The Twilight of Good and Evil

Antithetical word games provide some interesting results for the players as their thought processes scramble for the antithesis of each word presented. Although this game may be played by most as competitive amusement it nonetheless has an inherent process that needs to be applied in the pursuit of learning the objectivity of Scripture. For each action presented in the Bible there is almost always an opposite action. As the title suggests, good is the opposite of evil – one is the extreme of the other. Commensurate with these two words is rewards and punishment. The common denominator of rewards and punishment is judgement. As in the case of good and evil neither one can be implemented without the act of judging. And it is precisely these elements in life that the antithesis within the title of this paper needs to be understood. However, the liberal world has a different applied meaning of good and evil where good is evil and evil is good. Thus, the meaning of these two words have been reversed to fit their agenda. But, in the Church world some interpretative processes have caused an even greater problem in that the allegorical method of interpretation of Scripture has virtually eliminated most of the rewards and punishments outlined in the Bible. By disregarding the Book of Revelation as prophetic Scripture, the Church has from the time of Augustine done an injustice to Christians by suppressing the fullness of God’s Plan through the teaching of amillennialism. Proponents of the allegorical method of interpretation (amillennialists and postmillennialists) reject eschatology stating all prophecy has been fulfilled with the exception of the return of Christ and the great White Throne judgement. They do not believe in the system of rewards God has planned for His people. They believe that those judged go either to heaven or to hell – there are no other rewards. They have twisted the words of both the Old and New Testaments to fit their doctrines and agendas. They are essentially playing word games with Scripture, are in direct opposition with the literal interpretative methodology, and as such have created an antithetical situation.

Interpretative Extremes

There are many in the Church who interpret Biblical prophecy in various ways while some do not even consider prophecy at all. But, let’s face it,

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anytime the subject applies to something yet to happen we are talking about prophecy. And anytime we address prophecy there are those who hold different or opposing views, thus the disagreements. Most of these views center on the issue of timing in Biblical prophecy, which always begs the question, “When was or when will a specific prophecy be fulfilled?” As a result, there are four different views. These are past (preterism), present (historicism), timeless (idealism), and future (futurism).

Preterists teach that most if not all prophecy has already been fulfilled. Their major argument is that the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24-25) and the Book of Revelation were fulfilled in the events around AD 70 with the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple.

Historicism equates the current church age with the Tribulation period, but not a literal thousand years. They state the judgements in Revelation are major historical events over the past 2,000 years. Most Protestants from the Reformation to about 1900 held this view. Currently, it is the position of the Mormons, Seventh-day Adventists, and Jehovah Witnesses.

Idealism takes the position that the prophetic passages in the Bible mainly teach good ideas or truths about God and the Christian life and are thus timeless principles. Most liberals hold this position.

Futurism states that all prophetic events will not take place in the Church age, but in the future Tribulation, at Christ’s second coming, and in the millennium. Futurists also believe in the rapture, a literal Tribulation, and a literal Millennial Reign.

But, regardless of the method of interpretation of Scripture or the belief one has regarding prophecy or one’s doctrine, Christ’s words will come true. Not only His words relating to punishment, but His words relating to rewards as well. In Revelation 22:12 He states, “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work.” The Greek/English Lexicon defines “rewards” in this context as pertaining to punishment and rewards. Thus, Christ will judge the world, and inflict the appropriate action relative to each living or dead. In judging the good and righteous of this world He will reward each in accordance with His word.

All these belief systems, with the exception of futurism, distort the Biblical text and rob those Christians of the hope of the promised rewards He has

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planned for those who love Him. However, the premillennial/futurist belief system establishes the truest form of Biblical interpretation - it exhibits Christ’s plan of rewards for His own.

Belief Systems

In order to understand the approach to a subject such as “The Twilight of Good and Evil” and the rewards established for believers, it is necessary to fathom the belief systems of the Church. That is, why do amillennialists believe their doctrine of no millennium, and why do postmillennialists believe in their doctrine that we are currently in a spiritual millennium? And finally, why do premillennialists adhere strictly to the literal method of interpretation and state there will be a literal millennium? To put each in proper perspective it is necessary to go back to the respective origins.

As I have stated in other writings, Augustine was a premillennialists until about 400 AD when he changed to the newly created amillennial doctrine. From my research, his decision was in concert with the change in theology of the newly formed Roman Catholic Church, created by merging the Christian Church with the pagan Church of Rome. Therefore, the individuals who started the Reformation in the 16th century were steeped in the amillennial belief system. Luther, a student of Occanist Theology was basically only against the indulgences in the Roman Catholic Church. Calvin, initially a Christian humanist, stated that he was greatly influenced by Martin Luther and gives credit to Augustine for much of his doctrine and theology. Calvin also embraced the progressive view of the Book of Revelation making him a preterist and an amillennialist.

The Church of England (Anglican) was created in a split with the Roman Catholic Church. John Wesley, who started the Methodist Church, was initially an Anglican. The Baptist Church is an off shoot of the English Congregationalist, which was initially Anglican. So, for all practical purposes all the denominations have their roots in the Roman Catholic Church, and thus up until 1900 were preterists/amillennialists. Dr. Thomas Ice states the following regarding Church leadership. “It is no exaggeration to say that among the Church’s leadership, including the Protestant reformers, amillennialism has been the most widely held view for much of the Church’s history.”

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In the 19th century the original Protestant Churches not only divided, but subdivided, thus stimulating the development of many new American-born movements, sects, churches, and denominations. By the middle of the 20th century there were over 200 different religious bodies in America – all having Roman Catholic Church roots.

In researching these denominations one finds the rationale of each for the split from the original Church; however, none of the divisions were based on disagreement of the prophetic text of the Bible. So, it is not surprising to find amillennialism or postmillennialism being the two dominant belief systems in today’s churches. As such, prophecy is rarely taught, and the Book of Revelation is a source from which to glean certain text. In short, one can see there are differences in the position of prophetic text interpretation between denominations, within denominations, within individual churches, and within groups therein.

In regards to the various interpretative systems Dr. Ron J. Bigalke states the following. “The real issue is whether the Bible is inerrant, whether it is verbally inspired, and whether it should be interpreted literally. The concept of literal interpretation is the real issue in the interpretation of prophecy today. Consistent, literal interpretation is the sine qua non [Latin for “without which not”] of any theological system since it allows no fuller or extended meaning beyond the original intent of scripture.” Amen!

Dr. Bigalke’s footnotes in Dispensationalism Today provides some valuable insights into the Biblical study of today. “A new approach to Bible study methods is the use of literary genre called ‘apocalyptic’. The term is used to distinguish predictive prophecy, which is interpreted quite literal. On the other hand, if Bible prophecy is not categorized according to a specialized study of apocalyptic genre then it must be interpreted literally as is true of non-prophetic portions of Scripture.”

There are two commentaries out today that use a combination of literal and allegorical interpretations (futurist, preterists, and idealist). Grant Osborne’s and Greg Beale’s commentaries on the Book of Revelation describe their hermeneutical approach as eclectic. This picking out or selecting various systems and doctrines to interpret Scripture is designed to uphold and support a predetermined doctrine. Dr. Bigalke explains it this way. “The eclectic method of hermeneutics allows the interpreter to choose whatever meaning in any given passage is suitable to his pre-understood

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eschatological position. This clearly does not offer clarity to text, rather, it offers confusion by introducing precariousness to hermeneutics.” In other words, if a person or a denomination embraces amillennialism then any and all Biblical interpretation will be based on that doctrine, which encompasses a mixture of literal and allegorical interpretation. In this case the root of interpretation is based on Replacement Theology (the Church has replaced Israel). While in the case of postmillennialism, the root of interpretation is based on Reconstruction Theology (we must Christianize the world before Christ will return; they too embrace the doctrine of Replacement Theology). These approaches are designed to make the adherents theology work when a proper interpretation would otherwise demonstrate them to be invalid.

However, in the case of premillennialism, the literal method of interpretation of Scripture allows Scripture to interpret Scripture, which in the end proves the method of Biblical eschatological exegesis. To this end Dr. Thomas Ice states, “The literal interpretative approach to Scripture treats creation [Genesis] and the future as real historical events in history that are going somewhere in God’s plan.” He is basically stating that just as the creation events in the Bible are historical fact so too is unfulfilled prophecy; even though it is written in a future tense it is in actuality history as it will be fulfilled exactly as written.

The entire point of this discussion is to establish the interpretation of the seven letters to the seven churches in Revelation as literal eschatological exegesis. And it is from this perspective that the details herein in respect to Biblical rewards are founded.

Setting The Stage

Premillennialism/futurism is the eschatological interpretation of the first order. It literally addresses Scripture from the aspect of the total Plan of God. It places Biblical events in proper sequence relative to time and function while allowing Scripture to establish doctrine and theology as opposed to interpreting Scripture with a mix of literal and allegorical methods to fit a preconceived theological position.

But, regardless of one’s doctrine, theology or method of interpretation the end of the Church age is fast coming to a close. We see the birth pangs ever increasing. We see the world more and more aligned against Israel. We see

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the King of the North (Russia) making allegiances with the Arab nations initiating the fulfillment of the prophecy of Gog and the battle of Gog and Magog in Ezekiel 38-39. Recently a noted television commentator stated in regards to the Middle East crisis (Israel and Lebanon), “We will not see peace in the Middle East until a strong leader from the United Nations defines the borders and establishes order.” Is he looking for the Antichrist? Look at Daniel 9:27, “Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; but in the middle of the week he shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering.” Yes, the twilight of good and evil is upon us. The rewards are great, and so are the punishments.

The literal interpretation of Scripture indicates that the battle of Gog and Magog and the rapture will trigger the start of the Tribulation. The seven-year peace agreement brokered by the Antichrist between Israel and the world will ultimately end in the battle of Armageddon and Christ’s second coming. After this Christ will implement judgement on the world at some point within the 45 days between the battle of Armageddon and the start of the His Millennial Reign. Daniel 12:12 states, “Blessed is he who waits, and comes to one thousand three hundred and thirty-five days.” It is in this time period that the twilight of good and evil will come to an abrupt end followed by full development of good as we enter into the millennium to rule and reign with Christ.

The wicked receive their punishment at this time, and are given their reward – hell. However, the righteous will receive many different rewards for their testimony to Christ. In fact, there are seven categories of rewards given by Christ over different time periods.

The Numerics of God’s Plan

An important element in understanding why there are ten judgements (see “The Coming Judgements”) and seven categories of rewards, with one subdivided into five different awards, is some knowledge of Biblical numerics. Biblical numerics is a relative new field of study for most; however, those who do understand and study this phenomenon of Scripture find that it provides greater understanding of His Word. As I’ve stated many times before, the numbers and names in the Bible must stand for something otherwise why would God insert so many in His message to us? Dr. Ed Vallowe states, “One out of every five Scriptures in the Bible contains a

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number. One of its books is called Numbers. It is not called by that name simply because it contains the numbering of the children of Israel, but because of the significance of the numbers in it.”

The Hebrew language does not have a system of numerics such as the decimal or metric systems. Each of the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet represents a number. Alef, the first letter represents the number one, whereas the last letter, Tav represents the number 400. The same holds true for the Greek alphabet. Its first letter is Alpha or one, and the last letter Omega or 800. So, when these numbers are stated in Scripture and studied for their impact on the text, useful information can be derived relative to God's message to us. It gives us a much greater perspective of His Plan.

Also, each letter of the Hebrew alphabet has a specific meaning. The first letter, Alef, is one, which stands for one or God. The second letter, Bet, is two, which stands for opposites or division. The numbers mentioned earlier in reference to the ten judgements and the categories of rewards, seven and five, also have meaning. The Hebrew letters for five, seven, and ten are Hei, Zayin, and Yod, which mean grace, divine perfection, and law and responsibility respectively. Again Dr. Ed Vallowe states, “Five is the number of GRACE. Here we have a number, which is generally understood as signifying a responsibility upon man, the receipt of God’s grace. The number seven represents completeness through the union of earth with heaven – it stands for divine completeness or perfection. The number ten represents man’s responsibility under the law, signifying the measure of responsibility and its judgement or reward. Not only is the Bible the Word of God, it is a book built on numbers from the beginning to the end. All the numbers in Scripture are interwoven with the doctrines of the Holy One providing harmony within the different books and texts.” As one writer states, “The precision with which the Bible numbers all fall into their places cannot be accounted for except by the supernatural power and wisdom of a God who is infinite.”

The Church

Since this paper will deal with the seven letters to the seven churches in Revelation it needs to address what the Church is and its future. The true Church is made up of any and all peoples of the world who genuinely know Christ as their Savior and have had their sins forgiven. Beginning on the day

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of Pentecost in Acts chapter two and continuing to the point when the Church is removed (raptured), all believers are part of the body of Christ, the Church.

Then there is the realm of what is called the “professing Church’s influence”, which is called Christendom. Christendom consists of any and everything associated with the visible Church, including all its branches such as Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodox, Protestantism, and in some cases, cults. Therefore, Christendom includes true believers and those who merely profess Christianity. Thus, the wheat and the tares growing together in what we commonly call Christianity. However, these two aspects of the Church have totally different destinies.

The true Church will be caught up in the air to meet the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17), translated to heaven, and becomes the Bride of Christ as stated in Revelation 19:7-9. The other group, the mere professors, will be left behind to face the Tribulation. The Church is unique in the Plan of God and separate from His plan for Israel. The Church partakes of the spiritual promises of Abraham, thus has a heavenly purpose, while Israel will fulfill its national destiny as a separate entity on earth during the millennium after the Battle of Armageddon.

However, this is where the belief systems part rather dramatically. The amillennialists and postmillennialists state that Matthew, chapters 24 and 25, and the Book of Revelation was fulfilled in AD 70 with the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Temple. Based on the historical dates John was on Patmos, the time of the writing of Revelation is estimated to be between 90-96 AD, which solidly places Revelation in the prophetic realm. Others put the writing at an earlier date, but not before AD 70, so even with a revised date it is still well within the timeframe for prophecy. Again, an antithetical situation, while those of a futurist position (premillennialism) view Revelation as prophecy, others look at it as history.

The problem associated with the historical viewpoint is in the text of Revelation chapter one. Christ states in 1:1, “To show His servants – things which must shortly take place.” Then in verse 19 He tells John, “Write the things which you have seen [past], and the things which are [present], and the things which will take place after this [future].” “The things which you have seen” (past) are in chapter one and relate to the vision of Christ. “The

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things which are” (present) relate to chapters two and three and the seven letters to the seven churches. “Things which will take place after this” (future) refer to the remaining chapters of Revelation, and are purely prophetic in nature. Although the letters to the churches had a present element at the time of the writing they also contain a prophetic element, which extends from the time of the writing to present. We know this to be true as Christ said in 22:16, “I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches.”

But, the contents of Revelation and the words of Christ do not daunt the preterists and the historicists, they hold firm to the position that the seven letters to the seven churches represent the history of the Church from Pentecost to present. I think their rationale has been sufficiently defined in previous paragraphs regarding their belief systems; therefore, will not be repeated.

Letters to the Churches

With the above explanation of the Church we now need to address the seven churches defined in Revelation chapters two and three to see just how they relate to the Church today and what prophetic messages are therein. Keith Harris states in his book The Unveiling, “The seven churches were chosen for their particular traits, which apply to all of Christendom. Found in their characteristics are not only practical teaching and doctrinal beliefs, but also an outline for Christian and anti-Christian history. These churches set the tone and foundation concerning the true Church and the false Church.” This is basically the viewpoint of premillennialists or futurist.

However, there are other viewpoints pertaining to these seven churches, which need to be addressed if for no other purpose than to inform you of the interpretative differences within the Church. These viewpoints are as follows:

1. Historical – these churches existed as stated and bore the characteristics cited in Scripture. They have no other value.2. Historic and futuristic – the churches were not only actual churches bearing the characteristics cited, but represent the different type of churches throughout the Church age. Note: this is the viewpoint of the premillennialist.

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3. Futuristic – the cities mentioned in Revelation will be fully restored at some point in the future.4. Church history – each church represents a segment of Church history beginning with Ephesus and ending with Laodicea.

The predominant viewpoint of Christendom today is that the seven churches represent Church history. Therefore, an expansion of the meaning needs to be addressed to gain insight into the differences in that position and the one describing the premillennialist viewpoint later in the text. As one commentary put it, “It is extremely difficult to understand how the advocates of the historical viewpoint can extract Church history from the Biblical text.” I agree!

1. Ephesus – AD 70-AD 170; losing first love2. Smyrna – AD 170-AD 312; falling into persecution3. Pergamos – AD 312-AD 606; accepting Nicolaitane and Balaam doctrine4. Thyatira – AD 606-AD 1520; outwardly saturated with paganism5. Sardis – AD 1520-AD 1750; escaping the over lording Papal Religious System6. Philadelphia – AD 1750-AD 1948; opening missionary doors7. Laodicea – AD 1948-????; binding religions together Please note the date of Laodicea, 1948, the year Israel became a nation. Also note the activity of the period – binding religions together. This is the unification of world religions, which is globalism. So, the question is, how can the preterists and the historicists state that the seven letters to the seven churches represents Church history when no one knows the full extent of the Church age in which Church history is still actively being fulfilled?

In regards to the premillennial position of the seven letters, Keith Harris states, “The churches hold religious doctrinal application for today. In a figurative sense, a type, or metaphor for modern application with the addition of parallels for interpreting future Biblical realities.” How does this relate to today? Revelation 1:20 states, “The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches.” This is not a one-time event. The text of verse 20 indicates a continuous oversight of the churches by the angels having a heavenly connection. The angels inform heaven of Church activities. Christ states in 2:5, “Repent and do the first works, or else I will

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come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place – unless you repent.” Christ is stating that unless the Church remains faithful in this life until death He will sever His connection with it. A foreshadow of this event is found in Genesis 4:14 as God punishes Cain for killing Abel. “Surely You have driven me out from the face of the ground; I shall be hidden from Your face; I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond on the earth.”

The fact that the angel to the Church communicates to God all the things the Church does is found in Ephesians 3:9-10. And to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ; to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the Church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places.” This Scripture had for many years puzzled me until one day I was made to understand its meaning. It was such a revelation that I inserted a comment in the margin of my Bible regarding this text so I might never forget its message. My comment goes as follows.

“The redeemed of the true Church through their actions, speech, love, stewardship, and being Christ centered, certifies they understand the mystery of Christ, and the deep meaning of the Scriptures. ‘Make known to the principalities in heavenly places’ is somewhat a connection via the angel of the Church (Revelation chapter 2). Now if this is so, then God and Christ will surely know when the Church is separated or falls away (2 Thessalonians 2:3), i.e. those parts of the Church that will be swayed by the secular world. Even though many in the Church will be duped by secular issues they will nonetheless continue to openly profess Christianity. The angel to the Church will be able to discern this inward delusion and communicate the status to heaven. It is through this action that the principalities and powers in heaven will know the timing of the separation, i.e. when the last Gentile has been added to the Church.” Jacob saw this activity in a dream. “Then he dreamed, and behold, a ladder was set up on the earth, and its top reached to heaven; and there the angels of God were ascending and descending on it.” (Genesis 28:12).

Roy Hilton writes; “The characteristics of the seven churches can be found in every age and every Church even to the present time. There are some churches that are cold, some indifferent, some worldly, some liberal in doctrine, some missionary minded, etc. The same is true of individual Church members. In one Church membership there will be some on fire for

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the Lord and others who are indifferent, some are worldly, some unsound in doctrine, some backslidden, some in apostasy.”

So, from my perspective the seven churches actually existed, and these seven Church types have existed from that time even to today. The problems cited in each letter can be related to Church actions throughout history and especially in the actions and events of today. I also stand firm in the fact that these seven churches hold the prophetic references to the rewards promised by Christ to those who are His. Jesus said in John 16:13, “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.”

Seven Letters

Earlier in this paper I stated that to teach that the Book of Revelation and especially the seven letters to the seven churches as history robs the Christian of the hope of the rewards promised by Christ.

The seven letters define seven types of churches in existence from the first Church started after Pentecost until today. Each type exists in one form or the other not as a specific denomination or specific Church assembly or individual Church body, but represents the people who make up Christendom addressed earlier in this paper. Within the discussion of each of the seven churches you will see some of these traits currently existing in many of today’s churches. I will let you decide which one fits each category.

Before getting into the details of the individual letters it is necessary to correlate the timing of the rewards cited in the letters with the implementation of the “Coming Judgements.” As outlined in that paper the Church is raptured and goes before the Bema Seat of Christ. This happens before the Tribulation whereas those remaining on earth to go through the Tribulation and judged after the Battle of Armageddon. Since one of the letters pertains to the raptured Church the other six pertains to those remaining. Thus, the timing of the rewards reflects the transition of the twilight of good and evil.

Each of the letters consists of six parts: 1) Salutation; 2) Commendation; 3) Complaint; 4) Warning; 5) Praise, and 6) Promise. The only exception to

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this is the letter to Philadelphia, which only contains a salutation, a warning, and a promise. The following examination of the text of the letters will address those areas applicable to the promised awards and the basic issue with the individual Church in overcoming its adversity.

As one analyzes the context of Revelation chapter one and its direct relationship to the seven letters a realization becomes very evident that these letters are prophetic realism. In the first half of the chapter Christ describes Himself having seven attributes before instructing John to write down the text of the individual letters. However, in the second half of the chapter John sees an entirely different Christ, one dressed for battle. The first seven attributes Christ describes to Himself are:

1. “Who is, and who was, and who is to come” – 1:4.2. “From the seven Spirits who are before His throne” – 1:4.3. “The Faithful Witness” – 1:54. “Firstborn from the dead”- 1:5 5. “Ruler over the kings of the earth” – 1:5.6. “Who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood” – 1:5.7. “Has made us kings and priests to His God and Father” – 1:6.

As John sees Christ in his vision he describes ten attributes to the One in the midst of the seven lampstands, which are:

1. “Appearance like the Son of Man” – 1:13.2. “Clothed with a garment down to His feet” –1:13.3. “Girded about the chest with a golden band” – 1:13.4. “Head and hair white like wool” – 1:14.5. “Eyes like a flame of fire” – 1:14.6. “Feet like fine brass” – 1:15.7. “Voice like the sound of many waters” – 1:15.8. “Seven stars in His right hand” – 1:16.9. “Out of His mouth a sharp two-edged sword” – 1:16.10.“Countenance like the sun” – 1:16.

This description is the image of The Holy One ready to do battle with evil. There are basically only two other places in Scripture that describes Christ with any of these attributes – Daniel 10, and Revelation 19. In both instances He is entering into battle with satanic forces.

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It is also interesting to note that in the salutations to the seven churches Christ addresses five with the attributes He describes in the first half of chapter one; however, He addresses the other two with the attributes in which He is prepared to do battle. He is ready to destroy the satanic forces that have invaded these two churches.

The impact of these messages that precede the letters states without a doubt that Christ is saying that He is in the midst of the Church. And Christ said, “I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” (verse 18). Therefore, the verses emphasize that Christ is the One who holds life in His hand. But before He gets to the meat of the letters He makes one last reference as to who He is, which ties all His attributes together into one neat package in His relationship to the Father. “The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.” (verse 20). This entire text relates back to verse 4, “From the seven Spirits who are before His throne.” The seven Spirits is the concept of the seven Spirits of God signifying the perfection and fullness of the activities of Christ who is the second Person of the Godhead! It cannot be any clearer or more definite than this that He is the One who rules and the One who has power over all, and the One who will judge the churches.

Christ then uses each of these attributes as an opening salutation to the respective Church based on the condemnation of that Church. His subsequent warning is coupled directly to His attribute within the salutation, and depicts the action He will take if the Church does or does not overcome. In each case, He is citing the power of God in dealing with the unrepentant world and those who overcome. As one examines each attribute it becomes apparent each reflects the eternal God. As such, the rewards promised to those who overcome the condemnations within each of the letters are incorporated into the eternal realm.

Rewards

Christians are quick to complain they are not rewarded in life for the works they do or for the faith they state they have. But, from a Biblical perspective the Church age is a time of deferred blessing in the sense that believers are promised rewards in the life to come. Dr. Thomas Ice states, “The Lord promises future rewards and crowns to those who are faithful in this life and

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live in accordance with Christ’s provisions.” This statement by Dr. Ice fully explains the manner in which the text of the seven letters is written. Each is a promise of the future based on earthly actions. Again Dr. Ice states, “Rewards are motivations for believers in this life to remain faithful to Christ until death or the rapture.” This is why Paul said, “I buffet my body and make it my slave, lest possibly, after I have preached to others, I myself should be disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:27).

The seven rewards listed in the Book of Revelation chapters 2 and 3 are as follows:

1. Eat from the tree of life – 2:72. Delivered from the second death – 2:113. Acquitted of a sinful life – 2:174. Power over the nations – 2:265. Clothed in white garments –3:56. Pillar in the temple of My God – 3:127. Sit with Christ on His throne – 3:21

From what has been taught to date it may appear that the raptured Church is to be the recipient of all these rewards. However, in the study and analysis of the seven letters it becomes obvious that these rewards are directed to others in addition to the raptured Church, and based on overcoming the conditions outlined in the text of the letters. The rewards listed above are not the same as salvation. Works do not add to or take away from one’s salvation in Christ since that is not the basis on which anything is accomplished. Salvation is the result of the work of Christ that we trust, whereas rewards are given to those who overcome the trials and tribulations of this life – those who are motivated to remain faithful to Christ regardless of the circumstances. Each of the seven letters addresses the issues and circumstances within the respective Church, and defines the reward promised for those who overcome.

Ephesus – “These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands.” In His salutation to Ephesus Christ states He is the Spirit of God, which is reflected in 1:4, “Which is, which was, and which is to come, and the seven Spirits, which are before His throne.” Thus, Christ is indicating He is the One who holds eternal life in His hands. This salutation reflects the reward of eternal life in the reference to the Tree of Life in verse 7. However, in the

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condemnation to the Church He states the major problem with Ephesus – their first love. “Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.” (verse 2:4). But, they have fallen as stated in verse 5. “Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works.” First love relates to the Church’s love for Christ, which equates to Christ’s love for the Church. This first love is an unselfish love in which there is no single thought of self. The Wycliff Commentary states, “First love is the abandonment of all for a love that has abandoned all.” Looking at this from the perspective of the opposites cited in the introduction of this paper, if Ephusus left their first love where did they go? They returned to self-love. We see this today, especially in the secular world – self-esteem, self-love, be true to yourself, forgive yourself, believe in your self – ME, ME, ME!

Christ says to the Church at Ephesus, “Repent and do the first works, or else I will come and remove your lampstand.” (verse 5). This is a warning that unless they repent God will no longer recognize them and will hide His face from that Church. But, if they do repent He will give them the right to eat from the Tree of Life. “To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the Tree of Life which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.” (verse 7). This is the same tree that was in the Garden of Eden, which gives everlasting life.

Smyrna – “These things says the First and the Last, who was dead and came to life.” (verse 8). This relates to the reward in that Christ is stating He overcame and was resurrected. This reflects the first resurrection and as such the second death will not apply. Thus, Christ tells the Church that if they overcome they too will not see the second death (verse 11), which are the fires of hell.

The word Smyrna means bitterness, which exhibits the situation it was in. Smyrna had a real problem, one that was spiritual in nature. Keith Harris states, “They were trying to keep up with the Joneses.” They were in competition with the Old Testament Jews of the day who hated the Christians. As such the Church at Smyrna displayed a cruel nature to those they deemed inferior – the Old Testament Jews. As a result of their trials they were discriminated from the trades, lost income, etc, thus became impoverished. Christ said in verse 9, “I know your works and tribulations.” But, He also states in verse 10, “To be faithful.” In other words, He is stating that He is still in control if they are faithful to Him unto death. If they remain faithful then he will give they the crown of life, which is defined as the martyr’s crown – those who are killed for their testimony to Christ. Dr.

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Thomas Ice states, “This crown is reserved for those who endured special suffering.”

Pergamos – “He who has the sharp two-edged sword.” Christ then states in verse 16, “Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and fight against them with the sword of My mouth.” For those who repent He will give them a white stone. (verse 17). The concept here is only Christ knows the heart and thus judges the inter-most thoughts of those in Pergamos who have truly repented.

Pergamos was historically given to idolatry. The city contained the temple of Zeus who was referred to as Soter Theos, the Savior of God. It also erected a temple to Augustus, which was known as Satan’s throne. They held to the doctrine of Balaam described in Numbers chapters 22-25, which was to seduce and introduce idolatry. Thus the Church at Pergamos allowed a mixture of religions and idolatry to be practiced, which begs the following questions. Is there idol worship in our churches today? Do Christians celebrate secular holidays, which are based on pagan religions and idol worship? Do any of today’s churches pray to anyone other than Christ?

Christ says to repent of these things. He is saying separate from these practices in the Church. If you do He will give you a reward. “To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on that stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.” (verse 17). Hidden manna relates to angel food, which is in heaven. No one knows what this is, but Christ indicates it is of great value. “He rained down manna from heaven on them to eat, and given them the bread of heaven. Men ate angels food; He sent them food to the full.” (Psalm 78:24-25). A white stone signifies “not guilty” and a new name is indicative of a new person. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become anew.” (2 Corinthians 5:17). This person has eternal life!

Thyatira – “These things says the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet like fine brass.” (verse 18). There is an inter-working within the Church that is not Christian. It has a hidden agenda and is referred to as the “depths of Satan” (verse 24). The authority of the Church is preaching a false doctrine. “Because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants.” (verse 20). The use of Jezebel here denotes a false teacher who draws away from Christ

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through subtle teaching of a false gospel, and instituting the worship of idols. In other words a mixture of Christian and pagan doctrine. This first appeared with the merging of the pagan Roman Church with the Christian Church under Constantine.

“And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him will I give power over the nations.” (verse 26). These people will enter the millennium and become part of Christ’s government and enter into everlasting life.

Sardis – “These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars.” (verse 3:1). Christ repeats the mystery He mentions in 1:20. The salutation is very subtle, but meaningful. The Church at Sardis is Christian as attested to in verse 3:5 – names in the Book of Life. But, the problem is one of works. They put works first, which appears outwardly that they are spiritual. As one commentary states, “They are caught up in various programs, ministries and activities, yet they are spiritually lifeless.” Some within the Church are very spiritual, hold to gospel truth, and walk according to righteousness, which is the reference to, “walk with Me in white.” (verse 4). However, for those who overcome the basic issue He has with them, Christ will confess their the names before the Father and before the angels, and as such have everlasting life.

Philadelphia – “These things says He who is holy, He who is true, He who as the key of David.” (verse 7). This salutation in conjunction with verse 12 ties the Philadelphia Church to the Bride of Christ – “I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more.” The key of David relates to Christ on David’s throne in Jerusalem during the millennium. This letter also relates to those who will be raptured and as such is defined as the true Church. There is no condemnation in the letter, only a warning to, “Hold fast to what you have, so no one may take your crown.” (verse 11). The only other reference to crown is in the letter to Smyrna – the crown of life. Thus, the reference to crown here indicates that there are crowns waiting for the raptured Church.

The verse that indicated this Church will be raptured before the Tribulation is verse 10. “Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.” The hour of trial is commonly known as the Tribulation or the Time of Jacob’s Trouble (Jeremiah 30:7). The Greek

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word translated “from” or in the original “out of” is ek, which is a preposition denoting origin meaning from whence motion or action proceeds, i.e. removed before the action begins – the Tribulation.

The rewards are numerous as stated in verse 12. “He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on Him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on Him My new name.” Where does the Bride reside? With the Groom!

However, there is the question of the crown mentioned in verse 11 – “That no one may take your crown.” Paul states in 2 Corinthians 5:10, “For we must all appear before the judgement seat (Bema) of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” There are five levels of awards (crowns) presented to the raptured Christians as follows:

1. Crown of righteousness – “all who have loved His appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:8).2. Incorruptible crown – for each person who “exercises self-control in all things.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27).3. Crown of glory – for faithful pastors of local congregations who “will receive the unfading crown of glory.” (1 Peter 5:1-4).4. Crown of rejoicing – a special crown for those who have led others to faith in Christ. (1 Thessalonians 2:19).5. Crown of life – for those who have endured special suffering. “He will receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” (James 1:12).

Laodiceans – “These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God.” (verse 14). Laodicea is the only one of the seven in which Christ has nothing good to say. However, the salutation speaks volumes as Christ emphasizes the necessity of the gospel. He makes clear that the gospel should be incorporated into the life of the Church. But, they are neither hot nor cold, as they have incorporated the philosophy of the world in their worship. Paul writes to the Church at Laodicea in Colossians 4:17, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may be fulfilled.” Paul saw a spiritual problem even then.

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One major difference in this letter is the salutation. Each of the proceeding six letters were addressed to the angel of the Church in Ephesus, Sardis, etc. However, the salutation to Laodicea reads, “To the angel of the Church of the Laodiceans.” Christ is not in this church as indicated in verse 20. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock.” The people are lukewarm, stagnant, non-spiritual. They are momentarily rich and have given themselves all the credit. They feel their success is all of their own effort, and have no need for Christ. But Christ says, “Do you not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked? (verse 17).

However, Christ pleads with the Laodiceans to buy from Him gold refined in the fire (verse 18). This pertains to His opening statement relating to His Word. The problem with this Church is that their position is such a mountain for them to overcome that Christ states that for those who do overcome He will give them one of the highest rewards. “To sit with Him on His throne as He overcame and sat down with His Father on His throne.” (verse 21).

Simply put, Laodicea symbolizes those people who boost of their own success, social position, and wealth, but who are without Christ. They receive nothing from the Church as they perceive its message is of little or no value. There are many Laodiceans in the Western world today.

How Close Are We

Anytime there is a twilight it must by definition be preceded by a dawn. That dawn is closer than most Christians think, but there are certain things that must occur before the dawn can begin. This period between the twilight and the dawn is commonly called in Scripture the “Time of Jacob’s Trouble.” (Jeremiah 30:7). Although the definition of Jacob’s trouble relates to Israel and the Tribulation, the entire world will suffer as well. Jesus said in Matthew 24:21, “For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be.”

Dr. Dwight Pentecost in Things to Come (1958) states, “The condition at the close of the age [Church age] is seen to coincide with the state within the Laodicean Church, before which Christ must stand and seek permission.”

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Within this same book he provides the following picture of conditions within the professing church at the end of the age by a system of denials.

Denial of God – Luke 17:26; 2 Timothy 3:4-5. Denial of Christ – 1 John 2:18; 2 Peter 2:6. Denial of Christ’s return – 2 Peter 3:3-4. Denial of the faith – 1Timothy 4:1-2; Jude 3-4. Denial of sound doctrine – 2 Timothy 4:3-4. Denial of a separated life – 2 Timothy 3:1-7. Denial of Christian liberty – 1Timothy 4:3-4. Denial of morals – 2 Timothy 3:1-8, 13; Jude 18. Denial of authority – 2 Timothy 3:4.

In 1947 Dr. Lewis Chafee, Dallas Theological Seminary made the following statement regarding the end of the Church age. “The Scriptures which set forth the last days for the Church give no consideration to political or world conditions, but are confined to the Church itself.” This is true, but there are certain world situations that indicate the world is heading toward the dawn of Jacob’s Trouble.

Dr. John Walvoord (1990) generated a list of events he calls “a prophetic checklist for the nations” that lead up to the Battle of Gog and Magog, which will ultimately transition into the Tribulation. Some of the events he lists have already come to pass, but there are four that are very relevant for today.

1. Russia [not the Soviet Union] rises to become a world power and becomes an ally of the Arab countries.2. The EU and the World Bank show a need for international regulation of world economies.3. The Middle East becomes the most significant trouble spot in the world.4. Oil blackmail awakens the world to the new concentration of wealth and power in the Mediterranean.

Both Israel and the world are racing toward Armageddon as the material things of this life have taken front row in the department of world values. Wilfred Hahn makes a comment in Money: Ends and Trends. “While the world strains for the attainment of material wealth, the most precious acquisition of all, faith, today lies cold in many countries – especially

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wealthy countries of Christian heritage. Yet, there is nothing absolutely more worthy than faith.”

Where does the faith of the world lie today? “The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury. And those who dwell on the earth will marvel whose names are not written in the Book of Life.” (Revelation 17:4; 18:3; 17:8b). The world’s faith is in the world and the material things therein, not in the Word of God!

Faith in the Bible is an action word, and we can see from the above there is action in these last days – in the wrong direction. But, the faith Jesus talks about is a rhetorical question when He asked, “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8). Jesus implies that faith will be scarce. These words do not predict a general improvement in the spiritual condition before His second coming, but of the faith Christians should have in the hope of His appearance. The Greek/English Lexicon states that the word faith in this context means a conviction of the truth. Thus, Jesus is stating a prophetic fact that there will be in short supply a conviction or belief respecting mans relationship to God and divine things. In other words, do we believe and have faith in His Word and not twist it to fit man’s agenda?

Each of the seven letters ends with the following statement. “He who has an ear, let him hear.” The Greek/English Lexicon states this phrase to be, “The faculty of perceiving with the mind, the faculty of understanding, and knowing.” Anytime you see this in Scripture God is telling us to read and understand that what I have said is about to come true. It is a prophetic warning as to the condition of the Church, and the actions to be taken against those who do not overcome. Some state these letters represent Church history, but for what reason would Christ be so adamant for us to perceive, understand, and know the history of the Church? No, this is prophetic realism!

Recently, I have been asked several times if I think the actions in the Middle East between Israel and Lebanon are the birth pangs of World War III. My

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answer is no. There will never be another World War as we know and understand the concept of World War. However, the Middle East situation is not the prelude to another World War, but an alignment of forces to come against Israel in the conflict called Gog and Magog (Ezekiel 28-39). This action will lead to the Tribulation, the Battle of Armageddon, and ultimately the second coming of Christ. At that point the Time of Jacob’s Trouble will come to an abrupt end as the Twilight of Good and Evil transitions into the serenity of the millennium.

Maranatha,

Carleton Dowdle, 8-15-06

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