Bishop Caractor’s Synopsis of the book of Revelation.
This week, we are studying the book of Revelation. The book that most Pastors, ministers, missionaries, and lay
persons are afraid of. Yes, it is filled with signs, symbols, and wonders, and is centered on the return of Jesus
Christ to set up His dominion.
Just as Genesis is the book of beginnings, Revelation is the book of consummation. In it, the divine program of
redemption is brought to fruition, and the holy name of God is vindicated before all creation. Although there are
numerous prophecies in the Gospels and Epistles, Revelation is the only New Testament book that focuses
primarily on prophetic events. It's title means "unveiling" or "disclosure". Thus, the book is and unveiling of the
character and program of God. Penned by John during his exile on the island of Patmos, Revelation centers
around visions and symbols of the resurrected Christ, who alone has authority to judge the earth, to remake it, and
to rule it in righteousness.
The title of this book in the Greek text is Apokalypsis Ioannou, "Revelation of John." It is also known as the
Apocalypse, a transliteration of the word apokalypsis, meaning "unveiling," "disclosure," or "revelation." Thus the
book is an unveiling of that which otherwise could not be known. A better title comes the first verse: Apokalypsis
Iesou Christou, "Revelation of Jesus Christ,"which came from Christ, or a revelation which is about Christ-both are
appropriate. Because of the unified contents of this book, it should not be called Revelations.
Revelation chapter 1
In chapter 1:2 says " Who bear record of the word of God and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that
he saw. John writes to the seven churches, which are in Asia, and he hails them by saying "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; by saying this, Jesus is saying "I am Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending, which is and which
was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
As you know, the Apostle John, who because of his beliefs, was exiled from society, that he may receive the
revelation of God' s son. It is a strange event to be persecuted for the love of God and the knowledge of His word,
and to be hated by man because of God's divine message to your soul.
In chapter 2, Jesus addresses the angels of the churches in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Philadelphia,
and in the 3rd chapter, he addresses the angels of the churches in Sardis, and Laodicea.
Jesus begins his revelation back on earth through his churches by saying "I know thy works, and in all the
churches, he makes this statement whether the church is dead, evil, saying that they are Jews and are not, that
Satan is in them, filled with charity, has little strength, and luke warm.
Yes, Christ knows us, and the work that we present to Him must be pure in spirit and in truth. We may fool our
neighbors, friends, co-workers, politicians, and others, but God knows our heart, which is the church.
Revelation has much to say about all three persons of the Godhead, but it is especially clear in its presentation of
the awesome resurrected Christ who has received all authority to judge the earth. He is called Jesus Christ (1:1),
the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead the prince of the kings of the earth (1:5), the first and the last (1:
17), he that liveth (1:18), the Son of God (2:18), holy and true (3:7), the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the
beginning of the creation of God (3:14), the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David (5:5), a Lamb (5:6),
Faithful and True (19:11), The Word of God (19:13), KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS (19:16), Alpa and
Omega (22:13), the bright and morning star (22:16), and the Lord Jesus Christ (22:21).
This book is indeed "The Revelation of Jesus Christ" (1:1) since it comes from Him and centers on Him. It begins
with a vision of His glory, wisdom, and power (1), and portrays His authority over the entire church (2,3). He is the
Lamb who was slain and declared worthy to open the book of judgment (5). His righteous wrath is poured out upon
the whole earth (6-18), and He returns in power to judge His enemies and to reign as the Lord over all (19:20). He
will rule forever over the heavenly city in the presence of all who know Him (21;22). The Scriptures close with His
great promise: "Behold, I come quickly" (22:7, 12). "surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus"(22:
20).
Advocates of all four interpretive approaches to Revelation agree that it was written to assure the recipients of the
ultimate triumph of Christ over all who rise up against Him and His saints. The readers were facing dark times of
persecution, and even worse times would follow. Therefore they needed to be encouraged to persevere by
standing firm in Christ in view of God's plan for the righteous and the wicked. This plane is especially clear in the
stirring words of the epilogue (22:6-21). The book was also written to challenge complacent Christians to stop
compromising with the world. According to futurists, Revelation serves the additional purpose of providing a
perspective on end-time events that would have meaning and relevance to the spiritual lives, of all succeeding
generations of Christians.
Key Verses: Revelation 1:19 and 19:11-15
"Write the things which thou has seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter" (1:19).
"And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon hi was called Faithful and True, and in
righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns;
and he had a name written, that no mane knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood:
and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses,
clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the
nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of
Almighty God" (19-11-15).
Key Chapters: Revelation 19-22
When the end of history is fully understood, its impact radically affects the present. In Revelation 19-22 the plans of
God for the last days and for all of eternity are recorded in explicit terms. Careful study of and obedience to them
will bring the blessings that are promised (1:3). Uppermost in the mind and deep in the heart should be guarded the
words of Jesus, "Behold, I come quickly,"
We began by looking into chapters 1 through 3. We stated that Christ addressed the seven churches in Asia. He
pointed out the social injustices, the unfaithfulness, lack of love, false doctrine, dead works and the hypocrisy within
the ranks of the churches. He also praised those that were pure and simple and relied on his leadership to become
more like himself. But today, we take a look at chapter 4 and 5 were John was shown a door and heard a voice that
said come up hither I must show you the things that must be hereafter. John was taken up in the spirit where he
beheld the thrown of God. He that sat was to look upon like a jasper and sardine stone. And there was a rainbow
(covenant) round about the throne, insight like unto an emerald. He saw the 24 seats around the throne and upon
the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.
He heard voices; and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.
God showed the apostle John four beasts. One like a lion, one like a calf, one like a man and the fourth was a flying
eagle. These symbols represents governments.
Chapter 5 shows all Christians who has the final authority as to who's name is in the lamb's book of life. When the
book should be opened and who has the authority to cast souls into hell.
The Outline on the Book of Revelation
Beginning with Person of the Judge
I. Person of the Judge ..............4:1-5:14
A. The Throne of God...........4:1-11
B. The Sealed Book.............5:1-14
II.Prophecies of Tribulation.........6:1-19:6
A.Seven Seals of Judgment.....6:1-8:5
1. First Seal...................... 6:1,2
2. Second Seal..................6:3,4
3. Third Seal......................6:5,6
4. Fourth Seal....................6:7,8
5. Fifth Seal.......................6:9-11
6. Sixth Seal......................6:12-17
7. 144,000 Jews.................7:1-8
8. Great Multitude of Gentiles..7:9-17
9. Seventh Seal..................8:1-5
B. Seven Trumpets of Judgment....8:6-11:19
1. First Trumpet...................... 8:6,7
2. Second Trumpet..................8:8,9
3. Third Trumpet......................8:10,11
4. Fourth Trumpet....................8:12,13
5. Fifth Trumpet.......................9:1-12
6. Sixth Trumpet......................9:13-21
7. Little Book...........................10:1-11
8. Two Witnesses....................11:1-14
9. Seventh Trumpet..................11:15-19
C. Explanatory Prophecies.............12:1-14:20
1. The Woman........................12:1-6
2. The War in Heaven..............12:7-12
3. The War on Earth................12:13-17
4. The Beast Out of the Sea.....13:1-10
5. The Beast Out of the Earth...13:11-18
6. The 144,000 .......................14:1-5
7. The Three Angels' Announcements..14:6-13
8. The Harvest Judgment....................14:14-20
D. Seven Vials of Judgment............15:1-19:6
1. Preparation for the Vial Judgments...15:1-8
2. First Vial.............................16:1,2
3. Second Vial........................16:3
4. Third Vial............................16:4-7
5. Fourth Vial..........................16:8,9
6. Fifth Vial.............................16:10,11
7. Sixth Vial............................16:12-16
8. Seventh Vial........................16:17-21
9. Overthrow of the Great Harlot.....17:1-18
a. Great Harlot Is Described.......17:1-6
b. Great Harlot Is Destroyed.......17:7-18
10. Overthrow of Babylon the Great ...18:1-19:6
a. Babylon the Great Is Destroyed..18:1-8
b. Earth Bewails Babylon's Destruction ..18:9-19
c. Heaven Rejoices Babylon's Destruction..18:20-19:6
Revelation (The Seals)
The first seal initiates the world wide conquest by the false messiah, The second seal brings war and the lack of
peace on earth. The third seal represents inflation and famine. The fourth seal brings death to one fourth of the
world population. The fifth seal presents martyrdom of tribulation saints throughout the world. The sixth seal brings
natural disasters of various kinds. Because of the previous six seals the unbelievers will want to die and hide from
God and will not be able to do so The great day of his wrath is the day of the Lord. is come means God's day of
judgment is here.
Revelation (The Trumpets)
The first trumpet brings literal fire and hail, and cause the destruction of most of the vegetation on earth. Famine
and the lack of oxygen production will result. The second trumpet turns a third of the sea into blood, and a third of
the sea creatures and ships are destroyed. The third trumpet makes a third of all fresh water bitter, resulting in
widespread thirst and death. Wormwood was a bitter herb. The fourth trumpet takes away a third of light the
heaven during both day and night. The light arriving from the sun, stars, and moon is reduced, leading to fear, lack
of crop production and a much lower quality of life. The last three trumpets will be especially severe, as announced
by the threefold repetition of woe, woe, woe. They are directed toward the inhabiters of the earth . The fifth trumpet
brings a five month period of torment on the unbelievers of the earth. The star is either an angel of God or satan,
who has authority over the pit. The bottomless pit is the abyss, the abode of evil spirits or demons. Smoke from the
pit indicates fires below. Locust-like creatures come out of the smoke. Locust represent demons. Scorpions can
hurt people. They do not hurt the vegetation, as ordinary locust would but are instructed to hurt men who do not
belong to God. They are not allowed to kill, but to torment unbelivers. The torment will be so grat that men will want
to die. The sixth trumpet results in the death of a third of the surviving unbelievers on earth.
The description of the locusts indicates that the are demons who are given special physical forms in order to
manifest their destruction and torment. Horses show their warlike character. Their crowns depict them as conquers.
Human faces show intelligence Their feminine hair perhaps makes them seductive and attractive. The teeth of lions
shows them to be destructive and hurtful. Breastplates of iron makes them indestructible. Wings symbolize
swiftness. The stings in their tails give them the power to hurt. Fortunately for mankind, their period of torment is
limited to five months. But the next judgment is worse.
The king of these demons is satan, who is given temporary authority over the abyss. The name Abaddon is Hebrew
for destruction, its Greek equivalent is Apollyon meaning destroyer. Two more woes are coming, as the end
approaches, the intensity and severity of the trumpet judgment increase dramatically.
The sixth trumpet results in the death of a third of the surviving unbelievers on the earth. The four bound angels
are fallen angels or demons who have have been temporally bound by God. They are loosed for the purpose of
killing one third of the population of the world. They appear to be in charge of the horde of demonic horsemen who
will actually accomplish the massacre. The river Euphrates was the northeastern boundary of both Roman Empire
and the promised kingdom of Israel.
Revelation (The Horsemen)
John heard the number of horsemen 200,000,000 literally. John had no time to count such a large army. The riders
wore breastplates. An armored calvary was always a most formidable opponent. Brimstone is yellow sulphur. The
heads of lions and brimstone are three separate plagues, which together kill a third of mankind. In light of their
description, and in the fact that they are ruled by four fallen angels, these horses and riders are probably demons
as well. The fifth trumpet do not kill, but these demons riders do kill,. The power to kill is in their mouth, from which
come the fire, smoke, and brimstone. Their tails have heads like serpents, with power to hurt people. This sixth
trumpet combined with the fourth seal reduces the population of earth to one-half its pre-tribulation level.
By this point in the tribulation period, most surviving unbelievers will have permanently made up their minds
concerning Christ. They will refuse to repent, even under this terrible judgment. Their religious activities will involve
worship of idols and demons, and sorceries or witchcraft, with magic potions.
Revelation chapter 10
The mighty angel may be a strong angel, or even Christ Himself (the Angel of the Lord). The description is similar
to that of Christ. The cloud, the rainbow, the sun, and the pillars of fire may refer to Deity, but a parallel may also
be drawn with the angel of Gabriel.
The little book is probably a title deed to the Earth. It symbolizes Christ's right to possess and rule the Earth. The
planting of the feet on the sea and earth (dry land) shows Christ's authority over the earth in it's entirety, and the
appropriation of His promised inheritance as Messiah. The loud voice shows authority as well. The little book may
also contain more judgments. The seven thunders or peals of thunder may be further messages of judgment, such
as the seven bowl judgments still to come. He is here told to seal them up, since they will be described in detail later.
Lifting the hand signifies taking an oath. The announcement of the angel is that there will be no more delay in the
establishment of the millennial kingdom of Christ. This presumes a present delay or postponement of the promised
kingdom (between Christ's two advents). With the sounding of the seventh trumpet, the present mystery form of the
kingdom will be over and what God promised the prophets will finally be completed.
John is told to eat the little book, and when he does, it becomes sweet in his mouth but bitter in his belly. The act of
eating represents the understanding and appropriation of prophetic revelation. The message is sweet because at
last the kingdom promises are about to be fulfilled. It is bitter because it can only be accomplished through more
judgment and more tribulation.
Revelation chapter 11
God's two witnesses will prophesy or preach in Israel for 1,260 days (three-and-a-half years, based on prophetical
years of 360 days each). Again, this will probably occur during the last half of Tribulation period, while invading
Gentile forces are in control of Jerusalem. The sackcloth symbolizes mourning, confession, and repentance. The
"witnesses" will proclaim a message of judgment and the need for repentance. They bear similarities to John the
Baptist, and will be the ultimate fulfillment of the promised return of Elijah (cf. Mal. 4:5,6; John 1:21). they are also
identified as the two olive trees and the two candlesticks. These symbols relate to Zechariah 4:2-6, where
Zerubbabel and Joshua the priest are pictured as two olive trees furnishing oil for a lampstand (Israel). They
provided help and power for Israel in a time of need. These two witnesses will be for Israel in the future what
Zerubbabel and Joshua were in the past: the channels of God's power and message to Israel during the Tribulation
period. They will perform miracles similar to those performed by Moses. They are protected from harm for three-
and-a-half years. Their miraculous powers are apparently for the purpose of authenticating their divine message
(as in the case of Jesus and His apostles). Their message will be twofold: (1) Jesus is the Lamb of God (Savior);
and (2) Jesus is the King (Ruler). The miracles show that the King is coming again to set up His kingdom, and
therefore Israel must repent.
The beast from the bottomless pit is apparently the same as the "beast" from the sea in 13:1, the Antichrist or false
messiah. His place of origin shows his demonic character and the control of Satan. at the end of the three-and-a-
half years of preaching, the witnesses will finally be killed by the beast in the great city, identified as the place
where also our Lord was crucified. This must be a reference to Jerusalem, at this time under Antichrist's control. As
such it is called Sodom, referring to uncleanness and immorality, and Egypt, depicting oppression and bondage.
Not allowing their dead bodies to be buried is the ultimate indignity. The unbelievers of the earth, having submitted
tot eh authority of the Beast, will rejoice, because they hate the plagues and the message of the two prophets.
The two witnesses are brought back to life, and then taken up to heaven. Their enemies react in fear, since their
Resurrection is incontrovertible proof that their message was true and that Jesus is God and Messiah.
The seventh trumpet results in the establishment of the millennial kingdom of Christ. The seven vials or bowls are
probably contained in the judgment of the seventh trumpet. They will occur in a very brief period of time at the end
of the Great Tribulation. The second coming of Christ, while a great blessing for believers, will be God's most
severe judgment of the earth. The kingdoms of this world will be completely overthrown by the coming of the
kingdom of Christ, who will reign for ever and ever.
God is worshiped by the elders because what He promised is now accomplished. Their gratitude is for the
establishment of a millennial kingdom. The Gentile nation will be subjugated. The wrath of God will take vengeance
on His enemies. The dead of all ages will be judged at the future Great White Throne. Old Testament and
Tribulation saints who have died will be raised and rewarded. Those who have tried to destroy the earth will
themselves be destroyed by God. The ark of His testament (covenant ) is a symbol of the presence of God and His
faithfulness, in fulfilling His covenant promises.
Revelation chapter 12
The woman represents Israel, and her child is Christ, the Messiah. The woman is not the church, since the church
did not bring forth Christ, but rather He brought forth the church. Her identification as the persecuted Jewish saints
clearly proves that the church is not on earth during the tribulation.The sun depicts her as God's chosen nation.
The moon under her feet alludes to God's promises of dominion, and the crown of twelve stars pictures royalty and
relates to the twelve tribes of Israel. The birth pains refer to the period before the birth of Christ when Israel was
waiting for redemption.
The dragon is identified as Satan. His red color shows his murderous character. His seven heads and seven
crowns depicts the completeness and universality of his power and influence. His ten horns show Satan's
connection with the fourth beast ( Daniel chapter 7) and with the beast of the sea ( chapter 13 of Revelation). The
third part of the stars in heaven are probably fallen angels who followed Satan in his original rebellion against God.
At the time of the birth of Christ, Satan was ready to kill him ( Matthew 2:13-18).
The man child is Christ, destined to rule all nations as the Messiah. He was caught up unto God and to his throne in
His ascension into heaven (Acts 1:9; 7:55). The wilderness represents outside Palestine. During the last half of the
nations, where God will care for her ( perhaps through Gentile believers- Matthew 25:40). Israel will take refuge
among the Gentile nations.
The vision of war in heaven anticipates Satan's exclusion form "heaven" and his restriction to earth during the last
half of the Tribulation. Michael the archangel is the leader of God' s holy angels ( Daniel 10:13, 21; 12:1). Satan is
the chief of the fallen angels at the middle of the Tribulation period, God will empower Michael and his forces to
cast Satan and his forces out of access to heaven, so that Satan must thereafter confine his activities to the earthly
sphere. He is given four destinations: 1) Dragon-pictures his monstrous character as the enemy of God; 2) The
Serpent- connects him with the clever deception of Eve in Genesis; 3) Devil- means "slanderer"; 4) Satan means
"Adversary".He deceiver the whole world .
The words salvation, strength ( Gr. dunamis "power"), kingdom, and power refers to the coming of the millennial
kingdom of Christ. With reference to believers, Satan is most commonly a tempter and the accuser of the brethren
before God. Believers can and will overcome him through the blood of Christ and their witnesses (testimony) about
Christ. The last half of the Tribulation will be a time of terrible trouble on earth. It will be Satan's final attempt to
prevent the return and the reign of Christ. He has only a short time to try to prevent the establishment of Christ's
kingdom. Therefore, he has great wrath and intensifies his persecution of Israel, God's chosen nation, while setting
up his own counterfeit kingdom through the Beast, the false messiah.
Satan's persecution of Israel is apparently an attempt to exterminate God's chosen people, thereby preventing the
fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham and David in the messianic kingdom. But God protects Israel. The wings of
a great eagle represent swift escape from persecution. The wilderness symbolizes the Gentile nations of the world,
where believers will help to hide Jews from the Antichrist's persecution. According to Zechariah 13:7-9, however two-
thirds of the Israelites will die first. The times, and times, and half a time equals three-and-a-half times, which refers
to the last three-and-a-half years of the Tribulation period, the time of "great tribulation".
The flood symbolizes overwhelming evil and persecution. Satan, through the Antichrist and his forces, will
persecute the Jews throughout the earth, but the Gentile believers of the earth will receive them and hide them.
The remnant may be a reference either to 1) Jewish believers; or to 2) Gentile believers, who are the seed of
Abraham through Christ. The last half of the Tribulation period will see a persecution of those who genuinely
believe in Jesus Christ.
Revelation chapter 13
The sea here represents the Gentile nations of the world, from which this beast comes. The Beast is the Antichrist,
the false messiah (Matthew 24:5,24). He is the final Gentile world ruler, also known as the "little horn".
The little horn the coming prince, and the man of sin. In Revelation he is both a person and an empire. The
description of the beast connects it closely to the dragon and to the fourth beast in Daniel though his actions show
him to be somewhat distinct from both.
The horn and heads are identified in chapter 17. He speaks blasphemy against God. His resemblances to a
leopard, a bear, and a lion refer to the first three beast in the vision of Daniel chapter 7, representing the empires
of Babylon, Medo-Persia and Greece. This beast includes the people and cultures of the three previous empires,
and is an outgrowth of the Roman Empire itself. The power and authority of the beast comes from satan himself.
Satan has his own false "Trinity" Satans acts as father, the antichrist as the son, and the false prophet as the spirit
who attempts to bring glory to the antichrist.
The wound may refer either to the apparent death of the antichrist himself or to the decline and disappearance of
the Roman Empire.
The unbelievers of the world will be deceived into believing that the Beast is a god. Only those whose names are
written in the book of life will refuse to worship the Beast. The Beast will persecute the saints of God, and exercise
power throughout the world. The Lamb was slain from the foundation of the world in the sense that Christ's
redemptive death for mankind was part of God's plan from eternity past.
God will punish those who do evil. The Beast and his followers will be overthrown and judged.Patience is
perseverance or endurance. Those who have genuine saving faith will endure all the persecution of the Beast,
because they are God's saints.
The second beast is the False Prophet (16:13; 19:20; 20:10), whose role is to bring people to worship the first
Beast. He is a deceiver. His two horns like a lamb represent an attempt to give the impression of gentle
harmlessness. His dragon speech depicts his empowerment by Satan. He is given full exercise of power of the first
beast, who is the political ruler. His priestly role identifies him as a religious power or leader. He promotes global
worship of the Antichrist.
The False Prophet deceiveth the unbelievers of the earth by means of wonders and miracles , accomplished
through satanic power. He will produce the miracles of Elijah , and as a false Elijah he will lead people to worship a
false messiah. The image of the beast will apparently be set up in Jerusalem for the worship of the Beast. Jesus
called it the "abomination of desolation". The ability of the "image" to speak a satanic miracle. The people of earth
must either worship the image of the beast or be killed. There will be no room in the Beast's empire for religious
freedom.
Only unbelievers will receive the mark of the beast. The "mark" will be placed either on the right hand or on the
forehead, both very visible places. No one will be able to buy or sell anything without having thus submitted to the
political and religious system of the Beast. The word mark is often used to describe and image, stamp, brand, or
other mark. According to verse 17, the mark of the beast may be 1) The name of the beast (either person or the
empire); 2) The number of the beast is 666, the number of a man. This number may be 1) The number of
imperfection or humanity (666, the evil Trinity, Rather than 777, the Holy Trinity-also 888 is the numerical value of
Iesous i.e Jesus); 2) A number representing the Antichrist's name, which will be recognized by believers during the
Tribulation period; or 3) A number derived from the Hebrew spelling of Cesar Nero (Kaisar Neron), who prefigured
the Antichrist in his evil actions (Daniel 8).
Revelation chapter 14
The Lamb is Christ, and Mount Zion is the location of Jerusalem. It may refer either to the New Jerusalem, or to the
earthly Jerusalem during the Millennium. The 144,000 are the same as in chapter 7. Chapter 14 is designed to give
encouragement concerning the certainty of Christ's victory over the Beast.
The 144,000 sing a new song of worship and redemption. The four beasts and elders are the same as in chapter 4.
The 144,000 were virgins and not defiled with women may indicated either (literally) celibacy and sexual purity or
(figuratively) moral and religious purity (refusal to submit to the false religious system of the False Prophet). They
follow the Lamb and reign with Him. As the first fruits of the redeemed, they are the first to be saved during the
Tribulation period (following the Rapture of the church). A characteristic of the redeemed is that they are without
guile or falsehood. This may refer to their rejection of the false claims of the Antichrist concerning himself. That
they are without fault or blemish means that they are ethically blameless.
Whereas verses 14-16 picture Christ's judgment as a grain harvest, verses 17-20 symbolize the wrath of God as a
grape harvest with the treading of the grape clusters in an immense winepress. Again the sickle depicts judgment.
The clusters of the vine of the earth represent the unbelievers of the earth, those who have followed and worshiped
the Beast. Her grapes are fully ripe in that the time for God's judgment of the earth is now! The great winepress of
the wrath of God pictures the violence and intensity of God's coming judgment on the earth. The city is probably
Jerusalem , and if so, the greatest intensity of the judgment may be centered in Palestine. Perhaps the reference is
to the coming Battle of Armageddon. The blood may be either the red juice of the grapes or the literal human blood
resulting from the final battle. The amount of "blood" that results from the winepress emphasizes the severity of the
judgment. A thousand and six hundred furlongs are approximately 184 miles, the full length of Palestine. The height
of the horse bridles may be about four feet. The winepress may be an anticipation of the vial or bowl judgment of
chapter 16.
Revelation chapter 15
The wrath of God began with the seven seals, and will be finished with the seven last plagues, which are the seven
vials. Chapter 15 is an introduction to these "last plagues."
The sea of glass was before God's throne in 4:6. The victory over the beast is won through faith in Christ and
refusal to submit to the Antichrist. The song of Moses may refer either to Exodus 15 or Deuteronomy 32. The
deliverance of Israel from Egypt prefigured the deliverance of the Tribulation saints from the Antichrist. They praise
and worship God for His power and His righteousness. All nations will come and worship God in the millennial
kingdom.
The seven angels prepare to administer the last seven Tribulation judgments of Christ: the seven vials. The vials
are actually shallow bowls used for pouring libations. The bowls are full of the wrath of God. God has the right to
judge, because He is the Eternal One, the Almighty. The temple represents the presence of God Himself. The
smoke is like the incense that filled the Holy of Holies in the tabernacle. Until the seven plagues are finished, no one
is able to enter the temple. The time for intercession is past; God's judgment will now be completed.
Revelation chapter 16
The vials of the wrath of God represent the climax of God's punishment of sinners during the Tribulation period. No
repentance is invited or shown. The emptying of the bowls takes place very rapidly in a short period of time. The
judgments are somewhat parallel both to the 10 plagues on Egypt and to the trumpets. The bowls are more total
and universal in their effects than were the trumpets, and generally affect the people more directly.
The first vial produces a painful sore on all the followers of the beast, wherever they are. This parallels the boils of
the sixth plague on Egypt (Exodus 9:9-11; Deuteronomy 28:27; Job 2:7-13).
The second vial turns the entire sea to blood, and produces the death of all sea life. The blood of a dead man is
coagulated and rotting. No evaporation for rain would be possible. This judgment parallels both the first plague on
Egypt (Exodus 7:20, 21) and the second trumpet (8:8,9).
The third vial turns all fresh waters to blood, so that no pure water for drinking is left on earth. This again parallels
the first Egyptian plague, but also the third trumpet (8:10,11). That it is the righteous for God to judge the earth
thus is shown by the fact that the Beast and his followers have shed the blood of the saints and the prophets.
Those who shed the blood of God's people must now drink blood.
The fourth vial scorches the earth with fire from the sun. This is the opposite of the fourth trumpet (8:12). The
followers of the Beast are scorched as well. since they have by now made a permanent decision to reject God and
follow the Beast, they blaspheme the name of God and refuse to repent. Like Pharaoh, their hearts have become
hardened.
The fifth vial produces darkness on the seat and kingdom of the beast. His seat is his throne and headquarters-
probably either Rime or Jerusalem. His followers suffer pain, agony, and fear. There are parallels with both the
ninth plague on Egypt (Exodus 10:21-29) and the fourth trumpet (8:12). The sores of the first vial continue, and the
Beast's followers continue to blaspheme God and refuse to repent for their sins.
The sixth vial results in the gathering of armies of the whole world together in Palestine for the Battle of
Armageddon. The river Euphrates, at the northeastern boundary of the promised kingdom of Israel, is dried up, so
that the kings of the east may come into Palestine. These kings are unidentified (perhaps they are from China,
India, or other Oriental nations), but there may be a parallel with the sixth trumpet (9:13-21) and it's 200,000,000
horsemen. The three unclean spirits are demons who support the activities of Satan, the beast, and the false
prophet. By means of miracles, they will convince the eastern "kings" and all the armies and kings of the earth and
of the whole world to gather in Palestine to fight against the second coming of Christ. This is Satan's final attempt to
prevent Christ's return. Verse 15 is an exhortation to the surviving believers to be watchful and alert, and to remain
faithful and loyal to Christ during a time of intense persecution. To have garments rather than be naked, relates to
spiritual preparedness. Verse 16 identifies the place of the final Battle of Armageddon, from the Hebrew Har
Migiddon (the hill of Megiddo). The hill country of Megiddo and the adjacent valley of Esdraelon have been the site
of many important battles.
The seventh vial produces the destruction of Babylon, the great city. Babylon is further described and identified in
Chapters 17 and 18. The statement It is done shows that with this vial and the return of Christ Himself, the
judgments are now finished. A tremendous earthquake destroys the great city and the cities of the nations. The cup
symbolizes the wrath of God. The large hail (a talent weighs about 60 to 100 pounds) may help to destroy the
"cities". But unbelieving mankind still blasphemes God and has no opportunity for repentance. The seventh vial is
the last of the seven plagues, and also completes the seventh trumpet (11:15) and the seventh seal (8:1).
Revelation chapter 17
Chapters 17 and 18 picture the judgment of God on a system, empire, or city called Babylon the Great. It is a more
detailed description of the seventh vial (16 & 17). The Great Whore is named by Babylon the Great. In verse 5
chapter 17 and 18 show her judgment. The waters represent the various people and nations of the earth (verse
15). She sitteth upon them in the sense that she has worldwide influence. Her harlotry and fornication refer either to
physical immorality (more likely spiritual adultery, idolatry and religious apostasy). The king and the inhabitants of
the earth have opened their arms to her influence. The Beast is the first beast of chapter 13 the Antichrist and his
empire. Her sitting upon the beast represents the intimate association between the Antichrist and the harlot (and
association of support, influence or control).
The elegant clothing and jewelry of the woman show her wealth and attractiveness, but her activities are filthy and
abominable to God. Her mystery name is BABYLON THE GREAT. Ancient Babylon is a type or prefigurement of this
future Babylon. the harlot will do what literal Babylon did in the past: (1) oppress God's people, and (2) propagate a
false religious system. Much of the world's idolatry can be traced back to historical Babylon including the mother-
child cult of Semiramis-Tammuz which entered other cultures as Ashtaroth-Ball, Aphrodite-Eros, Venus-Cupid, and
even Madonna-Child. As the fountainhead of idolatry, Babylon the harlot is is the MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND
ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. The harlot has killed many of God's saints and Christian martyrs throughout the
ages, and will do so again during the Tribulation period. Admiration here means "amazement".
Verses 7-18 of Chapter 17 contain a more detailed explanation of the entities depicted symbolically as a woman
and a beast. The Beast as an empire goes through for states, from he viewpoint of the beginning of the Tribulation
period: (1) It was, that is , it existed in the form of the ancient Roman Empire. (2) It is not, that is, it has not existed
as a empire since the fifth century and will not exit again until the Antichrist gains worldwide authority during the
Tribulation period. (3) It shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, that is, Satan will raise up the Antichrist and give him
worldwide rule. And (4) the Antichrist will be cast into perdition, the lake of fire (19-20). Unbelievers will wonder in
amazement at this revival of the power and glory of the Roman Empire.
The Seven heads of the Beast represents seven-mountains, on which the woman sitteth. the city of Rome was
known throughout the ancient world as a city built on seven hills or mountains. John notes that the wise mind will
make the proper identification. The woman or mountains. The woman apparently represents idolatrous, anti-God
civilization, centered at Rome but with worldwide influence. The identification of the seven heads as Rome shows
that the Beast will have his major base of operations at Rome also (Daniel 9:26-the "people of the prince that shall
come" are the Romans).
The seven kings may represent (1) seven rulers in the Roman Empire (from Augustus to Domitian and Antichrist)
or (2) the seven horns left on the fourth beast of Daniel 7 after three horns are pulled up by the roots (Daniel 7:8-
20) are most likely three (the seven kingdoms or empires that throughout history have ruled over Israel and much
of the known world: Egypt, Assyria, Babylonia, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome and the revived Roman Empire of the
early Tribulation period), Five have fallen (are past) one is the Roman Empire existing at the time of John and the
seventh (revived Rome is not yet come).
Revelation chapter 18
Believers must be separate from the harlot system, or else they may be found to share in her sins and thereby
receive part of her judgment. God hath remembered her iniquities: The day of judgment for in has arrived. The
double judgment emphasizes full punishment for her sin (ref Jeremiah 16:18; 17:18; 50:29). That she calls herself a
queen and no widow shows her arrogant self-confidence . She sees herself as beyond any possibility of personal
sorrow. But the humbling of the harlot will involve torment and sorrow. One day may be a literal day or a symbol for
the suddenness of the destruction. The fire may also be either literal fire or a symbol of the judgment of God. I t is
reminiscent of the burning of Rome A.D. 64
18:9-20. These verses consist of three laments over the fallen city of Babylon - from the perspective of kings,
merchants, and seamen followed by a call for rejoicing on the part of God's people and His angels. The kings of
verse 9 are not the kings (represented by horns) of 17:16, but rather various earthly kings who have participated in
the Babylonian system. The laments picture utter chaos on the earth at the end of the Tribulation period. The
merchants will find nothing to buy or sell. In one hour: the destruction will come suddenly and quickly.l The world's
pagan economic system will collapse. They cast dust on their heads as a sign of mourning and sorrow. God hat
avenged you on her: God at last judges the Babylonian system for its treatment of God's people-particularly those
who are martyred during the Tribulation shows heaven's perspective on the judgment.
18:21-24. These verses picture from within the results of the collapse of the Babylonian system. The finality of its
destruction is shown by the sixfold repetition of the phrase no more at all. The stone cast into the sea depicts the
violence and permanence of the destruction. The Babylonian system began in Genesis 10, and has continued
uninterrupted in one form or another to the present day But one day it will suddenly "sink," never to return. Three
reasons are given for the destruction of Babylon: 1) Its arrogance, 2) its deception of he nations, and 3) its
persecution and martyrdom of God's people.
Revelation chapter 19
Chapters 19 and 20 bring the climax of the Book of Revelation: the return of Christ to establish His millennial
kingdom. But first, these five verses show heaven's response to the judgment of the harlot. The multitude in
heaven praises God for judging the great whore (Baby long, the harlot) and avenging the blood of the martyrs. The
word alleluia is the Greek equivalent of hallelujah, and means "Praise Yahweh" or "Praise the Lord", The eternal
smoke symbolizes the permanence of Babylon's destruction. Amen derives from a Hebrew word meaning "to be
firm," and may be translated "truly" or "so be it".
Omnipotent: a Hebrew is all-powerful, and reigneth over His universe. The marriage of the lamb: The wife or bride
of Christ is the church and the marriage is the eternal union of the church with Christ following the Rapture. The
fine linen, clean and white, represents the righteousness of the church, which has now been judged and purified at
the judgment seat of Christ. The marriage supper of the Lamb represents the millennial kingdom of Christ, which
will take place on earth following the return of Christ. The Jewish marriage consisted of three major elements: 1) the
betrothal; 2) the presentation; and 3) the marriage feast (supper). Figuratively, with reference to the church. 1) the
betrothal takes place on earth during the church age; 2) the presentation will take place in heaven following the
Rapture; and 3) the marriage feast will take place on earth following Christ's return with the church. Called: those
who are invited to the marriage supper are
Israel, who will turn to Christ in faith during the Tribulation. Worship: Only God is to be worshiped. Spirit of
prophecy: The person and message of Jesus is the essence of all true prophecy.
Chapter 19:11-13. This white horse is not that of 6:2. Here the True Messiah returns in victorious conquest. He is
Faithful to His Word and promises He will fulfill the twofold role of judge and warrior.l His judgment of the earth will
be totally righteous. The fire depicts glory and judgment. The crowns indicate total sovereignty and authority. The
secret name expresses the mystery and greatness of the person of Christ. The blood represents the judgment of
Christ's enemies. The name Word of God presents Christ as the revelation of God Himself. In His first advent, Jesus
especially revealed the love and grace of God. But in His second advent, he will reveal the holiness, justice, and
judgment of God.
The armies may be 1) angels; 2) raptured church or 3) all the inhabitants of the heavenly Jerusalem: angels, the
church ,l and spirits of Old Testament and Tribulation saints. They will share in Christ's victory and glory. The linen
symbolizes righteousness. The sword from His mouth depicts judgment through His spoken Word. Smite the nations
; Christ will destroy all unbelievers. Rod of iron: Christ will subject all nations to himself, and destroy all His enemies.
Winepress: (Chapter 14:17-20) Words relating to wrath and anger are found 15 ties in Revelation: KING O KINGS,
AND LORD OF LORDS: Christ has universal sovereignty. He is King over all who call themselves kings, and Lord
over all who call themselves Lords (17:14, Deut 10-17, Dan 2:47; 1 Tim. 6:15).
Chapter 19:17,18. The supper of the great God is different from the marriage supper of the Lamb. Here, God calls
the sows or birds of the sky to gather to eat the flesh of those who have died in the Battle of Armageddon. All men
indicates "all kinds of men"; not everyone at Armageddon will be an unbeliever.
The armies of the beast and of the kings of the East (and of all he earth) will gather in Palestine at Armageddon to
attempt to prevent the return urn and kingdom of Christ. Christ will immediately defeat and capture the Beast and
the false prophet. These will become the first inhabitants of the lake of fire. The rest of the kings and armies will be
killed by the Word of Christ, and will be eaten by the birds. The unbelieving survivors of the Tribulation will be
judged by Christ and also sentenced to everlasting fire (Matt 25:41,46).
The bottomless pit is simply the Abyss, the abode of evil spirits. The key shows authority. and the chain depicts
imprisonment and binding. Before the millennial kingdom begins. Satan is bound in the Abyss. The seal indicates
God's authority and guarantee that Satan will not be released until a thousand years have passed. During the
Millennium (Latin for "one thousand years") Satan will not be able to tempt or deceive the nations. Any temptation
to sin during the Millennium must come from within those people who are born after the kingdom beings. It must be
assumed that all of Satan's demons or fallen angels are also imprisoned at this time. Christ will reign on earth
without opposition, and His kingdom will be characterized by righteousness, peace, and love. However, after the
thousand years Satan will be released for a short while (verse 7-9).
The thrones represent the administration of the messianic kingdom. Those whom John sees come to life are the
Tribulation martyrs, who refused to worship the beast. They will rule the earth with Christ for a thousand years.
Christ will rule through three classes of kingdom administrators: 1) Old Testament Saints (Is 26:19, Dan 12:2), who
will be resurrected at this time; 2) Apostles and the church (Matt 19:28, 29); and 3) Tribulation saints (Luke 19:12-
27). Only believes will enter the Millennium at its beginning. God's promises to Abraham(Genesis 12:2,3) and David
(2 Sam 7:16) will be fulfilled (Luke 1:31-33; Rom 11:15, 29) After the Millennium, Christ will deliver the kingdom to
God the Father and will then be appointed Ruler forever (1 Cor, 15:24-28).