

### STUDIES IN REVELATION

The Seven Trumpets – Part 2

### Jack Marshall

### STUDIES IN REVELATION

The Seven Trumpets – Part 2

### Jack Marshall

Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2019 Grain of Wheat Publishing

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

Thank you for downloading this ebook. This book remains the copyrighted property of the author. This free ebook may be copied, distributed, reposted, reprinted and shared, provided it appears in its entirety without alteration, and the reader is not charged to access it.

This study is dedicated to the body of Christ.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Chapter One: Write

Chapter Two: The First Trumpet

Chapter Three: The Third Part

Chapter Four: Nicolaitanism

Chapter Five: The Second Trumpet

Chapter Six: Collective Thinking

Chapter Seven: The Third Trumpet

Chapter Eight: Antipas

Chapter Nine: The Doctrine of Balaam

Chapter Ten: The Doctrine of the Nicolaitans

Chapter Eleven: The Fourth Trumpet

Bibliography

Introduction

If you've happened upon this study and have not yet read Part 1, I would encourage you to do so. It's titled, "Studies in Revelation – The Seven Trumpets – Part 1," freely available through Smashwords and the corresponding link as given.

This became a lengthy study, based on the fact that the seven trumpets of Revelation comprise a fair portion of the book of the Revelation and also challenge us with a good number of symbols which must be considered. Due to the amount of information involved, I will also be releasing "Part 3" once Part 2 is finished. Will there be a "Part 4"? Time will tell.

There are mistakes in this presentation, not by intention, but out of ignorance. I am still and always will be learning. It has been difficult to put aside what I have inherited in order to see from a fresh perspective.

In His Grace,

Jack Marshall

Please note: All Hebrew and Greek definitions are taken from the Strong's Greek and Hebrew Dictionary unless otherwise noted. All Bible passages are taken from the New King James Bible unless otherwise noted.

### Revelation 8:2 (KJV)  
And I saw the seven angels which stood before God;

and to them were given seven trumpets.

# Chapter One

# WRITE

Revelation 1:17-19 (NASB77)  
17 And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as a dead man. And He laid His right hand upon me, saying, "Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, 18 and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades. 19 "Write therefore the **things which you have seen** , and the **things which are** , and the **things which shall take place after these things**.

In Part 1 of this series, I began with the same passages. This is Part 2, and as you can see, I begin with them again in order to emphasize a very important key to understanding the book of the Revelation.

What did the Lord tell John? "Write therefore the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall take place after these things." Clearly, this is a reference to John's past, his present, and to the future of things to come regarding the revelation of Jesus Christ to the church. So it is that when we consider the visions of this book, we must consider them in light of what John had seen and experienced, where he stood now in regard to those things, and what John received in the way of what would come after.

What we must also consider is that what was destined for John's future could now be part of our past, for the visions of this book were given and received almost two thousand years ago.

Beloved, despite our carnal attempts at stamping this book with such horrendous and foolish interpretations, the book of the revelation of Jesus Christ is just that—the "disclosure" of Jesus Christ, the unveiling of God's divine purpose through His Son for His body, the church. It is the unfolding of the Father's will and grace for His people and then for the world, and at the end of the age, we shall see a glorious manifestation of His divine love unlike anything we have ever seen before.

Finally, there is one other key to understanding this book. Paul gives this to us in Romans, Chapter 11.

Romans 11:1-12 (ESV)  
1 I ask, then, **has God rejected his people**? By no means! For I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. 2 **God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew**. Do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he appeals to God against Israel? 3 "Lord, they have killed your prophets, they have demolished your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life." 4 But what is God's reply to him? " **I have kept for myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal**." 5 **So too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace**. 6 But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace. 7 What then? **Israel failed to obtain what it was seeking. The elect obtained it, but the rest were hardened** , 8 as it is written, "God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that would not see and ears that would not hear, down to this very day." 9 And David says, "Let their table become a snare and a trap, a stumbling block and a retribution for them; 10 let their eyes be darkened so that they cannot see, and bend their backs forever." 11 So I ask, **did they stumble in order that they might fall**? By no means! **Rather through their trespass salvation has come to the Gentiles, so as to make Israel jealous**. 12 **Now if their trespass means riches for the world, and if their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their full inclusion mean!**

My friends, when we consider what Paul recorded in these passages, we will see that there are three groups in regard to His people. First, natural Israel (Rom. 11:21), followed by the "remnant," then the "Gentiles" or all others who are "called out" from the other nations of the world (Rom. 11:16-24). Beloved, this has always been the case in scripture, for "many are called, but few are chosen" (Matt. 22:14; KJV). The "few" are the "remnant," and at this "present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace." So it is that we find the following.

Revelation 17:14 (NKJV)  
14 These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those _who are_ with Him _are_ **called** , **chosen** , and **faithful**."

When we consider Revelation, we must remain mindful of the differences between those who are "called," those who are "chosen," and those who are "faithful," first for natural Israel, followed by "spiritual" Israel or the Gentiles. Please consider the following from Wikipedia about our word "Gentile."

Gentile (from Latin gentilis ("of or belonging to the same people or nation"), from gēns ("clan; tribe; people, family") + adjective suffix -īlis ("-ile") is an ethnonym that commonly means non-Jew according to Judaism.[1] Other groups that claim Israelite heritage sometimes use the term to describe outsiders.[2]

The term is used by English translators for the Hebrew גוי (goy) and נכרי (nokhri) in the Hebrew Bible and the Greek word ἔθνη (éthnē) in the New Testament. The term "gentiles" is derived from Latin and not an original Hebrew or Greek word from the Bible.

The original words goy and ethnos refer to "peoples" or "nations" and are applied to both Israelites and non-Israelites in the Bible.[3] However, in most biblical uses, it denotes peoples distinct from Israel.

As we see, "Gentile" is merely a reference to anyone who is not a natural Jew by fleshly lineage. In Romans 11, Paul refers to himself in this fashion, as well as to his own people, the people of Israel. Note that Paul says "an Israelite" as opposed to a Jew, however, he goes on to say "the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin." The tribe of Benjamin was one of the tribes of the Kingdom of Judah, thus it was considered Jewish ("Jew"-dah). That being said, all Jews are Israelites but not all Israelites are Jews. Of course, there is much more behind this than what first meets the eye, but we'll leave that for another study.

# Chapter Two

# THE FIRST TRUMPET

Once the seventh seal is opened we find that "the seven angels which stood before God" were given "seven trumpets." Then "another angel, having a golden censer," fills it with "fire from the altar" and casts it "to the earth." Once this happens, we see "voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake. And the seven angels prepared themselves to sound" (Rev. 8:2-6; KJV). Compare to the following from Hebrews.

Hebrews 12:18-29 (NKJV)  
18 For you have not come to the **mountain** that may be touched and that **burned with fire** , and to **blackness** and **darkness** and **tempest** (a storm), 19 and **the sound of a trumpet** and **the voice of words** , so that those who heard _it_ begged that the word should not be spoken to them anymore. 20 (For they could not endure what was commanded: _"And if so much as a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned or shot with an arrow."_ 21 And so terrifying was the sight _that_ Moses said, _"I am exceedingly afraid_ and trembling.") 22 But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, 23 to the general assembly and church of the firstborn _who are_ registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, 24 to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than _that of_ Abel. 25 See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, **much more** _shall we not escape_ **if we turn away from Him who** _speaks_ **from heaven** , 26 **whose voice then shook the earth** ; but now He has promised, saying, _"_ _Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven_ _."_ 27 Now this, _"Yet once more,"_ indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, **that the things which cannot be shaken may remain**. 28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. 29 For our God _is_ a consuming fire.

Our description above encapsulates the giving of the law to Moses and Israel at Mount Sinai. When compared to our passages in Revelation 8, we find the meaning of our "voices" (Heb. 12:19), "thunderings" (Heb. 12:18, 26), "lightnings" (Heb. 12:18), and "earthquake" (Heb. 12:18, 26-27). Inasmuch as this phenomenon involved the giving of the law to natural Israel, we now see the same thing reflected in regard to, not only the Jews, but also the Gentiles, setting the precedent for the sounding of the seven trumpets.

As the writer of Hebrews states, it is the "voice" of "Him who speaks from heaven" that shakes "not only the earth, but also heaven." This is the "voice" of Jesus Christ (Rev. 1:5) whose "voice" John described as a "loud voice, _as of a trumpet_ " (Rev. 1:10). This is the "voice" of "He who has the seven Spirits of God" (Rev. 3:1) "who are before His throne" (Rev. 1:4), which proceeds from the _manifestation_ of His wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, fear, and judgment (Isa. 11:1-4). Israel received this law at Mount Sinai, along with its literal ordinances, Tabernacle, and Feasts, but in Revelation, it's the spiritual efficacy of these literal components which ushers forth in order to fulfill all of its prophetic implications (Matt. 5:17-20).

Before we continue, let's reintroduce our illustration of the lampstand that we used in Part 1.

As our illustration shows, the seven Spirits of God, as well as the seven churches, are represented by each of the seven branches of the golden lampstand. We have six branches, joined at the central branch, which represents the precious _death_ and _resurrection_ of our Savior. This is a total of _seven_ , the "great number of spiritual perfection" (E.W. Bullinger's _Number in Scripture_ ), the number of _fullness_ and _manifestation_. When viewed in this fashion, we can step through each of the seven prophecies to the seven churches, beginning with the first branch and ending with the seventh, for each "trumpet" is the _unfolding_ or _fulfillment_ of each prophecy as the words of Christ come to fruition.

Revelation 8:7 (KJV)  
7 **The first angel sounded** , and **there followed hail and fire mingled with blood** , and **they were cast upon the earth** : and **the third part of trees was burnt up** , and **all green grass was burnt up**.

"The first angel sounded." Who or what is this first angel? If our illustration is correct, then it speaks of "the _Spirit_ of _wisdom_." So it is that the wisdom of God sets the precedent for all the trumpets (Luke 11:49-51; Acts 6:10; Rom. 11:33; I Cor. 1:24, 30; 2:6-7, 13). As a matter of reference, we read, "Here is _wisdom_. Let him that hath _understanding_ count the number of the beast" (Rev. 13:18; KJV) and "here is the mind which hath _wisdom_. The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman sitteth" (Rev. 17:9; KJV). As we discovered in Part 1, the "seven heads" or "mountains" represent the church, the _called_ of God wherein are found the chosen and faithful (Rev. 17:14).

When the first angel sounds, there follows " _hail_ and _fire_ mingled with blood, and they were _cast upon the earth_." "Hail" is cold while "fire" is hot. Sound familiar? It should, because, in regard to the church of Laodicea, Jesus said, "I know your works, that you are neither _cold_ nor _hot_. I could wish you were _cold_ or _hot_. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither _cold_ nor _hot_ , I will vomit you out of My mouth." What is meant by "cold" or "hot"? This, my friend, refers to our _spiritual position_ in Christ based on our _love_ for His Word and kingdom (Matt. 24:12). Please consider.

Luke 12:49-53 (ESV)  
49 " **I came to cast** fire **on the earth** , and would that it were already kindled! 50 I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how great is my distress until it is accomplished! 51 **Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division**. 52 For from now on in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three. 53 They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law."

What was John told to write? The "things which you have seen" (Rev. 1:19). What did Jesus say? "I came to _cast fire on the earth_." Beloved, when Jesus came to the Jews, their love for God and the truth was undoubtedly "cold," evidenced by the fact that their religious pride knew no boundaries and they had made the commandment of God of no effect through their traditions (Matt. 15:1-9; Matthew, Chapter 23).

What did Jesus tell the religious leaders of His time? "You are of your father the devil" (John 8:44). With this in mind, consider our first prophecy to the church of Ephesus.

Revelation 2:2-5 (NKJV)  
2 I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that **you cannot bear those who are evil**. And **you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars** ; 3 and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary. 4 Nevertheless I have _this_ against you, that **you have left your first love**. 5 **Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works** , or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place--unless you repent.

Jesus told Ephesus, "You cannot bear those _who are evil_. And _you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not_ , and have found them liars." Is this an apt description of the spiritual state of the Jews in the days of Christ and the apostles? It is, for we must keep in mind that the persecution which Jesus endured through His ministry _continued_ with the ministry of His apostles. In light of this, consider the following.

Matthew 24:3-5, 9-12 (NKJV)  
3 Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, "Tell us, when will these things be? And **what** _will be_ **the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age**?" 4 And Jesus answered and said to them: " **Take heed that no one deceives you.** 5 **For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many** ..." 9 Then **they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake**. 10 And then **many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another**. 11 Then **many false prophets will rise up and deceive many**. 12 And because lawlessness will abound, **the love of many will grow cold**.

When the disciples asked Jesus about the sign of His coming and of the end of the age, what was His first response? "Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' _and will deceive many_." Of all that Jesus could have answered with, He answered _first_ with "false apostles," for an "apostle" is considered a "delegate" or "ambassador" of the gospel (Strong's). Furthermore, Jesus _was not saying_ that these false apostles would claim to be Christ, but would claim that He is the Christ, just as true apostles do (II Cor. 11:13-15). Many false prophets today are quick to name Christ as Lord, but what did Jesus say in Matthew 7:21? "Not everyone _who says_ to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he _who does_ the will of My Father in heaven." This is in keeping with our _first_ prophecy and trumpet.

Here we have it, my friends. " _Many_ false prophets will rise up and deceive _many_. And because lawlessness will abound, the _love_ of _many_ will grow _cold_." What did Jesus tell Ephesus? "You have _left_ your first _love_."

Jesus told His disciples, "If you _love_ Me, _keep_ My commandments" (John 14:15). A short while later He told them again, "If you _keep_ My commandments, _you will abide in My love_ , just as _I have kept_ My Father's commandments _and abide in His love_ " (John 15:10). Ah, but in our prophecy to Ephesus, we see that some began to leave this love and thus His commandments, and this due to the entrance of false apostles and their corruptible influence.

"Hail and fire mingled with blood, and _they were cast upon the earth_." Careful study shows that this aligns with what we see in Revelation, Chapter 12, where we find "a great wonder in heaven; a _woman clothed with the sun_ , and the _moon_ under her feet, and upon her head _a crown of twelve stars_ " (Rev. 12:1; KJV). This "woman" denotes the New Covenant Promise of God, described as "Jerusalem which is above" in Galatians 4:26, and recorded for us in Jeremiah 31, verses 31 through 34, and Hebrews 8, verses 7 through 13.

The "sun" represents the _glorious light_ of the New Covenant Promise while the "moon" signifies the _glory_ of the Old Covenant law of God (II Cor. 3:6-11). The "twelve stars" speaks of the twelve apostles of Christ and the administration of His "divine government" (Bullinger; Vallowe; Jones; Eph. 2:20).

Following this, John sees this woman "with child" (Gal. 4:23, 28), followed by "another wonder in heaven; and behold _a great red dragon_ , having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads." This represents the "Jewish church" (John 4:22; Acts 7:38), those religious Jews who were of their "father, the devil," who repeatedly resisted the Lord and His disciples and eventually delivered the Lord to the cross.

In Revelation 12:5, we see the "child" birthed, a "man (male) child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne" (Matt. 3:16-17). No doubt about it, this refers to Christ the Lord (Rev. 3:21).

As for the " _seven_ crowns upon his heads"? Seven is _fullness_. Please consider.

Galatians 4:4-5 (KJV)  
4 But when the fulness **of the time was come** , God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made **under the law** , 5 **To redeem them that were under the law** , that we might receive the adoption of sons.

Here we go. To emphasize, the "seven heads" of the "great red dragon" speaks of the spiritual condition of the Jewish church of Jesus' time (cold), while the "seven crowns" upon the heads of the dragon denote the " _fullness_ of the time."

Revelation 12:7-9 (KJV)  
7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 8 And prevailed not; **neither was their place found any more in heaven**. 9 And **the great dragon was cast out** , that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: **he was cast out into the earth** , and his angels were cast out with him.

After the "birth" of the "male Child," "war" ensues, a battle between "Michael (Hebrew; "Who is like God?") and his angels" and the "dragon" and "his angels." What happens next? "The great dragon was _cast out_ , that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan... _he was cast out into the earth_." This aligns with our "hail" and "fire" and our phrase "and they were _cast upon the earth_."

Jesus set the example, being the first child of "promise" (Gal. 4:28) to be "birthed" out of the New Covenant Promise of the Father. But it didn't end there, for there were more "children of promise" that followed on that wonderful Day of Pentecost in Acts, Chapter 2, who went on to exemplify and preach the gospel of the kingdom which Jesus had taught them (Acts 1:3). All of this is signified by the first trumpet.

# Chapter Three

# THE THIRD PART

Revelation 8:7 (KJV)  
7 The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire **mingled with blood** , and they were cast upon the earth: and the **third part of trees** was burnt up, and **all green grass** was burnt up.

In our passages above we see the phrase "mingled with blood." Our word "mingled" means, "To _mix_." When compared to the message to Ephesus, as well as to the Parable of the Sheep and Goats, the Parable of the Tares, and the Parable of the Net, our "mix" defines _both_ true and false apostles in the body of Christ which was "purchased with His own blood" (Acts 20:28; KJV). This agrees with the prophecy to Ephesus where we read, "You have tested those _who say they are apostles and are not_ , and have found them liars" (Rev. 2:2). Our word "apostle" means, "A _delegate_ , specially an _ambassador_ of the Gospel; officially a _commissioner_ of Christ" (Strong's).

As for our "third part"? Let's reexamine Ezekiel, Chapter 5, which we considered in Part 1.

Ezekiel 5:1-5 (KJV)  
1 And thou, son of man, take thee a sharp knife, take thee a barber's razor, and cause _it_ to pass upon thine head and upon thy beard: then take thee **balances to weigh** , and divide the _hair_. 2 Thou shalt burn with fire **a third part** in the midst of the city, when the days of the siege are fulfilled: and thou shalt take **a third part** , _and_ smite about it with a knife: and **a third part** thou shalt scatter in the wind; and I will draw out a sword after them. 3 Thou shalt also take thereof **a few in number** , and bind them in thy skirts. 4 **Then take of them again, and cast them into the midst of the fire, and burn them in the fire;** _for_ **thereof shall a fire come forth into all the house of Israel**. 5 Thus saith the Lord GOD; **This** _is_ **Jerusalem** : I have set it in the midst of the nations and countries _that are_ round about her.

As shown, the prophet Ezekiel was told by the Lord to shave his head and beard and divide it into _three parts_ , so, each part would be "a third part." The Lord is clear, "This is Jerusalem," which today, corresponds to the church, the _body of Christ_. So what does each "third part" represent? Revelation 17:14 tells us.

Revelation 17:14 (KJV)  
14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: **and they that are with him** _are_ called **, and** chosen **, and** faithful.

Three parts, consisting of the " _called_ (1), and _chosen_ (2), and _faithful_ (3)."

Note that He tells Ezekiel to "take thereof a _few in number_ , and bind them in thy skirts." This same "few in number" are then taken and cast into "the midst of the fire" and burned and from out of this " _shall a fire come forth into all the house of Israel_." Have we not found this to be a reference to the "elect" (Rom. 11:4-5), symbolized by the souls under the altar in the fifth seal and the 144,000? The "fire" speaks of the necessary _judgment_ and _vengeance_ (vindication) upon "all the house of Israel" or "house of God" which issues forth from the unified voice of the elect in the fifth seal, agreeing with Peter's declaration in I Peter 4:17.

1 Peter 4:17 (NKJV)  
17 For **the time** _has come_ **for judgment to begin at the house of God** ; and if _it begins_ with us **first** , what will _be_ the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?

Beloved, the "fire" of God is the _testing_ and _judgment_ of the "house of God." Peter makes this clear just a few verses before our one above.

1 Peter 4:12 (ESV)  
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the **fiery trial** when it comes upon you **to test you** , as though something strange were happening to you.

Matthew 3:10 (NKJV)  
10 And even now **the ax is laid to the root of the trees**. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit **is cut down and thrown into the fire**.

Our "third part" speaks of the _called_ , _chosen_ , and _faithful_ , while the idea of "trees" refers to those things which are deeply "rooted" within our being and must be purged by the "spirit of judgment" and the "spirit of burning" (Isa. 4:4; Matt. 3:10). And the "green grass"? This speaks of the _insignificant matters of the flesh_ which are the first to be consumed by the righteous fire of God's testing (James 1:10-11; I Peter 1:24).

So it begins with the advent of the New Testament Church, foreshadowed by the Lord and birthed on the Day of Pentecost in Acts, Chapter 2. Brothers and sisters, out of their envy of the spiritual phenomenon of the Christian believers in the early days of the apostles, many in the world sought to enter of their own accord and possess that which Christ alone gives. In agreement with the Lord, all the apostles spoke of these developments in the body of Christ and clearly warned us what to watch for. Paul was no exception, writing the following to Timothy.

2 Timothy 3:1-5 (NKJV)  
1 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!**

2 Timothy 4:3-4 (KJV)  
3 For **the time will come** when **they will not endure sound doctrine** ; but after their own lusts **shall they heap to themselves teachers** , having itching ears; 4 And **they shall turn away** _their_ **ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables**.

# Chapter Four

# NICOLAITANISM

Revelation 2:6-7 (NKJV)  
6 But this you have, that you hate **the deeds of the Nicolaitans** , which I also hate. 7 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God." '

When we come to the end of the prophecy to the first church of Ephesus, we find the Lord states, "But this you have, that _you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans_ , which I also hate." Clearly, this is a very serious matter in the eyes of the Lord, so it behooves us to consider its understanding.

The Strong's Concordance defines "Nicolaitans" as the transliteration _Nikolaitēs_ , which it defines as, "A _Nicolaïte_ , i.e. adherent of _Nicolau`s_." The root of this word is Nikolaos, which means, "Victorious over the people; Nicolau's, a heretic." This root word is the combination of two words, Nikos and Laodikeus. Nikos means, "A conquest" or "triumph," while Laodikeus is the same word translated as "Laodicea," the seventh and final church of the seven churches in Revelation. Coincidence? I think not. Clearly, there is a connection and understanding which will carry through to the end of these prophecies.

Now, let me share the following from the book by Mark Jantzi titled, "Seven Letters to Seven Churches" which is quite enlightening.

Who are the Nicolaitans?

Now my good bible dictionary likewise accurately defines the other words that I listed above, but let me quote part of the lengthy definition that it gives for the word "Nicolaitans" (#3531):

"A party or sect in the churches of Ephesus and Pergamos whose practice and doctrine are severely censured...Presumably the Nicolaitans were the followers of some heresiarch called Nicolaus."

What does this definition do to the word of God? This puts the living word into some ancient (and little known about) context so that we would tend to believe that the whole matter of Nicolaitanism does not apply to us today.

When I open the New Scofield Reference Bible, I find this footnote in reference to the word "Nicolaitans" in Revelation 2:6,15:

"The name 'Nicolaitans,' according to early church fathers...refers to those who, while professing themselves to be Christians, lived licentiously."

Again, this tells me nothing! Is there a conspiracy among the church scholars? Why is the true definition so carefully hidden from the understanding of the people?

Not long ago, however, I found the following definition for the word "Nicolaitans." I believe it is the correct definition, and I found it in what I will call the "Original" Scofield Reference Bible." Here in this earlier version we have the original footnote, which was undoubtedly written by Mr. Scofield himself, but which in later editions has apparently been altered.

"Nicolaitans: From nikao, 'to conquer,' and laos, 'the people,' or 'laity.' There is no ancient authority for a sect of the Nicolaitans. If the word is symbolic it refers to the earliest form of the notion of a priestly order, or 'clergy,' which later divided an equal brotherhood (Mt 23:8) into priests and laity. What in Ephesus was 'deeds' (rev. 2:6) had become in Pergamos a 'doctrine' (rev. 2:15)."

While I cannot personally agree with all of Mr. Scofield's doctrines, it seems that the man at least had a certain scholastic integrity in this matter. So the question then arises again, why was it necessary for this excellent footnote definition to be changed into something so meaningless and probably not even true? The answer (which I have heard also from other sources, and I am still looking for the full proof) is in a writing I read most recently from my good friend Brother Clayt Sonmore. In his footnote referencing his discussion of the deeds of the Nicolaitans, he quotes the above original Scofield footnote and then adds the following also:

"The above quote was taken verbatim from the version of the Scofield's study Bible that was the only one published until about 1960. From good authority I was told that the Southern Baptist Convention, at the time representing nearly 10 million members, demanded of the publisher that this footnote be deleted in the future editions or they would withdraw their endorsement of it. It takes no expertise to see the obvious reasons, financial and otherwise, which motivated a hierarchical clergy class of controllers to suppress this illuminating truth. The overwhelming desire to conceal this invention of the church fathers that replaced a "kingdom of priests' with an Old Testament division of these same priests into two bodies, a clergy class and a laity class, is basic to Christendom's declining walk in the revelation of Him. For whatever reason, demands, or threats to Scofield's publisher or to others, it is needful to record that this very illuminating footnote, along with other comments, has been eliminated from the editions of the Scofield bible published since about 1960. And worse, who in their lifetime ever heard one mention from any pulpit explaining what Nicolaitanism means...or of God's distinct "hatred" of its intrusion into, and its tragic effects upon, the so-called church?"

Can we not see why this information would be offensive to the churches of today? I suppose that over ninety percent of them practice the deeds of the Nicolaitans at this time.

Where did this idea of ruling over others in the church first originate? The issue first came up among the Lord's own disciples. Let us read the passage, beginning with Verse 20 in Matthew 20.

Matthew 20

20 Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him.

21 And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom.

22 But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able.

23 And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.

24 And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren.

25 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.

26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister (servant);

27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant (slave):

28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister (serve), and to give his life a ransom for many."

Now we can see that the Lord dealt with the issue once and for all, or at least it should have been settled. But the problem of taking dominion over other men continues to arise in the hearts of men. Jesus is saying (in Verse 25) that this is the "Gentile" way, meaning that this is the way of the kingdoms of the world. Princes (mid-level rulers) exercise dominion over the people (the rank and file common people; the workers), while the great ones (top executives) exercise the authority above it all. This is the way political systems operate. The military is organized this way (Generals over lieutenants, over privates, etc.), and it seems to work well in the business world—all of which are considered "Gentile" systems from a spiritual understanding. But the true head of the Church does not want His house operated or organized in this way.

25 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.

26 But it shall not be so among you...

The world is hierarchical (at least three levels are described in the above passage), but in the Lord's kingdom the Lord is the only chief, and he made it clear:

"But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren."

### Names of Blasphemy

In the church systems, we have bishops over priests, who are over the laity. God hates this system. Or let us bring it just into the Protestant Church realm: General Superintendents are over pastors, who are over church members. It is the same hierarchy and God hates this just as much. But it is not just the hierarchy that is the problem; it is that now there are two classes of people. Men will ask, "Are you a professional 'clergyman' or are you a 'lay' preacher?" The current definition of a real clergyman is that you have a degree from a seminary. Then they want to take upon themselves titles of distinction such as:

"Reverend"

"Rabbi" (the meaning is "master," and is used mostly by the Jews)

"Father" (used mostly in the Catholic and Episcopal churches),

"Master" (title given for scholastic degrees of theology, such as "Master of Divinity," indicating mastery of the subject).

These actually are names of blasphemy. Remember that in the Revelation 17 John was taken up in the spirit and later he was shown the harlot church. She was seated on a scarlet beast, and the Scriptures say that it was "full of names of blasphemy." I believe we should define "blasphemy." Its meaning includes,

"The act of claiming the attributes of deity."

If we, with regards to our labor for the Kingdom of God, take upon ourselves the titles that belong exclusively to God, we have taken up blasphemy. Let us not also be part of a harlot system that does likewise.

If I go to a physician, I do not have any problem calling him "Doctor." I do not try to stop my own children in my family from calling me "Dad." I do not even have a problem referring to my chemistry professor as "Doctor Brown." This is not the wrong use of these terms. But I will not refer to a Roman priest as "Father," nor will I refer to the pope as "Holy Father," or "Vicar of Christ."

But the Lord is saying,

Matthew 20

26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister ("diakonos"; servant).

The Lord is expecting an attitude of servitude among His disciples. The word "minister" ("diakonos") in the above verse is a word whose meaning has changed over time. The true definition was given earlier in this chapter where we discussed Stephen. It speaks of one who is a "servant," one who does menial tasks. To be a "minister" today means to be the "boss," or the head of some government department (this is the type of thing that James' and John's mother was really desiring for them).

Then in the next verse, Jesus says that if they really aspire to the highest positions in the Kingdom, they should come down even further to be a "slave."

27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant ("doulos"; slave):

The word translated "servant" here is "doulos" (#1401), which actually means a "slave." "Servant" or "slave" are definitely not pictures that accurately described the Pharisees of Jesus' day, nor is it the posture of the clergy class of today's church. It seems that we too have fallen far and have much to repent of. Brethren, I believe that the popular mindset of Christians today is to "rule and reign" as kings. And the saying that we are the "king's kids" (so that we deserve all of the luxury of royalty right now) is a little premature until we have first settled our posture as an undeserving servant.

My thanks to Mark Jantzi for such an enlightening discourse on "Nicolaitanism." I will not add to this since I believe it's an accurate understanding of what is meant by it. We will encounter it again in the third church and prophecy.

# Chapter Five

# THE SECOND TRUMPET

Revelation 8:8-9 (KJV)  
8 And **the second angel sounded** , and as it were **a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea** : and **the third part of the sea became blood** ; 9 And **the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died** ; and **the third part of the ships were destroyed**.

Out of the spiritual phenomenon known as the "Day of Pentecost" arose the New Testament Church of Christ. As our first prophecy and trumpet reveal, false apostles entered into the church quite quickly, bringing with them what the apostle Peter called "damnable heresies."

2 Peter 2:1 (KJV)  
1 But there were **false prophets** also among the people, **even as there shall be false teachers among you** , who privily shall bring in **damnable heresies** , even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

Our word "heresies" is quite interesting. Strong's defines it as, "A _choice_ , i.e. (special) a _party_ or (abstract) _disunion_ ," taken from the word which means, "To _take for oneself_ , i.e. to _prefer_." In this definition lies the motivation of false prophets or teachers. Their "choice" if you will, does not issue from the mind of Christ and the will of God, but from their own desire to rule over the people of God. _They_ take to themselves what _they_ prefer. This is our meaning of "Nicolaitanism."

Remember, the sounding of the trumpets align with their corresponding prophecies, so to gain understanding, let's consider the prophecy to Smyrna in comparison with Revelation 8, verses 8 and 9 above.

Revelation 2:8-9 (KJV)  
8 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; 9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and _I know_ **the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but** _are_ **the synagogue of Satan**.

After the rise of false apostles in the church, we find "the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan." A "synagogue of Satan" in the church? Yes! Quite serious, wouldn't you say? So what is meant by the idea of someone saying they are a "Jew"? Paul tells us in Romans, Chapter 2.

Romans 2:28-29 (NKJV)  
28 **For he is not a Jew who** _is one_ **outwardly** , nor _is_ circumcision that which _is_ outward in the flesh; 29 **but** _he is_ **a Jew who** _is one_ **inwardly** ; and circumcision _is that_ of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; **whose praise** _is_ **not from men but from God**.

A true believer in Christ is one whose "circumcision is that of the heart, _in the Spirit_ , not in the letter; _whose praise is not from men but from God_." This immediately rejects those who "say" they are Jews (literally or spiritually), and "are not," regardless of the fact that others may praise and embrace such people. The truth is, only the Lord knows them that are His, for it is the Lord which seeks us out and draws us unto Himself (II Tim. 2:19; Matt. 11:27; Luke 10:22; John 4:23; 6:44, 65). This being true, we should immediately recognize the vanity of such things as church memberships or even attending church itself. By no means is either one evidence of being a true "Jew."

Just as we have false apostles, we now have false "Jews," those who follow the false apostles and not Christ, despite what they may profess. The raw and honest truth is, there are a great number of these firmly established _within_ Christendom today.

Note that Jesus said, "The _blasphemy_ of them" in regard to these false "Jews." Friend, if one has not been drawn by the Father to Christ, _it is_ "blasphemy" for them to profess otherwise. After all, that's what makes them false!

So how does our second trumpet correlate and agree with our second prophecy? I believe it's found in our "great mountain burning with fire" which was "cast into the sea." Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia states, "A mountain is a large landform _that rises above_ the surrounding land _in a limited area_ , _usually in the form of a peak_." With this in mind, consider what Jesus said in the following.

Matthew 5:14 (KJV)  
14 Ye are the light of the world. **A city that is set on an hill** (oros) cannot be hid.

Our word "hill"? It is the Greek transliteration _oros_ , meaning, "A _mountain_ (as _lifting_ itself above the plain)." Fits with our description from Wikipedia, doesn't it? Now, consider the following.

Revelation 21:10 (KJV)  
10 And he carried me away in the spirit to **a great and high mountain** , and shewed me **that great city, the holy Jerusalem** , descending out of heaven from God...

Here John is carried away in the spirit and sees "that great city, the holy Jerusalem," symbolic of the New Covenant Church or body of Christ. In keeping with Matthew 5:14, John sees it on "a _great_ and _high_ mountain."

Revelation 8:8-9 (KJV)  
8 And the second angel sounded, and as it were **a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea** : and the third part of the sea became blood; 9 And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed.

Exodus 19:18 (NKJV)  
18 Now **Mount Sinai** _was_ **completely in smoke, because the Lord descended upon it in fire**. Its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked greatly.

Would our "great mountain burning with fire" in Revelation 8 be our "great and high mountain" in Revelation 21 on which the "light of the world" is situated? Would this correlate with "Mount Sinai" and the giving of the law to Moses and Israel? (See Hebrews 12:18-29) Are both symbolic of the church, the "light of the world"? I believe so (See also Rev. 14:1). After all, the prophecies of Revelation are _to_ the church and the trumpets _are_ the fulfillment of these prophecies. Since Christ _is in the midst_ of the church at all times (Rev. 1:13; 2:1), _then all of His works relate to the church_ throughout the entire book of the Revelation (Rev. 2:26).

1 Corinthians 15:47-49 (ESV)  
47 **The first man was from the earth, a man of dust** ; the second man is from heaven. 48 **As was the man of dust, so also are those who are of the dust** , and as is the man of heaven, so also are those who are of heaven. 49 **Just as we have borne the image of the man of dust** , we shall also bear the image of the man of heaven.

Genesis 2:7 (KJV)  
7 And the Lord God **formed man** _of_ **the dust of the ground** , and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.

Most of us are familiar with Genesis 2:7 where we see that "the Lord God formed man of the _dust_ of the ground," so Paul writes, " _The first man was from the earth_ , a _man of dust_ ," and, "As was the _man of dust_ , so also are those who _are of the dust_." So what is a mountain? "A _large landform_ that rises above the surrounding land in a limited area, usually in the form of a peak." Might this symbolize any person or group of people who, being "from the earth" or "dust," rise above others in power and dominion? Would this desire to rise be a direct result of Nicolaitanism in the church?

If we think of all the cities spread across this planet from one end to the next, are they not all _large landforms_ in _limited areas_ whose "peak" is the leaders and governments which reside over them? So we could easily say that a "mountain" denotes the _power_ and _dominion_ of any _collective_ group, large or small. Furthermore, what do we find on most mountains around this country? Rocks, grass, plants, trees, lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. In scripture, each of these also represents various aspects of the human beings that live on this earth. As an example, consider the following.

Revelation 6:12-17 (KJV)  
12 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, **there was a great earthquake** ; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13 And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; **and every mountain and island were moved out of their places**. 15 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, **hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains** ; 16 **And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb** : 17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

What happens when Christ opens the sixth seal? There's "a great _earth_ -quake." As we continue to read, we're told "every _mountain_ and _island_ were moved out of their places" and that men of different caliber "hid themselves _in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains_." No doubt, this is symbolic, and shows how many of our religious collectives across the world seek to "hide themselves" by their own works (Gen. 3:7) from "the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb" (Rom. 4:15; Gen. 3:8).

Revelation 8:8-9 (KJV)  
8 And the second angel sounded, and as it were **a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea** : and **the third part of the sea became blood** ; 9 And **the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died** ; and **the third part of the ships were destroyed**.

In the first church, Ephesus, we see the entrance of false apostles and the "deeds of the Nicolaitans." In the second church, we have the rise of false "Jews," false believers who form a "synagogue of Satan" in the church; a group which accepts the religious hierarchy of authority that Jesus clearly condemned. Now we have a mixture of true and false in the body of Christ and the need for God to judge us because of it (I Peter 4:17). So it is that this "great mountain" is "burning" with the "fire" of _tribulation_ and _testing_ while at the same time "cast into the sea" of the Gentiles (all nations; Rom. 11:11), _spreading outward across the world_ (Rev. 17:1, 15). Ah, but as the truth of Christ goes forth, so too the false teachings and traditions which have no place in His kingdom. The existence of so many denominations and religious organizations today are proof of the history of the Christian Church since the days of Christ and the apostles. As she has moved forward through the generations and across every boundary of the world, she has grown greatly corrupt, however, always _within her midst_ are those who seek for the true righteousness of the kingdom of God (Matt. 6:33).

Just as the first trumpet aligns with Revelation 12, evidenced by the "great red dragon" (Rev. 12:3), the second trumpet aligns with and explains Revelation 13:1 and the "beast" that rises out of the "sea." Following the advent of the New Testament Church with the Jews on the Day of Pentecost, it now extends to the Gentiles according to God's divine purpose through Christ (Acts, Chapter 10; Rom. 11:11-15).

"And the third part of the sea became blood." We've identified the "third part" as His people (Rev. 17:14) while the "sea" speaks of those He has called out from among the Gentiles (Rev. 7:9-17; 17:1, 15). As for our phrase "became blood," let's go to the following.

Revelation 17:3 (KJV)  
3 So he carried me away in the spirit **into the wilderness** : and I saw a **woman** sit upon a **scarlet coloured beast** , full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.

Here we find our "beast" with "seven heads and ten horns" once more, but this time, John sees it in "the wilderness." Beloved, the "wilderness" is symbolic of the world at large, again, the Gentiles (Isa. 14:17), agreeing with our understanding of the "sea."

The "woman" is "Babylon the great" (Rev. 17:5), symbolic of the Old Covenant and the law, i.e. " _Jerusalem which now is_ , and _is in bondage_ with her children" (Gal. 4:25).

What is the color of the beast? "Scarlet." Strong's defines this word as, "From <G2848> (kokkos) (from the _kernel_ -shape of the insect); _crimson_ -colored." G2848, which is the transliteration _kokkos_ reads, "Apparently a primary word; a _kernel_ of seed." Ah, here we go. Do you see it? Not only do we have a "crimson" color which suggests the "blood" of our Savior, we also have the idea of a " _kernel_ of seed." _Kokkos_ is also used in the following.

John 12:24 (KJV)  
24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a **corn** (kokkos; _grain_ or _seed_ ) of **wheat** fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.

My friends, the body of Christ is under the _blood_ of Christ, and Paul explains our spiritual position in Him stating, "For _if we have been united together in the likeness of His death_ , certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection, _knowing this_ , that _our old man was crucified with Him_ , that _the body of sin might be done away with_ , that we should no longer be slaves of sin" (Rom. 6:5-6). Beloved, when Christ died, _all of the first humanity died in Him_ , the "old man," the _Adamic man_ , "crucified _with Him_ , that the body of sin might be done away with." This is why the "beast" is "scarlet," the "sea" becoming "blood."

As a matter of study, know that the second Feast of Pentecost was the "wheat" harvest as opposed to the "barley" harvest under the Feast of Passover. Jesus said, "Corn of wheat," indicating that He was the first to "fall into the ground and die," followed by His disciples, whom He clearly warned would also die for their faith (Matt. 24:9-13; John 16:1-4).

Revelation 8:8-9 (KJV)  
8 And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood; 9 And **the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died** ; and **the third part of the ships were destroyed**.

The "third part of the creatures" again refers to His people (James 1:18; Rev. 5:13). In our phrase "and had life," the word "life" is the transliteration _psychē_ , the Greek word for "soul."

Leviticus 17:11 (NKJV)  
11 For **the life of the flesh** _is_ **in the blood** , and **I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls** ; for **it** _is_ **the blood** _that_ **makes atonement for the soul**.'

Here we go, my friends. "The life of the flesh is in the blood" and the Lord freely gave it to us "upon the altar to make an atonement" for our _souls_. In regard to His kingdom, Jesus declared, "What will a man give in exchange for his _soul_?" (Matt. 16:26)

Finally, we read, "And the third part of the ships were destroyed." The idea of "ships" brings us to the following.

Revelation 18:3, 11, 15-19, 23 (NKJV)  
3 ... and the **merchants of the earth** have become rich through the abundance of her luxury..." 11 And the **merchants of the earth** will weep and mourn over her, for no one buys their merchandise anymore... 15 The **merchants of these things** , **who became rich by her** , will stand at a distance for fear of her torment, weeping and wailing, 16 and saying, 'Alas, alas, that great city that was clothed in fine linen, purple, and **scarlet** , and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls! 17 For in one hour **such great riches came to nothing**.' Every **shipmaster** , **all who travel by ship, sailors, and as many as trade on the sea** , stood at a distance 18 and cried out when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, 'What _is_ like this great city?' 19 They threw dust on their heads and cried out, weeping and wailing, and saying, 'Alas, alas, that great city, **in which all who had ships on the sea became rich by her wealth**! For in one hour she is made desolate...' 23 The light of a lamp shall not shine in you anymore, and the voice of bridegroom and bride shall not be heard in you anymore. For **your merchants were the great men of the earth** , for by your sorcery all the nations were deceived.

Our word "merchants" is used just five times in the New Testament, four of them in our passages above. This is a compound word which Strong's defines as, "A (wholesale) _tradesman_." Here's Vincent's treatment.

Merchants (ἔμποροι)

The word originally means one on a journey by sea or land, especially for traffic. Hence a merchant as distinguished from κάπηλος a retailer or huckster.

Our passages define what is meant by "merchants," identifying them as "all who travel by ship" and "all who had ships on the sea." They are "the _great men_ of the earth." Strong's defines "great men" as, " _Grandees_ ," the plural of the word which means, " _Greatest_ or _very great_." I immediately think of the many today who are considered "great" in the eyes of their followers while amassing great wealth in their denominations and ministries, and this despite what Jesus said and Paul wrote in the following passages.

Matthew 6:24 (NIV)  
24 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. **You cannot serve both God and Money**.

Matthew 19:23-24 (NKJV)  
23 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "Assuredly, I say to you that **it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven**. 24 And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle **than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God**."

1 Timothy 6:10 (KJV)  
10 For **the love of money is the root of all evil** : _which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows_.

What is meant by "all who travel by ship" and "trade on the sea"? Consider.

Matthew 23:15 (NKJV)  
15 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For **you travel land and sea to win one proselyte** (convert), and when he is won, you make him twice as much a son of hell as yourselves.

Our passages from Revelation 18 make it evident that the problem in the midst of his people is all about "wealth." Here's what the Lord said in the Parable of the Sower concerning the word of His kingdom falling among "thorns."

Matthew 13:22 (NKJV)  
22 Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and **the deceitfulness of riches** choke the word, and **he becomes unfruitful**.

# Chapter Six

# COLLECTIVE THINKING

In the first church, we find false apostles who introduce and exhibit the "deeds of the Nicolaitans" (Rev. 2:6). In the second church, false "Jews," and along with them being "false," so too their "thinking." Almost two thousand years later, we see the result of their wrong thinking as well as their wrong spirit. After all, if they entered without any drawing of God, they did so out of their own heart and mind and not the will of Christ.

The right spirit is, "Come now, _let us reason together_ " (Isa. 1:18), but for the most part, we have lost our ability to reason. Such is the strength of the collectives which exist today, especially in Christianity. No wonder Jesus said, "Take heed that NO ONE deceives you" (Matt. 24:4); not the Pope, the priest, the bishop, the pastor, the evangelist, the deacon, the Sunday School teacher, or your mother, father, brother, sister, best friend... NO ONE. "Take heed," Jesus said, which was not a casual remark but a serious statement to be taken as such.

So let me say it again. Almost two thousand years later, we see the result of wrong thinking, of the deception which found its way into the Christian realm. We are laced with all manner of ritual and rote and frivolous and foolish ideas about how to "get to heaven." We are so convinced that we are right about our doctrines that we give no thought to the possibility that we may not be. This mindset is perfect evidence of the _self-righteousness_ and _deception_ which began to enter the church so long ago.

Beloved, it's one thing to be a part of the world and fabricate a lie but a much worse thing to call ourselves Christians and _embrace a lie as truth_. This is what Jesus meant by "twofold" children of hell (Matt. 23:15; KJV). Furthermore, Jesus called these deceptive religious leaders who make these twofold children, "wolves" in "sheep's clothing" (Matt. 7:15).

I believe the greatest defense against deception is _deep humility_. When we walk humbly before our God, we will not be taken by the many side shows of religious hypocrisy or impressed by those who are defined by their followers to be such great teachers of the Word.

The advent of television ushered in a new era and a new avenue to many of the false prophets and false apostles of our time, presenting an opportunity unlike anytime before to spread their erroneous doctrines.

So what is "collective thinking"? It means we think like the collectives we embrace, whether secular or religious. We simply don't think for ourselves. I often say we were designed to "think outside the box" but cultured to think inside. And so it goes.

Matthew 15:6-9 (ESV)  
6 ... So **for the sake of your tradition you have made void the word of God**. 7 You hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, when he said: 8 " 'This people honors me with their lips, **but their heart is far from me** ; 9 **in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men**.' "

Take time to consider what Jesus said to the scribes and Pharisees. "For the sake of your tradition _you have made void the word of God_." Our word "void" is rendered "none effect" in the King James, defined by Strong's as, "To _invalidate_." Google defines "invalidate" as "make unsound or erroneous." Simply put, it means to make the Word of God appear _incorrect_ or _wrong_ , and this is never more evident than it is today.

Our word "tradition" is defined by Strong's as, " _Transmission_." The online _Cambridge Dictionary_ defines "transmission" as, "The process of passing something from one person or place to another."

Much of what Christians believe today is merely tradition with little or no foundation in truth. One of the most obvious examples is Christmas, which is supposedly the birth of Christ. However, it doesn't take much study to find that this holiday which is embraced by billions (yes, billions) around the world is in great error. Christ _was not born_ on December 25th, nor did He ever command that we honor His birth. The details of the Christmas story are skewed, and to add to the perversion, we introduced Santa Claus, elves, Christmas trees, etc. into the mix as well.

As a believer, you might think that celebrating Christmas is harmless, but let me ask you this. Do you think that magical fantasy is the proper way to expose the living Christ to our children? Do you think it's harmless to form a concept around a lie and simply pass it on for the sake of getting and giving things for Christmas and going along with the status quo? Is it right to embrace _some_ lies and yet _condemn_ others? Do you honestly believe this honors the Lord who died for us?

Beloved, like Christmas, there are a great number of other traditions which have been handed down, and in light of our previous passages, they are customs which Jesus called "doctrines" and "commandments of men." The argument which spurred Jesus to say what He said was brought on by the scribes and Pharisees telling Jesus that His disciples had not washed their hands before eating bread. Sound foolish? It is, nonetheless, it's apparent that the scribes and Pharisees saw this as a huge point of offense, and believe me when I say that there are just as many of these "doctrines" and "commandments of men" by which we also get offended at one another. God alone knows how many of us contend with each other over spiritual matters which _are not spiritual at all_. And I shudder to think about how irrelevant these matters are in the sight of our Creator.

So what is it that causes us to be offended and to offend others? Labels, my friend, and lots of them. What do I mean by labels? Those mental paradigms given by the collectives we _identify_ with. I say "identify" because they become _a part of our psyche,_ our _identity_ , of _who we think we are and must project to others around us_. Jesus called this the "self" and instructed His disciples to "deny" it (Matt. 16:24).

Labels are attached to our human form and our ego (self) in order to project the "image" we wish others to perceive (I Cor. 15:49). After all, no one likes to be observed as wrong or in error, especially in the realm of spiritual matters. Ah, but the pride of our heart is very deceptive (Jer. 17:9) and quite capable of lifting us up in our own eyes, thus causing us to work hard in doing so to others. And herein lies the danger of collective thinking. When we join a collective, it means we have joined like-minded people. And when we are among like-minded people, how are we perceived? Acceptable! After all, joining a collective is a clear indication that we are accepting everyone in it, and everyone in the collective accepts us. This shows why each collective has such great strength, despite the fact that it may be based in error.

Now, someone might suggest that Christianity is a collective and they would not be wrong. After all, there are thousands of "Christian" gatherings, i.e. denominations and organizations, within her ranks. However, the scripture does not define the church or body of Christ as a collective but a _living organism_ joined together by the Spirit of the living God (II Cor. 3:3). And, my friend, this living organism _cannot be contained by human effort or devices_. Paul declared that "the solid foundation of God stands, _having this seal_ : 'The Lord knows _those who are His_ '" (II Tim. 2:19). Clearly, God alone knows those who truly walk in faith, and this despite how we may perceive them in light of our religious collective.

So again, someone might still argue that Christianity, in any form, is a collective. If we think in terms of denominations and religious organizations, again, this is true, but unlike these collectives, _those who follow on to know Christ will not be satisfied by anything less than a deeply personal and spiritual relationship with Him_. For this reason, Jesus stated, "My sheep _hear my voice_ , and I know them, _and they follow me_ " (John 10:27; KJV). A true believer in Christ never follows anyone or any collective exclusively, for they are quick to recognize the danger in it. Furthermore, when we understand what the "deeds of the Nicolaitans" means, then we recognize that the religious hierarchies established in most churches stand in direct contradiction to the Lord's own words in Matthew 23, verses 2 through 12.

# Chapter Seven

# THE THIRD TRUMPET

Revelation 8:10-11 (KJV)  
10 And **the third angel sounded** , and **there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp** , and it fell upon **the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters** ; 11 And **the name of the star is called Wormwood** : and **the third part of the waters became wormwood** ; and **many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter**.

False apostles in the first church and false "Jews" in the second. The "deeds of the Nicolaitans" arise in her midst, taking hold in the hearts of many in the body of Christ. Hierarchies are established where so-called religious authority is now accepted within the Christian realm. Beloved, Jesus was quite clear about His hatred of this religious structure.

Matthew 23:6-12 (NKJV)  
6 They (scribes and Pharisees) love the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, 7 greetings in the marketplaces, **and to be called by men, 'Rabbi, Rabbi.'** 8 But you, **do not be called 'Rabbi'; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren**. 9 **Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven**. 10 **And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ**. 11 But he **who is greatest among you shall be your servant**. 12 And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.

So let's be honest here about the many religious leaders of our time. Do they love their titles? Most do, and it's easily seen in the media fanfare that surrounds them. No doubt about it, many of the religious icons of our time are treated and perceived just like the Hollywood stars and famous athletes as multitudes of people fawn over them as the spiritual "giants" of our day. When I say "giants," I think of the following from Genesis.

Genesis 6:1-5 (NKJV)  
1 Now it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born to them, 2 that the **sons of God** saw the daughters of men, that they _were_ beautiful; and **they took wives for themselves of all whom they chose**. 3 And the Lord said, "My Spirit shall not strive with man forever, for he _is_ indeed flesh; yet his days shall be one hundred and twenty years." 4 There were giants on the earth in those days, and also afterward, **when the sons of God came in to the daughters of men and they bore** _children_ **to them**. **Those** _were_ **the mighty men who** _were_ **of old, men of renown**. 5 **Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man** _was_ **great in the earth, and** _that_ **every intent of the thoughts of his heart** _was_ **only evil continually**.

Beloved, if you have heard that the "sons of God" in these passages are angels who had sex with human women, I would encourage you to drop this perspective. They are not, and one simple set of passages confirms this for us.

Hebrews 1:5-6 (ESV)  
5 For **to which of the angels** did God ever say, " **You are my Son** , today I have begotten you"? Or again, " **I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son** "? 6 And again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God's angels worship him."

"To which of the angels did God ever say, 'You are my Son'"? Friend, this question is _rhetorical_ because the answer is NEVER. Angels are not "sons," we are (Luke 20:36; Rom. 8:14, 19; Gal. 3:26; John 1:12; Php 2:15).

Furthermore, consider Genesis 6:1 where we read, "Now it came to pass, when _men_ began to multiply on the face of the earth, and _daughters_ were born to them, that the _sons of God_ saw the _daughters_ of men." Did you know that God told Moses to tell Pharaoh, " _Israel_ is my _son_ , even my firstborn"? (Exod. 4:22) Would this not identify the entire nation of Israel as " _sons_ of God"? Yes! Yes, it would!

And so it is that the "sons of God" in Noah's day speaks of those _men_ who beheld the "daughters of men, that they were beautiful; and they took wives for themselves of all whom they chose." If we think in symbolic terms, the "daughters of men" aptly describes the many _churches_ of our time as evidenced by the following (See also II Cor. 6:14).

Revelation 17:5 (KJV)  
5 And upon her forehead _was_ a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, **THE MOTHER OF** HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

What do we read? Babylon is "the _mother_ of harlots." These "harlots" would equate to "daughters of men" since their "mother" is Babylon and their "fathers" are "sons of God." These "daughters" were not spawned by the power of the Holy Spirit, but from those who desire to have dominion and control over His people (Nicolaitanism).

We read, "There were _giants on the earth_ in those days, and also afterward, when the _sons of God_ came in to the daughters of men and they bore children to them. _Those_ _were_ _the mighty men who_ _were_ _of old, men of renown_." Ah, here we go! The "daughters of men" "bore children" to these "giants." Literally? I think not! Rather, and as evidenced by the great religious movements of our time, these "giants" if you will are a product of joining themselves to the religious collective (daughter; church) of their choice, producing converts (children) on an unprecedented scale. And no doubt about it, many of these converts follow in their footsteps, becoming "mighty men" and "men of renown" in the eyes of millions.

So here's the disturbing part about all of this, my friend. Immediately following this idea of "mighty men" and "men of renown," we read, "Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." In keeping with this, Jesus said, "But as the _days of Noah_ were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days _before the flood_ , they were eating and drinking, _marrying and giving in marriage_ , until the day that Noah entered the ark, and _did not know_ until _the flood came and took them all away_ , so also will the coming of the Son of Man be" (Matt. 24:37-39).

Notice the Lord's reference to "marrying and giving in marriage." Is this just a simple comment about the ceremony of marriage which takes place on a regular basis in our society? Considering the wisdom of God in this, I don't think so (See Luke 20:34-38). And since Jesus was speaking in regard to the "days of Noah," I fully believe He was referring to the "sons of God" and the "daughters of men" as described in Genesis, Chapter Six. And, it is apparent that this takes place "before the flood" up to "the day that Noah entered the ark," after which "the flood came and took them all away." In other words, _religious affiliation_ and _exaltation_ of these so-called spiritual leaders will continue unabated until the end of the age. When I consider the phrase, "did not know," I immediately think of the church of Laodicea, where Jesus declared, "Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing'— _and do not know_ that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked" (Rev. 3:17).

Beloved, do we not realize that it is the way of the world to exalt men and women to great positions of power and wealth? Do we not see that these men and women who hold such great religious positions of wealth and power are no different from the famous political "giants" and sports figures and Hollywood icons who have such tremendous influence over the masses? Jesus made it clear in Matthew 23, verse 12, that, "Whoever _exalts himself_ will be humbled, and whoever _humbles himself_ will be exalted" (ESV).

Revelation 8:10-11 (KJV)  
10 And **the third angel sounded** , and **there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp** , and it fell upon **the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters** ; 11 And **the name of the star is called Wormwood** : and **the third part of the waters became wormwood** ; and **many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter**.

Returning to our passages, we find that when the "third angel sounded," there "fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp." Consider the following part of our illustration.

As our illustration indicates, the third "star" or "angel" speaks of the Spirit of _knowledge_ , not just "a" star but a "great star," indicating a _collective_ manifestation. With this in mind, consider the following.

Isaiah 5:13-14 (KJV)  
13 Therefore **my people are gone into captivity,** because they have no knowledge: and **their honourable men** _are_ **famished** , and their multitude dried up with thirst. 14 **Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glory, and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoiceth, shall descend into it**.

Hosea 4:6 (ESV)  
6 **My people are destroyed for** lack of knowledge **;** because you have rejected knowledge **, I reject you from being a priest to me**. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.

Both Isaiah and Hosea show the devastating affects when God's people "have no knowledge," when God's people _reject_ His knowledge.

"Their honourable men (those who have been exalted) are famished, and their multitude (collective) dried up with (spiritual) thirst. Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glory (of men), and their multitude (collective), and their pomp (uproar) and he that rejoiceth, shall descend into it." This is what is pictured in the "great star" which "fell" from heaven.

"My people are gone into captivity," Isaiah writes. Does this not explain "Babylon" in Revelation since the type reflects the antitype? Weren't the Jews taken captive by Babylon as punishment for their disobedience and rebellion? (II Kings 23:26-27; Matt. 1:17)

Matthew 6:22-23 (NKJV)  
22 "The **lamp** of the body is the **eye**. If therefore **your eye is good** , your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if **your eye is bad** , your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, **how great** _is_ **that darkness**!

Ephesians 1:17-18 (NKJV)  
17 ... that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you **the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him** , 18 the **eyes of your understanding** being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints...

Our phrase "burning as it were a lamp," speaks to "the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the KNOWLEDGE of Him," i.e. Christ. So when Jesus said, "The lamp of the body is the eye," He was referring to the "spirit of wisdom and revelation" which brings a true knowledge of Christ to our heart and mind. Ah, but if our "eye" or understanding "is bad," our "whole body will be full of darkness." This is not only true on an individual level but a corporate one as well. When the knowledge of God is corrupted by those who exalt themselves within our ranks, then darkness prevails among His people. Furthermore, if we reject His knowledge, He most certainly rejects us from being a "priest" to him. We may still be very religious and attract great numbers, but our religion will be lifeless, sustained by ritual and rote. Paul describes this "fall" from the knowledge of God very well in the following.

2 Timothy 4:1-4 (NKJV)  
1 I charge _you_ therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: 2 Preach the word! Be ready in season _and_ out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3 **For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires,** _because_ **they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers;** 4 **and they will turn** _their_ **ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables**.

"The time will come," Paul said, "when they," _His people_ , "will not endure sound doctrine." Strong's defines "sound" as, "To _have_ sound _health_ , i.e. _be well_ (in body); figurative to be _uncorrupt_ ( _true_ in doctrine)." When this is the case, what happens next? We turn to the false apostles and false Jews in our midst and embrace their doctrines or teachings instead. As a result, we are "turned aside to fables," a " _tale_ , i.e. _fiction_ (" _myth_ ")." Such fables include the errors of Christmas, Easter, eternal torment (Hell), and the rapture.

# Chapter Eight

# ANTIPAS

The third trumpet is the fulfilling of the prophecy to the church of Pergamos which we have found represents _His people in captivity_ because they have _rejected_ the knowledge of God (Hosea 4:6). As we will see, the prophecy to Pergamos confirms our understanding.

Revelation 2:12-13 (ESV)  
12 "And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: 'The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword. 13 " **'I know where you dwell,** **where Satan's throne is**. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in **the days of Antipas my faithful witness** , who was killed among you, **where Satan dwells**.

What does Jesus tell Pergamos? " _I know where you dwell_ , where _Satan's throne_ is." "Satan's throne"? Yes! Where is it? In the church! Ah, but there is something deeper here. If we reconsider Revelation, Chapter 12, we find that "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" (Rev. 12:9). We then read, "Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! _Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea!_ For _the devil has come down to you_ , having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time!" (Rev. 12:12)

Do you see it? The "great dragon" was "cast to the earth," therefore his throne _is_ the "earth," for those who "dwell" in the "heavens" have reason to rejoice but there is "woe" or _grief_ for "the _inhabitants_ of the _earth_ and the _sea_."

John 8:21-24 (NKJV)  
21 Then Jesus said to them again, "I am going away, and you will seek Me, and will die in your sin. **Where I go you cannot come**." 22 So the Jews said, "Will He kill Himself, because He says, 'Where I go you cannot come'?" 23 And He said to them, " **You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world**. 24 Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am _He,_ you will die in your sins."

Here we find what is meant by the "inhabitants of the earth and the sea." In regard to the religious Jews, Jesus said, "You are from _beneath_ ; I am from _above_. You are of _this world_ ; I am _not of this world_." "Beneath" is "of this world" while "above" is "not of this world." Clearly, this refers to the _spiritual position_ of our heart and mind. For this reason, Jesus told the church of Philadelphia, "Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who _dwell on the earth_ " (Rev. 3:10). "Dwell on the earth"? Yes, as in "beneath" or "of this world." Beloved, this refers to being "carnally minded" which is "death" (Rom. 8:6), of living solely "according to the flesh" and not by the leading of the Spirit (Rom. 8:5). The "earth," my friend, is "Satan's throne."

John wrote, "All _inhabitants of the earth_ will worship the beast" (with seven heads and ten horns; _the church_ ) (Rev. 13:8; NIV), and this is exactly what we do. Instead of worshiping the Lord "in spirit and truth" (John 4:24), we worship the "beast," the church, our denominations, and religious organizations, placing our loyalties in our exalted leaders and their carnal traditions and doctrines of men. Proof is easily seen in our commitments to further our denominations at whatever cost is necessary.

Remember what Jesus said regarding those who said they were "Jews" and were not? He called them a "synagogue of Satan." Beloved, what makes a "synagogue of Satan" is the _carnal mind_. And again, where is this "synagogue"? In the body of Christ, and being a "throne" tells us that these false apostles and false Jews who conduct themselves by this mind _have become firmly established_ , _accepted,_ and have _authority_ within the Christian ranks.

The Lord goes on to tell Pergamos, "Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in _the days of Antipas my faithful witness_ , who was killed among you, _where Satan dwells_." Is Antipas an actual person or is this symbolic of something deeper?

Note the phrase " _days_ of Antipas," indicating an obvious space of time. During this space of time, "Antipas" was a "faithful witness" until he was "killed among you, where Satan dwells."

Our word "Antipas" is a compound word, derived from _anti_ and _pater_. _Anti_ means "opposite" while _pater_ means "father." So in our word Antipas, we have that which is "opposite" a "father." Would this not be children? With this in mind, consider what John wrote.

1 John 2:12-14 (KJV)  
12 I write unto you, **little children** , because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake. 13 I write unto you, **fathers** , because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, **young men** , because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, **little children** , because ye have known the Father. 14 I have written unto you, **fathers** , because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, **young men** , because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.

Here John addresses three classes of believers; "fathers," "young men," and "little children." Beloved, this has _nothing to do with age_ and _everything to do with our level of_ _spiritual maturity_. When understood correctly, "little children" speaks of those who are new converts in the body of Christ, while "young men" and "fathers" speaks of those who have moved forward in their relationship with Christ.

Our word "fathers" is _pater_ , and if you will indulge me, I have crossed out "that is" which was inserted by the translators because I believe it is unnecessary.

A "father," as John shows, has known the Lord "from the beginning." Furthermore, a "father" is one who is able to beget "children" (I speak spiritually).

In John's first letter, he addresses the "little children" _seven_ times, telling them to "sin not" (I John 2:1; KJV) and that their "sins are forgiven you for his name's sake" (I John 2:12), to "abide in him" (I John 2:28; KJV), and to "let no man deceive you" (I John 3:7; KJV), and "let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth" (I John 3:18; KJV), and finally to "keep yourselves from idols" (I John 5:21; KJV). If this is what John admonished, shouldn't we as well?

Beloved, where there are false apostles and false Jews, the "little children" are the first to be led astray, for Peter wrote, "But there were false prophets among the people, _even as there will be false teachers among you_ , who will _secretly_ bring in _destructive heresies_ , even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. And _many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed_. By _covetousness_ they will exploit you" (II Peter 2:1-3). "Destructive heresies" and "destructive ways" which causes the "way of truth" to "be blasphemed." What did Jesus tell Smyrna? "I know the _blasphemy_ of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan" (Rev. 2:9; KJV).

Revelation 13:1 (KJV)  
1 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads **the name of blasphemy**.

Beloved, here we see the Gentile church, the "beast" which rises up out of the "sea" of humanity, "having seven heads" and "upon" those heads "the name of blasphemy." "Name" should actually be "names," so the New International Version reads, "And on each head a blasphemous name." As we learned in Part 1, the "seven heads" are explained by the following from Proverbs, Chapter 6, which aptly describes the attributes of the carnal mind.

Proverbs 6:16-19 (NKJV)  
16 These six _things_ the Lord hates, yes, seven _are_ an abomination to Him: 17 A proud look (1), a lying tongue (2), hands that shed innocent blood (3), 18 a heart that devises wicked plans (4), feet that are swift in running to evil (5), 19 a false witness _who_ speaks lies (6), and one who sows discord among brethren ( **7** ).

Compare "a proud look" to Matthew 23, verses 5 through 7.

Compare "a lying tongue" to Matthew 23, verse 14.

Compare "hands that shed innocent blood" to Matthew 23, verses 15 and 31.

Compare "a heart that devises wicked plans" to Matthew 23, verses 16 through 22.

Compare "feet that are swift in running to evil," "a false witness who speaks lies," and "one who sows discord among brethren" to Matthew 23, verses 23 through 36.

Perhaps you think I am being too severe in my perspective and that the church as it stands today is not guilty of the things we are considering. Friend, take a raw and honest look around you and then tell me, how do we explain our divisions, our disagreements in doctrine, and our struggle with sin? How do we justify the great wealth of the major denominations, both Catholic and Protestant, and the huge amount of money that flows through our hands, used in so many frivolous and unnecessary ways? How do we justify our expensive buildings and constant pleading for finances by the words of Christ?

Beloved, the structure and system of the "Christian" church today is no different from the corporate business structures of the world system. The only difference is instead of CEO's COO's, and CFO's, we have religious titles which cloak our carnal endeavors. Think about it. We run our "churches" just like the business world, demanding unswerving loyalty from our "converts," doing all in our power to instill in them the same erroneous teachings which we have embraced and believed for so long, regardless of the obvious errors in our thinking. And we have certainly succeeded, as evidenced by the fact that we are automatons who cannot and will not think for ourselves.

Hosea 4:5-14 (NIV)  
5 **You stumble day and night, and the prophets stumble with you**. So I will destroy your mother-- 6 **my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge**. " **Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests** ; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children. 7 **The more the priests increased, the more they sinned against me; they exchanged their glory for something disgraceful**. 8 **They feed on the sins of my people and relish their wickedness**. 9 **And it will be: Like people, like priests. I will punish both of them for their ways and repay them for their deeds**. 10 "They will eat but not have enough; **they will engage in prostitution** but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, 11 to old wine and new, **which take away the understanding of my people**. 12 They consult a wooden idol and are answered by a stick of wood. **A spirit of prostitution leads them astray; they are unfaithful to their God**. 13 They sacrifice on the mountaintops and burn offerings on the hills, under oak, poplar and terebinth, where the shade is pleasant. Therefore your daughters turn to prostitution and your daughters-in-law to adultery. 14 "I will not punish your daughters when they turn to prostitution, nor your daughters-in-law when they commit adultery, because the men themselves consort with harlots and sacrifice with shrine prostitutes-- **a people without understanding will come to ruin**!

"Lack of knowledge" is _ignorance_ , and _ignorance_ is sustained by _not knowing_ , _refusing to know_ , or _thinking we already know_. It should be evident that "refusing to know" is sustained by the latter, i.e. "thinking we already know." This, my friend, is our current status, for most denominations and religious organizations have been established for a long time and are convinced that they have the truth as it is in Christ.

Matthew 12:25 (KJV)  
25 And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, **Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation** ; and **every city or house divided against itself shall not stand** ...

Shall we believe the words of Christ as they stand? Are we heading for "desolation"? No, we are not, _we have already arrived_. Desolation does not mean that we won't continue in our delusion, it simply means that Christ has departed from our midst and all of our religious endeavors are simply our own carnal posturings. Just as the Lord declared to Jerusalem that their "house" had been left "desolate," so too the church, for a "kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation." What did Jesus tell Laodicea? "I will vomit you out of my mouth" (Rev. 3:16).

# Chapter Nine

# THE DOCTRINE OF BALAAM

Revelation 2:14 (KJV)  
14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold **the doctrine of Balaam** , who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, **to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication**.

"Thou hast there them that hold the _doctrine_ of Balaam," our Lord said. Ah, another teaching has entered the body of Christ, evidenced by our word "doctrine." And the Lord goes on to say just what Balaam taught, instructing Balac "to cast a _stumblingblock_ before the children of Israel, _to eat things sacrificed to idols_ , and _to commit fornication_."

We could take time to consider the story of Balaam in the Old Testament, but I don't believe it's necessary for our understanding. We already see that the "doctrine of Balaam" is _twofold_ , introducing "a stumblingblock (occasion to fall) before the children of Israel" which was to " _eat_ _things sacrificed to idols_ " and committing _"fornication_." So what is meant by these concepts?

Paul addressed "the eating of things offered to idols" in his first letter to the Corinthian believers.

1 Corinthians 8:1-13 (NKJV)  
1 **Now concerning things offered to idols** : We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies. 2 And if anyone thinks that he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know. 3 But if anyone loves God, this one is known by Him. 4 Therefore **concerning the eating of things offered to idols,** **we know that an idol** _is_ **nothing in the world, and that** _there is_ **no other God but one**. 5 For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as there are many gods and many lords), 6 **yet for us** _there is_ **one God, the Father, of whom** _are_ **all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom** _are_ **all things, and through whom we** _live_ _._ 7 However, _there is_ not in everyone that knowledge; for some, with consciousness of the idol, until now eat _it_ as a thing offered to an idol; and their conscience, being weak, is defiled. 8 But food does not commend us to God; for neither if we eat are we the better, nor if we do not eat are we the worse. 9 But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a **stumbling block** to those who are weak. 10 **For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol's temple, will not the conscience of him who is weak be emboldened to eat those things offered to idols?** 11 And because of your knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? 12 But when you thus sin against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. 13 **Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.**

In these passages, Paul spoke literally about "the eating of things offered to idols." Ah, but he was quick to say that " _we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one_." He then speaks of " _so-called gods_ , whether in heaven or on earth (as there are many gods and many lords)," yet again, he immediately follows with " _yet for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live_." As believers in Christ, that pretty much settles it, doesn't it? For every believer, there is but God the Father and His son, Jesus Christ. There are no other "gods" we worship. Would this not immediately condemn the idea of the worship of the virgin Mary or other "saints"? Undoubtedly! Consider Vincent's treatment of the phrase, "An idol is nothing in the world."

An idol is nothing in the world (οὐδὲν εἴδωλον ἐν κόσμῳ)

Rev., no idol is anything. An idol is a nonentity. The emphasis is on the nothingness of the idol, hence the emphatic position of οὐδὲν nothing. It is a mere stock or stone, having no real significance in heaven or on earth. One of the Old Testament names for heathen gods is elilim nothings. Idol (εἴδωλον) is primarily an image or likeness. In Greek writers it is sometimes used of the shades of the dead, or the fantasies of the mind. In the Old Testament, the number and variety of the words representing the objects of heathen worship, are a striking commentary upon the general prevalence of idolatry. Εἴδωλον image stands in the Septuagint for several of the different Hebrew terms for idols; as, elilim things of nought; gillulim things rolled about, as logs or masses of stone; chammanium sun-pillars, etc. Other words are also used to translate the same Hebrew terms, but in all cases the idea is that of the material object as shaped by mechanical processes, or as being in itself an object of terror, or a vain or abominable thing, a mere device of man.

Beloved, there are a great many religions in the world today and a great number of rituals which coincide with their worship, but Paul makes it clear to us; an idol is nothing in the world, a "nonentity" as Vincent states.

Jesus taught, "God _is Spirit_ , and those who worship Him must worship _in spirit_ and truth" (John 4:24; ESV). For us, religious rituals and objects are _vain_ and _unnecessary_ in our worship of the Father and Christ. I do not believe that our Creator is moved by imagined pictures of His Son, crosses, statues, religious rituals, or objects of any kind. True worship issues from the thoughts and intents of our heart in alignment with His Word. No wonder then that Paul begins his discourse about "food offered to idols" with "knowledge puffs up, but _love_ builds up" and states, "But _if anyone loves God_ , he is known by God" (ESV).

So is there anything deeper to what Paul was writing about? Did the Lord mean something more in His message to Pergamos about eating things sacrificed to idols? How about the following?

John 4:33-34 (NKJV)  
33 Therefore the disciples said to one another, "Has anyone brought Him anything to eat?" 34 Jesus said to them, "My **food is to do the will of Him who sent Me** , and to finish His work."

Ever hear the phrase, "Food for thought"? Would this explain what Jesus meant in these passages? Do we not "eat things sacrificed to idols" whenever we embrace teachings which have no place in the kingdom of God, our "idols" the religious icons we attach ourselves to, our "food" being their "will" and teaching over that of Christ?

Beloved, we can make an "idol" of anything; our reputation or job, our home or things in it, our wife and children, _even our pastor and church_. Think about it! Where and to whom do we give our allegiance? How many today fervently embrace the teachings of their particular denominations and leaders without question and are quick to condemn anything outside of it? What do we honestly think Jesus meant when He told the _religious leaders_ of His time, "Thus you have made the commandment of God of _no effect_ by your tradition" and "in _vain_ they worship Me, teaching as doctrines _the commandments of men_ "? (Matt. 15:6, 9) How many traditions do we embrace today that have no true spiritual value in light of the kingdom of God? Furthermore, if these traditions are based in a lie, then why, as though it matters to God, do we hold to them? Didn't John state, "No lie is of the truth"? (I John 2:21). Do we not realize that our loyalty to such errors as Christmas, Easter, and the rapture, prove how obstinate we are about hearing or receiving the truth? And there are many more traditions we hold to which are just as much in error and have no effect whatsoever in changing our heart and mind in light of His Holy Word. In most cases, the opposite is true, for many of the false teachings in Christianity today spawn the ugly spirit of "self-righteousness" among us.

As for the "idol's temple"? Whenever any man or woman stands up and teaches false doctrine in lieu of truth, do they themselves not become an "idol's temple," since they have made themselves "god" over the "temple of God," which "temple" they are? (See II Thess. 2:1-12; I Cor. 3:16-17) Finally, consider what Peter wrote concerning Balaam.

2 Peter 2:15 (NKJV)  
15 They have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following **the way of Balaam** the _son_ of Beor, **who loved the wages of unrighteousness** ...

Jude 1:11 (NKJV)  
11 Woe to them! For they have gone in the way of Cain, **have run greedily in the error of Balaam for profit** , and perished in the rebellion of Korah.

Balaam's downfall was his love of money. Would the wealth of many of our religious icons today testify of this same error?

1 Timothy 6:10 (KJV)  
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: **which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows**.

Look once more at our passages from Revelation.

Revelation 2:14 (KJV)  
14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold **the doctrine of Balaam** , who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, **to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication**.

Balaam's doctrine connects eating things sacrificed to idols with committing "fornication," i.e. they go hand in hand. The Strong's Concordance defines "fornication" as, "To _act_ the _harlot_ , i.e. (literal) _indulge_ unlawful _lust_ (of either sex), or (figurative) _practice idolatry_." When the Word of God loses its efficacy due to false teaching and "the love of money," it's a given that His people will "practice idolatry," accepting ideas into the church which cause her people to err from the faith. This is one reason why I believe that "Babylon" in Revelation represents His people in captivity due to her "great wealth" (Matt. 1:17; Rev. 17:1-2; Rev. 18:3).

# Chapter Ten

# THE DOCTRINE OF THE NICOLAITANS

Revelation 2:15-16 (KJV)  
15 So hast thou also them that hold **the doctrine of the Nicolaitans** , which thing I hate. 16 Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

What began as "deeds" in Ephesus (Rev. 2:6) has now become a "doctrine" in Pergamos. Religious hierarchy is accepted more than ever as the idea of a "clergy" and "laity" gains a strong following among the people of God. And there can be no doubt that we see the disastrous results which are plainly evident in our time. Christianity as we now know it is divided into thousands of denominations and organizations all over the world. Where, my friend, is the unity which Paul pleaded for in I Corinthians 1:10?

No longer are the people of God challenged to seek His kingdom; rather, they simply attend services to be told what to believe and accept without question. And let's be honest here. Isn't that what most do? They take a couple of days a week to attend services at their church, listen to the weekly sermon of their pastor, then quietly slip back into their daily routines until the next service.

What about the pastors? Who are they subject to? Is it not their denominational headquarters which assure that their teaching never strays from the accepted norm of their faith? Aren't many of the Sunday school lessons printed and distributed by these headquarters in order to ensure that the topics discussed do not conflict with their established schools of thought?

Many of the major denominations of our day have spawned schools, colleges, and seminaries where many attend in order to become "ordained" within their ranks. Does it matter if they are called of God? Do they attend simply because they were raised in a particular church and they like the idea of becoming a pastor as opposed to choosing a different "profession"? Does the education they receive guarantee the revelation of the Word that is needed to truly feed the flock of God? Let's face it! We have fallen far from the life that was evident in the New Testament Church in the book of Acts.

Does any of this surprise our Lord? Of course not! After all, Jesus predicted this would happen in the messages we are now considering. In fact, I think it's safe to say that when properly understood, the messages to the seven churches portray our history accurately from the early days of the New Testament Church up to this present time.

We are still within the parameters of the third prophecy and trumpet, so the rise of the doctrine of Balaam can be attributed to the "lack" and "rejection" of knowledge by His people (Hosea 4:6).

Luke 11:52 (NKJV)  
52 Woe to you lawyers! For **you have taken away the key of knowledge**. You did not enter in yourselves, and those who were entering in you hindered."

The Strong's Concordance defines "lawyers" as, " _According_ (or _pertaining_ ) _to law_ , i.e. _legal_ (ceremony); as noun, an _expert in_ the (Mosaic) _law_ ," so these are not lawyers as we think of them today, but religious experts within the sect of the Pharisees (Luke 11:37-52).

According to Christ, what did these "experts" do despite their intense schooling? They took away "the key of knowledge," preventing themselves from entering His kingdom and hindering those who sought to enter. Despite their expertise, they were blind to the very thing they embraced! Is the same thing true today? Not only is it true, but many religious leaders today have succeeded quite well in creating well-mannered automatons who never question or challenge the status quo.

1 Corinthians 15:34 (KJV)  
34 Awake to righteousness, and sin not; **for some have not the knowledge of God** : I speak _this_ to your shame.

Beloved, the "knowledge of God" is much more than just information. The word "knowledge" is the Greek word gnōsis which means, "Knowing (the act), i.e. (by implication) knowledge." As we see, "knowing" is an "act" or action, an ongoing process that requires the time necessary to develop an intimate relationship that is based on trust and commitment. For this reason, Paul likened our relationship with Christ as "husband" and "wife" (Eph. 5:22-33).

The "knowledge of God" is not knowledge about God, rather, it is knowing what our Father knows, seeing as Christ sees, thinking as our Lord thinks. Paul called it "the mind of Christ" (I Cor. 2:16) or "mind of the Spirit" (Rom. 8:27). It is a mind conditioned by His Spirit through the necessary tribulation to humble us in order to see as Christ sees (Acts 14:22).

Revelation 8:10-11 (KJV)  
10 And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon **the third part of the rivers** , and upon **the fountains of waters** ; 11 And the name of the star is called **Wormwood** : and **the third part of the waters became wormwood** ; and many men died of the waters, **because they were made bitter**.

The third prophecy is the third trumpet, and in keeping with the "doctrine of Balaam" which leads to eating things sacrificed to idols and fornication, we find the following definition of "wormwood" from Vincent.

**Wormwood** (ἄψινθος)

Used metaphorically in the Old Testament of _the idolatry of Israel_ (Deuteronomy 29:18); of _calamity and sorrow_ (Jeremiah 9:15; 23:15; Lamentations 3:15, 19); of _false judgment_ (Amos 5:7).

"The third part of the waters became wormwood." The "third part" is Jerusalem, the people of God, while "the rivers" symbolize the _flow_ or _movement_ of all that we have considered making its way into the rest of the world. The "fountains of waters" speaks of that which issues from within to those around us (John 7:38). Because we rejected His knowledge long ago, our "waters became wormwood." What was once "living water" is no longer life but instead _idolatry_ , which leads to _calamity_ , _sorrow_ , and _false judgment_ for the body of Christ.

Amos 5:6-7 (ESV)  
6 Seek the Lord and live, lest he break out like fire in the house of Joseph, and it devour, with none to quench it for Bethel, 7 **O you who turn justice to wormwood and cast down righteousness to the earth**!

# Chapter Eleven

# THE FOURTH TRUMPET

Revelation 8:12 (KJV)  
12 And **the fourth angel sounded** , and the **third part** of the **sun** was smitten, and the **third part** of the **moon** , and the **third part** of the **stars** ; so as **the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise**.

We now arrive at the _fourth_ trumpet which aligns with the _fourth_ prophecy to the church of Thyatira. Here we find the "third part" of the "sun," "moon," and "stars" "smitten." According to Vine's, "smitten" is "akin to _plēgē_ , 'a plague, stripe, wound.'" _Plēgē_ is the root of the word translated as "smitten," defined as, "Through the idea of _flattening_ out; to _pound_ , i.e. (figurative) to _inflict_ with (calamity)" (Strong's).

What is interesting is that the "two great lights" of the sun and moon (and the stars) were created on the _fourth_ day (Gen. 1:14-19) and here we see the _fourth_ trumpet affecting all three.

What does our "sun" and "moon" typify? The _glory_ of the Two Covenants, Old and New, the Law and the Promise, under which all of His people abide. As for the "stars"? They speak of His "righteousness" in those who are "wise" and "shine as the brightness of the firmament" (Dan. 12:3).

Once "smitten" we read, "The _third part_ of them was darkened, and the _day_ shone not for a _third part_ of it, and the _night_ likewise." What was darkened? "The _third part_ of them," i.e. the _called_ , _chosen_ , and _faithful_ of the house of God in whom the work of His covenants takes place. When compared to Ezekiel, Chapter 5, we have further understanding, for the judgment of God leaves no one out.

Psalms 37:5-7 (KJV)  
5 Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring _it_ to pass. 6 And **he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday**. 7 Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.

Beloved, what is the essence of the Two Covenants? Is it not righteousness? It is, but due to the rise of Satan in the church, "the _day_ shone not for a third part of it, and the _night_ likewise," the _righteousness_ of His covenants "darkened" by the carnal manipulations of men.

Revelation 12:4 (KJV)  
4 And his (great red dragon) **tail** drew the **third part** of the **stars of heaven** , and **did cast them to the earth** : and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.

Here we find the "tail" of the "great red dragon" (Rev. 12:4) "drew the _third part_ of the _stars of heaven_ and _did cast them to the earth_." Consider the following.

Genesis 15:5 (KJV)  
5 And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the **stars** , if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, **So shall thy seed be**.

Genesis 22:15-18 (KJV)  
15 And the angel of the Lord called unto Abraham out of heaven the second time, 16 And said, By myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only _son_ : 17 That in blessing I will bless thee, **and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven** , and as the sand which _is_ upon the sea shore; and **thy seed** shall possess the gate of his enemies; 18 And in **thy seed** shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.

Who are the "stars of heaven"? They are Abraham's "seed" (see also Deut. 1:10; 10:22). Do we have a "type" in the Old Testament which helps us to better understand Revelation 8:12? We do. Please consider.

Deuteronomy 28:62 (KJV)  
62 And **ye shall be left few in number** , whereas **ye were as the stars of heaven** for multitude; because thou wouldest not obey the voice of the Lord thy God.

Our "few in number" is our "remnant," i.e. those who endure to the end (Matt. 24:13). As for the "tail" of the "dragon," please consider.

Isaiah 9:14-16 (KJV)  
14 Therefore the Lord will cut off from Israel **head and tail** , branch and rush, in one day. 15 The ancient and honourable, he _is_ the head; and **the prophet that teacheth lies,** he _is_ the tail. 16 For the leaders of this people cause _them_ to err; and _they that are_ led of them _are_ destroyed.

What or who is the "tail" of the dragon? It is "the prophet that teacheth lies." This aligns perfectly with all that we have considered thus far.

Our word "darkened" is defined as, "To _obscure_ ," taken from the word which means, " _Shadiness_ , i.e. _obscurity_." The Merriam-Webster Dictionary online defines "obscure" as, "Not well-known: not known to most people" and "difficult to understand: likely to be understood by only a few people." Is this not appropriate in light of all we have discussed? In light of our first three prophecies and trumpets, this makes perfect sense, for once we reject the knowledge of God for traditions and commandments of men, then the glorious light of His Two Covenants becomes cryptic, veiled from the understanding of most. This is certainly true today, for many of God's people have been counseled to reject the light of the Old Covenant in view of the New. Beloved, we cannot do this, for the New Covenant is the _spiritual fulfillment of the types and shadows of the Old_. One cannot gain a true understanding of the New Testament principles without having a solid foundation in the Old Testament. Let's bring all of this to our prophecy to Thyatira.

Revelation 2:18-20 (KJV)  
18 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet _are_ like fine brass; 19 I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last _to be_ more than the first. 20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, **because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols**.

Recognize our bolded words? They are the same as "the doctrine of Balaam" seen in the third church. However, in the third church, the Lord states, "Thou hast there _them_ that hold the doctrine of Balaam." Here in the fourth church, Jesus defines "them" as " _that woman Jezebel_ ," a _collective entity_ if you will, "which calleth herself a prophetess." In Pergamos, it's "eat things sacrificed to idols" and "commit fornication," but in Thyatira, it's "teach" and "seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed to idols." Is this significant? I believe it is. How do we explain this? Paul tells us.

2 Timothy 4:1-4 (ESV)  
1 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: 2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. 3 **For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,** 4 **and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.**

Here we have it. "The time is coming," Paul said, "when people," i.e. _the church_ , "will not endure sound teaching." And what is the result? "They will accumulate for themselves teachers _to suit their own passions_ , and _will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths_." This is the meaning of Jezebel, referring to the "spirit of error" that even now prevails in our midst (I John 4:6).

Here's our progression. In the first two churches, "false apostles" and "false Jews" arise, bringing in the "doctrine of Balaam" and the "doctrine of the Nicolaitans" by the time of the third church. When we reach the fourth church, the power and authority of the false apostles are turned over to the congregations. At this point, they, in regard to "their own passions," determine who their leaders will be and what doctrines they will accept. Through democratic posturing, the congregations "seduce" (cause to roam) His "servants" to "commit fornication" (unfaithfulness to the truth). If their leaders deviate from the teachings they wish to hear, they need only vote them out. Consider the following about Jezebel from the New Unger's Bible Dictionary.

Character. Jezebel was a woman in whom were united the sternest and fiercest qualities inherent in the Phoenician people. The wild license of her life and the magical fascination of her arts and of her character were known throughout the nation (2 Kings 9:22). Long afterward her name lived as the byword for all that was detestable. In Rev. 2:20 she is used as a type of those who encourage immorality and false teaching, in the same way that she engulfed Israel in idolatry.

Who does Jezebel represent? "Those who encourage immorality (fornication) and false teaching (eat things sacrificed to idols)." To be more specific, Jezebel represents the _spirit of harlotry_ (unfaithfulness) and _idolatry_ (false teaching) that arises in the church from the beginning. This has never been more evident as it is today as many of the denominations of our time wrangle over the acceptance of those things which are clearly condemned by His Word.

The first mention of Jezebel in scripture is her marriage to Ahab, a king of Israel (I Kings 16:31). The New Unger's Bible Dictionary goes on to tell us, "The first effect of her influence was the immediate establishment of the Phoenician worship on a grand scale at the court of Ahab. At her table were supported no less than 450 prophets of Baal and 400 of Astarte (1 Kings 16:31-32; 1 Kings 18:19), whereas the prophets of Jehovah were slain by her orders (1 Kings 18:13; 2 Kings 9:7)." As we see by this information, Jezebel depicts the acceptance of false apostles and prophets as opposed to the true prophets of the Lord. Take time to compare this to Matthew 23, verses 29 through 38.

The fact that Jezebel was married to a king of Israel reflects the commitment of the people of God to the false apostles and prophets among us since the beginning of the New Testament Church. No doubt, it is a disastrous union which has led the church to be greatly divided as we see today. Beloved, the division which we see clearly reflects the division which abides in our hearts. There is no unity of the Spirit.

Revelation 2:21 (KJV)  
21 And **I gave her space to repent of her fornication** ; and **she repented not**.

In regard to the Jezebel spirit which envelops the church, the Lord states, "I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and _she repented not_." Beloved, this is a matter of prophecy, therefore, it's a statement of divine fact, not a "might" or "maybe." "She repented not," says the Lord, and today, it is evident that _we_ have not repented, that _we are more than comfortable_ with our religious positions as they stand today.

Revelation 2:22 (KJV)  
22 Behold, **I will cast her into a bed** , and them that commit **adultery** with her into **great tribulation** , except they repent of their deeds.

Note that we now read "adultery" as opposed to "fornication," emphasizing _unfaithfulness_ in our commitment to the Lord (and pointing to Babylon, the mother of harlots; Rev. 17:5). Yes, we may be faithful to our denomination, but does this faithfulness translate to Him? And the result? "I will cast her into a bed," into "great tribulation." Please consider.

Luke 17:34 (ESV)  
34 I tell you, **in that night there will be two in one bed**. One will be taken and the other left.

This passage is in context with the Lord's dissertation concerning the "days of the Son of Man" and the end of the age and correlates with His teaching in Matthew, Chapter 24. Jesus likened these "days" to the "days of Noah" and "Lot" (Luke 17:22-37; Matt. 24:37-51).

Note the phrase, "In that _night_ there will be two in one _bed_." Our word "bed" is the same word used in Revelation 2:22. "Night" and "bed" go hand in hand, symbolizing the "darkness" which leads to the "day of the Lord" overtaking us "as a thief" (I Thess. 5:1-10). All of this connects to the "great tribulation" which Jesus spoke of in Revelation 2:22, further confirmed by Luke 17 and Matthew 24. When Jesus said "night," He was referring to our _spiritual position_ at the end of the age, confirmed by what Paul wrote in the following.

1 Thessalonians 5:1-9 (NKJV)  
1 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that **the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the** night. 3 For when **they** say, "Peace and safety!" then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 **But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief.** 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. **We are not of the night nor of darkness**. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others _do_ _,_ but let us watch and be sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and _as_ a helmet the hope of salvation. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ...

What did Paul say in regard to the coming of the Lord? "Therefore let us not _sleep_ , _as others do_." Where do we sleep? In a "bed," and "those who sleep, _sleep at night_ ," which translates to our lack of knowledge and awareness of the true intent of the coming of the Lord at the end of the age.

So let's be raw and honest here about the idea of "great tribulation." Our word "tribulation" is defined by Strong's as, " _Pressure_ (literal or figurative)." Who cannot say that we do not have pressure in our lives? And, if we are willing to admit it, who cannot say that this pressure is intensifying due to the chaotic state of the church and the world around us? Is great tribulation coming, or, as I am inclined to believe, did it not begin long ago and simply increase over time? Though many in this country enjoy the comfort that our science and technology has brought us, the intensity of carnality has risen to such a level that it makes it quite difficult to live in these times. Are we not being bombarded by all manner of self-absorption, immorality, and lawlessness, even as our Lord and the apostles said we would? And how many today are being swept away by this "flood" of carnality? (Luke 17:34) Beloved, we are truly living in "perilous times" (II Tim. 3:1-5).

Revelation 2:23 (KJV)  
23 And **I will kill her children with death** ; and **all the churches shall know** that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.

"I will kill her children with death," Jesus says. Whose "children"? The "children" of Jezebel. "And all the churches shall know." Who will know? "All the churches." You see, my friend, the judgment which Jesus speaks about is _upon_ the church, not the world. What Peter wrote is strikingly clear, "For the time is come _that judgment must begin at the house of God_ : and _if_ _it_ _first_ _begin_ _at us_ , what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And _if the righteous scarcely be saved_ , where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator" (I Peter 4:17-19; KJV).

Thank you for reading my book. It is my sincere hope that it encouraged and enlightened you in your walk with Christ. If so, won't you please take a moment to leave me a review at your favorite retailer? Thank you!

Jack Marshall

**About the Author** :

I was born in California in 1957 but raised in Oklahoma, where my experience with Christianity began at the age of 19. After several years of attending various denominational and non-denominational churches, my love for the Bible and desire to understand the scriptures became a vital part of my life. Ordained in my twenties, I spent several years ministering in homes, jails, and churches. Through in-depth study for the past 42 years, I have discovered that the message of scripture is truly one of hope, love, and encouragement for the entire world.

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Other books by Jack Marshall

The Dream – Through the Eyes of Sowing and Reaping

Times and Seasons – An Alternative View of the Day of the Lord

Hell, No! An Alternative View of Hell

The Rapture – Yes or No?

Studies in Revelation – The Beasts of Revelation

The Parable of the Sower

Studies in Revelation – The Second Death

The Unpardonable Sin

Studies in Revelation – The Beast of the Earth

Eastward in Eden

Deep Sleep

The Serpent – An Alternative View of the Devil

Studies in Revelation – The Fullness of the Times

Studies in Revelation – Babylon the Great

Death, Burial, Resurrection – The Divine Process of God in Humankind

Dead Men's Bones – A Case Against Eternal Torment

Studies in Revelation – The Two Witnesses

Studies in Revelation – The Seven Trumpets – Part 1

**Bibliography**

Reference:

E.W. Bullinger (1837-1913), Number in Scripture: Its Supernatural Design and Spiritual Significance, Public Domain, 1921

Biblical Mathematics, Keys to Scripture Numerics, Evangelist Ed F. Vallowe, 1998

The Biblical Meaning of Numbers from One to Forty, Dr. Stephen E. Jones, Copyright 2008, Dr. James Strong (1822-1894), Strong's Concordance, First Published 1890

Marvin R. Vincent (1834-1922), Vincent's Word Studies in the New Testament, First Published 1887

Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, W.E. Vine, Merrill F. Unger, William White, Jr., Published in 1940 and without copyright

Seven Letters to Seven Churches, Mark Jantzi, Copyright 2002, 2004, 2005, Second Printing, 2006

The New Unger's Bible Dictionary, Merrill F. Unger, Originally Published by Moody Press of Chicago, Illinois, Copyright 1988

Google, www.google.com

Merriam-Webster Dictionary, www.merriam-webster.com

Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/

Cambridge Dictionary, dictionary.cambridge.org/us/

Bible Translations Used:

KJV, King James Version, Public Domain, 1611

NKJV, New King James Version, Published by Thomas Nelson, Inc., Complete Bible 1982

NIV, New International Version, Biblica, Zondervan and Hodder & Stoughton (UK) (licensed commercial rights), 1973 (NT), 1978 (OT)

ESV, English Standard Version, 2001: Crossway Bibles, a ministry of the Good News Publishers of Wheaton, Illinois, U.S.; Apocrypha 2009 by Oxford University Press

NASB77, Lockman Foundation, First Published, 1963, Copyright 1960

