This column represents the thoughts and opinions of Dr. Ron Braley. This is NOT the opinion of the Taylor Press.
In my last article, I taught that YHVH walked with people before they turned away. I also mentioned that He will someday destroy this realm and re-create perfection.
Here, we’ll unfold the last days as we begin to explore what Jesus revealed about the future. I’ll also introduce John the Revelator and guide you in your own endtimes study. John first.
Jesus’ disciple John Zebedee wrote the Revelation in about 95 CE while exiled to the Grecian Island of Patmos. Roman Emperor Domitian sent him there, and Emperor Nerva released the exiles a couple of years later. John then returned to Ephesus to live out his days.
While in the spirit, Jesus had revealed the future to John to give to his Asian churches. But he had heard much of this before.
Before Jesus’ crucifixion, several disciples asked Him about the Temple’s eventual destruction and His future return. You can read Jesus’ response in Matthew chapters 24-25, Mark 13, or Luke 21. He revealed a forthcoming departure from the Faith and diminishing true love. Also, that life will continue as it always has until religious deception, war, and environmental issues increase significantly just before the end. Here’s how Matthew 24:57 and Revelation 6:2-6 (part of a seven-sealed scroll) reveal Jesus’ time until Antichrist:
• Deception: Matthew 24:5 and Revelation 6:2 (behind seal #1).
• Violence: Matthew 24:6-7a and Revelation 6:3-4 (behind seal #2).
• Environmental and geological chaos: Matthew 24:7b and Revelation 6:5-6 (behind seal #3).
Now, I’ll introduce you to the Revelation. Don’t let anyone tell you that it’s all symbolic, already happened, or not sequential! Very little is purely symbolic, and most are explained there or elsewhere. Accept what you read as literally as possible unless there’s a reason not to. And compare Scriptures to Scriptures to get a clearer understanding. It’s easier than you think! Here’s a breakdown of the Revelation, which comprises eight primary sections (save this):
• Revelation 1 – 5.
Introduction, instructions, and an invitation to see the future.
• Revelation 6 – 8:1.
Sequence until the end and the protection of God’s people.
• Revelation 8:2 – 10.
Trumpet judgments 1-6 (God’s wrath begins).
• Revelation 11 – 13.
Three perspectives (two witnesses, Satan, and the Antichrist) and details of the Antichrist’s 3.5-year authority ending with trumpet judgment #7.
• Revelation 14 – 16.
Events just before and after the end of Antichrist authority; vial judgments 1-6 (almost the end of God’s wrath).
• Revelation 17 – 19.
Immoralities and the final showdown (God’s wrath ends with vial #7).
• Revelation 20 – 22.
Christ’s physical kingdom, judgment, and re-creation; closure.
Summary
Life will continue until deception, violence, and environmental issues spiral out of control. Next, we’ll deep-dive into the time of the Antichrist’s authority and mayhem revealed by the prophet Daniel, apostle Paul, and revelator John.
Meanwhile, honor God and love people more than religion. Questions or comments? Email [email protected].
Blessings and peace, Dr. Ron Braley, MDiv, DMin.
