will get you through the long haul.
No other truth will help you stand firm in storms of doubt and uncertainty.
No other reality will give you the strength you need each day.'

Soul Food: Lev 13:38 - 14:57, Matt 5:38-48, Ps 3, Pr 1:29-31

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Thursday, 9 January 2014

APPS available here

Why You Can Depend on God's Word (1)

'...Your Word is truth.' John 17:17 NIV

When your 'back is against the wall', where can you turn to find strength?
Awash in a sea of moral and ethical questions, where can you go to find a reliable compass?

Chuck Swindoll says:

'There can be no more reliable authority than God's Word. 

This timeless, trustworthy source holds the key that unlocks life's mysteries. It alone provides us with the shelter we need in times of storm.'



Why does it qualify as our final authority? 

(1) God's Word is Truth. 

Jesus said as He prayed to the Father, 'Your word is truth.' Real truth you can rely on...that'll never shrivel up...turn sour...backfire or mislead...That's what the Bible's about... it provides us with the constant and the needed support. 

(2) God's Book is God's voice. 

Paul writes, 'You received the Word of God...not as the word of men, but as...the Word of God, which...effectively works in you who believe' (1 Thessalonians 2:13 NKJV).  

Consider it this way: if the Lord were to return to earth and speak, His message would tie in exactly with what you see in Scripture - His opinion, counsel, commands, desires, and warnings. When you rely on God's voice you have a sure foundation...truth that can be trusted...power that imparts new life and releases grace by which you can grow in faith and commitment. 

(3) God's Word endures. 

There are only two eternal things on earth today: people and God's Word. Everything else will ultimately be burned up...stuff we place on the shelf, things we put frames around, trophies and whatnots we shine and love to show off...all headed for the final bonfire (2 Peter 3:7-12 NKJV). 

God's Book 'stands forever' (1 Peter 1:25 NIV).

Soul Food: Lev 11:1 - 13:37, Matt 5:27-37, Ps 42:6-11, Pr 1:24-28

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Wednesday, 8 January 2014

APPS available here

Are You Feeling Insecure? (1)

'Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you...' Jeremiah 1:8 NKJV

Jeremiah writes: 'Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you [set you apart]; I ordained you a prophet to the nations." Then said I: "Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth." But the Lord said to me: "Do not say, 'I am a youth,' for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you," says the Lord. Then the Lord put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and...said: "Behold, I have put My words in your mouth. See, I have this day set you over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out and to pull down, to destroy and to throw down, to build and to plant...I am ready to perform My word"' (Jeremiah 1:4-12 NKJV).

Does the job you've been called to do seem too big for you? 

On your own, it is, but not when you include God
You're not working alone; God is with you.
Whether it's to pull down or build up, the One who called you will equip you, empower you and give you success.

He didn't make a mistake when He picked you.
You say, 'If only I had the education, talent and experience of so-and-so.' If God wanted them, He'd have chosen them, but He chose you. Just be yourself, trust God, and everything will go well for you.

Soul Food: Exo 20:1-3, Deut 6:1-9, Mark 12:28-34, Rev 2:1-7 (Commandment 1: Love God)

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Sunday, 5 January 2014

APPS available here

Be Passionate about It (1)

'...I am doing a great work...' Nehemiah 6:3 NKJV

Nehemiah was passionate about rebuilding Jerusalem's walls. 
So when his enemies tried to sidetrack and discourage him, he answered, '...I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down...'

Passion is the starting point for all achievement.
There has never been anyone who achieved anything of value, who wasn't passionate about it. It's the energy that fuels your dream.

The road to success is cluttered with detours, problems and disappointments. 
And if you don't have the right mindset, your dreams can die there.

Indeed, there are days when the needle on your passion meter will be on empty. On those days you need to remember that God gave you your dream to begin with; go back to Him and ask for the strength to keep moving toward it.  

The Psalmist wrote, 'For You will light my lamp; the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. For by You I can run against a troop, by my God I can leap over a wall' (Psalm 18:28-29 NKJV).

Who gives you the power to run and leap? God! 

But you can't sit back, fold your arms and think that He will do it all for you. Between your dream's inspiration and its manifestation, there's going to be a lot of perspiration. As every new parent finds out - it's much harder having and raising a baby than conceiving one.  

But if you have the passion for your dream, the price tag won't stop you. You'll get up every morning, draw on God's grace and take one more step in the direction of the thing you know God put you on this earth to do.

Soul Food: 1 Thes 1-5, Matt 3:13-17, Ps 90:1-6, Pr 1:1-4

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Thursday, 2 January 2014

APPS available here

Expect 2014

Great Things from God

'...Thus far the Lord has helped us.' 1 Samuel 7:12 NKJV

The Bible says, 'Then Samuel took a stone...and called its name Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far the Lord has helped us."''

As you end this year and look back, what do you see?
Monuments to failure?
Wasted opportunities? 

When it comes to your failures, God says, 'I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake, and I will not remember your sins' (Isaiah 43:25 NKJV).

When it comes to your wasted opportunities, God says, 'I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten...' (Joel 2:25 NKJV). 

A wise man said, 'If we do not learn from the past we are doomed to repeat it.' 

It's ok to look back and learn, but if you drive looking in the rearview mirror, you'll end up in a ditch. 

Whether good or bad, don't get stuck in the past.

'Do not say, "Why were the former days better than these?" For you do not inquire wisely concerning this' (Ecclesiastes 7:10 NKJV). One of the dangers of growing old is that you become more excited about the past than you are about the future. A lady wrote to a newspaper editor and said, 'Your newspaper is not as good as it used to be.' He wrote back and quipped, 'It never has been.'

God says, 'I know the plans I have for you...they are plans for good...' (Jeremiah 29:11 TLB).

So, 'hats off to the past and coats off to the future!' Roll up your sleeves, go to work, and expect great things from God.

Soul Food: Job 40-42, Matt 3:1-12, Ps 116, Ecc 12:13-14

Written by Bob & Debby Gass
Tuesday, 31 December 2013

APPS available here