Tag: jesus

The Revelation of Jesus Christ chapter Twelve. The Woman, the child, and the Dragon,

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

As with much of the book of Revelation there are a number of views as to the identity of the Woman and child of Revelation 12. 1 Catholics tend to think that the woman represents Mary, the stars on her garland represent the twelve Apostles. 2 Others see the woman as Israel the garland the twelve sons of Jacob ( twelve tribes of Israel) the child as representing Christ. 3 Some see the woman changing identity in 12:6 now representing the church, the child now becomes believers. I favour 2, the clincher for me is the Male child (Jesus) who is to rule all nations with a rod of iron, and is caught up to God and His throne 12:5. The fiery red dragon needs no introduction, He empowers the anti christ who brings terror upon the world particularly persecuting Israel during the great tribulation (1260 days.) the rest of her offspring are all those who become Christian’s during the great tribulation period 12:17.

War in Heaven Although this is a cosmic war between the archangel Michael and The devil and his angels. The devil and his angels are defeated and thrown out of Heaven. But not simply by Michael and his angels but in partnership with the saints who are standing firm on the testify and blood of Christ, see verse 12:11 12:7 .

They overcame the devil by the blood of the Lamb, the victory of the finished work of Jesus who shed His blood for our sins, the blood also brings peace of mind when the devil accuses us. The word of their testimony is the promise and authority of the Word of God on which we stand at the time of attack 12:11.

Satan having been thrown out of heaven where he has accused believers since the fall of Adam, is raging because he can no longer accuse them before God. His wicked plans are coming to nothing, for him time is running out. Very bad news for those on earth, but good news for those in heaven because their accuser is silenced

A verse to remember

And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death. Revelation 12:11 N.K.J.

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The Revelation of Jesus Christ chapter eleven. The Tribulation Temple, and the Two Witnesses.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for đź’­

The Temple could refer to the Holy Spirit indwelling members of the body of Christ 1 Cor 3:16. Or to a future Temple built during the early tribulation period that later becomes a target for the antichrist 2 Thessalonians 2:4. The measuring rod speaks of either preservation in the case of the first, or destruction in the case of the second?

Warning Some Christian’s get very excited about the possibility of another Temple being built with Temple worship being established once more, probably including animal sacrifice and all that that would signify! Please 0read what the Bible says in Hebrews 8, The book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christian’s reminding them to remain in Christ and not give in to temptation and return to Judaism. A future temple in Jerusalem will be a big pull, May the Lord help all Christians to remain faithful. The Building of a temple during the tribulation would deny the finished work of Jesus and be offensive to God.

The Two Witnesses Prophecy in Jerusalem for Three and a half lunar years (1260 days) dressed in sackcloth and preaching repentance to anyone who will listen. Those who seeks to harm them will die from what comes out of their mouths. ( not a natural death!)
There is much speculation about their identity but we are only told that they are God’s witnesses. They bring plagues upon the earth which results in rejoicing when they are finally killed, After three and a half days they are raised to life and taken to heaven. Followed by a great earthquake that destroys seven thousand in Jerusalem

The Two witnesses are empowered by the Holy Spirit, notice they were not killed until their ministry was completed. I truly believe that like them we are not taken off this world until we have finish our God given task. Their preaching was a torment to those who were perishing, hardened hearts perish, but we understand that there were those who come to Christ during the tribulation period.

The Seventh Trumpet, heralds in the ever lasting kingdom of our Lord and His Christ 11: 15. Heaven is opened and the ark of His covenant is seen in Gods heavenly Temple, (This is the mercy Seat Hebrews 9:23-26). A reminder of Gods faithfulness to His people 11:19. ( this is not a reappearance of the Old Testament ark of the covenant which was a copy of the Heavenly) this is the throne of God.

A verse to remember Do you not know that you are the Temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 1 Corinthians 3:16 N.K.J.

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The Revelation of Jesus Christ chapter nine. Demons released, and invaders from the east.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

The fifth angel blows a trumpet.

The star (angel) fallen from heaven is probably Satan himself is given the key to the bottomless pit, possibly but not necessarily the prison for sinning spirits that we read about in Jude 6. These beings are described as being like locusts. 1 Their time span is limited to five months ( life span of a locust). 2 They have only permission to harm unbelievers. 3 power to torment but not to kill. In those days men will seek death but will be unable to die. Many suggestions about who or what the locusts represent including helicopter gun ships or drones, I think the locusts represent numerous demons who materialise 9:7-10 and be released upon this world, far more wicked than the unseen spiritual forces we Christians resist daily.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood , but against the rulers , against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms Ephesians 6:12

The six angel blows a trumpet

A voice probably of command from God in response to prayer 9:1.

1 Notice four Evil Angels are bound ( this means God is in control of these events 9:15) 2 The number of the army is specific, John repeats he heard the number 9:16. 3 Because they cross the Euphrates we know this could be a literal invasion from the east, the colours could represent several national armies 9:13-19.

Yet they still did not repent of these specific sins of our age 1 murder, 2 sorcery (can also mean drug addiction) 3 sexual immorality 4 theft.

A verse to remember

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God, I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10.

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The Revelation of Jesus Christ chapter six. Jesus opens the scroll removing the first six seals.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

Historicists believe that Chapter six represents the whole time period from the early apostles to the present day. It’s true the world has witnessed some cataclysmic events already, but I think that during the coming tribulation many of these past tragedies will be repeated to a much greater degree.

The first seal. A rider on a white horse, this rider is not Jesus but a future world leader (antichrist) who will deceive the whole world Daniel 18:25. This rider also represents many dictators who have tried to enslave the world. ( Antichrist is one who seeks to replace Jesus Christ, being a master of deception he will not appear to be anti Christian his lies will seem like the truth. He may well seem to hold the Bible in esteem.

The second seal A rider on a red horse taking away peace from the world, causing people to kill each other, through murder, civil unrest and warfare.

The third seal A rider on a black horse seen holding a pair of scales, a sign of severe inflation and famine. Do not harm the oil or wine could indicate that those with wealth are still able to buy life’s luxuries.


The fourth seal. A rider on a pale grey horse whose name is death, hades (the grave) follow this rider who in turn follows the previous riders bringing to pass what they have been allowed to initiate. But the devastation death causes is limited in scope to a quarter of earth’s population

The fifth seal Persecution and martyrdom of the saint’s, notice these martyrs were crying out for vindication (avenge) not vengeance. Stephen Acts 7:60 Lord do not charge them with this sin.

The sixth seal. Cosmic disturbance, the great day of wrath has come 6:17 all seven classes of mankind refuse to repent 6:17. kings, great men, Rich men, Commanders, Mighty men, Slaves , and Free men. The order of these seals is I believe sure but the timing is uncertain, the six seal looks like events that happen at the point of Christs return.But more on this as we continue to read Revelation.

A verse to remember

For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with the them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

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The Revelation of Jesus chapter three.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

Jesus walks in the midst of the seven golden Lamp-stands, nothing is hidden from Him, We hear much about the desire for revival today, but do we know what we are asking for? Revival is essentially reviving that which once had life, that is the church.

Speaking of the church. That He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be Holy and without blemish Ephesians 5:26-27. Now this, “yet once more,” indicates the removable of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain Hebrews 12:27

Sardis Praised that some had not soiled their garments, rebuked for being superficial, told to wake up and repent. I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Their true condition did not reflect how they were thought of in the community or in their own eyes.

Philadelphia Praised for their faithfulness, the church was not rebuked, they were told to hold on to what they had. Their little strength was not a sign of weakness but spoke of their dependence on the Lord. The key of David means authority, an open door speaks of evangelistic opportunity.

Laodicea they received no commendation, but were rebuked for being lukewarm , they were told to be earnest and repent. Being lukewarm makes the Lord sick! Luke warm Christian’s come in various categories, and if we’re honest most of us have suffered from this complaint at some point. Lukewarm or cold, 3:18 tells us what we must do. Gold stands for true riches, White garments for salvation having our sins forgiven and blotted out. Eye salve to open the eyes of our heart.

A verse to remember

I am the one who corrects and disciplines everyone I love. Be diligent and turn from your indifference. Look! Here I stand at the door and knock. If you hear me calling and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal as friends. Revelation 3:19-20 N.L.T.

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The Revelation of Jesus chapter Two.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

Revelation carries the promise of blessing to all who read it but a warning to anyone who would add or take from its message 22:18-19

Revelation is a prophetic book, it’s futuristic but relevant for every age of the church. It is believed that Antipas was martyred in A.D 92. (2:13) this helps with dating Revelation, with the destruction of the Temple in A.D. 70 well before Revelation was written, raising questions about the Preterist and partial preterist views?

Revelation was written to seven churches in the first century A.D. But the message is still relevant to todays churches with similar problems. The Lord commended six of the seven churches and rebuked five. Nothing is ever hidden from the Lord who walks in the midst of the golden lamp stands.

Ephesus
praised for her hard work and perseverance, rebuked for forsaking her first love, they were to remember and repent.

leaving the first love can happen when the church becomes orthodox, giving place to form rather than genuine heart worship 2:4.

The Nicolaitans which means “laity conquerors” were false teachers who exploited the people, instead of spiritually developing them they promoted all kinds of immorality. It is thought by some commentators that these so called “ministers” were responsible for dividing the church between clergy and laity 2:6

Smyrna Praised for their faith suffering persecution and poverty, no rebuke, just remain faithful and don’t fear.

Synagogue of Satan. We’re Jews who claimed to be true Jews who followed God, but we’re in darkness because they rejected Christ and the gospel, persecuting the true church 2:9

Pergamum. Praised for their faith, but rebuked for compromise, told to repent.

Persecution was within this church as well as outside, satan had got a foothold through the false Nicolaitans teaching causing sexual immorality which was a great stumbling block, just like in the days of Balaam who caused Israel to sin. The result of their compromise was the martyrdom of a church member Antipas.2:13-15

Thyatira Praised for their faith, Love, and service, rebuked for immorality, need to repent.

They failed to test Jezebel who claimed to be a prophet. she was false and her words caused devastation in this church. Let’s all be sure we test everything that purports to come from God.

God promises to all who overcome the wiles of the devil The Morning star the herald of a new day! 2:28

A verse to remember

Anyone who is willing to hear should listen to the Spirit and understand what the Spirit is saying to the churches.

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Revelation of Jesus Christ chapter one.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

Written during a time of extreme persecution, uncertainty about the date some put it as early as A.D. 70 but more likely about A.D. 90-95. The timing effects some of the views below!

John the Apostle simply wrote what he “saw” the revelation of Jesus Christ which God gave Him (Jesus) to show His servants what must shortly happen.

Main views of the book of Revelation

Futurist view / classical pre- millennialism.

The first three chapters are applicable throughout history, signs precede the coming tribulation; the saints will meet the Lord in the air at His coming at the end of the tribulation period. Views the millennium as Christian. This was the view held by most of the early church fathers from the Apostles to Constantine Christianised the Roman Empire. (This is my favoured view!)

Idealist view

Revelation is symbolic with a spiritual meaning rather than foretelling actual events. This was a view held by St Augustine in the 4th century.

Historicist view

Revelation represents the course of history from the Apostles to the end of the age. A view held by many Protestant reformers and eveangelists.

Preterist view ( means past)

That the all prophecies found in Revelation were fulfilled in the overthrow of Jerusalem in A.D.70 and that we are now living in the good of the Millennium.

Partial Preterist/ Dominionist or Kingdom now theology

Revelations was fulfilled in A.D.70 with the overthrow of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Temple. The world will be Christianised through the witness of the Church through signs wonders and political activity. The world will become better as Satan’s influence diminishes. Jesus will return to a perfect world that His saints have subdued. Some “Kingdom Now” Charismatic Christians hold this view..

Futurist view/ dispensational Pre Millennialism

Except for the first three chapters, John is describing events that will happen at the end of history, expects a pre-tribulation rapture and views the millennium as mostly Jewish. This view was taught by JN Darby a leader of the Plymouth Brethren was popularised by footnotes in the Scofield Bible, and by Hal Lindsay in his many books. This is probably the most popular view.

A verse to remember

God blesses the one who reads this prophesy to the church, and He blesses all who listen to it and obey what it says. For the time is near when these things will happen. Revelation 1:3 N. L.T.

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The Holy Spirit reveals the heart and mind of Jesus to His disciples. This glorifies Jesus. John 15-16:12.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

The Holy Spirit is not an influence, He is a person the third Person of the Trinity He is God living inside us, in our born again spirits. With the Father and the Son he shares the same holy attributes. He is with us sharing our life situations, and as the Spirit of truth He can be relied upon as He takes the things of Christ and reveals them to us John 15:26.

Without the Holy Spirit we could never experience Gods power in our lives, because this is Gods chosen way he has chooses to work in the lives of ordinary Christian’s. Without the Holy Spirit’s indwelling presence we could never be born again! So knowing this why do so many attempt Christian ministry in their own little strength? For full enjoyment and satisfaction we dare not neglect this great gift of the Holy Spirit.

It’s not simply “difficult” but totally impossible to be a disciple of Jesus without the Holy Spirit’s help. Attempts at trying to do any of the Lords commands in our own strength (flesh) will not only result in failure, but also have the smell of legalism. I’m sure our Lord never intended for discipleship to become a list of do’s and don’ts. The relationship of the disciple to the Lord is living its dynamic! Jesus walked and taught doing mighty miracles in His disciples presence for around three years, they got to know Him, recognise His voice and love Him. Their classroom was being with Jesus on the road, amidst the crowds seeing the miracles and being helped to understand the parables, and on the Lake in a storm. Jesus still walks and talks with His disciples today and will do so until He returns. The Holy Spirit who has been given should not be seen simply as a substitute Jesus but as an equal member of the Godhead He leads empowers and guides disciples, to be effective in continuing Jesus work in Jesus way, (in the power of the Spirit) Luke 4:14 , John 16:12.

A verse to remember

Oh there is so much more I want to tell you, but you can’t bear it now. When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not be presenting His own ideas; He will be telling you what He’s heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by revealing to you whatever He receives from me. All that the Father has is mine; this is what I mean when I say that the Spirit will reveal to you whatever He receives from me. John 16:12-15 N.L.T.

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Time for a fresh infilling with the Holy Spirit? Acts 2:38.

~ Robert Spiller ~ 3 Comments

Pause for thought

After His baptism in the Jordan river by His cousin John, the Spirit descended upon Jesus in the form of a dove, then God the Father spoke from heaven saying, “this is my beloved Son, and I Am fully pleased with Him”. Jesus said in John 5:19 that He only did what He saw His Father doing! Jesus always worked in cooperation with His Father and the Holy Spirit. Jesus ministry on Earth was a partnership with the other members of the Holy Trinity. After His baptism he was led forth by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After which, Jesus went forth in the power of the Spirit.

If this was so with Jesus how much more important for you and me? I believe the Bible teaches that God has a plan and purpose for every Christian and therefore every local congregation. This depends on our relationship with the Holy Spirit, it started when we confessed our sins and believed in Jesus as our saviour, at that point the Holy Spirit came and made His home in us, it is because of His indwelling that we became “new creatures in Christ” and it is the Holy Spirit who baptised “incorporated” us into the body of Christ 1 Corinthians 12:13.

The Holy Spirit has always been around, in the Old Testament the Spirit descended on individuals equipping and filling them but not remaining on them continuously. Jesus has promised us that the Spirit would come to stay dwelling with us forever. On the day of Pentecost, Peter reminded the crowds of Gods promise through Joel the prophet, God had promised to pour out My Spirit on all flesh. Pentecost at Jerusalem was the beginning, I love Peter’s statement “This promise is to you and your children, even the Gentiles, all who have been called by the Lord our God” Acts 2:39.

Every Christian needs their own Pentecost, we all need to experience the Baptism with the Holy Spirit and with fire, and to “ go on being filled” Many have sung this today. O God of burning cleansing flame send the fire, look down and see this waiting host and send the promised Holy Ghost, we need another Pentecost, send the fire today! May our hearts truly reflect what our mouths recite.

Some verses to remember

The name of Jesus has healed this man- and you know how lame he was before, Faith in Jesus name has caused this healing before your very eyes Acts 3:16.

After this prayer, the building where they we’re meeting shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they preached God’s message with boldness Acts 4:31
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The power of the Lord was upon them, and large numbers of the Gentiles believed and turned to the Lord Acts 11:21

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Whose Church is it Anyway? Matthew 16:13-20

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

Peter answered Jesus, You are the Christ the Son of the Living God. Jesus answered, you are blessed indeed, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being. You are Peter, and upon this rock, I will build My Church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.

Everything that can be shaken will be shaken Hebrews 12:26-29 I believe we are living in that period of history, where everything is being shaken, that is except the only unshakeable thing The Lord’s Church which is unconquerable Matthew 16:17-19.

Jesus clearly tells us that He is the builder and the Head of His church. Pastors in particular can come under great pressure to add something to the glorious Church of God. This is where some methods and concepts can be introduced that are not necessarily the Church that Jesus Christ said He would build. We all must test everything and God deliver us from good ideas that masquerade as God ideas.

Jesus His session.

Appearing in the presence of His Father on our behalf Hebrews 6:20;9:24.

Sitting at the Fathers right hand as King-Priest. This is not a period of idleness, Jesus is our Mediator, intercessor, and Advocate Revelation 12:10-11.

Building His church by bringing conviction, repentance and faith to men by the power of the Holy Spirit Acts 5: 31; 11:18; 2 Timothy 2:25.

Directing the affairs of His Church, Ephesians 1:22, Colossians 1:15-19;2:9-10; Revelation 1-2-3.

Bestowing gifts and ministries upon His church individually and corporately 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, 28-30; Ephesians 4:8-10; Romans 12:1-6.

A verse to remember

And God has put all things under the authority of Christ, and He gave Him authority for the benefit of the church. Ephesians 1:22 N.L.T.

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