BIBLE STUDY: DANIEL, EZEKIEL, and REVELATION: ANSWERS

General Epistles:

Hebrews:

Hebrews is a Bible book, in the New Testament. The Book of Hebrews teaches many things about Jesus. We do not know the author of Hebrews. Some people think that Paul wrote Hebrews. The Book of Hebrews is an important book that teaches many lessons about the Bible. The Book of Hebrews teaches that Jesus was not an angel (a servant of God from heaven) (Hebrews 1). Jesus is God. But Jesus became a man. Jesus is our priest (Hebrews chapters 5-9). And Jesus is the perfect priest (Hebrews 7:25-28). In the Old Testament, priests killed animals so that God would forgive the people. But Jesus died himself, to suffer the punishment for our evil deeds. God accepted Jesus's blood (that is, his death - Hebrews 9). So, God will forgive us when we trust Jesus. In the Bible's Old Testament, many people trusted God (Hebrews 11). They believed that God would send Jesus. So, they were not afraid, although they had great troubles. So, we too should trust God when we have troubles (Hebrews 12:1-2).

James

The book of James is a letter in the New Testament of the Bible. People think that the writer was James the brother of Jesus. He became a leader of the church in Jerusalem (Galatians1:19) James tells his readers about different things: We may suffer because we follow Jesus. But we must be patient (James 5:7-11). This will make us better people (James 1:2-4) He speaks against rich people who do wrong things to poor people (James 2:1-4, James 5:1-7). God will say that they are wrong. If poor people trust God, this is better than wealth (James 2:5-7) God will give wisdom to those who ask for it (James 1:5). This is because true wisdom comes from God (James 1:16-18). God's wisdom teaches us the right behavior (James 3:13-16). If we trust in God, we will show it in our actions, (James 2:14-26). James warns us to be careful about our words (James 3:1-12). He tells us that we should pray sincerely (James 5:13-16). James is a favorite book for many people.

1 Peter

1 Peter is a letter in the Bible's New Testament. The author of the letter is Peter. Peter was a disciple (student) of Jesus. And Peter became a leader in the first Christian church, in Jerusalem. Peter wrote his letter to Christians who were suffering great troubles. Peter wanted them to trust God more. Their troubles would test them. But they were joyful, even when they suffered. They were joyful, because they trusted God's promises. And they were joyful, because Jesus died for them. So, Peter encouraged them to be holy. Their troubles would last for a short time. But God's word lasts always. And they will always live with God in heaven. There, they will not suffer. God chose them to be his people (1 Peter 2:10). So, they were special people. They did not belong to this world (1 Peter 2:11). They belonged in heaven. Jesus suffered many terrible things, too. But he did not reply when people insulted him. He did not complain. He trusted God. And when Jesus died, he suffered the punishment for our evil deeds. This was how he made us into the people of God (1 Peter 2:21-25). We should copy Jesus, even when we suffer. We should respect our husbands and wives (1 Peter 3:1-7). We should respect our employers (1 Peter 2:18-21). And we should even respect rulers and governments (1 Peter 2:13-17). They might be evil. But we should still be good. We should tell them gently about Jesus (1 Peter 3:15). We might suffer because we are Christians. But even if this happens, we should be glad. And we should praise God that we are Christians (1 Peter 4:12-19). Peter advised these Christians to love each other (1 Peter 4:8). And, he had special advice for the church leaders (1 Peter 5:1-4).

2 Peter

The second letter from Peter is found in the New Testament of the Bible. Peter was a leader of the church. He sent this letter to all believers. Peter told the Christians how they could grow as Christians. He explained that God himself directed the authors of the Bible (2 Peter 1:20-21). Peter warned the Christians about evil teachers. These teachers were teaching false ideas. And their behaviour was very evil. God will punish such teachers. And he will also punish the people who follow them. Peter also explained about Jesus' return to this earth. Some people might suppose that Jesus will never return. But Peter explained that they are wrong. God made the earth. And God will also destroy the earth. God is not slow; but God is patient. And, because God is patient, we have the opportunity to trust God now. Then, we will enjoy the things that God promises: a new heaven, and a new earth.

1 John

John was one of the first men to follow Jesus. He knew Jesus well. But John also understood that Jesus is God (1 John 1:1-3). John wrote this letter to all Christians. John wanted Christians to be certain that God loves them (1 John 3:1). Because God loves us, we too must love other Christians (1 John 3:17; 1 John 4:19-21). This has always been the law of God (1 John 2:8). We must love other people. John also wanted to remind Christians about some important facts:

• Christians are God's children and they can enjoy friendship with him. (1 John 3:1 and 2:3)
• They do not need to do wrong things. But God will forgive them if they confess their evil deed to God (1 John 2:1).
• The Holy Spirit is with them to warn them about false ideas. (1 John 2:18-27)
• They can be joyful and have true friendship with other Christians. (1 John 1:4 and 7)

 2 John

2 John is a short letter, in the Bible (New Testament). The author was John, who also wrote John's Gospel, Revelation, and two other letters. The book of 2 John teaches that we should love other Christians. God orders us to love each other (2 John 5-6). We must not accept people who teach wrong things about Jesus (2 John 7-11). Jesus is God. But he became a man so that he could die for us. When he died, he suffered the punishment for our evil deeds. This is the true Christian message.

3 John

3 John is a personal letter from John to Gaius. It is in the New Testament of the Bible. John was glad to hear that Gaius taught the true Christian message. John was also glad that Gaius looked after other Christians. These Christians were travelling to teach God's message elsewhere. And Gaius helped them. There were some problems in Gaius's church. John wanted to come so that he could help Gaius.

Jude

The Book of Jude is a short letter in the Bible (New Testament). The author, Jude, was a brother of Jesus. Jude wrote his letter to warn the church about some men. These men lived evil lives. And they denied that Jesus is God. Jude explained that God would punish these men. And Jude encouraged the people in that church to continue to trust God.

Prophetic/Apocalyptic (or the revealing):

Revelation:

The Book of Revelation is a book about the future. It is the last book in the Bible's New Testament. Its author was John, who was a disciple (student) of Jesus. The Book of Revelation uses picture stories to describe future events. These stories are often difficult to explain. But the book contains some clear lessons about the future:

• Good people will not always suffer. God has prepared a home in heaven for everyone who trusts Jesus. Nobody will be sad there. Heaven will be a wonderful place.
• There will not always be evil rulers. Their cruelty will end. Their power will end. God will punish them.
• Jesus will return to this earth. Then everyone will know that Jesus is God. And he will be the judge of everyone.
• The devil will not always be powerful. God will punish the devil. And the devil will lose his evil powers.
• We must invite God into our lives now. Terrible things will happen before Jesus returns. But God will protect us if we trust him.
• Knowing the Bible is one thing, but knowing the Author is another!!!

BIBLE STUDY: DANIEL, EZEKIEL, and REVELATION: ANSWERS

QUESTIONS:       WEEK # 8

 1).        Explain when Jesus will come back to earth, and what is the " Second Coming".

Jesus will return only to earth during the "Second Coming", but He will come back in the air for the Church, all believers. The Second Coming will be a glorious event beheld by believers and unbelievers alike. It is a cataclysmic event that will usher in the Millennium, Christ's thousand year reign on earth.

2).        Explain Christ as the Victor.

When Christ returns He will come as King of kings and Lord of lords. He will balance the scales of judgment and justice for a final time. His death, burial, and resurrection has proved that He is the Victor, and we have a Supreme Commander who has never lost a battle. He will descend and crush the forces that have invaded His world. Because He is "faithful and true," "we can rest assured that He is "The Victor."

3).        Explain the purpose of His return

The purpose of Christ's return is summarized in Revelation 19:11: "In righteousness He judges and makes war." The means of His judgment and war is the "sharp sword" proceeding from His mouth (Revelation 19:15).

 4).        Explain the punishment at His return

For all eternity, the unholy trinity-Satan, the Antichrist, and the False Prophet-will be "tormented day and night forever and ever" (Revelation 20:10).  And those who believe in him.

5).        Explain the penalty of His return.

Romans 6:23 says "the wages of sin is death." And that is the punishment Christ will deliver upon those who, by their insistent rebellion against God, and have sinned against Him. 

6).        Who is our Supreme Commander?

Christ Jesus is our Supreme Commander.

7).        What does the Second Coming of Christ and the end of the present age signify on a large scale? (Romans 8:19-23)

I believe it signify the usher in of the Millennium and Jesus as Lord of lords, and King of kings. It's a new beginning, and something we have waited for;  ¹⁹ For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. ²⁰ For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, ²¹ Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. ²² For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. ²³ And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.

8).        What did God do to put an end to the ungodliness? (Genesis 6:7-8)

And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.

⁸ But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. God destroyed all mankind, except Noah and his family.

9).        How does Enoch's description of mankind (Jude 14-15) fit both in his own era and the era of the Tribulation?

And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, ¹⁵ To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.

10).      Why will Christ's judgment when He returns be justified?

Revelation 20:12 says that unbelievers will be "judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works." Those who have rejected Christ as Lord and Savior will be judged based on their works alone, and because the Bible tells us that "by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified" (Galatians 2:16), they will be condemned.

11).      How long has men had to respond positively toward God

Since the beginning of time since Jesus was upon this earth, God has been more than patient. There are so many passages that represent God and man's relationship, but man's heart grew wicked. Since the ages from Enoch in the book of Genesis to John the apostle in the book of Revelation God has waited for man's respond to Him. 

12).      What does Romans 1:19-20 say about any excuses man might offer when Christ's judgment begins?

Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

²⁰ For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

13).      How does the vision Daniel saw in (Daniel 7:13-14) parallel with what John saw in Revelation 19:11-14 and 20:1-4? (Daniel 7:13-14) "¹³ I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. ¹⁴ And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed." (Revelation 19:11-14) "¹¹ And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; no man knew, but he himself. ¹³ And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. ¹⁴ And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean." Revelation 20:1-4; both of them are talking about the Second Coming of Jesus.

14).      Describe what you imagine it will be like to live for a thousand years on an earth over which Christ has total dominion.   

Awesome! I imagine total peace in a beautiful place with a God who loves us so much He

15).      How did Zachariah and the angels confirm one another's words about where Christ would return? (Zachariah 14:4; Acts 1:9-11).

Zachariah saw Jesus returning and standing on the Mount Olives just as He left in the book of Act. The angels said He would return as He left.

16).      What will happen to the Mount of Olives when Christ stands upon it? (Zechariah 14:4).

It will move, it will be divided and become two mountains with a valley in the midst of it.

17).      How do you know whether or not you will be part of the "armies" that follow Christ from heaven to earth? (Revelation 1:14)

The Bible tells me that all believers will enter the millennial Kingdom with their Savior, and I truly believe I am a believer, I trust Jesus, I love Jesus, and I am waiting for Him to return for me as His Bride. Zechariah said, "Thus the Lord my God will come, and all the saints with You," (Zechariah 14:5; I Thessalonians 3:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:10; Jude v. 14).

18).      Explain what you have learn about the millennium.

I have learned so much more this time in this study. The word millennium in Latin means milli for "One thousand" and annum for "years," which translates to "One Thousand Years." During that time, Christ will rule on earth in peace and justice from the capital in Jerusalem. The Millennium will be a foretaste of the Heavenly state that is to follow. This Millennium will take place after the Tribulation period, not before. The Millennium is proof positive that Christ's death is essential for mankind's salvation.

BIBLE STUDY: DANIEL, EZEKIEL, and REVELATION WEEK # 8

Date:  9/26/15

Part III           Continue:                   Revelation:

Second Coming:        Jesus comes with the Church:

The Victor:

Our daily news is filled with accounts of geo-political maneuvering and intrigue as nations compete for place and power. When Christ returns He will come as King of kings and Lord of lords. He will balance the scales of judgment and justice for a final time. As I read the book by Dr. David Jeremiah, I see there are many things to discuss concern this topic, but we want have time to go into detail as I wish. Let's talk about the purpose of His return, the punishment at His return, and the penalty at His return.  The purpose of Christ's return is summarized in Revelation 19:11: "In righteousness He judges and makes war." The means of His judgment and war is the "sharp sword" proceeding from His mouth (Revelation 19:15). The "sword" does not represent the Word of God but is symbolic of an instrument of war with which He will destroy the nations who are in rebellion against God and by which He will establish His rule.  Jude describes Christ's purpose as "to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him" (Judge 15). "Ungodly" appears four times-a dramatic picture of what Christ will find when He returns to earth.  The gruesome image of Revelation 19:17-18, 21-calling the birds of heaven to come and feast upon the bodies of men and animals after the final battle-suggests the nature of the punishment Christ will mete out upon the earth. Romans 6:23 says "the wages of sin is death." And that is the punishment Christ will deliver upon those who, by their insistent rebellion against God, have sinned against Him.  The word for "birds" in Revelation 19:17 is literally the word for "vultures." Imagine the scene-countless vultures the world over feeding on the carcasses left after Christ's victory over the armies of the world.  Revelation 19:20-21: "Then the Beast was captured, and with him the false prophet. . . .These two were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone. And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse." The word "captured" literally means "to grab" or "to snatch." When Christ returns He will grab the Antichrist and the False Prophet and send them straight into hell-the place "prepared for the devil and his angels" (Matthew 25:41). Satan will join them there at the end of the thousand-year reign of Christ on earth (Revelation 20:10). For all eternity, the unholy trinity-Satan, the Antichrist, and the False Prophet-will be "tormented day and night forever and ever" (Revelation 20:10).  Revelation gives us a sobering look at what happens when Christ returns.  Every person alive today should make sure they are part of the armies of Christ, instead of this world's armies, when He returns to balance the scales of justice.  We have a Supreme Commander who has never lost a battle. He will descend and crush the forces that have invaded His world. Because He is "faithful and true," "we can rest assured that He will be "The Victor."

The Millennium:

The millennial kingdom is the title given to the 1000-year reign of Jesus Christ on the earth. Some seek to interpret the 1000 years in an allegorical manner. They understand the 1000 years as merely a figurative way of saying "a long period of time," not a literal, physical reign of Jesus Christ on the earth. However, six times in Revelation 20:2-7, the millennial kingdom is specifically said to be 1000 years in length. If God wished to communicate "a long period of time," He could have easily done so without explicitly and repeatedly mentioning an exact time frame. The Bible tells us that when Christ returns to the earth He will establish Himself as king in Jerusalem, sitting on the throne of David (Luke 1:32–33). The unconditional covenants demand a literal, physical return of Christ to establish the kingdom. The Abrahamic Covenant promised Israel a land, a posterity and ruler, and a spiritual blessing (Genesis 12:1–3). The Palestinian Covenant promised Israel a restoration to the land and occupation of the land (Deuteronomy 30:1–10). The Davidic Covenant promised Israel a king from David's line who would rule forever—giving the nation rest from all their enemies (2 Samuel 7:10–13).  At the second coming, these covenants will be fulfilled as Israel is re-gathered from the nations (Matthew 24:31), converted (Zechariah 12:10–14), and restored to the land under the rule of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. The Bible speaks of the conditions during the millennium as a perfect environment physically and spiritually. It will be a time of peace (Micah 4:2–4; Isaiah 32:17–18), joy (Isaiah 61:7, 10), and comfort (Isaiah 40:1–2). The Bible also tells us that only believers will enter the millennial kingdom. Because of this, it will be a time of obedience (Jeremiah 31:33), holiness (Isaiah 35:8), truth (Isaiah 65:16), and the knowledge of God (Isaiah 11:9, Habakkuk 2:14). Christ will rule as king (Isaiah 9:3–7; 11:1–10). Nobles and governors will also rule (Isaiah 32:1; Matthew 19:28), and Jerusalem will be the political center of the world (Zechariah 8:3).  Revelation 20:2-7 gives the precise time period of the millennial kingdom. Even without these scriptures, there are countless others that point to a literal reign of the Messiah on the earth. The fulfillment of many of God's covenants and promises rests on a literal, physical, future kingdom. There is no solid basis for denying the literal interpretation of the millennial kingdom and its duration being 1000 years.

The King:

After the Tribulation and the Battle of Armageddon, Jesus will establish His 1,000-year Kingdom on earth. In Jeremiah 30, God promises Israel that the yoke of foreign oppression would be cast off forever, and "instead, they will serve the Lord their God and David their king, whom I will raise up for them" (verse 9). Speaking of the same time, God says through the prophet Ezekiel, "My servant David will be king over them, and they will all have one shepherd. They will follow my laws and be careful to keep my decrees"(Ezekiel 37:24). From the prophecies of Jeremiah and Ezekiel, some have concluded that King David will be resurrected during the Millennium and installed as co-regent over Israel, ruling the Kingdom with Jesus Christ.  Jeremiah's and Ezekiel's prophecies should be understood this way: the Jews would one day return to their own country, their yoke of slavery would be removed, their fellowship with God would be restored, and God would provide them with a King of His own choosing. This King would, in some way, be like King David of old. These passages can refer to none other than the long-awaited Messiah, the "Servant of the Lord" (cf. Isaiah 42:1). The Jews sometimes referred to the Messiah as "David" because it was known the Messiah would come from David's lineage. The New Testament often refers to Jesus as the "Son of David" (Matthew 15:22; Mark 10:47).
There are other reasons, besides being the Son of David that the Messiah is referred to as "David." King David in the Old Testament was a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22), he was an unlikely king of God's own choosing, and the Spirit of God was upon Him (1 Samuel 16:12–13). David, then, is a type of Christ (a type is a person who foreshadows someone else). Another example of this kind of typology is Elijah, whose ministry foreshadowed that of John the Baptist to the extent that Malachi called John "Elijah" (Malachi 4:5; cf. Luke 1:17; Mark 9:11–13).  David will be resurrected at the beginning of the Millennium, along with all the other Old Testament saints. And David will be one of those who reign with Jesus in the Kingdom (Daniel 7:27). However, all believers will rule the nations (Revelation 2:26–27; 20:4) and judge the world (1 Corinthians 6:2). The apostle Peter calls Christians "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation" (1 Peter 2:9). In Revelation 3:21, Jesus says about the believer who conquers, "I will grant him to sit with me on my throne." In some sense, then, Christians will share authority with Christ (cf. Ephesians 2:6). There is some biblical evidence, as in the Parable of the Ten Minas (Luke 19:11–27), that individuals will be given more or less authority in the Kingdom according to how they handle the responsibilities God has given them in this age (Luke 19:17).  Jesus is the King of kings (Revelation 19:16). Humanly speaking, Jesus is from the Davidic dynasty; but in power, in glory, in righteousness, and in every other way, He is rightly called the Greater David. "The government will be on his shoulders" (Isaiah 9:6). The Old and New Testaments reveal that the future King during the Millennium and all eternity is Jesus Christ and Him alone (Jeremiah 23:5; Isaiah 9:7;33: 22; Revelation 17:14;1 Timothy 6:15).

The Judge:

The great white throne judgment is described in Revelation 20:11-15 and is the final judgment prior to the lost being cast into the lake of fire. We know from Revelation 20:7-15 that this judgment will take place after the millennium and after Satan, the beast, and the false prophet are thrown into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:7-10). The books that are opened (Revelation 20:12) contain records of everyone's deeds, whether they are good or evil, because God knows everything that has ever been said, done, or even thought, and He will reward or punish each one accordingly (Psalm 28:4; 62:12; Romans 2:6; Revelation 2:23;18:6;22:12). Also at this time, another book is opened, called the "book of life" (Revelation 20:12). It is this book that determines whether a person will inherit eternal life with God or receive everlasting punishment in the lake of fire. Although Christians are held accountable for their actions, they are forgiven in Christ and their names were written in the "book of life from the creation of the world" (Revelation 17:8). We also know from Scripture that it is at this judgment when the dead will be "judged according to what they had done" (Revelation 20:12) and that "anyone's name" that is not "found written in the book of life" will be "thrown into the lake of fire" (Revelation 20:15). The fact that there is going to be a final judgment for all men, both believers and unbelievers, is clearly confirmed in many passages of Scripture. Every person will one day stand before Christ and be judged for his or her deeds. While it is very clear that the great white throne judgment is the final judgment, Christians disagree on how it relates to the other judgments mentioned in the Bible, specifically, who will be judged at the great white throne judgment. Some Christians believe that the Scriptures reveal three different judgments to come. The first is the judgment of the sheep and the goats or a judgment of the nations (Matthew 25:31-36). This takes place after the tribulation period but prior to the millennium; its purpose is to determine who will enter the millennial kingdom. The second is a judgment of believers' works, often referred to as the "judgment seat [bema] of Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:10). At this judgment, Christians will receive degrees of reward for their works or service to God. The third is the great white throne judgment at the end of the millennium (Revelation 20:11-15). This is the judgment of unbelievers in which they are judged according to their works and sentenced to everlasting punishment in the lake of fire. Other Christians believe that all three of these judgments speak of the same final judgment, not of three separate judgments. In other words, the great white throne judgment in Revelation 20:11-15 will be the time that believers and unbelievers alike are judged. Those whose names are found in the book of life will be judged for their deeds in order to determine the rewards they will receive or lose. Those whose names are not in the book of life will be judged according to their deeds to determine the degree of punishment they will receive in the lake of fire. Those who hold this view believe that Matthew 25:31-46 is another description of what takes place at the great white throne judgment. They point to the fact that the result of this judgment is the same as what is seen after the great white throne judgment in Revelation 20:11-15. The sheep (believers) enter into eternal life, while the goats (unbelievers) are cast into "eternal punishment" (Matthew 25:46).  Whichever view one holds of the great white throne judgment, it is important to never lose sight of the facts concerning the coming judgment(s). First, Jesus Christ will be the judge, all unbelievers will be judged by Christ, and they will be punished according to the works they have done. The Bible is very clear that unbelievers are storing up wrath against themselves (Romans 2:5) and that God will "give to each person according to what he has done" (Romans 2:6). Believers will also be judged by Christ, but since Christ's righteousness has been imputed to us and our names are written in the book of life, we will be rewarded, but not punished, according to our deeds. Romans 14:10-12 says that we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ and that each one of us will give an account to God.
A New Heaven and New Earth:

Many people have a misconception of what heaven is truly like.  Revelation 21-22 gives us a detailed picture of the new heavens and the new earth. After the events of the end times, the current heavens and earth will be done away with and replaced by the new heavens and new earth. The eternal dwelling place of believers will be the new earth. The new earth is the "heaven" on which we will spend eternity. It is the new earth where the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city, will be located. It is on the new earth that the pearly gates and streets of gold will be. Heaven—the new earth—is a physical place where we will dwell with glorified physical bodies (1 Corinthians 15:35-58). The concept that heaven is "in the clouds" is unbiblical. The concept that we will be "spirits floating around in heaven" is also unbiblical. The heaven that believers will experience will be a new and perfect planet on which we will dwell. The new earth will be free from sin, evil, sickness, suffering, and death. It will likely be similar to our current earth, or perhaps even a re-creation of our current earth, but without the curse of sin. What about the new heavens? It is important to remember that in the ancient mind, "heaven" referred to the skies and outer space, as well as the realm in which God dwells. So, when Revelation 21:1 refers to the new heaven, it is likely indicating that the entire universe will be created—a new earth, new skies, a new outer space. It seems as if God's heaven will be recreated as well, to give everything in the universe a "fresh start," whether physical or spiritual. Will we have access to the new heavens in eternity? Possibly, but we will have to wait to find out. May we all allow God's Word to shape our understanding of heavens, Amen.

DID YOU KNOW?

Two terms are used in contemporary theology to describe the thousand-year reign of Christ on earth. The most common is "Millennium," a non-biblical word derived from combining two Latin word; mille (thousand) and annum (year). The less-common term is "chiliasm," based on the Greek word for thousand (chilioi) as found in Revelation 20:1-7. Chiliasm teaches that the thousand years in Revelation 20:1-7 are a literal period of one thousand years. The opposite view held by some Christians is amillennialism which interpret "thousand" spiritually rather than literally.  Amillennialists interpret the thousand years of Christ's reign in Revelation 20:4-6 as being symbolic of the saints reigning victoriously with Christ forever.

QUESTION:       WEEK # 8

1.   Explain when Jesus will come back to earth, and what is the Second Coming.

2.   Explain Christ as the Victor.

3.   Explain the purpose of His return

4.   Explain the punishment at His return

5.   Explain the penalty of His return.

6.   Who is our Supreme Commander?

7.   What does the Second Coming of Christ and the end of the present age signify on a large scale? (Romans 8:19-23)

8.   What did God do to put an end to the ungodliness? (Genesis 6:7-8)

9.   How does Enoch's description of mankind (Jude 14-15) fit both is own era the era of the Tribulation?

10. Why will Christ's judgment when He returns be justified?

11. How long has men had to respond positively toward God?

12. What does Romans 1:19-20 say about any excuses man might offer when Christ's judgment begins?

13. How does the vision Daniel saw in (Daniel 7:13-14) parallel with what John saw in Revelation 19:11-14 and 20:1-4?

14. Describe what you imagine it will be like to live for a thousand years on an earth over which Christ has total dominion.

15. How did Zachariah and the angels confirm one another's words about where Christ would return? (Zachariah 14:4; Acts 1:9-11).

16. What will happen to the Mount of Olives when Christ stands upon it? (Zechariah 14:4).

17. How do you know whether or not you will be part of the "armies" that follow Christ from heaven to earth? (Revelation 1:14)

18. Explain what you have learn about the millennium.

SALVATION PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, I confess that I have sinned against You and need Your salvation. Please forgive me. I believe Jesus died for my sins and rose from the dead.  I receive Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, fully trusting in the work He accomplished on the cross on my behalf.  Thank You for saving me, accepting me, and adopting me into Your family. Guide my life and help me to do your will, and walk in close step with You, amen.

In your name, Amen:

Reading Assignment:  Memorize the Twelve Tribes of Israel and books of the Bible:

BIBLE STUDY: UPDATES

I am almost finished with this study "Daniel, Ezekiel, and Revelation," but I will come back to it in depth of the number SEVENs in Revelation, such as the seven churches, seals, angels, trumpets, bowels, etc.  But first I will do "Walking in the Spirit." I am looking forward to that, amen!

I have read my reading assignment for week # 7 Revelation 15-21   Monday through Saturday, I have one more chapters to go.

The income of God's Word is the outcome of a changed life, "unknown author"

BIBLE STUDY: SHARING WEEK # 7

Books of the New Testaments:

The Gospels:

Matthew:

Matthew's Gospel (good news) is in the Bible's New Testament. Matthew knew well the Bible's Old Testament. In the past, God appointed people (called prophets') to write about the future. Many prophets described Jesus' life and work. The things that the prophets wrote actually happened during Jesus' life on earth. Matthew explained this to prove that Jesus is the Christ. (The 'Christ' means God's king. The prophets said that the Christ would save us from the punishment for our evil deeds.) Matthew's Gospel is a book about Jesus' life. Matthew wrote about the things that Jesus taught. His book includes a speech by Jesus, in Matthew chapters 5-7. This speech is called 'The Sermon on the Mount'. Matthew's Gospel also explains that Jesus cured many ill people. Jesus caused blind people to see again (Matthew 20:29-34). He caused deaf people to hear again (Matthew 11:5). He freed people who had evil spirits (Matthew 8:28). But some important people hated Jesus. They killed Jesus on the cross. But Jesus knew that this would happen (Matthew 16:21). The prophets had written that the Christ would die (Isaiah 53; Matthew 12:40). When Jesus died, he suffered the punishment for our evil deeds (Matthew 20:28, Matthew 26:28). But Jesus did not remain dead. God caused Jesus to live again (Matthew 28). And Jesus is alive today, in heaven.

 

Mark

The Gospel of Mark is the second book in the New Testament part of the Bible. Mark was the first person to write a Gospel. A Gospel is a book that describes the life and death of Jesus. The Gospels also explain how Jesus came back to life again. People think that Mark got his information from Peter. Peter was a friend of Jesus. Mark's Gospel is the shortest life story of Jesus. It is an exciting book. Jesus did many wonderful things. He cured ill people. He spoke wise words about God. And he warned about future events. The people were excited about Jesus. They followed Jesus. They listened to him. But they did not realize why God sent Jesus. They thought that Jesus would become their king. But Jesus knew the real reason why God sent him.

The rulers hated Jesus. They thought that Jesus would destroy their country. They did not care whether God had sent Jesus. They decided to kill Jesus. Jesus knew about this. But Jesus allowed these things to happen, because this was God's plan. When Jesus was dying, the people were very afraid. Even Jesus' friend, Peter, denied that he knew Jesus. Even the priests insulted Jesus. Jesus' death was a terrible death (Mark chapters 14-15). But some important people believed Jesus, even when he died. An important soldier said, 'This man (Jesus) was God's son.' And Joseph from Arimathea was bold, and he buried Jesus' body in his own grave. But, two days later, an angel (servant of God from heaven) announced that Jesus was alive again. Later, Jesus himself met his friends. They saw that he was alive. And he told them to take God's message to people from all nations. Mark wrote his gospel for everyone. He did not only write it for his own people. People from all nations can become Christians.

 

Luke

Luke's Gospel (good news) is a record, in order, of the main events in Jesus' life. Its author was Luke, who was a doctor. Luke was a friend of Paul. Luke probably did not belong to the Jewish people. His book shows that Jesus cared about everyone. Jesus cured many ill people. Jesus cared about women (for example, Luke 7:11-17). Jesus allowed children to come to him (Luke 18:15-17). And Jesus cared about poor people (Luke 21:1-4). Jesus taught many lessons to the people. Often, he told parables (stories with a meaning) to teach the people about God. Jesus wanted everybody to confess their evil deeds and to trust in God. Some evil leaders opposed Jesus. They plotted that Jesus would die. Jesus knew about their plans (Luke 18:31-34). But Jesus also knew that God wanted him to die (Luke 22:20-22, Luke 22:42). And, after Jesus' death, God would cause Jesus to live again. Luke describes these events. The Bible taught that these things would happen (Luke 24:25-27, Luke 24:44-49). Luke explained these events further in his other book, called Acts (Acts chapters 2-3). When Jesus died, he suffered the punishment for our evil deeds. So, we must confess our evil deeds to God. And we must invite God into our lives.

 

John

John was a close friend of Jesus. For three years, John lived with Jesus. John saw how Jesus behaved. And John believed that Jesus is God (John 1:1-18). John wrote his Gospel (good news) so that other people would believe this too (John 20:31). John saw that Jesus did many wonderful things (John 21:25). Jesus cured ill people (John 4:43-54). Jesus walked on water (John 6:14-24). He provided food for 5000 men (John 6:1-15). Jesus was alive again after his own death (John 20). John describes these events in the same way as the other Gospels. But the main part of John's Gospel is not about these wonderful deeds. Instead, many chapters contain Jesus' words. For example, John 13-17 contains Jesus' words on the night before he died. John thought that Jesus' words were wonderful (John 3:34). And we must accept Jesus' words. If we believe Jesus' words, then we will live with God in heaven always. But if we do not obey Jesus, God will punish us (John 3:36). Jesus died so that we can live with God in heaven (John 3:16). This is why we must confess our evil deeds to God. And this is why we must invite Jesus into our lives. Then, we will become the children of God (John 1:12).

 

History:

Acts (of the church or the Holy Spirit)

The Book of Acts (in the New Testament of the Bible) is also called 'Acts of the Apostles'. The author of Acts was Luke, who also wrote the Gospel of Luke. Acts tells the story of the first Christians. After Jesus went up to heaven, they waited in Jerusalem. Then, God sent his Holy Spirit (Acts 2). The Holy Spirit gave power to the first Christians. So, they told the people about Jesus. The Christians explained that the people must confess their evil deeds to God. Then, they must invite God into their lives. The first Christians did wonderful things by God's power. Peter cured a man who could not walk by God's power (Acts 3:1-10). God even cured ill people when Peter's shadow went over them (Acts 5:15-16). Many people opposed the first Christians. A Christian called Stephen did many wonderful things (Acts 6:8). But the rulers opposed him. They did not want him to speak about Jesus. So, the rulers killed Stephen. But Stephen was not afraid. He knew that he was going to heaven. Like Jesus, Stephen prayed for the people who were killing him (Acts 7:60). But the number of Christians continued to increase. And new churches began in many areas, for example Samaria and Antioch. Soon, God taught Peter and the other Christians that God's good news is for everyone, from every nation (Acts 10). So, they began to speak to people who were not from Israel. Saul was a religious leader who opposed the first Christians. Saul even helped to kill Stephen (Acts 8:1). But God spoke to Saul on the road to Damascus. And Saul became a Christian (Acts 9). He travelled to many places, to tell everyone about Jesus (Acts chapters 13-28). Later, Saul changed his name to Paul. Paul wrote many books in the New Testament of the Bible. The first Christians had many dangers and many troubles. But they trusted God. And they told people about Jesus in each place where they went. God was with them. God did wonderful things wherever they went. And boldly, they taught the message of the Bible.

 

Paul's Epistles: (letters)

Romans

The Book of Romans is a letter from Paul to the Christians in Rome. Rome was probably the largest city in the world. Paul wrote the letter about the year 57. He probably wrote it while he was living in Corinth. The Book of Romans shows us how God can save us from the punishment for our evil deeds. And the Book of Romans also teaches how we should live. Some of the important things we can learn from this book are: Everyone has done wrong things against God.

God is angry about our evil deeds. God saves people who trust him.. We cannot save ourselves by our own good works. When Jesus died, he died for us. God's Spirit helps us to do what is right. God always loves us. God shows us how to live. The Book of Romans is in the New Testament part of the Bible.

 

1 Corinthians

Paul wrote this long letter to the Christians who lived in the city of Corinth. He had set up the church in Corinth when he himself lived there for 18 months (Acts 18). After he left the city, evil things happened in the church. So Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Corinth, to help them. Corinth was a city in the country of Greece. The people in Greece were proud of their clever minds. But Paul explained that God considers human wisdom to be foolish. So, Christians must recognize that Jesus Christ is their Lord. He has God's wisdom; and Christians must obey him always (1 Corinthians chapters 1-2). Then they will be able to live holy lives. They will not quarrel with each other. They will be loyal to their husbands or wives. They will not try to understand the Bible by their own clever ideas. Instead, they will be true servants of Christ (1 Corinthians chapters 5-6). Paul wanted to teach the Christians in Corinth how to praise God together. He taught them that they should share bread and wine to remember Jesus' death (1 Corinthians 11). God's Holy Spirit would help them to work together (1 Corinthians chapters 12 and 14). And God's greatest gift is love (1 Corinthians 13). Paul also taught about life after death. After Jesus died, God caused Jesus to live again. Many people saw that Jesus was alive again (1 Corinthians 15:1-8). In the same way, God will cause us to live again after our deaths. God is even greater than death (1 Corinthians 15).

 

2 Corinthians

This letter is in the Bible's New Testament. Paul wrote this letter to Christians in Corinth because there were false teachers in the church. They spoke badly about Paul. They said he kept changing his mind. This was because he did not visit Corinth. They also said he was not a genuine apostle*. Unlike the false teachers, Paul was not a great speaker. Also unlike them, Paul did not ask the church for money. Paul explained why he had not visited them. He also explained why he had been so severe towards the Christians in Corinth. But he was happy that they had confessed their evil deeds to God. And now, they accepted Paul as a friend again. He was not a powerful person like the false teachers. But because he was weak, people saw God's power through him. He had not come to talk about himself. He had come to tell them about Jesus. By the death of Jesus, God had changed them from enemies into friends. Then he asked them for a generous gift for the poor Christians in Judea. Finally he gave reasons why he was a genuine apostle*. God chose him to be an apostle*. And he had suffered many troubles because he taught God's message. But Paul was glad to work for God. This was his answer to those who spoke badly about him. Apostle: a person whom God sent to teach the Christian message to the world.

 

Galatians

Galatians is a book in the New Testament part of the Bible.

The Book of Galatians is a letter. Paul wrote it. It might be the first letter that Paul wrote to a Christian church. At that time, many people who were not Jews were becoming Christians. Some people said that the new Christians also needed to become Jews. These people said that the new Christians must obey all the laws and traditions of the Jews. Paul said that a person became a Christian by believing in Jesus Christ. Jesus died to take the punishment for their evil deeds. They did not need to obey the laws and traditions of the Jews. Many people today do not obey the traditions of the Jews. But these people have their own traditions and ideas. But traditions cannot be more important than God. So, these people must trust Jesus. Paul also wrote about how Christians should live. They should show love and joy. They should be calm. Christians should be patient, kind and good. And Christians should be loyal, gentle and show discipline. (Galatians 5:22-23.) Christians do good deeds to please God. But they are Christians because they trust in Jesus. So, their good deeds do not make them Christians.

 

Ephesians

The Book of Ephesians is in the Bible's New Testament. Paul wrote this letter to the church at Ephesus, which he had led for over two years (Acts 19:10). When Paul wrote the Book of Ephesians, Paul was in prison. But the letter is not a sad letter. Paul was excited about God's good gifts (Ephesians 1:3). Paul was pleased that the Christians in Ephesus continued to serve God. Paul wanted to encourage them. And he told them about his prayers for them (Ephesians 1:15-22, Ephesians 3:14-21). Paul reminded the Christians in Ephesus that previously they were enemies of God. But God sent Jesus to die for them. Because of Jesus' death, they became friends of God (Ephesians 2:11-22). So, they should live lives that please God (Ephesians 4:17-32, Ephesians 5). And, they should trust God more. God had appointed teachers to help the Christians. And the Christians would learn to be more like Jesus. Troubles would come, so they needed God's protection (Ephesians 6:10-18).

 

Philippians

The Book of Philippians is in the Bible's New Testament. Paul wrote this letter to the church at Philippi, which he had established (Acts 16:11-40). Paul was a prisoner when he wrote the book of Philippians. But he used his time in prison well. He even told his guards about Jesus (Philippians 1:13). And he was glad that people were speaking about Jesus (Philippians 1:12-30). Paul encouraged the Christians in Philippi to work together (Philippians 1:27). They should love each other (Philippians 2:1-4). So, they should be humble. Paul reminded them that Jesus was very humble. (Philippians 2:5-11). But now, God gives great honor to Jesus. Paul warned the Christians about some people who did not know Jesus (Philippians 3:1-4, Philippians 3:17-19). He wanted the Christians to trust God more. Even Paul himself wanted to know God better (Philippians 3:10-11). Paul did not pretend that he was already perfect (Philippians 3:12). But he knew that God will change us totally (Philippians 3:21). So, we should be glad (Philippians 4:4). We should do the right things (Philippians 4:8-9). And we should trust God to provide whatever we need (Philippians 4:10-19).

 

Colossians

The Book of Colossians is Paul's letter to the Christians at Colosse. Paul had not visited Colosse. But he often prayed for the Christians there (Colossians 1:3-14).Paul reminded the Christians about the importance of Jesus. Jesus is God, and he created everything. Then, Jesus became a man, so that he could die for us. Because Jesus died, God will forgive us. If we invite Jesus into our lives, we will become friends of God (Colossians 1:15-23). Then, Paul warned the Christians about some people (Colossians 2). These people wanted the Christians to obey the ancient rules of the Hebrew nation. And these people said that real Christians must obey all such rules. Paul did not agree. He wrote that these rules were human traditions (Colossians 2:8). Christians ought to obey Christ, instead of tradition. Traditions might seem wise, but they cannot help us to live good lives (Colossians 2:23). Paul reminded the Christians how they should live. They should think about the things in heaven (Colossians 3:2), because they belong with Christ (Colossians 3:3-4). They should not do evil deeds (Colossians 3:5-11). Instead, they should love other people (Colossians 3:12-14). And they should serve God (Colossians 3:15-17).

 

1 Thessalonians

This is a letter in the Bible's New Testament. Paul wrote this letter to Christians in Thessalonica. He thanked God for their faith, love and hope. They had turned from idols (false gods) to serve God. They were waiting for the return of Jesus. They trusted God in spite of great difficulties. Paul told them to please God by the way that they lived. They should be holy. They should work hard. And they should love each other. Then he answered their questions about the return of Jesus. He told them not to worry about those who had died. They would not miss Jesus' return. They would meet him before those who were still alive. The return of Jesus will be sudden. Therefore the Christians in Thessalonica must be ready for this. They must continue to work quietly.

2 Thessalonians

This is a letter in the Bible's New Testament. Paul wrote it to Christians in Thessalonica not long after his first letter to them. People were behaving in a cruel way towards the Christians there. Paul told them have confidence in God. When Jesus returned God would punish those wicked people. He would also punish everybody who did not accept the good news about Jesus. Some Christians in Thessalonica thought that Jesus had already returned. Paul said that the Wicked One would come first. He would oppose Jesus. So, Christians should trust God, even when they suffer. Other Christians in Thessalonica thought that Jesus was coming back very soon. So, they refused to work. Paul reminded them that he himself worked hard in Thessalonica. And they all must work too.

1 Timothy

This letter is in the Bible's New Testament. Paul wrote it to Timothy. He was a young follower of Paul who was looking after the church in Ephesus. Paul warned him about false teachers. In 1 Timothy 1, he wrote about false teachers of the law. These men gave long speeches about God's law. But they did not know the purpose of the law. And they did not know that they must love other people. In 1 Timothy 4, Paul writes about some more evil teachers. He warns Timothy not to listen to them. Instead, Timothy should teach people to trust God (1 Timothy 4:9-11).He then told Timothy about meetings in church. He described how they should pray. He told him how women should behave. He described the qualities that church leaders must have. Paul then told him how to care for different groups in the church. These included slaves, widows, and church leaders. He told Timothy to be content. And, Timothy should not love money. But he should learn to improve his character while he serves God.

 

2 Timothy

This is the second letter that Paul wrote to Timothy in the Bible's New Testament. Paul wrote this letter from prison. Timothy was one of Paul's followers. He was looking after a church. Paul wanted Timothy to visit him. Timothy was rather nervous. Paul told Timothy to suffer difficulties like a soldier, a runner or a farmer. He warned Timothy not to allow foolish arguments to upset him. Timothy must refuse to do evil deeds. And he must be a good and patient teacher. Paul warned him also that things would get worse and worse. False teachers would lead weak people away from the truth. Timothy must teach the truths that he learned from the Bible. Paul knew he would die soon. Paul reminded Timothy about Paul's own faith and great difficulties. But Paul knew that God would reward him in heaven.

Titus

Paul wrote the Book of Titus to his friend, called Titus. Titus was working on an island called Crete. There were many churches on Crete, but these churches did not have leaders. So, Paul told Titus to appoint a leader for the church in each town. But Titus must choose the leaders carefully. Each leader must be a good man, who is kind, holy and honest. And the leaders must teach God's message accurately (Titus 1:5-9). This was an important task. Some people were trying to convince the Christians to obey their traditions. These people pretended to know God. But their actions proved that they denied God (Titus 1:10-16). Paul advised Titus not to argue with people who taught the wrong things. He told Titus to warn them on two occasions only. Then, Titus should leave that person (Titus 3:9-11).

 

Philemon

The book of Philemon is a short, personal letter. It is in the New Testament part of the Bible. Paul wrote some encouraging words to Philemon. Then, Paul appealed to Philemon on behalf of Philemon's slave. The slave was called Onesimus. Onesimus had escaped from Philemon. Later, Onesimus became a Christian. He helped Paul. But Philemon still owned Onesimus, because Onesimus was a slave. Paul decided to return Onesimus to Philemon. Paul asked Philemon to accept Onesimus as his Christian brother, instead of a slave.