notes last things - revelation, chapter 19 · notes ! the teaching ministry of dr. bob abramson 1...

Notes !

The Teaching Ministry of Dr. Bob Abramson 1

Last Things - Revelation, Chapter 19

This series of four lessons is not intended to be an exhaustive or scholarly study, just a help to those of us who desire to understand a little more about this apocalyptic ending to the Bible. It’s fruitful to gain this knowledge, because it’s a record of the coming conclusion to the scarlet thread of redemption that has worked its way through all sixty-six books of the Bible. It explains the blessed hope we await as children of God and followers of Christ.

Before we begin this four-part series of lessons, it’s appropriate to acknowledge that throughout Scripture, we are given prophetic references to the end times and especially the events of these last four chapters of Revelation. Rather than attempt an exhaustive listing of these, our purposes in the way of introduction would be served by one of the most significant, clear and decisive mentions in Scripture of the culmination of God’s plan of eternal redemption. It’s found in 1 Thessalonians, Chapter 4 and will direct us to the Book of Revelation’s apocalyptic account of Christ’s return.1

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

“But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. {14} For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. {15} For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. {16} For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. {17} Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. {18} Therefore comfort one another with these words.” 2

Chapter 19 begins immediately before the second coming of Christ. The previous chapter (18) tells us that multitudes in heaven, who had been martyred for their faithfulness to God, now

1 Apocalyptic writing in Scripture predicts the future return of Christ and the destruction of all 2 Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is quoted from the NKJV.

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began to praise God. Why? The Almighty had just destroyed “Babylon the great.”3 (Even as heaven celebrated this destruction, it was mourned by those who no longer could enjoy the fruits of their evil ways through their deliberate disregard for God.)

Judgment, Celebration and a Marriage

Revelation 19:1-3

“After these things I heard a loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, saying, “Alleluia! Salvation and glory and honor and power belong to the Lord our God! {2} For true and righteous are His judgments, because He has judged the great harlot who corrupted the earth with her fornication; and He has avenged on her the blood of His servants shed by her.” {3} Again they said, “Alleluia! Her smoke rises up forever and ever!”

Chapter 19’s beginning announces a great celebration, praising God for punishing those who were guilty and also intervening to give the innocent who were slain, the eternal fruit of their faithfulness to Him. God’s righteous judgment would be an awesome demonstration of His majesty and power. The next four verses tell us that the “twenty four elders and four living creatures” worshiped God, as shouts of praise came from a multitude of those who served Him. This accompanied the announcement that “the marriage supper of the Lamb has come,” and the church was now ready, as it had prepared itself in holiness.

Revelation 19:4-7

“And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God who sat on the throne, saying, “Amen! Alleluia!” {5} Then a voice came from the throne, saying, “Praise our God, all you His servants and those who fear Him, both small and great!”{6} And I heard, as it were, the voice of a great multitude, as the sound of many waters and as the sound of mighty thunderings, saying, “Alleluia! For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns! Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and his wife has made herself ready.””

In the biblical world, a marriage customarily had three phases. 3 Revelation 18:2

Revelation 18:17-19 “For in one hour such great riches came to nothing.’ Every shipmaster, all who travel by ship, sailors, and as many as trade on the sea, stood at a distance {18} and cried out when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, ‘What is like this great city?’ {19} They threw dust on their heads and cried out, weeping and wailing, and saying, ‘Alas, alas, that great city, in which all who had ships on the sea became rich by her wealth! For in one hour she is made desolate.’”

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First, there was the payment of a dowry and agreement by the parents to join their children together. Then, the bridegroom, with his friends, came for his bride. Finally, there was a marriage supper to celebrate the marriage, at which invited guests would partake of the feast. As you study these final chapters in Revelation, you will see the same pattern, but now a divine one.4

Revelation 19:8

“And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.”

Here in Verse 8, John the Revelator referred to the church as being “arrayed in fine linen,” which he called “the righteous acts of the saints.” The prophet Isaiah had referred to these as “garments of salvation” and “robes of righteousness.” It’s clear that God will provide these “saints” (Those who are His people, saved through His grace) with special honor by clothing them in holy garments.

Isaiah 61:10-11

“I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, My soul shall be joyful in my God; For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. {11} For as the earth brings forth its bud,

As the garden causes the things that are sown in it to spring forth, So the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.”

Let’s look into the next two verses of Revelation.

Revelation 19:9-10

“Then he said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’” And he said to me, “These are the true sayings of God.” {10} And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See that you do not do that! I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”

4 Refer to Matthew 25:1-13 – The parable of the virgins.

Everything Jesus said in His earthly ministry was prophetic. He either foretold what would happen or prophetically spoke against the sins of the day.

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John testifies that “he” [perhaps the angel mentioned in 18:21?] spoke a blessing over the saints and also prevented John from worshiping him. We do not worship angels. Worship is to be given only to the Almighty.

The White Warhorse and its Terrifying, Heavenly Rider

Revelation 19:11

“Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.”

What must it have been like for John, as he witnessed heaven open, revealing the most magnificent warhorse that could be imagined? An earthly painting could not accurately present a picture of this magnificent steed, so powerful that only one King could ride it - the KING of KINGS! This is the second coming of Christ. He comes with the specific purpose of bringing His divine judgment and establishing His absolute rulership. They go hand-in-hand. None will be able to resist Him, though they will try by going to war against Him. Never will the outcome be in doubt! Revelation 19:11 gives the Lord two names that describe His character. They are enormously encouraging to those of us who will have followed Him through the ages. He is (1) “Faithful” and (2) “True.” This assures us that every word in the Bible has been given so we might stand, believing that Christ will never lead us astray or be unable to fulfill His Word! Verse 11 also tells us His judgment of the world, and the warfare He will wage, is righteous, pure, holy and as unchallengeable as He is, Himself.

Revelation 19:12-13

“His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. {13} He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.”

When John the Revelator tried to describe this vision of the second coming of Christ, he was drawn to the fierceness of Christ’s eyes. He could only describe the Lord’s eyes as “like a flame of fire.” We can imagine that John felt inadequate to put

In the Roman culture, a white horse was ridden by conquerors in victory parades. The horse was a sign, identifying the victorious leader who had conquered his enemies. (See Revelation 6:1-2 for another mention of a conqueror on a white horse. We cannot identify who the rider of this horse is. There are some theories, but the Scriptures do not say for certain.)

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into words the intensity of the power and fierceness of the wrath of that Almighty Rider on that white warhorse. He saw the blood of Jesus’s redeeming sacrifice, staining His robe. It is a reminder that the sacrifice was eternally redemptive and would always be a sign to us that we are safe and secure in the presence of such love. In these two verses, two additional names of the Holy Rider, Christ the Lord, were mentioned. In Verse 12, John wrote of a mysterious name that that only Jesus knew - “He had a name written that no one knew except Himself.” Then, another reference, this one not mysterious but previously well published - “His name is called The Word of God.” John was intimately familiar with this name. He had earlier begun His Gospel with it.

John 1:1-3

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. {2} He was in the beginning with God. {3} All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.”

The Heavenly Rider’s Armies, Clothed in Righteousness

In Verse 14, John describes God’s armies, riding on their white horses, appearing in the heavens with Christ. He describes them as wearing “fine linen.” (This righteous apparel was previously mentioned in Verse 8.)5 Though it is about to wage violent warfare against the devil and his armies, there’s no sin or evil in this army. Their cause is holy, as are they. Will you be part of this army? The Divine Sword, the Winepress and the Ultimate Name

Above Every Name

Revelation 19:15-16

‘Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. {16} And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written:

KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”

5 Again: Revelation 19:8 - “And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and

bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.”

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The “sharp sword” is an image of the thundering roar of words that only God could issue forth. There will be no escaping this sword. There will be no countering it. It will do what it is sent to do. This is not anything new to God’s people. Isaiah prophesied it twenty-seven hundred years ago.

Isaiah 55:11

“So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”

Christ will rule with “a rod of iron.” This is an indicator that time for repentance will be finished. Mercy will have had its season, but now judgment will come. The terror this sight of Christ on His warhorse will hold for those who are about to feel His “fierceness and wrath” cannot even be imagined! John can only relate the terrible fierceness of Christ’s omnipotent judgment as treading a “winepress.” God’s enemies will be crushed as if they were mere grapes, exploding under the feet of the Master! And what will validate His authority to execute such judgment? John tells us the Divine Rider has it written “on His robe and on His thigh.” To those who have enmity against God, it’s a sentence to death, without any hope. As believers, we can have faith, take comfort and live in eternal hope in what is written. The Divine Rider has, after all, the ultimate name above every name…

KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”

- - - - - - - - - - - A Very Different Supper - “The Supper of the Great God”

Following the fierce appearance of the “KING OF KINGS” and His armies, an invitation to a very different supper will be given. It will precede the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. This one will not be for the enjoyment of God’s people. It will be an invitation to flying scavengers and carrion eaters, “the birds that fly in the midst of heaven,” to “Come and gather together for the supper of the great God.” All that will be left of God’s enemies will be their remains… and the birds will feast!

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Revelation 19:17-18

“Then I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in the midst of heaven, “Come and gather together for the supper of the great God, {18} that you may eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and of those who sit on them, and the flesh of all people, free and slave, both small and great.”

The booming voice of an angel will announce this supper. It will be an appropriate end to those enemies who have fallen before Christ’s armies and under His mighty word! Verse 18 describes the fate of everyone living at the time of Christ’s second coming who opposes Him. The only exemptions will be those who have not bowed the knee to the devil and his agents of evil. Here’s the Nineteenth Chapter’s description of the finality of this event:

The Beast and the False Prophet - Into the Lake of Fire

Revelation 19:19-21

“And I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army. {20} Then the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who worked signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image. These two were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone. {21} And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse. And all the birds were filled with their flesh.”

Who are the beast and false prophet? There are varying opinions of this and it requires a deeper study than we can provide here. Below are two explanations that may be considered.

First Opinion: “The False Prophet is the spiritual leader of both a powerful and wealthy religion called the Great Whore and the alliance of nations called the Beast. This spiritual leader denies the sovereign authority of God the Father. He also denies that Jesus Christ is the true Son of God and that the gospel proclaimed by the elect is a message from the true God.

This individual is the supreme spiritual leader of all those who submit themselves to the control and will of the Beast system and

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its leadership. He is called the False Prophet (Rev.13:11-12; 19:20) because he promotes a religious system that is diametrically opposite to the worship system of God the Father and Jesus Christ This person has tremendous supernatural power, which he uses to deceive and control people into supporting the aims and goals of the Beast system.”6 Second Opinion: Revelation 13 describes “a beast rising out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name.” John F. Walvoord compares this beast to the one mentioned in Daniel 7:8, who is called “the prince who is to come.”7 This beast has been assigned by some to be the “false prophet.” Others say it is not.8

It’s not my intention to go into an in-depth study of the imagery in the entire book of revelation. I will leave this to those who are far more expert than me in these things. Here’s a relevant set of Scriptures from Chapter 14 to keep in mind as we continue through these last four chapters of Revelation:

Revelation 14:6-11

“Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth—to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people— {7} saying with a loud voice, “Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.” {8} And another angel followed, saying, “Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” {9} Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, {10} he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. {11} And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.”

6 http://www.bibleresearch.org/prophecybook2/b2w10.html 7 Walvoord, John F., The John Walvoord prophecy commentaries: Revelation, Moody

Publishers, Chicago, ©2011, P.201 (originally published as The Revelation of Jesus Christ, ©1966.

8 Paraphrased from Dr. Walvoord’s book.

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Though there are questions regarding the identities of the beast and false prophet, there is no confusion about their demise. They will burn for eternity in the lake of fire. We will look into the Scriptures concerning this judgment in Chapter 20. As we end Chapter 19, we can be assured, as His people, that the “KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS” has every event of these “last things” under His complete control.

Again: Revelation 19:20b-21

“These two [the beast and false prophet] were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone. {21} And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse. And all the birds were filled with their flesh.” [A second reference to the “the supper of the great God”]

Christ Himself will slay this army of the beast with the sword of His own mouth. It will be a great and complete slaughter of those who will have disregarded the God we serve. This is in the sharpest possible contrast to His loving and gentle care toward those of us who serve God. We will experience this care from our Lord for all eternity. Amen.

- - - - - - - - - -

Please go to Page 11 to begin Revelation 20.

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This page is left blank. Please go to Page 11 to begin Revelation 20.

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Revelation, Chapter 20

Revelation 20:1-3

“Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. {2} He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; {3} and he cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years were finished. But after these things he must be released for a little while.”9

In the previous chapter, the beast and false prophet have been cast into the lake of fire.10 As this chapter opens, an angel is sent from heaven who lays hold of Satan and casts him into a bottomless pit. The angel takes a key and locks the pit, sealing the entrance for one thousand years. We have no answer as to why God imprisoned the devil specifically for one thousand years. (John’s narrative doesn’t provide an explanation for this specific amount of time.) Satan is stopped from all his evil activities at this time. The great tribulation appears to be over. The devil is called many things throughout Scripture. In the Book of Revelation, he’s called “the serpent of old,” a “dragon” and “the accuser of the brethren.” The reference to “the serpent of old,” takes us back to the beginning of the biblical record. It was the rebellion of Satan that began it. Now, God will end it. Chapters 19 and 20 describe the final battles between the forces of God and this evil “dragon,” the devil. The two chapters narrate what will be the decisive elimination of evil and the establishment of God’s eternal reign. An example of an earlier battle is in Revelation 12:7-11, below. The record of this battle tells us that the Archangel Michael and his heavenly army of angels fought the devil and his demons, casting them out of the heavens and down to the earth. After this battle, Satan will no longer have access into heaven to accuse God’s people. This is no surprise to God. His armies are always superior to those of His enemies!

9 Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is quoted from the NKJV. 10 Revelation 19:20

Again, this series of four lessons is not intended to be an exhaustive or scholarly study, just a help to those of us who desire to understand a little more clearly about this apocalyptic ending to the Bible.

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Revelation 12:7-11

“And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, {8} but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer. {9} So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. {10} Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, “Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down. {11} And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.”

Chained in the Bottomless Pit

Again: Revelation 20:1-3

“Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. {2} He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; {3} and he cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years were finished. But after these things he must be released for a little while.”

The Scriptural record contains no mention of Satan being active during the thousand-year reign of Christ. He will be captive, chained in “the bottomless pit.” He will have no power to break out. He’ll be powerless until the end of the thousand years, when he will finally be released for the final apocalyptic war. This is so Christ can finish him and the evil he has brought forever! This will usher in the completion of the events prior to the new heaven and new earth being established. Though many have tried to maintain the one thousand years is symbolic, good Bible interpretation principles require us to consider the thousand years a literal number - exactly what John says.

Another reference to Michael the archangel fighting against the devil can be found in Jude. In Jude 11, referring to God’s enemies, Jude says, ”Woe to them.” In Verses 12 and 13, Jude then says, they will be “twice dead.” This is a reference to the second death in Revelation 20:13. Jude says “for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.” This will be the fate of the rebellious angels who followed Satan, also the beast and the false prophet… and finally, all who have denied Christ!

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Who is in the “First Resurrection”?

Revelation 20:4-6

“And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. {5} But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. {6} Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.”

The Scriptures do not specified who “they” are who will sit on the “thrones” (Verse 4). We will not try to speculate or guess who they might be, though many have done so. The Scriptures are inconclusive. What’s clear is that there’s a particular class of “souls” who will be in this “first resurrection,” This is a bodily resurrection, rewarding certain believers who will live with Christ during this thousand-year reign. These will be the believers who refused to worship the beast or receive his mark on their bodies in the tribulation, and were killed for their faithfulness to the Lord (Verse 4). They will be appointed as “priests of God and Christ” for this thousand-year period (Verse 6). There will be no “second death” for them! These faithful believers will then be eternally secure.11 The rest of all those who have lived and died through the history of humankind (righteous and wicked), will “not live again” until the thousand year reign is finished (Verse 5). These will take part in a second resurrection, as described in the balance of this chapter.

Satan is released for the Final Revolt Against God.

Revelation 20:7-8

“Now when the thousand years have expired, Satan will be released from his prison {8} and will go out to deceive the

11 See the side note on Page 2 that mentions the second death. This second death refers to

being cast into the lake of fire, following the final battle in which God destroys them.

The Bible speaks of two resurrections.

The “second death” refers to what will happen to all who oppose or reject Christ (the Lake of fire). Everyone, righteous or not, will experience the second resurrection!

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nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea.”

When the thousand years is finished, Satan will be released from his captivity in the pit. He will go out and continue his ways, deceiving the nations and recruiting followers. Even after a thousand years of peace under the reign of Christ, countless people will be deceived. They will join with and submit to Satan. This speaks of the carnal nature of those who have been born and are alive during the thousand years. (This cannot include the resurrected martyrs, as they will no longer have a carnal nature. There is some difficulty in identifying these people who will be deceived by Satan. I will not offer an opinion.) The Bible says, in Verse 8, those who join with Satan will be as numerous as “the sand of the sea.” There is no biblical explanation for who or what “Gog” and “Magog” will be. There are many theories, but I will not try to speculate on this. What requires no speculation is the fate of all these who will follow Satan. Verse 9 is clear. They will be devoured by “fire… from God out of heaven.”

Revelation 20:9

“They went up on the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city. And fire came down from God out of heaven and devoured them.”

The Devil’s Fate - “Day and Night Forever and Ever”

Revelation 20:10

“The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”

“Forever and ever” (Verse 10) leaves no doubt. This is not just a defeat or separation from God, but a state of eternal torment, which is God’s judgment and cannot be questioned There will be no grace given. This will also be the fate for everyone who has followed, or will follow Satan. This is a preordained destiny for all evil. It’s an indisputable fact!

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“A Great White Throne”

Revelation 20:11

“Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them.”

Though there are many references to thrones in Revelation, this throne apparently has the quality of an awesome, completely holy place of supreme judgment, upon which Christ will sit. This conclusion is supported by many references in the New Testament to Jesus being the final and supreme judge. Among them is John 5:22. It tells us Jesus said, “The Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son.” Here’s what John the Revelator (the Apostle John) said he saw: “The heavens and earth fled away.” This likely could be a reference to the beginning of the process of them being destroyed as the new heavens and new earth came down from heaven (Revelation 21:1).

“Books” (plural) and “A Book” (singular)

Revelation 20:12-15

“And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. {13} The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. {14} Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. {15} And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.”

The chapter concludes, telling us that all the dead (good or evil) will stand before God and His Christ, awaiting judgment. There are two distinct categories of testimonies recorded in heaven that the divine court will refer to - (1) “books” and (2) “another book.” Let’s take these two kinds of books individually to reveal how judgment will be determined. As we do, it’s important to note that the books will be either advocates for eternal rewards for the

Again: The “second death” refers to what will happen to all who oppose or reject Christ (the Lake of fire).

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saints (God’s faithful people)… or as we will see, the immutable and unchallengeable evidence for either guilt or innocence (resulting in judgment or grace).

First: “Books” (Plural)

Revelation 20:12b

“”And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.”

This statement does not differentiate between good and evil people, saved or unsaved. It simply says “the dead” will be judged according to their works. From evidence in the next chapter, we may take this as a time when rewards will be handed out for believers. Thought this verse (Verse 12) does not specify this, the following chapter (21) does. It will clearly indicate rewards for only those who are saved. The Book of James is clear that works must give evidence a person’s faith in Christ. Otherwise, a person’s faith is dead. It will not be of any consequence. James said they really couldn’t be validly separated.

James 2:14-20

“What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? {15} If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, {16} and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? {17} Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. {18} But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. {19} You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! {20} But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?”

Second: “A Book” and “The Second Death”

Revelation 20:14-15

“Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. {15} And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.”

Notes !


“Death and Hades” are representative of the condition and consequences of fallen humanity. Hades is believed by many scholars to be the place unbelieving people who died throughout time awaited their final judgment. (Believers will instantly go into the presence of the Lord upon their death.) Being cast into “the lake of fire” signals that God will have had enough and time has run out. If a person’s name, (from the first Adam to the last enemy of God) is not in “the Book of Life,” their eternity lies within the flames of this horribly ferocious furnace of a fiery, unquenchable lake. It’s beyond imagination as to what this experience will be. It will be unspeakably more awful than the first death of those who will have to face it. These people will not just be erased or annihilated. Their punishment will never terminate. They will enter into a horrific eternity, along with the devil, the beast and the false prophet… and the fallen angels who joined with Satan in the beginnings to challenge God. Only those will emerge intact following the great white throne judgment who are born again believers. They will be “born again” into God’s eternal New Jerusalem, God’s city of blessings and rewards. (The final two chapters of Revelation will have more to tell us of these people and the city they will inhabit forever.)

Last Things Predicted in the Book of Daniel

Daniel 7:9-10

“I watched till thrones were put in place, And the Ancient of Days was seated; His garment was white as snow, And the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was a fiery flame, Its wheels a burning fire;

{10} A fiery stream issued And came forth from before Him. A thousand thousands ministered to Him; Ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him. The court was seated, And the books were opened.”

Daniel 12:1-3

“At that time Michael shall stand up,

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The great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people; And there shall be a time of trouble, Such as never was since there was a nation, Even to that time. And at that time your people shall be delivered, Every one who is found written in the book.

{2} And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, Some to everlasting life, Some to shame and everlasting contempt.

{3} Those who are wise shall shine Like the brightness of the firmament, And those who turn many to righteousness Like the stars forever and ever.”

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Please go to Page 19 to begin Revelation 21.

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The Eternal City Whose Builder and Maker is God

Hebrews 11:8-11

“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. {9} By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; {10} for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” 12

Psalm 46:4

“There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.

Revelation 21:1-2

‘Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. {2} Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.”

Revelation 21 begins with John seeing something so incredible that his words cannot adequately explain it. It will be so glorious and miraculous that it could only come from the creative Word of Almighty God. He will obliterate the old heavens and earth, and also all the seas. They’ll be replaced by “new heavens and a new earth.” Then, a glorious city will descend from heaven, so beautiful and shining that John can only describe it as “a bride” dressed beautifully beyond words for her husband. This will be the “New Jerusalem,” that John calls “the holy city (The Book of Hebrews calls it “the heavenly Jerusalem.”) Unlike the original Jerusalem, which had been filled with sin and destruction throughout the ages, this new city will be God’s unblemished creation - pure and clean. This will be the eternal home for all who have called Jesus “Lord and

12 Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is quoted from the NKJV.

As stated before, this series of four lessons is not intended to be an exhaustive or scholarly study, just a help to those of us who desire to understand a little more clearly about this apocalyptic ending to the Bible.

Hebrews 12:22-23 “But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, {23} to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect,”

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Savior (“the firstborn registered in heaven” - those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life).” Here’s something to consider. Since the holy city will come down from heaven, it’s either created in that moment, or perhaps more likely, will have already been in existence, awaiting this amazing event. We cannot answer this, as the Bible does not tell us.

A Loud Voice from Heaven

Revelation 21:3-4

“And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. {4} And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

We don’t know whose voice this will be, but it will carry divinely granted authority. “Behold” seems to indicate John is being invited to see something amazing. This will be God’s holy place (the “tabernacle”). God will be with His people and “He will dwell with them.” This indicates God will be there in the New Jerusalem with those who are qualified (born again) to live there. Again, these will be people whose names are in the Lamb’s Book of Life. It shall be a completely different environment and culture than any earthly one has been, because “the former things have passed away.”

Characteristics of Eternally Living with God

1. No more tears of sorrow (no crying) 2. No more death 3. No more pain

Verse 4 assures us of a blessed eternal life in the holy city, fantastic beyond our present understanding. Living in the New Jerusalem will be indescribably joyful. There will be no place for the curse humanity presently endures. There’s so much about this that the Bible does not explain. Nevertheless, it speaks of our hope in Christ, as it will finally be fulfilled!

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Revelation 21:5-8

“Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” {6} And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. {7} He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son” [or daughter].

In Verses 5-8 John’s describes “He who sat on the throne” as Christ, Himself. John then records God’s words, as He declares with indisputable authority that He’s “the Alpha and Omega.” (See number 3, below.) This means that every created thing, from beginning of time to the end of the age, is in His hands. Finally, John tells us of the Lord’s promise. Let’s look at all five of these elements of Verses 5-8.

1. Christ is on “the throne.” This is the place of absolute authority and power. His words cannot successfully be challenged or disputed. His words are “faithful and true.”

2. Christ declares that the plan of God to “make all things new” is accomplished. “All” means everything. Nothing old will be left intact. What’s new and superior replaces it all. Everything will align with God’s holiness and righteousness. Everything else will be gone forever.

3. Christ, who is “the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” was the Creator at the beginning and will be the Re-Creator at the end. The perfection of His creation will be restored and will remain for eternity.

4. The “fountain of the water of life” (eternal life with all its goodness) will now be given freely to the saints of God.

5. God’s people will “inherit all things.” This is a reference to all good things that will be enjoyed in the eternal city forever. These are a gift to the sons and daughters of God, who have been saved and will walk in the assurance of their adoption by their Heavenly Father. “All” will mean all that is good, holy and blessed by God! “All” speaks of the immeasurable benefit of our faith in the Christ, who is the Blessed Hope.

Psalm 36:7-9 “How precious is Your loving-kindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. {8} They are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of Your house, And You give them drink from the river of Your pleasures. {9}

For with You is the fountain of life:

In Your light we see light.”

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A Detailed Description of the Eternal City

Revelation 21:9-21

“Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls filled with the seven last plagues came to me and talked with me, saying, “Come, I will show you the bride, the Lamb’s wife.”

{10} And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, {11} having the glory of God. Her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal. {12} Also she had a great and high wall with…

twelve gates, and… twelve angels at the gates, and… names written on them, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:

{13} three gates on the east, three gates on the north, three gates on the south, and three gates on the west.

{14} Now the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

{15} And he who talked with me had a gold reed to measure the city, its gates, and its wall. {16} The city is laid out as a square; its length is as great as its breadth. And he measured the city with the reed:

twelve thousand furlongs. Its length, breadth, and height are equal.

{17} Then he measured its wall: one hundred and forty-four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of an angel. {18} The construction of its wall was of jasper;

and the city was pure gold, like clear glass.

{19} he foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with all kinds of precious stones:

the first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald,

{20} The fifth sardonyx, the sixth sardius, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz,

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the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and… the twelfth amethyst.

{21} The twelve gates were twelve pearls: each individual gate was of one pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass.”

There Will Be No Need for a Place to Worship God.

Revelation 21:22-27

“But I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. {23} The city had no need of the sun or of the moon to shine in it, for the glory of God illuminated it. The Lamb is its light. {24} And the nations of those who are saved shall walk in its light, and the kings of the earth bring their glory and honor into it. {25} Its gates shall not be shut at all by day (there shall be no night there). {26} And they shall bring the glory and the honor of the nations into it. {27} But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.”

The New Jerusalem will be illuminated by the glory of the Lord. There will be no night or darkness of any kind, physical or spiritual. The Bible says, “The Lamb is its light.” There will be nothing in the New Jerusalem that defiles the city, or is left of the world’s fallen nature. All things will be holy and new. Redeemed Gentiles and Jews will be the only ones to walk in unity and peace in the light of the Lamb. They will be in the presence of “the Lord God and the Lamb” and will enjoy constant worship throughout the city, and for all eternity.

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Please go to Page 25 to finish the study with Revelation 22.

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Here’s how God’s original, unspoiled creation was corrupted:

The First Warning and Disobedience To It

Genesis 2:15-17

“Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it. {16} And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; {17} but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.””

The Restoration of Our Hope

Adam’s disobedience lost fellowship with God in the Garden of Eden; and thus, sin and death came into the world. However, grace came in the person of Christ (“the last Adam”). Through His death, burial and resurrection, He granted us the opportunity to be restored. He did this through His substitutionary death at the cross, where He took back what the devil stole:

1 Corinthians 15:45

“And so it is written, “The first man Adam became a living being. The last Adam became a life-giving spirit.”

Romans 5:15b

For if by the one man’s offense many died, much more the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one Man, Jesus Christ, abounded to many.

The Final Fulfillment of Our Hope: The Pure River

of the Water of Life and the Tree of Life

Revelation 22:1-2

‘”And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. {2} In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.”

As stated before, this series of four lessons is not intended to be an exhaustive or scholarly study, just a help to those of us who desire to understand a little more clearly about this apocalyptic ending to the Bible.

Notes !


This description of the New Jerusalem, with its life-giving river and health-giving tree of life, paints a picture of God’s future creation that will be the unspoiled, pure environment, even more glorious than it was in the Garden of Eden, before Satan tempted Eve. John is shown this by “one of the seven angels” mentioned in Revelation 21:9, who is speaking to him.

(See also, Hebrews 12:22-24.)

The Tree of Life - on Both Sides of the River

The tree of life will either be large enough to span the river, or this will refer to a number of trees on each side of the river. (There’s no way we can determine the width of the river, nor if it’s one tree or many of the same kind. We’re not given enough information to know this.) Since there will be no sickness or pain in the New Jerusalem, the reference to “the healing of the nations” may mean the tree and its leaves will provide a means of eternal health for God’s people in their resurrected state.

Revelation 21:4b

“There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

Eternal Light from God - Forever

Revelation 22:3-5

‘”And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. {4} They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. {5} There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever.”

When the Bible says, “there shall be no more curse,” it’s a reference to the fall of mankind in the Garden of Eden and the sin that spoiled the world until the new heavens and new earth appear. These verses tell us of Christ’s presence in the New Jerusalem. We shall be with Him, belonging to Him. His glory will illuminate the city and there won’t be any need for other light sources. Verse 5 ends by telling us that we, and all those who have believed in Christ, will “reign forever and ever.” Exactly what

Hebrews 12:22-24

“But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, {23} to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, {24} to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel.”

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it means to “reign” requires more information than we have. It does indicate active leadership that we will exercise to some degree or another, because we will have authority from God.

“…and His name shall be on their foreheads” is an interesting contrast to those who will have “the mark of the beast,” who will be deceived by the devil and will be destroyed by the army of God (Revelation 19:20-21).

“The Time Is At Hand.”

Revelation 22:6-11

“Then he said to me, “These words are faithful and true.” And the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show His servants the things which must shortly take place.”

{7} “Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.”

{8} “Now I, John, saw and heard these things. And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me these things. {9} Then he said to me, “See that you do not do that. For I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren the prophets, and of those who keep the words of this book. Worship God.” {10} And he said to me, “Do not seal the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand. {11} He who is unjust, let him be unjust still; he who is filthy, let him be filthy still; he who is righteous, let him be righteous still; he who is holy, let him be holy still.””

Now John records an angel (again, one of the seven who previously had the seven bowls filled with plagues) speaking and John falls down to worship him. The angel tells John not to do that because he’s a fellow servant of Christ. The angel then tells John it’s time to unseal the meaning of the prophecy of Revelation and let it be known. Verse 11 specifically says that if a person is evil, it’s too late to change to avoid punishment. If a person is righteous and holy, his or her rewards are theirs. (We will look into Jesus’s words in Verse 7 by combining them with what Jesus will say in the next group of Scriptures - Verses 12 and 13.)

The Words of Jesus

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A Message and a Blessing to “Behold”

Revelation 22:7 (again), 12-13, then skip down to Verse 16

‘”Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book… {12} “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. {13} I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last… {16} I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.””

As the Bible approaches its close, it completes the story of the scarlet thread of redemption, which we read about all the way from Genesis to Revelation. Jesus gives a final word of assurance and blessing. He says, “I am the Alpha and Omega.” (These are the first and last letters in the Greek alphabet.) In doing so, He identifies Himself as the One who spoke the world into existence and the One who will replace it with the new heavens and new earth. He’s in complete and absolute control. Both His love and His holy justice will have accomplished His will. As we skip down to Verse 16, Jesus identifies Himself further, as “the Offspring of David.” This is validation of God’s promise to bring forth a Savior from the lineage of David. He is “the bright and morning star.” (The Greek word for “morning star” is “phosphorous.” Imagine how bright “phosphorous” is when it explodes. It’s blinding and incredibly powerful!)

Completely Restricted Entry into New Jerusalem

Now, back to Revelation 22:14-15

‘”Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. {15} But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.”

This is the same angel speaking again. He gives us a look at the gates of the holy city. They will only allow those who have faithfully obeyed Christ’s commandments and are therefore, judged righteous. The unrighteous will not enter. They will all have

The Words of Jesus

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been destroyed and therefore, entry to the New Jerusalem will not be an issue. Now, let’s move on to the final invitation.

The Final Invitation and Warning

Revelation 22:17-21

“And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely. {18} For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; {19} and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. {20-21} He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.”

Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.”” • The Final Invitation: “Come” to your eternal reward.

• The Final Warning: Do not add to or take away from the Scriptures. The consequences will be the unspeakable plagues (Revelation 21:9) that have been prophesied in Revelation, and the removal of a person’s name from the Book of Life.

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May the Lord bless you as you study and heed God’s holy Word.

Dr. Bob Abramson

notes last things - revelation, chapter 19 · notes ! the teaching ministry of dr. bob abramson 1...

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