Comments for December 21

v.28 - We cannot know everything (Deut.29:29) but there is wisdom in recognising that God does know everything, and that we will do when we have overcome the weakness of our current flesh to be granted that glorious position. Job's wisdom far surpasses that of many, and one large contributory factor was his suffering. Suffering brings about wisdom directly (James1:2-5).

Job continues

This chapter contains the things which Job said to instruct his friends. View what Job said against the background of the accusations that they have been making against Job.

v.9 - Here we have a picture of the absolute power of God over creation, which we do well to dwell on in our meditations towards Him. We need to be aware that God is so great and so powerful and we cannot mess with Him. This will bring about the humility we need in order to be covered by His grace.

28:16 Not really related to an understanding of the book of Job but it is useful to realise that the word 'valued' is the Hebrew word 'Selah' as found in the Psalms. So this use in a context helps us to understand the meaning of the word when it is used in the Psalms.

28:18 When Job said 'the price of wisdom is above rubies' he is stating a principle which is later presented by Solomon (Proverbs 31:10,26)

Job 28:28. Man searches out many things, but cannot discover wisdom. Job here says that wisdom is to fear or reverence God, and depart from evil. Job has done this from the outset. Job 1:1,8.

Job shows that he understands a lot about the natural world, in this chapter. He speaks of erosion by a river (Job 28:10). He also provides Solomon with a quote about wisdom being more expensive than rubies
in Job 28:18(see Prov 3:15).

V.13 Money can buy a lot of things, but certain things such as wisdom cannot be bought with money, not unlike Simon's desire to buy the power of the "Holy Spirit"(Acts 8:18). No man can fix a price upon them, as it is nowhere to be found in man's abode (Isa 38:11). Job implies both its valuable worth, and the impossibility of buying wisdom at any price.  

People of the world credit the happenings in the natural world to Mother Nature.  This mythical personification has its roots in ancient fertility goddesses.  The term Mother Nature should never be uttered by believers in Yahweh, the living God.  True believers, like Job, know that the LORD God is the one who has created all things, and continues to orchestrate all happenings in nature.  We will read confirmation of the LORD's creative and sustaining power in the latter chapters of Job.

28:12  In asking where wisdom could be found Job is in a very direct way criticising his friends’ advise indicating that he thinks their advice is foolish.

28:1-12 Job continues, like he did in chapter 26 to speak of the wonders of creation so that he can highlight the shortcomings of his friends saying ‘where shall wisdom be found’ – implying that his friends do not possess it.

28:28   Job, in very poetical language, in this chapter has asserted that man does not know God’s wisdom and now he says that the fear of the Lord is wisdom – implying that though ‘man’ – that is his friends – do not know where wisdom comes from or what it is that he actually knows. This is a strong rebuke from Job of his friends.

Job declares that man might be able to extract the mineral riches from the earth, but he is not able to discover the source of wisdom.

Wisdom rests with Yahweh alone and is not the domain of humankind. We are limited in our faculties, but Yahweh is beyond measure (Isa 55:9). The world thinks it is wise in its assumptions and presumptions, but Yahweh is not impressed (1Cor 3:19).

But, how does one acquire Godly wisdom? It first begins with a deep respect and acknowledgement that wisdom dwells only with Yahweh (Psa 11:10). The same attitude also belongs to knowledge (Prov 1:7). The acquisition of these qualities is gained through the Word of God (Psa 33:4; Prov 2:6). Yahweh has caused His Word to be written down so that we might learn wisdom, knowledge and understanding. It is to the scriptures that we must go to ascertain what Yahweh requires (Isa 8:20; Rom 15:4).

The Old and New Covenants of the scripture are equally important. Yahweh endorses the word of His Son (Matt 17:5). In turn, Jesus endorses the word of His Father (John 17:17). Also, Jesus endorses the word of those who will continue His work on earth (Luke 10:16). And so, the Bible is where we are to look for true wisdom. Let us make it a daily practice to read the Word.

There is a little additional element to obtaining wisdom, and by the time God was finished with Job, he knew what it was. Suffering has the effect of burning away all the chaff, or impurities, in our knowledge. When our righteousness is put to the test, as Job's was, we come out of the test with a renewed vision of what God is really like. This was the outcome for Job, as he said himself in v3, 5 "I didn't understand... but now my eye sees You". Job links this new wisdom with his near death experience by repeating the phrase "Death says 'we have heard a report of it with our ears' " (v22-23) again when his trial is over in 42:5 "I have heard of you by the hearing of the ear".

So whilst we may read the Bible a lot, know a lot, and be able to explain a lot; it is merely hearsay until we see God in action in our lives. This is why in Prov 3:1-14, in exactly the same context of the preciousness of wisdom, the writer goes on to say "do not despise the chastening of the LORD... happy is the man who finds wisdom."

Job 28:5 - In recent years people have theorised that below the earth's surface is very hot; even more recently magma has been found by drilling only 2.5 km.

Job 28:25 - that wind has weight was proven by science about 300 years ago.

28:11 Job’s comment about the floods being ‘bound’ is possibly a reflection on God’s words to Noah - Gen 9:15

I. Job's first monologue - chapters 27-28.

     B. the superiority of divine wisdom - chapter 28.

          Job 28:1-6 - the ingenuity of man: V1 - KJV "a vein" <4161> perhaps better rendered "a mine".

          Job 28:9-11 - the superior knowledge of man.

          Job 28:9-11 - the skilfulness of man: V10 - KJV "rivers" <2975> perhaps better rendered "shaft, channels"; KJV (man's) "eye seeth every precious thing" - unlike a vulture or hawk's eye (Job 28:7).

          Job 28:12-19 - wisdom - where is it? It cannot be bought: V12 - KJV "wisdom" <2451>, "understanding" <995> - these two words re-emerge as a refrain (Job 28:20) and are answered (Job 28:28). V13 - wisdom cannot be found in the land of the living (i.e. perhaps the suggestion that wisdom cannot be obtained from the world).

          Job 28:20-22 - wisdom - where is it? It is hidden.

          Job 28:23-28 - wisdom - it is with God: V23-24 - "God 'understandeth'" <995> wisdom and knows where it is - God's in His knowledge sees everything (including the place and way of wisdom). V25-26 - "winds...waters...rain...lightning...thunder" God in His wisdom can order the very elements of nature to suit His purpose. V27 - four verbs "see...declare...prepared...searched" illustrate that God perfectly comprehends every aspect of wisdom. V28 - "...the fear of the Lord, that is 'wisdom' <2451> and to depart from evil is 'understanding <998>'". - the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom (Prov 1:7;Psa 111:10;Prov 9:10) - wisdom must dwell in the heart (Psa 90:12;Prov 2:10) - wisdom is associated with redemption (Psa 111:9), joy (Prov 3:13), discretion (Prov 8:12) & humility (Prov 11:2) - wisdom cannot be partnered with pride (Prov 13:10), scorn (Prov 14:6) or foolishness (Prov 14:33) - Job's description of wisdom lacked an appreciation of God's grace and the necessity of man to work for the salvation of others (2Cor 1:12;Eph 2:8-9;Titus 3:7;2Cor 13:4;Matt 22:37-40;Phil 2:4-5;Col 2:3;Col 1:27;Eph 3:18).    

28:20-21 So wisdom is ‘hid’. But God does not hide His wisdom so that it cannot be found. Often our own way of thinking prevents us from seeing the wisdom of God.

28:1-23       Job presents a long and eloquent comment about creation and wisdom observing that whilst so much of God’s creation can be seen wisdom is not readily visible – it is, in fact “with God”. He reveals wisdom to us through His word,  Against the majesty of creation we are presented with the Scriptures as the source of His wisdom.

28:3     There are six different speeches of Job in which he speaks of the “Shadow of death” – here is a list Job 3:5, 10:21, 12:22, 16:16, 24:17, 28:3. Eliphaz picks up on Job’s use of the phrase in Job 34:22 and finally God challenges Job’s use of it – Job 38:17

28:12-19       Job’s eloquent words extolling the virtues of wisdom above all material things is a powerful exhortation to us. Do we share his view? If we say we do then do we still strive to obtain those things in preference to focusing on the Scriptures and life and fellowship with fellow believers? 

28:28  In saying that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom Job is voicing an eternal truth presented elsewhere in Scripture – for example Psa 111:10, Prov 1:7

28:1-2 As before, we have seen that Job is commentating on the greatness of creation. God is listening to all that Job says and, eventually, challenges Job. He asks Job if he understands creation – Job 38:4. It is good to recognise that God is the Creator. However we must be careful to avoid implying that we understand creation better than others, and especially to avoid using our “knowledge” to denigrate others, as Job was doing.

28:2   When do we thnk brass [bronze] was first made? Gen 4:22 tells us that it was made very soon after creation. We should not be fooled into thinking that early man was “primitive” and the ability to make metal items came much later in time.

28 The way in which Job in this chapter talk about finding wisdom is a further rebuke of Bildad. job is saying that Bildad actually lacks wisdom

28:2    the manufacture of “iron” should not be seen as a modern activity. Clearly it was known and understood very early on in time. Doubtless it is one of the skills that have been lost and re-discovered a number of times since Creation.

28:23-27 Job comments indicate that he understood that God used the weather to bring about His will. Rather like we see for example inPsa 147:15-17

28:23-27 Job comments indicate that he understood that God used the weather to bring about His will. Rather like we see for example in Psa 147:15-17

28:11 The way Job speaks of the way in which God has determined where land will be separated from the seas shows an understanding of what God later said through Moses – Deut 32:8

28:12-20 Job’s friends have been attacking Job for a lack of wisdom. Now Job highlights the truth of the matter with respect to wisdom. It is not in man to be wise however rich he is or wherever he might search for it. By implication his friends are not “wise”. It is clear that Job saw God as the source of wisdom even though he at this pint did not appreciate why he was having the problems he was.

UNDERVALUED WISDOM

God’s awesome creation is all around us. From the universe above us, to the sky, the animals, plants, birds, fish, water, lakes and seas, to the hidden jewels and crystals under the earth. God’s creation contains so many precious things that people will pay huge amounts of money to have them for their own. Yet Job says that wisdom cannot be found in all of creation. Creation shows God’s wisdom, but we cannot pick a wisdom fruit to eat, or fetch a wisdom star from the sky, nor can we dig up a gem of wisdom to hang around our neck, or even catch a magical unicorn-like creature to help us gain wisdom.

Speaking about wisdom, Job said that “No mortal comprehends its worth.” (Job 28:13). In other words, wisdom is completely undervalued. All the precious things in creation that people will pay huge money for, are nothing compared to having wisdom. Wisdom is much more precious than any property we could gain – but far fewer people search for it.

Job also tells us how to find it: “The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.” (v.28). Fearing the Lord and shunning evil are the most precious things we could gain in this life. So let’s put less effort into temporary pursuits and more effort into gaining wisdom. Let’s realise wisdom’s worth and pursue it.

28:20,23 The questioning of the place of wisdom and the comment that God understands it is an  oblique way in which Job is criticising his friends.

Job 28:12

“But where shall wisdom be found” and where is the place of understanding?”

WHERE SHALL WISDOM BE FOUND?

“EVEN nature in her silent proclamation of God tells us not the truth of this matter. She tells us in her majestic solitudes that there must be a Master somewhere, and a purpose equal to her greatness, but she speaks not of Christ as the answer to her needs. If she only is our teacher, with all the great sky, the mighty mountains, the towering crag, the deep ravine, the thick forest and smiling plain, the opening flower and hum of insect life, the song of the birds and the lowing cattle, the beautiful landscape and the great and wide sea—she will but fill us with a sense of dreariness as of the emptiness of a majestic and splendid hall interior without an audience or entertainment.

To find Christ, we must seek Him where He is to be found, and where, at present, God has appointed He should only be found (see Job 28:12).

Robert Roberts, Seasons of Comfort, p. 157

“But if from thence thou shalt seek the Yahweh thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul” (Deut 4:29).

“And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. And I will be found of you, saith Yahweh…” (Jer 29:13,14).

“… Yahweh is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you” (2Chron 15:2.

To seek diligently with every fiber of our being is the only way (cf. Amos 5:4-6). It is to put Yahweh first, and striving to follow our Saviour in all our manning of living (2Cor 5:17-21; 1Pet 1:15).

28:12-18 Job had been very wealthy and now he was poor. But there is no longing for a return to wealth. Rather a focus on the fact that the material things he had lost could not provide him with wisdom.

Wisdom cannot come from inanimate items from the earth. It can only come from the Creators’ revealed word.

5:4 - Here we have reference to the plague of leprosy, or at least we are pointed to consider that the two significances might be similar. Let us beware that we do not allow leprosy or thievery to enter our house. Lev.14:34-45

4:2 I saw seven golden candlesticks Revelation 1:12
4:2 and the seven golden candlesticks Revelation 1:20
4:2 seven candlesticks Revelation 1:20
4:2 candlesticks Revelation 11:4
4:2 seven golden candlesticks Revelation 2:1
4:3 the two olive trees Revelation 11:4
4:10 which run ... through the whole earth 2 Chronicles 16:9
4:14 standing ... the God of the earth Revelation 11:4

4:10 'The day of small things' reinforces the words of Haggai who said Haggai 2:3 'Who is left among you that saw this house in her first glory? and how do ye see it now? [is it] not in your eyes in comparison of it as nothing?' and is an exhortation to appreciate that the work is God's and that whilst things might seem insignificant they should not be viewed with the eyes of the flesh.

5:2 'twenty cubits ... ten cubits' matches the size both of the porch before the house in Solomon's temple 1 Kings 6:3 and the altar of brass in Solomon's temple 2 Chronicles 4:1
5:9 wings like the wings of a stork - the stork is an unclean bird Leviticus 11:19
5:11 Shinar is Babylon see Genesis 11:2 Daniel 1:2.

4:6,7 - Following on from the Job comment (2002) above we see here the strength of God is through His Spirit and that this extends well beyond the physical ability to shape and/or reshape the earth, but towards the shaping of mankind upon it too, if we are willing to be moulded.

4:10 the eyes 'which run to and fro in the earth' quotes Dan 12:4 and , 2Chron 16:9. The use of this language in 2 Chronicles shows that Zechariah is speaking of the all seeing nature of God.

The use of the language from the law of leprosy in a house shows that the Lord viewed the sinfulness of the people as rendering the house of God leprous. Jesus makes the same point (Matthew 24:2, Luke 21:6)

4:14 There were two 'anointed ones' in Jerusalem at this time. Joshua the priest and in prospect Zerubbabel, the governor. So the heightened expectations of the people would look at these two men on hearing these words of Zechariah.

5:4 The timber and stones of Jerusalem were to be thrown down again - Matthew 24:2, Luke 21:6. So however the exiles looked at the events of this time it most certainly was not the time of Messiah. The people seem not to have taken to heart the reproofs of the prophets who had told them that their sojourn in Babylon was because of their wickedness.

Zech 4:1. This awakening points to the resurrection, showing that the fulfilment of the vision will be in the future when Zechariah will be raised from the dead.

Zech 4:9. This was true of the work of Zerubbabel in the past.(Ezra 6:15) and true also of the work of the Lord Jesus in the future.

Zech 4:14. We would suggest that these two anointed ones are the two branches and golden pipes that empty the oil into the lampstand.(v.12) They represent the immortalised redeemed gathered together. There are two such sons, because they have been drawn out of the families of the human race—Israel and the Gentiles.

Zech 5:1. Once again the prophet is aroused out of his sleep, and sees a new vision. This we would suggest shows that all these night visions were seen during one night. 1:18, 2:1, 4:1, 5:1, 5:5, 6:1.

4:2 However we might try to understand the 'candlestick of gold' with its 'seven lamps' the returning exiles would doubtless have gone in their mind back to the lampstand that Moses made for the tabernacle and the lampstand that had stood in Solomon's temple.

5:11 Shinar is Babylon - Dan 1:2 - so there is no problem with identification here.

4:7 The book of Ezra shows how that a great mountain of difficulty opposed the labours of Zerubbabel in the building of the Temple. The surrounding nations bitterly resisted the Jews and were determined that their labours should fail.

Although Zechariah's prophecies are largely messianic, care should be taken not to confuse references.  For example, the two olive trees either side of the lamp stand which represent two anointed ones (witnesses) (4:2,3,14) are not quite the same as the two olive trees; two candlesticks; two witnesses of Rev 11:3,4.  The reference in Zechariah is to Zerubbabel, the governor, who represents the kingly line of Christ; while Joshua represents the Lord's priestly line.  The two witnesses of Revelation represent the true church and a portion of the apostate church which, indirectly, helped the progress of the true church.

Wickedness, in the form of a woman, was transported to Babylon in a basket with a lead cover on top.  She would establish her power in Babylon (5:5-11).  Lead is poisonous, but is used to refine silver (Jer 6:29,30).  The wicked, poisonous agent Babylon would be used to refine the saints, those sanctified in Christ.  Peter warns of the trials ahead from the first century onwards (1Pet 4:12,13).  The latter-day Babylon will have to answer to the Lord for her misdeeds towards spiritual Israel (Rev 17:4-6; 18:21-24).  It should be noted that, at the time of the end, natural Israel will also be refined (Zech 13:9; Mal 3:3).

This 5th Vision tells of the candlestick, (7 branched, I presume), which is automatically fed by pipes from two olive trees. The local meaning is given in Zech 4:1-10. The candlestick represents Israel, with its leader Zerubbabel. He was the civic leader. He was descended from the royal line, but as God had said that Zedekiah would be the last king until Jesus comes, (Eze 21:25-27), then Zerubbabel had to be mayor instead of king. The two olive trees could represent Jews & Gentiles, or men & women, or possibly something else.
Chapter 5 has two visions: a) Zech 5:1-4, which tells of the new law from God, portrayed as a flying scroll; and then Zech 5:5-11 tells of the wickedness which had been brought back from Babylon, which was to be transported back there, leaving Israel as a place of righteousness and peace.

4:2 ‘what seest thou’ is a recurring question asked of Zechariah as he sees the vision. Ezekiel, before the return had seen a vision of a wonderful temple – Eze 47:6 – possible Zechariah’s mind would return to Ezekiel’s visions and be encouraged.

5:7,8 We might think of lead as just a way of describing something heavy. However ‘Lead’ is from time to time associated with judgment from God Exo 15:10, Eze 22:18

Zech 4 This vision of the world being illuminated by Divine light was revealed to encourage Zerubbabel, the builder, and his co-workers to be active in faith in the certain knowledge that their work was being supervised by the God of Abraham, through His eyes which roved to and fro through the whole earth. God knew of their problems, their strivings, and their hardships. God, here reveals to them how important their work is. It was an encouraging vision for both Zerubbabel and those working with him. It is likewise an encouraging vision for each one of us, as we patiently await the return of our king.

4:1-14 the two who are the "word of the LORD" to Zerubbabel & the people at the time, are Haggai & Zechariah  Ezra 5:1, 6:14  - the two who are inspired by the Spirit & encourage Zerubbabel & the people in the building of the temple.

4:6 The people had returned with Ezra and had been involved in frenetic activity building the temple. However Zechariah reminds them that their achievements were not due to their might. This is something that we do well to remember in our own lives.

 5:1-4 Up until this point in the readings of Zechariah's night visions, all have had in common the restoration of Israel's kingdom. In this vision we have a change of theme, but we are still looking at the general theme of purification. The old way must be put off. Both visions recorded in this chapter deal with the putting away of that which will not be acceptable in the kingdom age.

Zerubbabel completed the temple by laying the headstone (capstone) (4:7-9).  This physical fact was a precursor of Jesus as being the capstone of the spiritual temple (Eph 2:20,21).  Note, also, that Zerubbabel was an ancestor of Jesus (Matt 1:12,13).

4:1   Zechariah – as if he had just wakened from sleep – is seeing things which will have their fulfilment after the resurrection which is typified by the sleep.

5:1-3 The curse was written on a scroll. This implies that Yahweh’s will was written out for all to see. Therefore, this was irrefutable and could not be misunderstood, questioned nor debated. Today, we have the Bible as Yahweh’s credited Word.

The scroll was flying to indicate speedy dispensation. The dimensions of the scroll were the same as the temple porch from where the law was usually read (1Kin 6:3).

4:9 The work of rebuilding has commenced and so now God gives encouragement to those who are building it in troublous times telling them that it will indeed be completed despite the opposition of the surrounding nations

4:6 The promise that the deliverance will not be achieved by man’s power echoes the words of the earlier prophet – Hos 1:7 – thus presenting an expansion of Hosea’s prophecy.

5:5     In telling Zechariah to ‘lift up now thine eyes’ we see the words spoken to Abraham – Gen 13:14-15– which would remind the prophet, and those who heard, of the promises to Abraham

5:9     The wind in the wings of the women can be understood as God at work as that is how we see the same idea in 2Sam 22:11 and , Psa 104:3

4:10    The beginning of the building would have seemed to be of little consequence amidst the desolation seen in Jerusalem.  We, in like manner, may feel that a work is so insignificant that we are not inclined to get involved in it.  However everything starts in a small way and will only grow if we get involved in it.

Who is the Woman in the Basket?

Who is the woman in the basket, and what does the passage mean?

"So I asked, "What is it?" And he said, "It is a basket <374> that is going forth."
He also said, "This is their resemblance throughout the earth: Here is a lead disc lifted up, and this is a woman sitting inside the basket <374>"; then he said, "This is Wickedness!" And he thrust her down into the basket, and threw the lead cover over its mouth. Then I raised my eyes and looked, and there were two women, coming with the wind in their wings; for they had wings like the wings of a stork, and they lifted up the basket between earth and heaven.

So I said to the angel who talked with me, "Where are they carrying the basket? <374>"

And he said to me, "To build a house for it in the land of Shinar; when it is ready, the basket will be set there on its base." Zech 5:6-11

God never leaves us without an explanation of even the most cryptic of scripture, if we read prayerfully with a humble attitude. The way God explains His revelations to us is by showing us links to other scripture that, when put together, illuminate one another. It's like uniting a key with a lock - neither of which is any use without the other. The confusing passage from today's reading forms an illuminating pair with the following passage:

"Are there yet the treasures of wickedness
 In the house of the wicked,
 And the short measure <374> that is an abomination?
 Shall I count pure those with the wicked scales,
 And with the bag of deceitful weights?
 For her rich men are full of violence,
 Her inhabitants have spoken lies,
 And their tongue is deceitful in their mouth." Mic 6:10-12

Notice the first similarity between the passages - the word "wickedness". Secondly, the word "basket" in the first passage is actually the word usually translated "Ephah", i.e. a measure or weight (you can find this out in a concordance), and the same word as "measure" in the first passage. I've used bold text where wicked comes up, and inserted the Strongs Concordance number <374> where Ephah comes up. The one passage illuminates the other, by showing us that the wickedness referred to is that of using a different measure on the scales you use to sell things on, than the one you use for buying. There is more evidence to back this up, and again, the following passage uses the Ephah in that context:

"When will the New Moon be past,
That we may sell grain?
And the Sabbath,
That we may trade wheat?
Making the ephah <374> small and the shekel large,
Falsifying the scales by deceit,
That we may buy the poor for silver,
And the needy for a pair of sandals —
Even sell the bad wheat?" Amos 8:5-6
 

This activity is clearly an abomination to God, and is one reason why God expelled Israel from the land (that's the context of Amos). So now we have enough information to explain the woman in the basket. The woman is the Israelite practice of Making the ephah small and the shekel large, which meant that by simply buying and selling the trader would always make money. So for example, if a farmer came to market with 100 wheat, they would be paid for 90 wheat, and the trader would sell it on telling the buyer it was 110 wheat, making him a profit of 20 without doing anything other than trading. 20 wheat has appeared out of thin air! This practice (the woman) is sent into the land of Shinar, which is Babylon. Where did Israel go into captivity? Babylon! The passage is telling us that this wicked Israelite practice was carried into Babylon in the captivity, and there it has been made a home - or in other words, adopted by the Babylonians. The further detail provided is that the woman is "lifted between heaven and earth" and placed on a base. You may be ahead of me here... the ruins of the Tower of Babel (which only got as far as building a base) is called the platform between heaven and earth, and was built in Shinar (see Gen 11:2-4).

What does all this mean? It means that the Babylon of Revelation 18 was derived from Israel. Revelation concurs with this passage in that it also speaks of a woman and by this time it is entirely a trading entity, having "made rich the Kings of the earth" by conjuring up money for traders out of thin air. No wonder then that Bible scholars are split between some who think Babylon is Rome, and some who think it is Jerusalem. It is neither. Babylon in Revelation is a practice and methodology, derived from Israel and carried into Babylon where it was exported the world over. It is not a place. I will leave it up to you to decide what you think that practice and methodology is in today's world.

5:3-4  Whilst the KJV translations says “earth” the word is equally translated “land”. Given the corruption in the priesthood at the time of Nehemiah – around the same time of Zechariah – we can see the prophet witnessing against the evil behaviour of those returning from Babylon. 

4:9     The contemporary prophet reproved the people because, after the foundations of the house had been laid, they were saying that it was not the right time to finish the work -  Hag 1:2– so Zechariah states clearly that the time is such that the one who started the work will finish it.

4:7    Israel, in Zechariah’s day, would have seen themselves as doing “works” – keeping the Law of Moses. Zechariah had already – verse:6 – said it was not by “might” that the things he was speaking of would be achieved. Now we learn that, in fact, it would be by grace. Rather like the way in which the prophet – Jer 33:11 – spoke of the regathering of the Jews. Words which were spoken shortly before the captivity that ended at the time of Zechariah.

4:7       The way in which Zechariah speaks of a mountain becoming a plain draws on the idea presented by Isa 40:5

4:6    All too often we think that by our own strength we are able to do things. We might organise a preaching event or some other activity and take pride in what we have done. We must remember that without the blessing of God our work is of no value.

4:4     One being shown things on a number of times Zechariah asks “what are these?” Unless we ask questions of the text of Scripture we will never find answers. It is not really acceptable to simply read over things we do not understand. Consider the context, look at the cross references and think about where else we have read similar words.

4:9 Cyrus was commanded by God –Isa 44:28 -  to lay the foundations of the temple. Cyrus was not allowed to complete the work. However God used the hand of Zerubbabel to begin and finish the work.

5:2-6 Doubtless the prophet was frustrated by being asked questions that he could not answer. The encouraging thing is that the angel was, by asking questions, encouraging the prophet to think about what he saw, providing explanations in due course. In this there is a lesson for us in our reading of scripture. There are things we do not understand. We should ask questions of the text. Over time our careful, prayerful reading will provide answers. But if we do not question what we are reading we will never find answers.

Zech 4:12-14

“… What be these two olive branches which through the two golden pipes empty the golden oil out of themselves” And he answered me and said, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord. Then said he, Those are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.”

“The flame would tell us of the Spirit which transforms and empowers the saints in the day of their glory.

The oil of the called and chosen persons through whom the Spirit will be manifested.

The olive trees of the two great sections of mankind (as they are grouped in relation to God) from whom the saints are selected.

The golden pipes through which the oil was conveyed from the trees to the lampstand would also tell the principle on which the selection is made. Gold, in moral similitude, is always employed to express the idea of tried faith: ‘When I am tried, I shall come forth as gold’ (Job 23:10). The golden pipes through which all the oil must pass that finds its way to the illuminating lampstand, to be used there in the manifestation of the divine glory, are a symbolic intimation of the fact that ‘without faith it is impossible to please God,’ and that no one may hope for a place in the glorified body of Christ who has not, in mortal probation, glorified God by a steadfast faith in His promises in the midst of affliction.

All parts of the symbolism unite in proclaiming the fact that the salvation in due time to be accomplished in the earth is not of human might or power [v. 6]. It is ‘according to the riches of his grace; wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence… (Eph 1:7-10).

Zechariah’s olive-fed golden candlestick shows us the One Body glorified: those of John, the One Body in the day of its development and probation. The symbol is the same because the thing signified is the same, though at a different time and in a different relation. A tried faith giving forth the light of testimony is the idea proximately manifest in the golden candlestick; in weakness now; In power and glory in the day of the manifestation of the sons of God.”

Robert Roberts, A WORD IN SEASON, pp. 199-201

4:4 We learn that “Sheshbazzar” laid the foundation of the temple – Ezra 5:16. Here Sheshbazzar is named as Zerubbabel. They are one and the same person. Following up marginal references will help to clarify what was happening.

4:7 this is the only place where we find the word “grace” doubled. We know that the doubling of a word highlights its certainty. In this time of the Law of Moses God, through the prophet, is emphasising His graciousness that should be recognised in preference to work.

5:2  The dimensions of the “flying roll” match exactly the dimensions of the “most holy place”  Ezekiel describes – Eze 41:4

4:5  The angel challenged Zechariah to think about what he had seen. This sort of thing has happened before to Zechariah. Zechariah, on not understanding the significance of what he saw, was not too proud to advertise his lack of knowledge.

Do we feel that we always have to have an answer to any question we might be asked about scripture? Or do we have the humility to acknowledge that we do not know everything?

2:28 - The morning star, which is given here to him that overcomes is a phrase used to describe Jesus himself in ch.22:16. He that overcomes is given the light of Christ. See also Luke1:78-79, 2Pet.1:19. Consider also the connection with Isa.60:1-3,19, Luke 2:32

1:1 Notice that it is the revelation 'which God gave unto him' So 'all scripture is given by inspiration of God...

1:3 If there is a blessing to all who read the Revelation then we all must be able to benefit from reading it. In the notes on Revelation in June I tried to show how that simple exhortation can be drawn from each chapter.

None of the ecclesias listed in chapters 2 and 3 exist any more. All of them had faults. Whilst the specific warning 'I will remove thy lightstand' Revelation 2:5 applied to Ephesus we can assume that each of the lightstands had served their usefulness and so passed off the scene.

Chapter 1

Daniel 10 presents a picture of a glorious being giving instruction to Daniel. The use of language from Daniel 10 here shows that Daniel is speaking of the glorified Jesus.

Chapter 2

Psalm 2 is used extensively in the New Testament to speak of the risen Christ and his power. The use of these two quotations here in Revelation 2 further develop this understanding of Psalm 2.

The fact that Revelation starts with seven letters to seven ecclesias highlights the main point of the Revelation - to help brethren and sisters to live an acceptable life to God.

2:4 The 'first love' quotes Proverbs 4:6-7 'love principle' The subject is 'wisdom' so we conclude that the ecclesia had lost its desire for God's wisdom

1:12,20 Like our comment on June 21st this year, the mystery of the lampstands is also explained here. We must be aware of and alert to the Biblical explanations of symbology in Revelation ad Scripture in general.

2:21 The way that God - and His son - respond to error and wrong behaviour is, often unlike us.  Notice that "space" was given for repentance. How often do we drive brethren into a corner when they have fallen? Surely we should allow them opportunity to repent. This is not achieved by taking a strongly adversarial approach and trying to extract a confession from the one in error.

The Apocalypse (Revelation) is a complex book largely written in symbols. Therefore, to understand what is being said demands the interpretation of those symbols. There can be some difference of opinion over this, and so one should approach the work with humility. Care should be taken not to be dogmatic which could lead to bigotry. This attitude is neither acceptable to Christ nor conducive to learning.

The Apocalypse, written about 90 AD, was for true believers to know what would happen in the last days (from the end of the first century onwards through to the return of Christ) (1:1; 4:1). Therefore, to ascribe events that happened before 90 AD to the book, is to defy its own parameters. Most events foretold in the Apocalypse have already taken place in history, subsequent to 90 AD. This tells us that the return of Christ is close at hand. Reviewing the foretold events of the Apocalypse, in the light of history, will bolster our faith; and knowing that Christ will soon be here should spur us to put our house in order.

The seven spirits (1:4) are an echo to the seven eyes of our Zechariah reading from yesterday (Zech 3:9).

The Behold, he cometh with clouds of v.7 is a reference to Daniel's vision (Dan 7:13). 

2:7 The account in Genesis informs us that the tree of life could impart eternal life. It was denied Adam and his descendants; but will be made available to the second Adam (Jesus Christ) and his brethren.

1:8 "Alpha" and "Omega" are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. Heb 12:2 calls Jesus the "author and finisher of our faith". He not only "begets faith" in us, but keeps it alive to the extent that we maintain contact with him through the Word.

1:11 Whilst the book of Revelation is recorded for all of us it was first designed and inspired for the seven churches which received the very specific letters. Therefore any reading in Asia must have been able to be edified by what he read in the book.

The spirit addresses all ecclesias throughout time (2:17).  All who overcome the world will, like Jesus, be given eternal life (Matt 10:22; John 16:33; 1John 3:2).  They will partake of the hidden manna, Jesus, who is the living bread available to His own, but concealed from the world (John 6:58).  They will be given a white stone.  The stone is a smooth pebble that acts as a counter - a token of acquittal (from the hold of sin and death).  It is white (Gr. leukos = light) because eternal life is possible through Jesus who is the light of the world (John 8:12).  They are the New Jerusalem and shall be given a new name (Isa 62:1; Rev 3:12; 21:2).

2:2 In saying’ I know thy works’ Jesus is making the point contained in Psa 1:6. There were faithful and unfaithful brethren and sisters in Ephesus. Their behaviour would determine the way in which God would view them.

1:7     In speaking of Jesus ‘coming with clouds’ our minds are directed to Dan 7:13 where Daniel, in vision, sees future world events from God’s perspective. That is the nations are no better than beasts.

1:16 The KJV translation is misleading when it says: And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father. There is one king, Jesus. Those accompanying him, in the Kingdom to come, will have a priestly role. The ESV has a better translation when it says: and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father.

1:13-15 John had seen the Lord in His glorified form before, at the Transfiguration (Matt 17:1,2).

2:6,15  The Lord hated the Nicolaitans.  Scofield says that this word comes from the Greek words nikao meaning to conquer, and laos meaning laity.  There was a usurping of power and control of one group over the rest of the ecclesia.  A priestly order or clergy was developing which would blossom into the hierarchical system of worship we see today in apostate Christendom.  This is in direct contradiction to Christ's commands (Matt 23:8). 

Pergamos (Pergamum) (2:12) was founded by the Greeks and derives its name from pergamene meaning parchment for which the city was famous in producing.  It became an important, rich Roman city and had the reputation of being the first city in Asia.  There were many splendid temples dedicated to the gods Zeus (Jupiter), Athene, Apollo, and Aesculapius.  The characteristic idol of Aesculapius was a serpent.  There was much opposition to Christianity in Pergamos and thus the title Satan's seat (2:13) is apt. The ecclesia at Pergamos had both faithful members (2:13) and those who followed un-Christ like behaviours (2:14,15).  It is interesting to note that the Lord does not suggest that the faithful members leave the ecclesia and their wayward brethren at this point.  Attempt to influence rather than abandon should be the first consideration.

2:17 The ‘new name’ is spoken of by the prophet – Isa 62:2 – so we see here a fulfilment of the wonderful words of the prophet

Revelation after discussing the seven churches in the first three chapters goes into language which is heavy on symbolism and as Rev 1:1-3 explains, it is a prophecy.

One interpretation, which has been around for centuries, is the continuous historical. The continuous historical is probably the best known interpretation. A proponent of the continuous historical was the English Bible Scholar Joseph Mede (1556-1639). Writing about 150 years ago, Dr John Thomas was a more recent proponent. One of the references frequently quoted in support of the continuous historical is Amos 3:7 "Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets." Critics question to what extent prophetic detail need be assumed to fulfil the intent of Amos 3:7. Other critics suggest that such detailed prophetic interpretations of historical events are possibly lacking in accuracy and/or require periodic revision in the light of seemingly more spiritually significant recent events. The continuous historical takes the approach that Revelation is a continuous prophetic unravelling of spiritually significant history starting soon after 96AD (the approximate date many feel the Revelation to John was given/compiled) till the the future establishment of the millennial Kingdom on Earth. This interpretation does allow for post armageddon millennial insertions of encouragement in chapters 4,5,7,10,14,18-22.

A second interpretation of Revelation is the (primarily) futurist view which tends to crowd much prophecy in what still remains future. A.D. Norris was one of its 20th century proponents. Some of the criticisms are it leaves centuries of relative prophetic darkness and much of it hasn't soon taken place after 96AD. Also, some critics would note there is an interpretation of Jesus' birth Rev 12:5 which would be prior to 96AD. The continuous historical would interpret Rev.12:5 as referring to Constantine. Proponents of the futurist interpretation would suggest that the account of Jesus' birth prior to 96AD provides background context and thus doesn't violate the prophetic validity.

A third interpretation of Revelation is the preterist view which has the Revelation given to John prior to 70AD with much of the prophecy (i.e. Seals and Trumpets) fulfilled prior to the 70AD fall of Jerusalem although there are some lesser elements of the continuous historical and futurist views such as the last days and the second coming of Christ. H.A. Whittaker was a 20th century proponent of the preterist interpretation which also has its critics.

Where can we find resources on various interpretations of Revelation so that with prayerful study we can be better informed?

There are a number of venues containing books on or promoting the continuous historical interpretation. There are books such as "Eureka" (5 volumes) by Dr John Thomas , "Thirteen lectures on the Apocalypse" by Robert Roberts, "The Book of Revelation" (Expositor Series) by H.P. Mansfield, "The Apocalypse and History" by W.H. Boulton, "The Revelation - Which Interpretation?" by Graham Pearce, etc.

A book on the futurist interpretation is called "Apocalypse for Everyman" by Alfred Norris. It is at the time of this posting freely available online at "http://www.carelinks.net/doc/apocalypse-en". This listing contains the book in its entirety.

A book on the preterist interpretation is "Revelation - A Biblical Approach" by H.A. Whittaker. As I live in the USA, I found it locally available at the Detroit Christadelphian Book Supply under the category of controversial subject matter.

Rev 2:26,27 First Principles>Kingdom of God>Gospel concerns God's Kingdom
The Gospel preached by Jesus and the Apostles concerns the Kingdom of God.
2. Invitation for men to participate
Matt 25:34, Luke 12:32, 1Thess 2:12, James 2:5, 2Tim 4:1,8, 2Pet 1:10,11, Rev 2:26,27
For more about the Gospel concerning God's Kingdom go to Matt 4:23 

Rev 5:9-10 First Principles>Sure Mercies of David>Government
The rulership of God's Kingdom is not limited to the twelve apostles. The faithful will play a part as well.
For more information about the government of God's Kingdom, go to Matt 19:28

2:23 We are ‘justified by faith’ –Rom 5:1 – so the ‘works’ that a man is judged by are works of faith – that is the life of the believer will be informed by his understanding of the gospel.

BLESSED WITH GRACE AND PEACE

Those who read and take to heart the message in the book of Revelation are blessed. "Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near." (Rev 1:3)

There could be a number of ways we could be blessed for our study of Revelation, but perhaps two of the main ways are found in the following verse. "Grace and peace to you fro him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth." (v.4)

Through the reading of the book of Revelation we are given grace. Through this book we are told of the things that will happen leading up to the return of Christ - things that we otherwise might not have known. Revelation also gives us the last warnings and opportunities in the Bible to change our ways and to turn to God before it is too late. It is by God's grace that we are given these blessings.

And through reading Revelation we are given peace. Peace comes to us through this message because we learn that no matter how bad things get, God is in control and everything will come right in the end. And we have peace because Revelation teaches us the way God wants us to live.

So let us take the time to read Revelation and to think about it so that we too will be blessed with grace and peace.

1:12  The golden lampstands represent the seven Asian ecclesias.  God gave the pattern of the lampstand in the tabernacle to Moses so that it could be made exactly according to God’s instructions. The ecclesia, likewise, should be built according to God’s pattern, not how we think it should be made. Scripture, therefore, provides us with the ‘pattern’ of the ecclesia’s constitution.

A MESSAGE OF HOPE

We might think that Revelation is all doom and gloom. After all, it tells us about the judgements that are coming on the earth in very graphic detail. It warns us about the horrors that are coming on the earth, and it details the woes that will come upon the inhabitants of the earth.

Let's step back a moment and look at the way John opens his vision with greetings."Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father - to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen!" (Rev 4:4-6)

Revelation is not a message of woe to those who are God's faithful people. It is a message of love and hope. It tells us that no matter how bad things seem to get, we can have peace because God is in control. It tells us that no matter how tempted we are, we can receive grace to overcome, and be forgiven when we fall. And it tells us of the awesome hope in store for us who love the Lord.

 With God and Jesus any pain to come will be only temporary. With them joy will be eternal.

Rev 1:1

Could there be a more dramatic, exciting, and exhilarating section of the Scriptures than to read, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass…”?

When God gives such a direct statement in the very first verse of the very first chapter of the book of Revelation, He is telling us something very important, and that something is that we really need to read and assimilate what is in this last Book. Blessed, indeed, will be those who do so (Rev 1:3).

The Apocalypse written around 90 A.D. by our aged brother, John while exiled on the Isle of Patmos in the Mediterranean Sea because of his testimony of Jesus Christ, was for the true believers from the First Century onwards up until the return of Christ. The seven letters written to the seven ecclesias of the “called out ones” embraced all the ecclesias in every age and generation.

To ascribe the visions recorded by John happened before 90 A.D. is to defy it’s own parameters! God left for each generation a prophetic scenario specific to their time, which gave them much needed hope as they watched the prophetic events unfold, not unlike today. But, the Bible does mention that there will be one generation that will escape the grip of death when he returns (Matt 16:28; Mark 9:1; Luke 9:27).

All of the end-time events for our generation will occur because the Bible tells us so. Our knowledge on this subject matter and our faith in the Lord will be the only two things that will help us get through some of these horrific times. As we keep our Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other, we see the pieces of the prophetic puzzle coming to its conclusion. The world stage is now being set for the closing of this dispensation as the climax of Christ’s return draws ever so near.

Rev 2

Each of the letters are addressed to the “angel,” which here refers to the elders in each ecclesia whose responsibility it was to convey the message of Jesus to their members. In light of its history and archaeological discoveries, we learn why the message to each ecclesia was expressed in their particular way.

Ephesus– At the end of the First Century, Ephesus was an old city, past its time of glory, economically stagnant and weary. The great temple of the goddess Diana was falling into disrepair and disrepute. The candlestick in their temple of false worship was barely flickering. Many of the ancient Ephesian coins depict a sacred date palm regarding Diana as a tree of life. The Ephesian ecclesia was in a similar condition, hence the admonition, I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.” Their light was going out, and unless they repented, Christ would remove their candlestick. They were invited to partake of the real tree of life, the Word of God.

Smyrna– This city had a turbulent history. It was destroyed around 600 B.C. and laid in ruins for 300 years before being re-founded. In effect, the city died and rose from the dead, hence the opening of the letter, “These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive.” The death and resurrection of Jesus were of far greater and more lasting importance than the death and resurrection of a city. Christ’s admonition to them was, …be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” This would have reminded them of the fine buildings on the hilltop above the city, known locally as the, “crown of Smyrna.” It is a call to faithfulness. Personal salvation requires personal commitment to God’s Word.

Pergamos – Pergamos was one of the greatest centers of worship for the Roman Emperors. The presence of the great pagan temple and its ritual made the authority of Rome oppressively apparent in this city. Here the worship of the Roman emperors has been made the touchstone of civic loyalty. This letter speaks of, “he which hath the sharp sword with two edges,” which was an oblique reference to the imperial power which so strongly challenged Christ. Who is really worthy to be worshipped, Caesar or Christ? Today, we must answer this question too!

Thyatira – Thyatira was noted for its brass, hence the reference to fire and brass: “…who hath eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass.” Thyatira was also noted for pottery making, and is reflected in Christ’s words concerning those who will assist him with his future mission to subdue the nations, “and he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers…” In order for them to trade, they had to belong to a trade guild, but that meant participating in pagan worship. There could be no compromise. There is no salvation if we compromise.

Rev 1:1,3

The following question was put to me: “How do you reconcile ‘shortly come to pass’ with ‘every age and generation’"? Here is my reply:

“… things which must shortly come to pass…for the time is at hand.” Revelation is a book that tells of events to come for each Age and can only come in that Age, and at a specific time. The appropriate time, or dispensation was now at hand to reveal these prophecies, which were to take place, and Christ's disciples commanded to know throughout the Ecclesial Ages in their time. In eschatological and apocalyptic language, the future is viewed as imminent without the necessity of intervening time, yet we know there are intervening times (see Luke 18:8). “Shortly” or "speedily" do not preclude delays or intervening events, as Revelation itself also suggests (see Rev 6:10-11). The ecclesias in every Age lived with the expectancy of the consummation of all things in their day. Why? Because immanency describes events possible any day, but impossible no day!

We have clock time, which is our present date and time, and we have sequence time, which is the order of time like, “the first time, "next time," "the last time,” all expressing sequence time. According to Einstein’s professor, Hermann Minkowski, we live in a four dimensional universe, the fourth dimension being time. Time differs from the other three dimensions in that we all move through time together at the same speed (relativity excepted). God is not restricted to time like we are (Psa 90:4; 2Pet 3:8), which the finite mind cannot comprehend. The statement, “shortly come to pass” is no different than the statement John the Baptist made that, “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt 3:2), or the apostle Paul’s statement in Rom 13:12, “The night is far spent, the day is at hand…” and simply meant the beginning of it. To those not prepared, the consummation of all things would appear to them as coming "unawares," or "suddenly as a snare" (Luke 21:34). Every Age had ample time to prepare, and just like the people in Noah's day who had 120 years to repent, sudden destruction came and will come again, but not to Christ's disciples (Matt 24:39; 1Thess 5:2-10).

There are so many erroneous teachings on Revelation simply because its interpretation is restricted to Christ’s servants (Rev 1:1). When anyone purports to teach Revelation, and can’t get past its introduction, then we ought to be really suspicious of their claims. Let us continue to do our best, and God will do the rest (see Phil 2:12-13).

 Rev 1:7.

How should we understand the clouds that Jesus is coming with - literal or symbolic? If literal, why? If symbolic, why and what do they symbolize?

There is only one time in the New Testament where "clouds" is clearly used in a symbolic way as equating to a large group of people. And that is Heb. 12:1 where the writer in referring back to the many faithful mentioned in ch. 11 says -

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by sucha great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." That Greek word for cloud is "nephos".

Every other time the word "cloud(s)" is used - 25 of them - the word is "nephele" and it obviously refers to a cloud as we know it - e.g. Luke 12:54 - "When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, 'It's going to rain', and it does." Or, more times than not, a specially chosen cloud - but still a cloud - used for a particular purpose by God or Christ. Examples would be when Jesus was transfigured and a bright cloud enveloped Jesus, Moses, and Elijah (Matt 17:5) and Paul's reference to the cloud of glory in the wilderness that the Jews were under in Moses' day and were figuratively "baptized" in (1Cor 10:1,2). Just about every other reference - and there are a lot of them - have to do with Jesus either ascending in a cloud (Acts 1:9) or coming back in clouds as here and elsewhere.

So it looks like the answer to the question is literal but with the caveat that the cloud or clouds are specially chosen by God - as the one was that led the Jews for 40 years in the wilderness. And they are to be the means of his transport on that great future day. Jesus' own words in Luke 21:27 show that the purpose of them is to show forth the glory of God.

"At that time they will see the Son of Man comingin a cloud with power and great glory."

1:7 The mention of those who pierced Jesus wiling draws on Zech 12:10,12

2:8    The way that Jesus describes himself as the 'first and last’ and the one who ‘was dead and is alive’ draws on the description of Jesus already given in Rev 1:8,18

Rev 2:20

“Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.”

The Jezebel spirit was introduced in the ecclesia in Thyatira confusing God's people in allowing Babylonian teachings within their ecclesia. Her spirit lives on today. The Jezebel spirit influences God’s people to worship a church system not led by God’s spirit. Instead of being a bride, we are being lured into harlotry, worshipping other New Age gods. Jezebel is the spirit of modern day Babylon from which we are told to flee (Jer 51:44-45; Rev 18:4).
In Rev 9:21, we read of four specific sins: murders, sorceries, fornication (any kind of sexual immorality and idolatry), thefts.
Jezebel was a murderer (2Kin 9:7); a witch of Baal and Asherah (2Kin 9:22) who seduced Israel into immorality, idolatry, and murder; an idolatrous whore (1Kin 18:19; 2Kin 9:22; Rev 2:20-23), and a thief (1Kin 21:7-16).
The Jezebel spirit is not gender specific, but a type that exists in the churches and showing up in the ecclesias. It is the Jezebel spirit in our generation that seduces ecclesias to commit fornication – be it sexual or spiritual. The Jezebel spirit is a type of delusion by which we may be easily deceived.
Are we of the Elijah spirit or Jezebel spirit who have fallen prey to her delusions? As Jehus, we must take on the spirit of Jezebel with that kind of power that will knock Jezebel out of her exalted perch and bring her down to the level that she is destined to fall into - along with Babylon (Rev 18:2). Jezebel, a Queen, (cf. 1Kin 21:18 cp v 7; cf. Rev 18:7) was thrown down and Jehu trampled her underfoot (2Kin 9:33; cf. Isa 63:3; cf. Rev 19:15). Jezebel was described as being the Mother of whoredom (2Kin 9:22; cp Rev 17:5).The dogs ate her up, but left her hands (worked wickedness), feet (walked wickedly), and skull (evil thoughts).  They were so filthy even the dogs wouldn’t eat those parts (2Kin 9:35-37).

Do doctrines matter to Jesus?

Does it really matter to Jesus precisely what we believe? Isn't it enough that we show love and compassion? In his letters to the brothers and sisters here in Revelation 2 Jesus makes it quite clear that this isn't the case. The ecclesia in 2:6 is commended by Jesus for hating the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, and the ecclesia in 2:15 is condemned for having those who hold to the doctrine of the Nicolaitans. Notice the strong language Jesus uses:

"So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth." Rev 2:15-16
 

1:8    This is the first of four occasions when Jesus refers to himself as Alpha and Omega. In using Greek letters to signify the beginning and the end we see how the book of Revelation focuses on gentile involvement in the purpose of God. The four occasions are Rev 1:8,11, 21:6, 22:13

1:13   In describing himself as girt with a golden girdle Jesus is quoting Dan 10:5 giving us an insight into how we should understand that area of Daniel’s prophecy.

"AND THOU HATH MADE US KINGS & PRIESTS" (1;6)

In the kingdom age to come, with Christ we shall “inherit the earth” (Matt.5:5), “reign with Christ”, and be “kings and priests on the earth”, as Rev.5:10 tells us. But why "Kings and Priests"?  Well, its because these 2 offices embody God’s name and show forth the characteristics of the immortal saints in the kingdom age to come. Kings & Priests represent TRUTH & MERCY! 

In John records in Jn.1:14, John records “And the Word became flesh, and did tabernacle among us, and we beheld his glory, glory as of an only begotten of a father, full of grace and truth”. In other words, Christ perfectly manifested all aspects of judgment and love in balance.

We in our mortal state always fail on one side or the other - either too lovely dovey without truth as a backbone, or too judgemental. It was only our Lord Jesus Christ that brought the 2 characteristics together, fully manifesting God’s name as we read in Psalm 85:10 “Mercy and truth are met together ; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.”

“Kings & Priests” – Mercy & Truth - These are the 2 characteristics we need to emulate NOT only in the kingdom age, but also now - as recorded in Romans 6:4 - "even so (Now) we also should walk in newness of life."

2:13       The fact that Jesus was aware of the suffering of Antipas – a brother we would never have known of had it not been for Jesus’ comment here – should help us to understand that Jesus is concerned at an individual level for every one of his brethren.

Rev 2:2,9,13,19; 3:8,15)

“I know thy works…”

Through the centuries whenever Christ’s ecclesia permitted theological error to creep in, God raised up people to bring back the foundational doctrines of Scripture from their drift toward apostasy. He raised people who would separate themselves according to Scripture where apostasy persisted, and this is why we have several different fellowships.

We are living in challenging times and in such significant ways few realize since Christ founded his ecclesia. We have those who believe in immortal soulism and heaven-going, who prefer to debate instead of learning, and quantity is more important that quality. These are very sobering benchmarks to take note of! Christ’s letters to the seven ecclesias describe actual conditions of the ecclesias today and his warnings are very much applicable to us!

To apostate and unrepentant Israel, God said, “… Surely I will never forget any of their works” (Amos 8:7). At the same time, God will remember our “work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister” (Heb 6:10).

God’s Book of Remembrance continues to record the works of the wicked and the works of the righteous (Mal 3:16-18). Every faithful service done for the Lord, every encouraging word, every unselfish deed, ever sacrifice made, every un-repented reviling, slander, evil speaking, unjustly impugning, and other evil deeds are, likewise, all recorded. The faithful will know it is a trial, which puts to the test our faithfulness. Just think how beneficial our trials can be in our usefulness and growth in the Truth (James 1:2-4,12)!

The Book of Remembrance is related to the Book of Life (cf. Rev 21:27). If our name is removed from the Book of Life, all our good deeds will also be removed from the Book of Remembrance (cf. Eze 18:21-24). The unfaithful may forget their acts of un-repented disobedience, but God will not. What a frightful revelation it will be when Christ opens the Book of Remembrance to the unpardoned transgressors (cf. Ecc 12:14)!  We need to, indeed, heed Christ’s warnings, take sin very seriously, and never minimize it or justify it! We are not to go along to get along and pretend for appearance sake. We must never compromise, but hold fast to the Truth as once delivered to the saints (1Cor 15:2; 2Thess 2:15; Jude 1:3).

2:1 etc the repeated refrain from Jesus’ lips “I know thy works” should both encourage us and make us very conscious about what we say and do. A realisation of Jesus’ awareness of our actions, both when we are with fellow believers and on our own should cause us to modify the way we talk and behave.

Rev 2:6,15

A reader writes: “Do you have any thoughts on the Nicolaitanes?  I have seen various explanations as to who they were, but am waiting to be convinced.”

My reply: According to Brother John Thomas in Eureka, Vol. 1, pp. 167-173, the name Nikolaitane is a symbolic name relating to false works and false doctrines. He writes that Nikolaiton is a compounded word from nikos, victory, and laos, people, a mystical name signifying Vanquishers of the People.” I believe the name is more than just symbolic as Brother Thomas mentions Balaam (v. 14) and Jezebel (v. 20) as also symbolical to represent these same things, yet they were real people at one time on which the symbolism of their actions rest.

It would seem the Nicolaitanes were the same, a heretical sect that held false doctrine and did evil, and just as the name implies, convinced people to their way of believing. Paul called such “grievous wolves” (Acts 20:29-31). Ireneus, Hippolytus, Tertullian, and other early church Historians, made reference to Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch (Acts 6:5), who later apostatized bringing others with him. Paul mentions many by name: Hymeneus, Philetus, Alexander, Phygellus, Hermogenes, Demas, Diotrephes who had left the truth and spread their false doctrines. They were once Pagan idolatrous Greeks who converted, but turned away from the Truth and Nicholas may have been the head of this now apostate movement, as they conquered and subdued the people to their way of thinking. Of course, we cannot say this with absolute certainty because the Bible does not tell us, but it may well be a possibility since numerous Historians record this. The Ephesians, whom Christ addressed, would have known exactly who he was referring to.

https://www.theopedia.com/nicolaitans/ https://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/nicolaitans/

I truly believe the Nicolaitane sect came from someone who bore that name, as the Balaam and Jezebel sect did. The Nicolaitane spirit lives on. The churches today and so-called Christianity are of this ilk and is also amongst us who have lost sight of the doctrine of "separation" while teaching “moderation,” that leads to spiritual lukewarmness (cf. Rev 3:15,16), and are compromisers without a true conviction for Truth of which we are warned.

Rev 2 and Rev 3

“He that hath an ear, let him hear.”