Gadfly's Muse

Revelation 13: A Beastly Sight Indeed!

Image: "Desolation", 2021, roadside view, vicinity of Red Rock Lake, Lima, MT

Revelation 13:1 Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name.

Revelation 13:4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?”

Revelation 13:7–8 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation. 8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

Revelation 13:11–12 Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon. 12 And he exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence, and causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.

Revelation 13:17–18 and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.  18 Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666.

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If anything should set us back on our heels and make us consider the Lord saying: "I told you so", it is the beasts in this chapter when properly understood.

Here we have the "spirit of the Anti-Christ" manifested in its full, demonic, spiritual, reality.  

There are two beasts with the first being the powerful incarnation of human government organized and dedicated to the task of proving to the world that it, not Jesus Christ, is humanity's true messiah.  The second beast is the first beast's henchman, its "prophet", whose purpose is to proclaim the "gospel" of the first beast's messianic reality and to call people to worship that beast and not the true Christ.  We can think of it as the "propaganda arm" of the first beast and its number is "666" which is the number of man. (vs. 18)  Here we see man-centered religion, false humanism, that points us away from the truth of God and His Christ and substitutes a false hope and a false "salvation" centered on man's autonomous claim to exercising world dominion through godless government.

The first beast clearly and consciously presents itself in terms that the Revelation uses to describe Christ.  Like Jesus, it wears "crowns" of rule over the earth. (cf. vs. 1 & Rev. 19:12)  It claims to have been "mortally wounded" and yet lives, imply resurrection from the dead. (cf. vs. 3 & rev. 2:8).  It was given to him to have "authority... over every tribe, tongue, and nation", clearly a worldwide dominion that is reserved for Christ alone. (cf. vs. 7 & Rev. 5:9).  

In every particular, the first beast demands to be viewed as the true Messiah, the true "christ" for human beings.  We may see the entire claim to a resurrection from the dead as the way that, though Jesus dealt the fatal blow to Satan and his empire in His earthly life, yet God, in His providence, has allowed human governments to "rise up from the ashes" throughout history (the sea - vs. 1) to again claim, in their various forms, that they are to be worshiped rather than Christ.

The second beast is Satan's answer to the true Church of Jesus Christ.  Here we have the false prophets and priests of human-based religion serving their "master", the first beast, and, behind him, the dragon who gives him power and authority. (vs. 2)  Like Christ Himself, this second beast calls for disciples of the first beast to receive a mark on their "right hand or on their forehead", thus distinguishing them as its "elect" and heirs of its promised "blessings."  

This second beast is the powerful collaboration of society-wide intellectuals, Christ-denying religious figures, and political forces that proclaim that "grace" and "peace" come through man's progress in self-government, technical achievements, and philosophy.  Here we have the "apologists" that preach a brand of "freedom" that is really a cloak for slavery.  The power of the first beast is enormous.  It controls the economy and the power of money to buy allegiance.  It legislates immorality and calls "evil good."  At every point, this second beast preys on ignorance and superstition.  Only by true "wisdom" (vs. 18) can the people of God offset its teaching and call people to worship the one true Christ and to join with the elect from every nation in not succumbing to the false prophet's teachings.

Who can view our nation and our world today and not see these beasts at work among us?  The solemn truth is that their great power is the instrument through which the dragon's rage is directed toward Christ and His people.  We should note, with honest apprehension, that God tells us that those who do not worship the beast "to be killed." (vs. 15)  It is not a pleasant prospect but it makes sense as we see the open denunciation of Christian teaching laying the foundation for even more outright persecution.

But, we must never despair, the Revelation teaches us that Christ will have victory over every resurrection of the beast and that His people, sustained by His Holy Spirit, will indeed see that victory and rejoice.  Here is "the patience and the faith of the saints." (vs. 10)

 

 

Revelation 12: Victorious Over Insane Hatred

Image:  "The Wilderness", 2021, The "Grand Canyon" of Yellowstone, view of the Yellowstone River, downstream of the lower falls.

Revelation 12:1–2 Now a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a garland of twelve stars. 2 Then being with child, she cried out in labor and in pain to give birth.

Revelation 12:5–6 She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And her Child was caught up to God and His throne. 6 Then the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and sixty days.

Revelation 12:9 So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

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

Revelation 12:17 And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

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This chapter, with its fantastic symbols, opens the second half of this book.  The first half gave us a view of the "earthly struggle" between the Church and the world.  In this second half, beginning in this chapter, we see this earthly struggle as actually the "outward manifestation of the war between Christ and Satan." [cf. W. Hendricksen, "More Than Conquerors"]

We see three main "symbols" here: the Woman, the Dragon, and the Satanic warfare being waged against the "Woman" and "her other seed."

Notice that Christ appears in this chapter only in terms of "a male Child" who was born to Cosmic Royal Reign and was "caught up to God and His throne."  I don't intend to minimize the importance of this "symbol" at all.  It forms the ground on which all else in the chapter is built but it is significant that the entire incarnate ministry of our Lord, including His miraculous birth, His Person, His sin-bearing ministry, His atoning death on the cross, and His resurrection, is generally lumped together into the period between His birth and His ascension. (Vs. 5)  

What is being portrayed is the very real, but spiritual, overview of the period of time from Genesis 3 (Satan as the Dragon/Serpent - vs. 3 & 9) through the present day.   The Woman can be understood two ways:  She is either (or both) the representation of the Old Testament Church in its primary mission to give birth to the Child, Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ of God, or it is the Church in both ages, comprised of the true Israelites in the Old Testament and the New Testament Church.  I tend toward the first interpretation because the New Testament Church here seems best to be represented as the "rest of her offspring who keep the commandments of God, etc." (vs. 17)  I think this also fits best with the picture of the "Woman" as being swept away into the "wilderness" (of history) where she has been preserved as an ethnic people against the fury of Satan as the earth has swallowed up every attempt he has made to obliterate them.  (Note: this distinction also fits with my understanding of the "two witnesses" in the preceding chapters.)

What is presented is a dramatic characterization of the ongoing rage of the powerful but demonic forces that everywhere and in every age seek to persecute and destroy the people of God.

The Dragon is portrayed as having "seven heads and ten horns and seven diadems on his heads." (vs. 3)  These are symbols of great power and authority manifested in various "heads".  We will see later when this symbol reappears, that this represents the highest attainments of human autonomy and power on earth.  Quite blatantly it was the Roman Empire in John's day but the "heads" indicate that it was also all the great powers arrayed against God's people prior to the birth of Christ and, by inference, those that have followed in its stead.

We are thus confronted with a solemn and somewhat depressing truth:  never, in the course of human history, has there been or will there be a truly godly human government.  If David's and Solomon's government were ultimately corrupted and bred sin and warfare against God, so too all those governments which followed them have been implacably given over to demonic powers.  Some have been relatively better than others but, at their heart, they are controlled by idols and demons themselves.

Spiritual warfare is the character of the history of the world and continues down to this day.  We have our Christ in heaven Who is, in fact, ruling with a "rod of iron" (cf. vs. 5 & Psalm 2) but the nations still rage against Him.  This warfare is real and immediate.  In it, we see that the rage of Satan is effected through the use of earthly, coercive, and deadly force, but the victorious Church overcomes these strategies by "the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony." (vs. 11)  In one sense it is a senseless war.  Satan and His legions are already defeated, having been cast out of "heaven" and "cast down to the earth".  His rage is vindictive and represents Satan's fury over his inevitable, ultimate, defeat and punishment.  Nevertheless, during this "short time" remaining (vs. 12) it is a time of great "woe" for the inhabitants of the earth for they will feel the sting of wars, persecutions, injustice, and fury.

What we must embrace is that it is, quoting Dickens, "the best of times and the worst of times."  We have reason to rejoice but we must soberly realize that the time of trials continues.  We must not despair but, as Jesus taught, we must be prepared to follow in His footsteps and to face, in His name, the harsh reality of demonic wrath.

 

 

 

Revelation 11: Two Witnesses - Testimony & Victory

Image:  "Two Witnesses", 2021, Norris Geyser Basin scene, Yellowstone Nat. Pk. Wy.

Revelation 11:1–3 Then I was given a reed like a measuring rod. And the angel stood, saying, “Rise and measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship there. 2 But leave out the court which is outside the temple, and do not measure it, for it has been given to the Gentiles. And they will tread the holy city underfoot for forty-two months. 3 And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.”

Revelation 11:6 These have power to shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy; and they have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they desire.

Revelation 11:7 When they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them.

Revelation 11:11–12 Now after the three-and-a-half days the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them. 12 And they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, “Come up here.” And they ascended to heaven in a cloud, and their enemies saw them.

Revelation 11:15 Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!”

Revelation 11:19 Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple. And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail.

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There are as many different interpretations of "who are the two witnesses in Revelation 11" as there are folks who write about the chapter.  Some of the more commonly held views are: (1) they represent "the law and the prophets", hence the summary teachings of Scripture, as symbolized by Moses and Elijah on the Mt. of Transfiguration; (2) they represent the faithful church of Jesus Christ in its role as prophet to "peoples, nations, tongues, and kings" (cf. Rev. 10:11 & 11:3) and; (3) they represent physical "prophets" who will rise up in the last days.

These have strengths and weaknesses.  My own view is that these witnesses symbolize (1) the true Gentile Church of Jesus Christ and (2) the continued preservation of ethnic Jews in fulfillment of Paul's teachings in Romans 10:1-3 & 11:1-5 where Paul says that "there is a remnant according to grace."

What do both of these groups have in common?  (1) Together they make up "all Israel" (Romans 11:26) and therefore will both ascend to heaven (Rev. 11:12, cf. 1 Thess. 4) at the Lord's coming; (2) both have born witness to the God of heaven throughout the ages and incurred the wrath and condemnation of the demonically inspired hordes (11:7ff); both possess the power of prayer as Jesus promised His faithful followers, to the end that their prayers can transform the world (11:6).  More could be said but you get my drift.

What this chapter teaches us is that the "subject" of continuing history is the witness of the true, combined, Israel to its God and to His Son Who rules over heaven and earth.  They do this because the "temple" on earth has been judged and destroyed, leaving the earth without a worldwide institutional Presence of God.  John was given a "measuring rod", like Ezekiel before him (Ezek. 40ff) to measure the temple.  As with Ezekiel, this was done to symbolize God's fierce anger at the physical temple "Presence" and its descent into idolatry and perversion.  God was going to bring about a "new temple" on the ruins of the old.  This "new temple" was instituted in the People of God who are the temple of God in space and time. (cf. Ephesians 1:22; 2:19-22)

The main points of this chapter then become: the combined people of God will continue to bear witness (testimony) to the abiding Presence of the One True God and His Son Jesus Christ, throughout the remaining age preceding the Lord's return; this witness will be effective in gathering many of the elect but it will also be effective in proving the hard-hearted arrogance of the mass of rebellious men; there will come a time when it will appear that this true witness will be stamped out and the "two witnesses" corpses (empty churches) will decorate the pavement; but, God Who is not slow concerning His promises, will return and raise up His faithful witnesses to the astonishment and terror of their enemies.

In the closing verses (11:15-19) we see, undeniably, that the trumpets take us right up to the final day.  Then it shall be that "the kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ." (11:15)  In a direct parallel to chapter 21:15-27, there is a vision of the "temple of God" opened in heaven.  the "lightnings, noises, thunderings, earthquake and great hail" take us back to Israel at the foot of Mt. Sinai when God showed Himself to His People in a terrifying vision.  

It's a wonderful and solemn story told in these verses.  It reminds us that God has set us aside for His purposes and some of these may involve daunting things.  But it also reminds us that God will use our testimony to bring His victory, a victory in which we will not only participate but in which we will be glorified and exalted.  In other words, whatever He requires... it will be worth it.

 

Revelation 09-10: Many Fall But Are Disregarded

Image: "What Was and What Is", 2021, Nez Perce Creek, Yellowstone Nat. Pk. Wy

Revelation 9:4–6 They were commanded not to harm the grass of the earth, or any green thing, or any tree, but only those men who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. 5 And they were not given authority to kill them, but to torment them for five months. ... 6 In those days men will seek death and will not find it; they will desire to die, and death will flee from them.

Revelation 9:11 And they had as king over them the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon, but in Greek he has the name Apollyon.

Revelation 9:13–15 Then the sixth angel sounded: And I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, 14 saying to the sixth angel who had the trumpet, “Release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates.” 15 So the four angels, who had been prepared for the hour and day and month and year, were released to kill a third of mankind.

Revelation 10:5–7 The angel whom I saw standing on the sea and on the land raised up his hand to heaven 6 and swore by Him who lives forever and ever, who created heaven and the things that are in it, the earth and the things that are in it, and the sea and the things that are in it, that there should be delay no longer, 7 but in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets.

Revelation 10:11 And he said to me, “You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, tongues, and kings.”

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This sad sight along the Nez Perce creek struck me as somewhat representing the Nez Perce tribe itself.  A 19th-century historian cited these people as "the richest, noblest, and most gentle of Indian peoples as well as the most industrious." [Helen Hunt Jackson, A Century of Dishonor]  They sought to accommodate the European incursion by an early treaty that promised they could stay on their huge territorial homeland.  Needless to say, the forces of greed and "progress" found that commercially and physically inconvenient (to say the least) and their land was incrementally chopped up and parceled out until they rebelled and fought.  Their heart-breaking epic 1100 mile retreat under Chief Joseph ended when fewer than 200 starving and sick people surrendered as Joseph declared: "I will fight no more forever."  Today they are a relatively few "trees" standing amidst the memories of many, truly great ancestors.  

I do not overly romanticize the history of the Native Americans in the US but, to me, the Nez Perce represent the best of those cultures.

Their fate, I think, can also illustrate what the "best" of fallen mankind's achievements will face when God brings about the closing trumpet blasts in human history.  There will come a day when the awful sovereignty and power of God will leave a few standing and they will look upon the devastation that their war against God has brought.  Unlike the Nez Perce, they will recognize that there was no injustice in their fate.  Even as their inevitable defeat is blatantly and undeniably pressing upon them, mankind, in those days, will not "repent of their murders, or their sorceries, or their sexual immorality, or their thefts." (9:21)

In these chapters, we are told that with the "sounding of the seventh angel" the "mystery of God would be finished." (10:7)  In other words, God's eternal plan for His creation would draw to a close as He completely rids of the world of the seditious rebels who have rejected His right to rule.  The details of that final consummation are still hidden from us.  They were, in my opinion, that which the "seven thunders" uttered (10:4) and which John was instructed to "seal up" and not write.  On the day of their sounding, there will be no longer any delay. (10:6)  

Perhaps we should take this to heart and realize that the previous six trumpets are already sounding.  Mankind is being afflicted with gross and insurmountable challenges that have very real and devastating consequences on our environment, our social development, and our political stability.  Wherever we scan our world and its history we see our remaining "trees" standing amidst the testimony of past "judgments."  How many people have perished in our wars, many of which were motivated by less than noble sentiments?  How puny are our attempts to stave off the forces of "death and destruction" symbolized by the titles "Abaddon" and "Apollyon"? (9:11)  Can we not say that many "thirds" of the world's population has been racked with pain and suffering and death? (9:7-15)  

The demonic forces that God has allowed to run rampant in our society have produced the most awful and previously unimaginable depravity.  I only mention the war on the unborn as one blatant example.  Man has truly reached a level of wickedness that defies excuse.  We deserve what we get... and we, mankind as a whole, will get it.

It is left to us, as the heirs of John's further ministry assignment, (10:11) to "prophesy again about many peoples, nations, tongues, and kings."  This is the continuing ministry of Christ's Church: to stand and warn.  But we must believe it.  We cannot be fooled by the apparent "security" promised by our wealth and physical power.  At one time, the Nez Perce were a powerful and multitudinous people, now they are a bare remnant.  When God sounds His final trumpet and the thunders sound from heaven, rebellious mankind's end will come.  This is, in one sense, our hope.  In another, it furnishes the impetus for zeal, courage, and boldness in our continuing witness.

Revelation 05-06: Saved From the Wrath of God

Image: "I'm Still Here", 2021, Sky scene along Hwy 20, prior to Ashton, ID

Revelation 5:8–10  Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9 And they sang a new song, saying:  “You are worthy to take the scroll, And to open its seals; For You were slain, And have redeemed us to God by Your blood Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, 10 And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth.”

Revelation 6:12–14 I looked when He opened the sixth seal, and behold, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became like blood. 13 And the stars of heaven fell to the earth, as a fig tree drops its late figs when it is shaken by a mighty wind. 14 Then the sky receded as a scroll when it is rolled up, and every mountain and island was moved out of its place.

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The Revelation given to John is built around groupings of 7.  The scroll which the Lamb alone was found worthy to open was sealed with seven seals, each of which, when opened gives insight into the progress of history from the time the Lamb ascended to the throne room of God until God's final judgment brings all time, as we know it, to a close.  Thus, I ascribe to what is called the "recapitulation" hermeneutical interpretation of the Revelation.  Each of the following cycles (trumpets, etc.) will essentially cover the same span.  Thus, starting with chapter 6 we will be given further descriptions of the nature of time as it progresses until, finally, the great consummation which closes the book.

So, what do we see in the remaining verses of chapter 5 and all of chapter six?

Briefly, we see the stated purpose of history stated by all of creation, the angelic beings, and the redeemed people of God expressed in 5: 8-14.  The Lamb Who was slain, even our Lord Jesus Christ, is hailed for His completed work of redemption and His ascension to the throne of God.  The four living creatures, who represent the span of God's "living" creatures (animals and man) a well as the twenty four elders who represent the fullness of the elect in both the Old and New Testament dispensations, proclaim the surpassing merit of Him  who has "redeemed us to God by Your blood."  Note the finished work that is proclaimed as well as the transformed reality of those who benefit from this redemption.  Out of all the tribes and peoples of the earth, there are those who have been made "kings and priests to our God."  This is the reality of their status.  But like a crown prince awaiting actual seating on the throne, these proclaim that they "shall reign on the earth."

Here is the great future that provides such a reason for hope and joy.  The redeemed of the earth will reign and rule on the earth.  We have a glorious future ahead of us on that day when the implicit promise of the Garden of Eden, where man was to exercise dominion on the earth, will be finally accomplished. (5:9-10)

This particular shout of thanksgiving and praise is followed by a general shout of astonished wonder by the innumerable angels surrounding the redeemed host who add their voices in worship. (5:11)  Even the dead of earth, buried in both earth and sea will be present in the chorus (5:13)

Thus we see the full range of God's created work as giving thanks for His great salvation.  This is the end goal of history.  It is why all things were created and it is why we, individually, exist.  God's great sovereign rule, exercised through His Son, our Lord, works to this end and will bring about eternal joy and unending worship from all creatures, heavenly or worldly, the living and the dead.

Such a wonderful picture and one that creates intense longing.  But we are solemnly taught that this great end of all things is to be progressively attained.  The seals must be opened and the contents of creation's history opened to our eyes.  The seals are not necessarily intended to convey sequence in actual time but rather further insights of truths that may, and often does, overlap.

Thus, with seal one, we see the history of conquest and domination unleashed as various nations rise up in history to conquer and subjugate peoples.  Man will continue to aspire to autonomous rule in the stead of God.  This will bring about many things but its inevitable character will be that of "crown-wearing" enforced by force of arms.  (6:1-2)  Then comes the second seal and we see the passions of violence unleashed and peace taken from the earth.  Lawlessness will always be present and in many eras will dominate the scene. (6:3-4) Similarly, we see that history will involve the cruelty of hunger and inflation as corrupt power oppresses those who cannot defend themselves. (6:5-6)  There will be widespread death when wars (such as the two world wars) or epidemics reshape entire generations such that huge swaths of the population are killed. (6:7-8) The persecution of the saints will continue and the entire span of time will evoke great longing from the people of God for Him to "come quickly" and bring their suffering to an end. (6:9-11)  But, in God's perfect timing, there will come a day when the earth will be shaken and the cosmic balance upset and sinful man, who was responsible for all the sufferings revealed in the first five seals, will be terrified at the approaching judgment they so richly deserve. (6:12-17)

Of particular interest is the absolute statement that this is the day of the "wrath of the Lamb!" (vs. 16)  Though He is gentle and mild to those who love Him and keep His commandments, yet we must remember that He is the jealous Lion of Judah who will indeed bring judgment on His foes.

These are scary thoughts but they must be understood through the prior testimony of chapter 5.   The wrath of God will never touch the redeemed of the earth.  Though we live in the very real manifestation of the 5 seals, where each of the circumstances they proclaim is readily discernable about us, yet, the end result is certain and we have a reason, even now, to fall down and worship Him Who has saved us by His blood.

 

 

 

 

 

Hebrews 3: But We Have Today!

Image: "Tidal Bore", 2013, Vicinity of St. Johns, Newfoundland, Ca 

Hebrews 3:5–6  And Moses indeed was faithful in all His house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which would be spoken afterward, 6 but Christ as a Son over His own house, whose house we are if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end.

Hebrews 3:7–8  Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you will hear His voice, 8 Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, In the day of trial in the wilderness,

Hebrews 3:12–14 Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; 13 but exhort one another daily, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end,

Hebrews 3:18–19  And to whom did He swear that they would not enter His rest, but to those who did not obey? 19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.

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The Bay of Fundy has the largest tidal variation in the world.  Boats moored to a dock will ride easily abreast it at high tide only to rest on the ground at low tide.  Not only that but the tide will have receded as much as a quarter of a mile from the dock.  And when it comes in it arrives with a rush.  

This tidal variation creates an interesting phenomenon called a "tidal bore."  Rivers that normally flow to the sea during low tide will have a reverse flow as the incoming tide races toward its zenith.  In the image above you see the incoming tide crashing against the flowing river as the reverse flow begins.  

There's a tidal "rhythm" in history also.  God does something wonderful and for a period history "flows" in a healthy and beneficial manner for the people of God.  Then sin begins to "come back."  During this phase, even the people of God can crash against God's purposes and even reverse course.  God lets this go for a while and then He fixes it.  He brings judgment or does another great work and the cycle begins again.

The ebb and flow of human events are registered in belief vs unbelief.  

In this chapter, the writer speaks to this phenomenon.  God has done something wonderful!  He has provided us with an "Apostle and High Priest", Christ Jesus, "who was faithful" in all things. (vs. 1,2)  Thus God is reversing the "flow" of "belief/unbelief" again, only this time in a superlative manner.  The writer draws a contrast with a previous era when God did something similar, the time of Moses, and draws a parallel and contrast between now and then.  God's sending of Jesus is so much more wonderful than His work with Moses.  Moses was a "house steward" in God's kingdom, the most important "servant" in the household, but a "servant" never-the-less.  This time God has sent His Son who is the Heir of God's House.  The House and all in it are His possession.  Thus Moses was not even remotely in the same league as Jesus. (vs. 5-6)

But, we are warned, the ebb and flow have not been eliminated.  Even as happened in the day of Moses, as spectacular as God's works were then, man's sin "crashed into" the witness of God's works.  Unbelief is beaten down for a moment but then begins to reassert itself.  The writer is here concerned to tell us that we must not only be aware of this tidal shift but we must consciously and diligently guard against it.  We will prove to be the "house" of God if we "hold fast... firm to the end."

The crucially important teaching here is that the reverse flow of sin, pushing against the great works of God, is inevitable but so is the corollary.  God will again act, at some point, to reassert Himself over and against man's sin.  This is also inevitable.  It is as predictable as the Fundy Bay tides themselves.

So, this period of time we are in, called "today" in this chapter, must be understood very clearly.  Christians must see the parallel between our time and Moses' time.  Then, God's people "hardened" their hearts and as a result, virtually their entire generation died in the desert of ignominy. They did not "believe."  They went "astray in their heart". (vs. 10)  You see, unbelief is a lifestyle... it is a flow of human events.  It is not a matter of philosophical agreement with certain propositional truths, it is belief registered in action, in willing, heart-felt obedience to a living God who owns the "House" which we are.

If the people of God, of all the world's people, fail to grasp the seriousness of this truth then unbelief will enter in, and, like the rest of the world, they will run head-on into the coming "correction" God will bring.  However, this next "correction" will not begin another cycle as it did with Moses.  There can be no greater "correction" given to the flow of history than that which God sent in Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ of God.

We must accept the fact that if we evidence unbelief we also will die in the desert.  This life is "today" and it is the only "day" we will get to register lives of faith.  It is left for us, once to die, and then face judgment.  Beyond this next "correction" the doors to "eternal rest" will be opened wide.  The restless rivers of human discontent will be stilled.  We must "partake of Christ" through faith and then "hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end." (vs. 14)

We are not standing on the banks of the river watching this tidal bore, as was I when I took this image.  We are the waves crashing and pounding below.  There is nothing more important in our lives than to grasp this truth and ensure that we are the waves of belief in the picture... otherwise our peril is assured.

 

 

2 Timothy 3: Perilous Times Indeed

Image: "Standing Tall", 2013, View of "Angels Landing", Zion National Park, Utah.  

2 Timothy 3:12–13 Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 13 But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.

2 Timothy 3:16–17 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

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Anyone so foolish as to think the Bible to be an archaic work of fiction with no relevance to the present day should be stopped dead in their tracks by the opening verses in this chapter.

2 Timothy 3:1–5  But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!

Are these words not an apt summary of our modern ethical context?  Do we not see these behaviors present all around us?  Worst of all, do we not have to acknowledge that in movies, TV shows, and even politics, these behaviors are celebrated?  Americans love success and we are, as a people, often quite content to not care a great deal about how success was obtained.  One of the most brilliant movies Hollywood ever produces was "The Godfather."  Let's confess.  Did we not "root" for the Corleone family?  Did we not approve of the murderous conclusion?  And that movie debuted in 1972, 40 years ago!  We watch "entertainment" now that is lightyears beyond that story in celebrating violence, lawlessness, and perversion.

We live in a social order given over to the "despisers of good", the "lovers of pleasure", etc.  In many of our modern "churches", especially those completely sold out to cultural accommodation, can we not say that they "have a form of godliness but deny its power?"  Any objective analysis would have to affirm Paul's words as describing our times.

If so, what "times" are these?  Paul calls them "the last days" and he says that they are "perilous" indeed.

So, what are we to do?  Do we just throw up our hands and declare that the world is "going to Hell in a hand-basket" and retreat into our little pious enclaves and celebrate ourselves for escaping these things (if indeed we have)?  Paul does say "from such people turn away" doesn't he?  We might be inclined to accept this except for Paul's further statements in the chapter.

Paul says that "turning away" means that we are not to align ourselves with these people.  We are not to be identified with them, even by association.  We certainly are not to compromise with their values by allowing their moral pretensions to be tolerated within our community.  We must see them as those whose "folly will be manifest to all" as was that of Jannes and Jambres. (vs. 9)  But we must also recognize that our witness to another rule of life and practice must be made clear.

We must be visibly different among them but not with them.  We should participate in our social context in an active manner, standing tall, in our corporate reality, as a rock-solid alternative. We have to be seen as different, every day.  This is even more stringent as we see "evil men and imposters" growing "worse and worse" all around us.  The tide of depravity must flow around us like a boulder in the midst of a rapid stream.  But like that boulder, we must, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, not be moved.

The inevitable outcome will be that we are noticed and resented.  Some will be inspired by our solid foundation and wish to align themselves with us.  This is the cutting edge of God's gospel power.  But others will be infuriated and we will find ourselves cruelly despised, castigated, and perhaps mistreated.  Paul says clearly: "all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." (vs. 12)  So be it.  Our calling is to obedience.  Godliness, in this life, is its own reward and we should not look for any other rewards from the culture.  It cannot award them to us and remain true to itself.  Therefore, we must embrace the reality and strengthen our weak knees to persevere under whatever God's providence brings our ways.

We have not been left without guidance.  Paul's famous teaching in vs. 16-17 tells us that we have all that we need to live obediently in God's Holy Word.  There we will find the wisdom we need to equip us "for every good work."  Now is the time, perilous though it may be, for all Christians to embrace their Christ and follow His footsteps in the light He has provided for our walk.

It's not at all a call for despair.  It is a call to hope, for ourselves and for the wicked world around us.  How can they hear if no one "preaches' to them, both through the spoken word and by the example of godly living?  Our song must always be: 'To God be the glory...", no matter what.

 

 

2 Thessalonians 2 & 3: A Troubling Future

Image: "A Sure Defense", 2013, Roadside view along US90, vicinity of Billings.

2 Thessalonians 2:1–3  Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition,

2 Thessalonians 2:7  For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way.

2 Thessalonians 2:11–12  And for this reason, God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

2 Thessalonians 3:6  But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us.

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No one likes the idea that "it's gotta get worse before it gets better."  Especially when it appears that the world is going to Hell in a handbasket.  ( I wonder how that saying got started.)  That was the situation back in Paul's day in spades.  The Romans were savagely suppressing any groups they deemed a threat to their control or the status quo.  The Jews actively pursued "canceling the culture" of the upstart Christian community.  There was rampant perversity within the pagan cities and ordinary citizens were resentful of Christians condemning such things.  In every way, similar to our own day, the Church was increasingly being shoved into a siege mentality.  Things were pretty bad and yet, Paul, in effect, told the Thessalonians that it was definitely going to get worse before it got better.  

What Paul proclaimed was a view of history.  It was on a trajectory toward culmination.  The ultimate hope Paul taught in previous writings (especially his first letter) was that Jesus was going to return and straighten things out once and for all. When He returned there would be a decisive judgment on all their enemies and a vindication of their message and witness, but, prior to that glorious day, there would come a time when it would seem the "Truth was forever on the scaffold (and) Wrong forever on the throne" (James Russel Lowell, "The Present Crisis").  This was how, in God's perfect wisdom, things must be and Christians must not let that prospect discourage them or render them impotent.

Paul said there would come a time when the "spirit of the Anti-Christ" (1 Jn 4:3) would climax in an individual or a dominant institution that would actively sit "as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God." (2:4) There is only one way this can be understood.  This "spirit of the Anti-Christ" would so infest the Church of God that blasphemy and heresy would dominate its witness.  We can see this tendency throughout Christian history as the Church struggled, often in near despair, against abominable heresies.  There was a time, yet in the future for Paul, when the Arian heresy that denied the Trinity and specifically Jesus' identity with God the Father, was the majority "denomination" in the Empire.  Throughout the centuries this attack has continued.  Many so-called "liberal Christian" denominations today seek to undermine the Bible as authoritative for theology and practice.  The pressure exerted by our surrounding culture works constantly to push Christians toward a more "inclusive" acceptance of those who adopt practices that God calls abominations.  It's hard to believe that things can get worse, but they will and they must.

In the face of similar circumstances, Paul says that "all who (do) not believe the truth" but have "pleasure in unrighteousness" will be condemned.  (2:12)  He says that these pressures reflect that the "mystery of lawlessness" is at work. (2:7) He plainly declares that these things are the "working of Satan" and that it causes many to fall prey to "unrighteous deception" which will lead to their perishing. (2:10)

But, Paul says, the beacon of light shining forth in true believers, even if they are only a remnant, will not be extinguished.  His confidence is rooted, not in the heroic discipline and moral fortitude of those believers, but in the sovereign power of God to preserve His witness on earth.  And this is a cause for rejoicing.  

2 Thessalonians 2:13  But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth.'

So, how should the Church respond to such a sober analysis?  They are to "stand fast" in the teachings of the Gospel and to "withdraw from every brother" who does not walk in it. (3:6)  Yes, the Church will be attacked and infiltrated by those who are being used by Satan but Christians have everything they need to identify these false brothers and take action.  They should actively separate themselves from those who do not walk "according to the tradition" Paul passed down. (3:6)  The Church must not allow those who deny the Bible's inerrant and authoritative word into their fellowship.  If any members already in fellowship are discovered then they should be separated out. 

These are difficult things to do.  It is hard for modern Christians, raised in an atmosphere of radical inclusivity, to undertake to judge.  We fear being castigated as bigots and narrow-minded hypocrites.  But this is what must be done.  

Certainly, we must guard against hypocrisy and hatred.  But we must reserve our "first love" to our God and His holiness.  This is the only way to fight against the Spirit of the Anti-Christ.  We must oppose it with the Holy Spirit, Who alone is able to empower us to persevere in what we face or what is yet to come.

 

Colossians 2: Only the Appearance of Wisdom

Image: "Barren Branches", 2018, Chesapeake City, Md.

Colossians 2:2–3  that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

Colossians 2:8   Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.

Colossians 2:20  Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations—

Colossians 2:22–23  which all concern things which perish with the using—according to the commandments and doctrines of men? 23 These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.

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A theologian whom I much admire, Herman Bavinck, lived through the cataclysm that ushered in the "new" 20th century.  It was a time of great flux.  Social movements shook the "old world" global structures and the advances in science, medicine, engineering, and philosophy combined into something like a new religion.  Man, confidently thought he could know it all.  Yet, as Bavinck noted, many of the younger intellectuals were keenly aware of a spiritual vacuum. They became aware in the midst of an "idolization of science and culture", of a growing apprehension of spiritual elements that must account for the "unknowable and unrecognizable" reality surrounding us.  This led, in Bavinck's words, to an incipient "mystical idealism."  That which was common to the idols of both scientific and mystical ideology was "an aversion to the common Christian faith."

I submit that not much has changed in the last 100+ years.  Paul says that in many ways it was the same then in the regions of Asia Minor to which he wrote.

"Mystical idealism" is not a bad characterization of the problem troubling the church at Colosse and Laodicea.  They were being assaulted by "philosophy and empty deceit" that was woven from the witch's brew of "tradition(s) of men, according to the basic principles of the world." (v. 8)  There were several elements to this threat, as in Bavinck's day and as are now.  At its core, these false teachings stem from sinful man's desire to explain the cosmos his way, that is through reason.  

The key principle is to construct both empirical (physical) knowledge and religious (metaphysical) knowledge from the "basic principles of the world." (vs. 8 and 20)  Thus man wants to reason from what "he sees" to "what is."  In physical knowledge, science, this is straight-forward, though very deficient when it comes to explaining all things.  In religion, man wants to construct "idols" from what he sees and assign to them the spiritual power to explain events in the real world.  Thus the "stars", in Paul's day, were thought to be angels or demons.  Astrology was embraced as explaining any life events.  

In both physical and metaphysical aspects, it always comes back to man wanting to be in control.  If all it takes is "wisdom and knowledge" (cf. vs. 5) then man can manipulate his world.  He can satisfy the gods through rituals and offerings.  He can manipulate the physical world to master all of its terrors.  In other words, at its heart, there is man's absolute desire for autonomous knowledge.  This was Adam's sin and it is man's sin right down to this day.

Paul takes on this autonomous desire head-on.  Knowledge, true knowledge, absolute knowledge, is not possible to man through contemplation of the "basic principles of the world."  The most man can attain, whether through science or philosophy, is a "provisional knowledge" that has some undeniable benefits but it always fails in the comprehensive sense.  True knowledge, as Paul teaches, is only available through "revelation."  In other words, God has to make known to man that which is absolutely true.  

Paul unequivocally states that the fullest revelation of absolute truth was revealed to man in the Person of Jesus Christ.  In Him are "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."  ALL of it.  The answers to all man's questions man are found in Him.  And the means by which man gains access to this knowledge is through faith.  Faith brings a man into relation to Jesus.  One does not gain this privilege and the freedom it brings by doing "stuff."  The idols demand religious works or they, very petulantly, turn on their followers.  But Jesus frees His followers from those burdens, those "regulations". (vs. 20)  

In Jesus, through faith, the physical world and the metaphysical world are opened to man.  Certainly, we do not know comprehensively.  But that which we know we can know absolutely.  The ultimate truth of all things, physical and metaphysical, is God Himself and in Christ, we are brought in relation, and knowledge, of the "fullness of the Godhead!" (vs. 9)  As we "walk in Him (and) are rooted in Him" and "abound in" Him (vs. 6) we turn away from the "appearance of wisdom" (vs. 23) and obtain the real thing.

In science we no longer begin with the elementary principles or observations, we begin with Christ and thus see those things through Him.  This is the path of true knowledge in Science.  Philosophy or Metaphysics, do not start with the world as we perceive it but with Christ as He has revealed it.  Thus our world becomes unified in our understanding.  Chaos becomes order and order reveals glory.

No longer are we to seek knowledge through vain religious activities. (vs. 23)  We are to seek it where it can be found, in Christ, as He has revealed Himself to us through His Word and His Spirit.  This is freedom and this is joy.

 

2 Corinthians 1 & 2: Yes and Amen!

Image: "Not Defeated", 2021, Severna Park, Md

2 Corinthians 1:3–4  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

2 Corinthians 1:20–22  For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. 21 Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, 22 who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.

2 Corinthians 2:6–7  This punishment which was inflicted by the majority is sufficient for such a man, 7 so that, on the contrary, you ought rather to forgive and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with too much sorrow.

2 Corinthians 2:15–16  For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16 To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things?

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If anyone had a reason to quit it would have been Paul.  He tells the Corinthians that he had been "burdened beyond measure, above strength", he had even despaired of life itself.  All he had, he says, was Jesus.  He saw his circumstances as being, in some sense, ordained by God so that he was brought to realize that he had no hope in himself, but only in "God who raises the dead." (1:8-9)

Though the Corinthian church had occasioned much worry in his heart, yet he also very much appreciated their prayers and their support. (1:11)  Here we get a glimpse into the "ordinary" life of the Christian Church when it engages the surrounding darkness.

We are so accustomed to our ease and relative prosperity, that we forget or have never known what it is like, to live "on the edge."  I get uncomfortable hearing some American Christians speaking of how they have been "persecuted" for their faith.  They may have had to endure some discomfort.  They may have had some people say nasty things or even "stab them in the back" at the workplace or in their social circles.  But few of us have been pushed to the limits.  Few of us have been brought to the brink of despair because of our faithful witness.  (I am not saying that no other circumstances may have done so!)  Paul had wondered if his body would be strong enough to endure, perhaps for even one more day.  

One terrible temptation Satan throws at us in such situations is doubt.  Paul knew the promises of God through Jesus Christ.  But, in the face of such rough treatment, he began to wonder.  It was the "comfort" he received in the face of despair, that reassured him.  Through the encouragement, the Corinthians and others extended to him, he again got back to "basics."  (1:15-24)  He remembered his work among them, the confident words he spoke to them, the fruits of the Word that came from it, and he gained a measure of joy again.  He again looked to his Savior and reaffirmed that "all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him, Amen, to the glory of God through us!"  The persevering witness of the Church, of his own continuing ministry, asserted God's continued sustaining love and even pleasure in him... and... in the Corinthians.  It was the Spirit who "sealed us" and who is our "guarantee."  

Noble words indeed and a much-needed reminder of how the Church ought to be functioning throughout the ages.  Jesus had said "woe be unto you when all men speak well of you." (Luke 6:26)  If the Church is not making waves in the culture in which it is immersed, then it needs to question whether it is doing its job.  And where there are waves, there will be a backlash.  Why should we be surprised when evil men and dominions react angrily to our message and our witness?  It has been the constant witness of generations of faithful Christian proclamation.  

And it is even necessary to the Church!  We all have to be brought to the edge on occasion.  We all have to be reminded that "all" we have is Christ and His promises.  It is exactly in these situations that the power of God and the Presence of His Holy Spirit will be most evident.  It is then that we become "the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing!" (2:15)  Paul, even as he is writing these words, suddenly regains a measure of joy.  He sees that God is leading "us in triumph in Christ!"  He must be, or such reactions from Christ's enemies would not be forthcoming. (2:14)

The Corinthians had responded to his previous letter and had dealt with the serious sin among them he had denounced.  Now, Paul says, they are to build on that work and extend it.  They were to be as zealous in "forgiveness" as they were in judgment. (2:7ff)  The witness of the Church, standing against sin, is also to be exhibited in its practice of the gospel, in its willingness and readiness to forgive.  If such is not present then Satan has further opportunity to take advantage.  

This too will be difficult, even to the point of generating some further challenges, but the promises of Christ have to be trusted here, even as in all things.

We all should be humbled by this message and we need to strengthen our resolve to stand for Christ and His Kingdom over and against all contrary doctrines and "worldly wisdom" that is present in the darkness around us.