The open book_ca_seals

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Rich Giberti – Tucson, AZRich is the Founder of First Stone Publishing, LLC. As a teenager, Rich had everything a typical middle-class teen raised in Southern California could want—everything but happiness. His search led him to drugs, fights, and alcohol abuse. The happiness he wanted eluded him until the day he became a Christian at a Second Chapter of Acts musical concert in Ventura, California. What happened next can only be described as a miracle! His complete life was changed, the desire to use drugs or alcohol completely vanished and this reckless lifestyle was replaced with a new-found desire to live for God. Today, Rich lives in Tucson, Arizona, with his wife and two younger teenage children. His oldest son currently is an Army Scout. Rich is the author of several books.

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Available Books

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Rev 17:10 And there are seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, and the other has not yet come. And whenever he comes, he must abide for a short time.

Past, present, future world kingdoms

1. 5 have fallen (PAST) a. Egypt b. Assyria c. Babylon - Head of Goldd. Medes-Persians - Arms of Silvere. Greece – Thighs of Bronze

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2.One is (PRESENT) – Imperial Rome – Legs of Iron

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3. One has not yet come (FUTURE) – Papal Rome – Toes of Iron & Clay

Rev 13:3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed:

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•he must abide for a short time. •Greek – a while•325 AD to present

Iron & Clay

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Now here we’re getting down to the mystery! Verse 11

Rev 17:11 And the Beast which was, and is not, is also an eighth, and is of the seven, and is going to perdition.

This 8th is the Antichrist —BUT, he’s also of the seven!

Same Iron, same nature, same conquer & divide

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RevelationCHAPTER 1

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Introduction

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“Revelation”

• Greek word “Apokalupsis”• Which means “uncovering”• “apo” means “away from”• “kalupsis” means “a hiding or a

veiling”• Therefore “apokalupsis” means

an unhiding, the taking away of a veil, or a revealing

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“Revelation”

• The book of Revelation is a letter revealed to a man named John, who was on the Island of Patmos, off the coast of Asia Minor.

• He was persecuted because of his testimony of Jesus Christ – 11 other disciples all dead.

• John was “in the Spirit” on the Lord’s day.

• The Book of Revelation was a series of visions, which John had & then recorded.

• Note: The revelation of Jesus Christ.

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HEAR.YE.HIM 57-05195 I can't make Him show me anything.

He doesn't show me according to my desire; He shows according to what His will is. There's been many things that I have prayed for, "Lord, will you just tell me how it will come out, so I can comfort the people?" He never say a word to me about it. Turn around and tell me something else. But He tells me what He wants me to know. He's my Father. And what He wants me to know, He tells me. Ain't none of my business, that‘s His business. That shows it doesn't lay in man; it's in God.

Matthew 24:36-37 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only..

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Jesus Warning: Observe the Signs

Mat 24:1-14 ¶ And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple. 2And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.

vs3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?

vs4 And Jesus answered and said unto them:

Deception - many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ. [ME – speaking great words against..]

Wars and rumours of wars Nation shall rise against nation, and

kingdom against kingdom: Famines, and pestilences, Earthquakes, in divers places.

Gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

vs8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. Aka “birth pangs”

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Mat 24:29-35 ¶ Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that *summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.

Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

*Israel in her homeland after 2000 years, empowered again as a Nation – 1948 (Amos 9:14-15; Ezek 37:10-14; Jer 16:14-15; Hos 6:1-2)

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*Israel in her homeland after 2000 years, revived as a Nation – 1948 (Amos 9:14-15; Ezek 37:10-14; Jer 16:14-15; Hos 6:1-2)

Hosea 6:1-2 “Come, and let us return unto the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up. Vs.2 After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight.”

II Peter 3:8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day

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After rebelling against the Romans in A.D. 66 and again in 132, Judea was crushed and most of the remaining Jews were dispersed throughout the Roman Empire and beyond. No Jewish homeland existed again until 1948 when the modern nation of Israel was established.

An independent Jewish homeland was merely a dream for a small group of zealots a century ago. It moved a step nearer during World War I, when forces of the British Commonwealth took control of Jerusalem from the Turks in December 1916. A few months later, the British government pledged itself to the establishment of an independent Jewish homeland in the ancient lands the Jews had inhabited for centuries. It was to be another 30 years before the dream was realized in 1948.

This declaration of independence, in 1948, triggered a war with the surrounding countries, which objected to the presence of a Jewish state. On May 15, 1948, the day that armies from the surrounding countries invaded, Azzam Pasha, the Secretary General of the Arab League, said "This will be a war of extermination and a momentous massacre which will be spoken of like the Mongolian massacres and the Crusades.”

Since then tiny Israel has had to fight wars for survival in 1948, 1967 and 1973 and has suffered countless terrorist attacks and threats of annihilation from hostile neighbors determined to eliminate the Jewish state.

1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Walk in the Light

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RevelationCHAPTER 2-3

Rev 1:1,4,11The Revelation of

Jesus Christ,John to the seven

churches in Asia:

Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis and Laodicea.

The Revelation of Jesus Christ

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The Church Ages

"Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches. " Revelation 1:19-20

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Sanduleak -69° 202a, a blue supergiant – the seventh supernova occurring in the past 2000 years.

Warning: Heavenly Signs

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• Jesus Warning: Heavenly Signs

The progenitor star was identified as Sanduleak -69° 202a, a blue supergiant – was the seventh supernova occurring in the past 2000 years.

SN 1987A was a supernova in the outskirts of the Tarantula Nebula in a nearby dwarf galaxy. It occurred approximately 51.4 kiloparsecs from earth, close enough that it was visible to the naked eye (Mercy Seat in Plain View)…

Since 51.4 kiloparsecs is approximately 168,000 light years, the cosmic *event itself happened approximately 168,000 years prior. The light from the supernova reached the Earth February 23, 1987.

*Event – supernovae mark the end state of a stars life. John 5:35 “He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.”

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Jesus Warning: Heavenly Signs

Heaven first, then on the Earth. Revelation 1, 4 & 5, and the 7th Seal – from the supernatural to the natural.

Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. – Hebrews 8:5

It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. – Hebrews 9:23

Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. – Matthew 2:1-2

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Jesus Warning: Heavenly Signs

Revelation 1, 4 & 5, and the 7th Seal – from Heaven to Earth, the supernatural to the natural.

WHERE.IS.HE.KING.OF.THE.JEWS_ JEFF.IN V-16 N-7 SUNDAY_ 58-1221M 71 [Magi – ed.] And these man, they waited on one true God, and they worship Him in the light of a sacred fire. And they would get around these fires and wait on the Lord. And many of them would--had--had observatories, something like we have today, and they would go to these places way up high in the mountains and they would watch every move of the stars. They claim that before God does anything on earth, He always shows it in heaven first. And they're right.

Always, God shows it by heavenly signs first. Since when did He ever do anything that He didn't show a heavenly sign first? Think of it in every age that you wish to, and God always does show signs in the heaven first, before He does anything on earth. It comes from the supernatural, drops into the natural and is made manifest: every age, every time.

Church Ages simply refer to a dispensation, or a space of time wherein God gives the Gentiles (apart from the Jews) an opportunity to hear the Gospel. This dispensation is divided into "Seven" phases or ages - each with it's own messenger and message, showing what Jesus is doing in Grace and/or Judgment in a particular age.

The Elect always recognized their day, their messenger and the Message.

What are the Seven Church Ages?

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A.D. 53 – 170 Ephesus (relaxed, drifting)A.D. 170 – 312 Smyrna (Myrrh – bitter to death)A.D. 312 – 606 Pergamos (thoroughly married)A.D. 606 – 1520 Thyatira (dominating female)A.D. 1520 -1750 Sardis (dead)A.D. 1750 – 1906 Philadelphia (brotherly kindness)A.D. 1906 –??? Laodicea (lukewarm)

Fixing the Church Ages Historically

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“.....and [the Lord] hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;" Acts 17:26

“.....for at the time appointed the end [shall be]." Daniel 8:19

"And [some] of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make [them] white, [even] to the time of the end: because [it is] yet for a time appointed." Daniel 11:35

Fixing the Church Ages Historically

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The Seven Church Ages

Revelation 2:1Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;

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2 Peter 1:1-8

"But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.”

*Add - epichorégeó

Paul

Columba

Martin

Luther

Irenaeus

Wesley

Elijah

Christ

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Timeline – 3rd 2000 Years

2000 yrs

2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th


R

aptu

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1st

JesusearthlyMinistry

The Seven Churches/Ages

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The Messages to the Seven Churches have a five-fold application:

1. Local, to the *churches actually addressed.

*Church – ecclesia. The called out. Matt 22:14; John 6:44; Rev 17:14

2. Admonition/Warning, to all churches in all time to discern their true spiritual state in the sight of God, in light of what God said to these individual churches - that we be not guilty of the same mistakes and errors.

The Seven Churches/Ages

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3. Personal, in that the exhortations are to "him", "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the spirit saith unto the churches." And the promises are "To him that overcometh".

4. Angel first, people second (pattern) “unto the angel of … write.” Ex 20:19; Amos 3:7; Rev 10: ; Rev 22:8

5. Prophetic, in that the Seven Messages reveal Seven phases of the "spiritual" history of the church from about A.D. 96 to the end, and in the precise order in which they are given.

Ephesus: The FIRST Age

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Revelation 2:1-7¶ Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These

things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks. I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: and hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast labored, and hast not fainted.

4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, Gen 2:9; Rev 22:2 which is in the midst of the paradise of God.


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On West coast of Asia Minor at mouth of Cayster, 60 miles from Patmos. Foremost city of province of Asia; residence of Roman proconsul. Magnificent, wealthy trade center in fertile country; called "the light of Asia." Marketplace and "Vanity Fair" of Asia, on Roman route to the east.Harbor busy, but troubled with silt, is now a marsh 7 miles from the sea. Beautiful temple of Diana (Artemis), one of 7 wonders of ancient world; 360 x 180 feet, with over 100 columns each 55 feet high. Foundation now sits in a frog--ridden swamp. Temple was also a secure bank. Stadium seated 50,000. City full of idolatry, magical arts, and sorcery. Paul ministered there three years (next longest to Rome); also wrote epistle to the Ephesians. Acts 19--Converts burned books on magical arts. Spread of Christianity diminished Diana-worship, causing craftsmen to protest. Great tumult ensued. Aquila and Priscilla lived there, held services in their home (1 Cor. 16:19).

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St. Paul Preaching Before the Temple of Diana at Ephesus


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Messenger – Paul, the Apostle and Prophet (Rev 1:8,11)

The pattern & example – Alpha & Omega1. True to the Word (Gal 1:8-9; 1 Cor 14:36-37; 1 Thes 2:13)

2. Spirit-filled & led (Gal 1:1)a) without, we use carnal weapons to fight a spiritual

battle (Daniel 10:12-13; Luke 22:31; Ephesians 2:2-3, 6:10-18 vs12 “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age”)

b) without, we live by knowledge of the law/sight, not by faith

c) without, we conform to an idea, not God (religious measuring stick)

d) without, the church is run by a man, not Gode) without, the church is either legalistic or liberal (the

gifts and/or a true 5-fold ministry keep the church clean; Urim-Thumin *see next slide)

3. Power (1 Cor 2:1-5; Acts 20:9-12; Acts28:7-9)


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The pattern & example – Alpha & Omega1. True to the Word - “angel preach other gospel” Gal 1:6-9

2. Spirit-filled & led – Urim & Thummim Ex 28:13-30

Originally translated ‘lights & perfections.’ A more accurate interpretation is ‘cursed or faultless,’ in reference to the God's view of an accused. In other words, when the law or external facts were unclear, Urim and Thummim were used to supernaturally & simply answer the question innocent or guilty, y-n.3. Power – confirmed the Word w/ signs & wonders Mk 16:20, Acts 14:3; Satan cannot cast out Satan Mat 12:26; anointed ones (rain falls on just and unjust Mat 5:45, Matt 7:23)


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Short age: 53-170AD

“Aimed At & Relaxing” – “Drifting”1. Jude 1:3 “earnestly contend for the faith…”

vs.4 “certain men crept in unawares…”

vs. 11-12 “way of Cain, error of Balaam…”2. Acts 20:29 “after my departing, grievous wolves…”3. 2 Peter 2:1-22 “there shall be false teachers among you…”4. 1 John 2:18 “even now there are many antichrists…”


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Messenger – Paul, the Apostle"For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. .. But when it pleased God, Who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me, by His grace, To reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not among flesh and blood:Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus." Galatians 1:12-19"But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the Gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter:(For He That wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the Same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)." Galatians 2:7-9"For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office." Romans 11:13


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Stars in the right hand (Rev 2:1)Walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks (Rev 2:1)Tried (by the Word) them that say they are apostles (Rev 2:2) [apostles-elders-leaders Gal 2:11 “But when Cephas was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.”]

[Rebuke] Left thy first love (Rev 2:4)Repent (Rev 2:5)Hate the deeds of the Nicolaitanes (Rev 2:6)He that hath an ear (Rev 2:7)

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Deeds of the Nicolaitanes, become Doctrines, become Anti-Christ Incarnate

The "clergy order" being set in motion by the Nicolaitans here in the Ephesian Age would later developed into the papal hierarchy of priests and clergy over the laity.God has placed guidelines even for the ministry to be governed by: "The Elders which are among you, I exhort, who am also an elder..... Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not for filthy lucre but of a ready mind. Neither as being lords over God's heritage but being examples to the flock." 1 Peter 5:1-3 "Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, [that they are] the enemies of the cross of Christ:" Philippians 3:17-18


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The spiritual lessons from the Ephesian church age

1.) The labor and works and patience of the Ephesians was excellent even when they didn't have the whole N.T. cannon to read and to follow. 2.) They couldn't bear the evil ones when false apostles were exposed in their church. a.) expose falsehood in love and not allow error to creep into the church. Be zealous against evil even among those who claim to have authority from God but are wrong-- 1 Timothy 5:20 " Them that sin, rebuke before all; that others might also fear. " b.) There's a time to openly confront evil for the sake of the safety of the church. 3.) Not to leave the first love, as they did, and to keep doing the same works but keep the motive behind them unchanged--a love for Jesus and an excitement for Him, pleasing Him in His presence and doing what delights His heart. 4.) We must be hearers of the Truth and overcomes of the opposing spirit and challenge of the day in which we live.

Smyrna: The SECOND Age

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Revelation 2:8-11 ¶ And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna

write; These things saith the first and the last, Is. 44:6;

48:12 – Rev 1:17; 22:13 which was dead, and is alive. 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. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death Rev 20:14; 21:8 .

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St. Peter’s Basilica – Synagogue of Satan


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Well-protected harbor at mouth of Hermus. Destroyed by rival king in 627 B.C.; rebuilt in 290 B.C. to Alexander's design, after his death. Beautiful city, one of finest in Asia. A center of worship to "the deity of Rome and emperor"; temple to Tiberius there. Persecution of Christians resulted. Held Olympic games in honor to Nero--"Savior of the Entire Human Race." Highly-reputed schools of rhetoric and philosophy.Many Jews hostile to Christianity; carried wood to burn Polycarp in 166 A.D.

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“Perishing they were additionally made into sports: they were killed by dogs by having the hides of beasts attached to them, or they were nailed to crosses or set aflame, and, when the daylight passed away, they were used as nighttime lamps. Nero gave his own gardens for this spectacle and performed a Circus game…”

Tacitus (c. 55 -117 CE)

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Nero crucified Christians, and used them as torches to light his evening activities


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Messenger – Irenaeus (Rev 2:8-11)1. He was the disciple of that great saint and warrior of faith, Polycarp.2. Closest to the original messenger (gifts, etc.)3. militant against any form of organization

Works, Tribulation, Poverty170-312AD“Bitter” -Its namesake, myrrh, was a precious spice to embalm the dead (see John 19:39,40).


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Tribulation, and poverty (Rev2:9)The synagogue of Satan (Rev 2:9)Devil cast you in a prison, tried 10 days (Rev 2:10)Faithful unto death (Rev 2:10)NO rebukeHe that hath an ear (Rev 2:11)

He has nothing negative to say about this church. All he says is just be faithful; just keep your eyes on me and trust in me. He knows what His people can bear, and Jesus says He won't allow anything greater to come upon them than what they're able to bear (1 Cor.10:13).

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Together with his deacons Socius and Festus, and his lector Desiderius, Januarius, bishop of Beneventum, was subjected to most atrocious torturing during the Diocletian persecution (about 304). Nevertheless, with God's aid they were preserved unmaimed. The wild animals let loose upon them would not attack. They were finally beheaded at Puteoli.


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The spiritual lessons from the “Smyrnan church age”1.) We will ALL be tested, tried and face tribulations – some unto death. We have to, as it were, be willing to give our lives as necessary and even be willing to die for Jesus Christ. Sometimes it's harder to live for Him than to die for Him. 2.) Love and commitment to God were fanned to a flame by the winds of persecution, and were spiritually healthy and vital even though outwardly they may have been poor and needy. 3.) Fear not is a message to saints in trouble. He wants us to learn to walk in the love and peace of God and overcome evil with good and not be revengeful or anxious. 4.) God had nothing bad to say about them.

Pergamos: The THIRD Age

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Revelation 2:12-17 ¶ And to the angel of the church in Per'gamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges. I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein An'tipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Ba'laam, who taught Balak to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. Num 25:1-3; 31:16 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicola'itans, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, Ex 16:14-15 and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.


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Capital of Asia until second century A.D. In beautiful district on north bank of the Caicus. Filled with idolatry; Rivaled Ephesus in temples. Had temples to Caesar, Zeus, Athena, Dionysos, etc. A center of Emperor worship along with Smyrna.Aesculapius (Asklepios), god of healing, worshipped in form of live serpent in temple. Coins show Aesculapius bearing serpent-wreathed rod. UN symbol – a type of ‘benevolent’ One World System/Lordship?"Satan's throne" (Rev. 2:13)--- worship of serpent (or possibly of Caesar).Home of a medical university. The city's library (200,000 volumes) was second only to Alexandria's. Learning – Tree of KnowledgeManufactured ointments, pottery, tapestry, and parchment.

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"They have built also the high places of Baal, to burn their sons as offering to Baal" (Jeremiah 19:5; 32:35)

A fire was lit inside a metal idol, heated until the idol was extremely hot, and then a baby would be placed in the arms of the idol and consumed or slid inside the idol and burned to death. [Cleitarchus, 315 BC]


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Messenger – St. Martin (Rev 1:8,11)The pattern & example – Alpha & Omega1. True to the Word2. Spirit-filled & led3. Power312-606AD“Thoroughly Married”

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“Saint Martin encountered ‘a naked man, trembling and shaking for cold, and begging alms of those that passed by. Martin, seeing those that went before him take no notice of this miserable object, thought he was reserved for himself. By his charities to others he had nothing left but his arms and clothes upon his back; when, drawing his sword, he cut his cloak in two pieces, gave one to the beggar, and wrapped himself in the other half. Some of the bystanders laughed at the figure he made in that dress, whilst others were ashamed not to have relieved the poor man. In the following night St. Martin saw in his sleep Jesus Christ dressed in that half of the garment that he had given away, and was bid to look at it well and asked whether he knew it’.…”

Saint Martin of Tours

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St. Martin saw in his sleep Jesus Christ dressed in that half of the garment that he had given away


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"I know where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat (literally--throne) is..." The reference here is to the Esculapias, a serpent god. Some say that the Jews kept the brass serpent wrapped on a pole that Moses made, and secretly worshipped it. This serpent reference goes back to Genesis, and forward to Revelation 20:2 “And he laid hold of the dragon, the serpent of old, who is the devil and Satan”. Thoroughly married also speaks of consummation – a union, just as it was in the Garden of Eden. Genesis 3:1-15; “And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.” [beguiled-seduced] 2 Corinthians 11:2-4 – Eve was NOT chaste…Satan's throne was established in this church age in the name of Roman Catholicism at Rome. It becomes Satan's seat in that age. The bishop of Rome obtained more and more power until he was recognized as the head of the church, and “Vicar of Christ”.


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This Age spans the time from Constantine's Edict of Toleration for Christians to what is considered the first actual true pope and the beginnings of the Catholic Church. "Pergamos" means "much or thoroughly married". The symbolic reference is to the fact that Christianity in this church age was being married to paganism;The spiritual marriage of Jezebel (daughter of the high priest of Baal) to Ahab, King of Israel... This was an age of compromise and spiritual decline, overrun w/ deceptive doctrines and compromising in the church. Satan could not destroy the church, so he infiltrated it w/ pagan worship, etc...


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Niceaen Council in 325 AD. The dilution of Jesus and the Godhead, into the “Trinity” & the use of the Titles, “Father, Son, Holy Ghost.”Rev 2:13: It was a period when there where different opinions of who Jesus was. So when Jesus says, Thou art holding fast my name, He's not talking to heretical churchmen and, but He's talking to His remnant-- those who had a revelation of the name of Jesus (Matt 24:28), that He’s the only one that saves, heals, forgives, etc.-- not Mary, or the pope, or the church, etc... Its not by works, but by grace. The last group to retain the revelation and practice of correct water baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ [Acts 2:38, 8:16, 10:48, 19:5].Acts 4:12; Matt.1:21— “no other name by which men are saved by”, “His name shall be called Jesus.”

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All Pagan religions from the time of Babylon, have adopted in one form or another a trinity doctrine or a triad or trinity of gods – the mother-child being notable…

In ancient Sumeria it was Anu the primary god of heaven, Enlil, (the wind-god) the god of the earth, and Enki was the god of waters and the lord of wisdom;

In Babylon it was Nimrod, Semiramis (Ishtar), and Tammuz;

In Egypt it was Osiris, Isis, and Horus

In Greece it was Zeus, Apollo, Athena

In Rome it was Jupiter, Mars, Venus

In Papal Rome it was Father, Son, Mary (originally – changed to Father, Son, Holy Ghost)

Babylon

EgyptRome


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Numbers 25:1-9;31:16 - Thru Balac king of Moab, Israel was seduced into pagan rites in the worship of Baal, and many of them took women from the Midianites and Moabites and committed fornication-- 24,000 Israelites were slain in a plague as a result.Rev 2:14: “many that hold the doctrine (or teaching) of Balaam” - Balaam was an anointed man within Israel who was a compromiser. Balaam said, ‘I can't curse them because God has blessed them. However, if you somehow can tempt them to sin, God will forsake them and curse them.’ When Constantine came forth w/ his Edict of Toleration, he said ‘there's no more persecution of Christians, by law we're all going to be Christians’. Many were given money and clothing to convert – there no longer was any distinction between the church and the world. Christianity was married w/ paganism. Constantine's reason was to unify his empire. “If ya Can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em…”

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The Roman Emperor Constantine saw a vision of the Chi-Rho symbol of Christ and the words, in Greek, Εν τουτο νικα (pronounced: "en touto nika”- "in this sign conquer"), before his great victory at the Milvian Bridge just outside Rome.

Converted?? Constantine supported both Christianity and paganism, and retained the title pontifex maximus, the chief priest of the state cult, until his death.


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Rev 2:17: “will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.”

The stone is symbolic of revelation. “Upon this Rock I will build my Church…” Each TRUE believer knows who Jesus is, and that he is saved – this is a revelation, and the gates of Hell cannot prevail.


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Spiritual lessons for us from this Pergamos church age:

1.). Pergamos was where Satan's seat or throne was; this corresponds to the founding of the Roman Catholic church. 2.). We also live in a time when there's going to be world government and there's going to be a world church. 3.) the anti-christ spirit , Nicolaitan spirit, around since Paul’s day, is getting stronger. Eventually, it's going to culminate in the Antichrist himself being revealed and coming into full power – as Constantine Pontiff Maximus was. 2 Thessalonians 2:3 tells us that this “man of perdition” will be revealed in some measure around the time of the Rapture of the saints, and therefore, he most likely is alive on earth at this time, considering that we're living in the last generation.

Thyatira: The FOURTH Age

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Revelation 2:18-29¶ Unto the angel of the church of 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. 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. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jez'ebel, 1 Kin 16:31; 2 Kin 9:22, 30 which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: Ps 7:9; Jer 17:10 and I will give unto every one of you according to his works. Ps 62:12 But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thy-ati'ra, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. But that which ye have already, hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers:Ps 2:8-9 even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.


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Messenger – Columba (Rev 1:8,11)The pattern & example – Alpha & Omega1. Called by God thru an audible voice2. Spirit-filled & led missionary3. Miraculous powerThe longest age, about 900 years: 606-1520AD“Dominating Female”A period of unchecked papal power where the popes claimed and exercised dominion over the kingdoms of the earth.


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Surrounded by many rivers, full of leeches.Well off financially due to the corporate guilds (unions)The major religion of Thyatira was the worship of Apollo Tyrimnaios (Sun god), which was joined with the emperor worship cult. Apollo (Jesus) communicated his knowledge of his 'father's will' to men through a prophetess who sat on a tripod chair.Anyone who refused to join in the idolatrous feasts and licentious orgies was barred from these first century unions.The Roman Church had an iron disposition (Ecc 7:25-28)


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She is Mystery Babylon. (Revelation 17:5)She is the great whore. (Revelation 17:9, 18)A true female is submissive to God. Christ is her head (1 Cor 11:3-16 (headship & hair cutting). She has no word but His, no thoughts but His, no leadership but His. The Roman Church has cast out the Word, slain those who would preach the truth, ruled over kings and nations - and insists that she is the true body of Christ and that her popes are the vicars of Christ.Vicarius Fileii Dei – ‘in place of the Son of God’ (Revelation 13:17-18)

VICARIUS: V = 5, I = 1, C = 100, I + 1, U (or V) = 5; for FILEII: I = 1,

L = 50, I = 1, I = 1; for DEI: D = 500, I = 1; total 666.


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The Whore demands complete allegiance & obeisance. 1. 1869, Vatican Council, dogma of Papal Infallibility (Revelation 18: 7 ‘I sit as Queen, yet am no widow.’)2. 1965, Lee Vayle & 7 C/A, Page 328 PP3; “who then will have the power of infallibility which is to be restored in this last age? … I will tell you who will have it. It will be a prophet.”3. 2006, Joseph Branham, St. Petersburg, Russia; "I believe that everything Brother Branham says is Thus Saith The Lord.” “If this Message is your absolute then we can fellowship with one another. If you have another absolute, if you take another man's idea, another man's thought, his interpretation, then we can't fellowship."

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Mary Queen of Heaven

Egyptian Isis & Horus

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Pope Benedict XVI


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As we saw in the previous Pergamaen Age, the nominal church was “thoroughly married” to the pagan systemRevelation 2:20 “thou sufferest that woman Jezebel."1. 75 years after King Solomon, Ahab of Israel married Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal, the king of Sidon (1 Kings 16:31).2. Ethbaal was a priest of Estarte who was a female deity, and they called her the queen of heaven.3. Jeremiah 7:18--denounces this worship of the queen of heaven4. Roman Catholicism substitutes Mary for Estarte – changes pagan Estarte fertility celebration to ‘Easter.’Accept false teaching=spiritual fornication

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Easter: Astarte, Ishtar, Mary – Queen of Heaven & Fertility

Pagan ? Yes

What’s Jesus got to do with it ? Nothing…


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Revelation 2:28 "And I will give him the morning star.”The morning star is the last star that's visible before the dawning of the day, and God's telling them--you in this church age are living in a dark night. You are living in a period of gross darkness; where darkness is covering not only the nations, but the church and we even know this period as "the dark ages"--the midnight hour of the papacy when the light of God was almost lost to his people (Isaiah 60:1-2)Martin Luther’s revelation of Jesus would be that morning star arising for the next age of Sardis …

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But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. – Proverbs 4:18

I am … the bright and morning star. – Revelation 22:16


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Spiritual lessons for us from this Thyatira church age:

1.). We are not to suffer the Jezebel spirit (Proverbs 25:24 “It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a contentious (competing) woman…” )cf. Gen 1:26-28

2.) The offspring of this hellish union will produce spiritual death – everlasting separation from God 3.) there is only one mediator and one absolute – Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 2:5; Matthew 24:25)"I know thy works; and the last to be more than the first." This is remarkable. As the darkness of the age increased; as the honor roll of the martyrs grew lengthier day by day, they worked all the harder, they served all the more, and their faith increased.

Sardis: The FIFTH Age

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Revelation 2:18-29¶ Unto the angel of the church of Thyatira write; These

things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars. I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Mat

24:43-44; Luk 12:39-40; Rev 16:15 Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. Mat

10:32; Luke 12:8 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.


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Messenger – Martin Luther (Rev 1:8,11)The Morning Star1. At the end of the Dark Ages2. “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:173. He stood against an entrenched empire1520-1750AD“Dead”Known as “The Reformation” period95 Thesis nailed to Wittenberg Church doorsPrinting press invented & helps spread truth

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"I would never have thought that such a storm would rise from Rome over one simple scrap of paper..." (Martin Luther)

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“…The second group of my work is directed aginst the foul doctrine and evil living of the Popes, past and present... Through the laws of the Pope and the doctrines of men, the consciences of the faithful have been miserably vexed and flayed. If I recant these books, I will do nothing but add strength to tyranny and open not just the windows but also the doors to this great ungodliness... In the third group I have written against private persons and individuals who uphold Roman tyranny and have attacked my own efforts to encourage piety to Christ. I confess that I have written too harshly. I am but a man and I can err. Only let my errors be proven by Scripture and I will revoke my work and throw my books into the fire...

Unless I am convinced by Scripture and by plain reason and not by Popes and councils who have so often contradicted themselves, my conscience is captive to the word of God. To go against conscience is neither right nor safe. I cannot and I will not recant. Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me.”

Martin Luther’s reply at the Diet of Worms, April 18, 1521“I cannot and I will not recant.”


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Sardis was the capital of ancient Lydia. It passed from the hands of Lydian monarchs to the Persians and thence to Alexander the Great. Eventually the Romans took over. In the time of Tiberius it was desolated by earthquakes and plagues. The religion of this city was the impure worship of the moon goddess Cybele, supplanting the Sun god DeoiusWith the ascendancy of Rome, this mother-son cult is replaced with Mary & Jesus.


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The Seven Spirits actually refer to the One Spirit of God working out the will and Word of God in different generations. these seven stars, or seven messengers are in His hand. He is holding them and they are associated with His power. That is what the ‘right hand’ signifies. Is 41:10; Ps 137:5; Acts 2:34 & 7:55-56; Matt 26:64

These 7 are special leaders of His own choosing and through the determined counsel of His own will. They appear once in each age. It is the same Spirit in them (light through a prism).


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Revelation 3:1b, "I know thy works, that thou has a name that thou livest, and art dead.” 1. The leadership of the Holy Spirit was superseded by a human hierarchy. 2. The pure Word of God and its free benefit to all men was deposed for creeds, dogmas, church orders, etc. 3. The worship in the Spirit and Gifts of the Spirit and the true community fellowship of the saints was cast aside for liturgy and literal idol worship, pagan feasts, etc. 4. Maryolatry was assuming a greater place in the Christian worship, until she had assumed a place of Godhead and the Son was brought from His position of Lord of all to being replaced by a man called the pope, who termed himself the Vicar of Christ.


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This era gave tremendous growth to the denominational spirit.There were Lutherans, Hussites, Zwingli's party, etc. Such fragmentation of the Body was deplorable. They were living a name but were dead.1 Corinthians 1:10-13

“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment… Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided?”


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This denominational spirit has made all the groups write their manuals and teach their creeds, set up their offices and church governments and then each claims that she, and she alone, truly speaks for God. Both the Roman Church & Protestant churches are doing this! They are right back there with their mother, the harlot, and don't know it.

JUDGMENT Revelation 3:3, "Remember therefore how thou has received and heard, and hold fast and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know the hour I will come upon thee.”

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Martin Luther said, “Unless I am convinced by Scripture…”

Joseph Branham says, “These are the instructionsthat Brother Branham left us…Therefore I believethat this is the way it must be done by all…”


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"I will come on thee as a thief." Ancient Sardis was constantly harassed by bandits that swooped down from the hills and pillaged the people. Thus they knew only too well what the Spirit was saying in that the coming of the Lord is as a thief. Vigilance and preparation alone will suffice to be ready for Jesus’ coming. We know that this is a warning for the false vine, for the coming of the Lord will be as it was in the days of Noah. The eight saved were well aware of the impending flood, and being aware were prepared and saved. But the world of the ungodly was swept away. Though they daily were in contact with the righteous and heard the truth, they turned it aside until it was too late. Those carnal people in that ancient period type out today the nominal Christians whose lives are full of earthly things, and take pleasure in them to such an extent that they have no desire for the Spiritual, and are not at all aware of, nor readied for His appearing.

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"I will come on thee as a thief."

Philadelphia: The SIXTH Age

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things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth. Is 22:22 know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, Is 60:14 and to know that I have loved thee. Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: Rev 21:2 and I will write upon him my new name. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.


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Messenger – John Wesley (Rev 3:8,11)The restoration of personal holiness 1. True to the Word 2. Spirit-filled & led3. Power 1750-1906AD“Brotherly Kindness” “An Open Door” – age of missionaries‘Man’ anointing – intellect; dictionaries, concordances, Bible translations (start w/ Luther’s German translation)

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‘Holiness– of course we take it seriously. Why do you ask?’

I’m afraid many people either don’t understand what holiness is/means, or they seem like this poster – insincere & hypocritical

"You may as well quit reading and hearing the Word of God, and give it to the devil, if you do not desire to live according to it."-- Martin Luther


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‘Holiness– of course we take it seriously. Why do you ask?’

To God, holiness is not important, it is required

"Without holiness no man shall see the Lord" (Heb. 12:14)

"I delight in the law of God after the inward man" (Rom. 7:22)

"Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness, and cares of this life" (Luke 21:34)

"I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection, lest that by any means when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway" (1 Cor. 9:27)

1 Peter 1:15-16; Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:2; Ephesians 1:4; Galatians 5:17; James 3:2


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To God, holiness is not important, it is required

“Who may ascend the hill of the Lord…?” (Ps 24:3-4)“They brought before God a strange fire…they died” (Lev

10:1-3)There is a legend that the high priest started to have a rope tied around his waist, in order to be pulled out of the Holy of Holies, should he be struck dead – but the truth is that the robe with bells that rang ‘holy, holy, holy’ was worn in the Holy Place (Ex 28:30-35). It was assumed that to proceed from the outer and through the inner court, the question of worthiness and holiness was answered – no outward show was required while standing in God’s Shekinah… “him that is holy, be holy still.” – Rev 22:11

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In short, to talk of men being saved from the guilt of sin, without being at the same time saved from its dominion in their hearts, is to contradict the witness of all Scripture.

"Christ loved the Church, and gave Himself for it, that He might sanctify and cleanse it" (Eph. 5:25, 26).

"He gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works" (Titus 2:14).

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Sanctification=cleansed and set aside for service…

Sanctification is instantaneous before God through Christ, but it is progressive before man through obedience to the Holy Spirit and the Word.

”Sanctify you completely; spirit, soul, and body" (1 Thes. 5:23).

”For by one offering He has perfected those who are being sanctified" (Heb 2:11).

”For this is the will of God, your sanctification…" (1 Thes 4:3,7).


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Spiritual lessons

1.) Jesus reveals himself as ‘he that is holy’, and therefore God expects holiness in our lives. In our behavior, in our manner of life and in the way we relate to the world, and to people around us and the way we deal w/ our brothers and sisters. Being separate unto Him and desiring to please Him in all things. 2.) Jesus showed himself as he that is true or that is real. So God is saying I'm calling for a reality in my church, I'm real, I'm genuine and I want you to be real and genuine.

Laodicea: The SEVENTH Age

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things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God. Prov 8:22 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: Prov 3:21; Heb 12:6 be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.


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Messenger – Wm. Branham aka Elijah the Prophet (Rev 2:8,11; Rev 10:1-7; Mal 4:5-6; Luke 17:30)

God prophesied, “I will send you Elijah…before the…day of the Lord” (Mal 4:5. Jesus said this man would ‘restore all things’ (Matt 17:11). What does this mean?Who is this prophet-messenger, angel to the 7th church age?Has he come already? Is he yet to appear?Will this Elijah be one of the two witnesses? How will we recognize him?


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Messenger – Wm. Branham aka Elijah the ProphetHow will we recognize him?Most ages had difficulty recognizing the ones that God had sent (Romans 11:13; 1 Thes 2:15; 1. Noah2. Moses3. David4. “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee..” Matt 23:29-395. Elijah (in John Baptist) “Elias is come already, and they knew him not…” Matt 17:12

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O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee..” Matt 23:29-39


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Messenger – Wm. Branham aka Elijah the ProphetHow will we recognize him?Among many Christians and Messianic believers, there is an expectation of one who will appear in the power and spirit of Elijah before the second coming of Yeshua the Messiah. Even observant Jews expect Eliyahu haNavi (Elijah the prophet) to come before Maschiach ben David (Messiah, son of David), as evidenced by the traditional Passover seder service, where a cup of wine is symbolically set out for Elijah.1. Isaiah 61:2 “acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance“; Luke 4:16-21; a scripture is split – 2000 years between2. Malachi 3:1 / Isaiah 40:3 / John 1:19-13; Luke 1:17 – John Baptist3. Malachi 4:5 – Wm Branham aka Elijah

The Spirit of ELIJAH

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The spirit of Elijah is used FIVE times through history: 1. Elijah – 1 Kings 17:222. Elisha – 2 Kings 2:9 receives "a double portion" of Elijah's spirit3. John the Baptist “Elias is come already, and they knew him not…” Matt 17:124. William Branham “I will send Elijah the prophet…” Mal 4:5-65. Elijah (in one of the two witnesses) “power to shut heaven, that it rain not…” Rev 11:6


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The pattern & example – Alpha & Omega1. True to the Word (Gal 1:8-9; 1 Cor 14:36-37; 1 Thes 2:13)2. Spirit-filled & led (Gal 1:1)3. Power (Mark 16:17; 16:20; Matt 10:5-8; John 10:37-39; John 14:12)Joel 2:25 “I will restore to you…”Matt 17:11 “Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things.…”Acts 2:17 “And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:…” Azusa Street Revival…


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The Church Condition in the Last Days

Short age: 1906AD to PresentFrequent earthquakes – eventually destroyed“Peoples Rights” Rev 3:16 “thou art lukewarm…”Rev 3:17 “I am rich, and increased with goods…”Rev 3:15 “thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked…”

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Rev 3:17 “I am rich, and increased with goods…”

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Rev 3:14 ”Laodicea - Peoples Rights…”

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Rev 3:15 “thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked…”

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Rev 3:15 “and knowest NOT that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked…”What’s the

difference??

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Rev 3:18 “anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.…”

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No room in the inn – Luke 2:7Go outside camp, bear his reproach – Heb 13:13Despised, rejected – Is 53:1-3Rejected King – Mark 11:8-10; John 6:15Why call me Lord, and do not the things I say? – Luke 6:46Lord, Lord…depart, I never knew you – Matt 7:21-23

Rev 1:13 & 2:1, Jesus is “in the midst” and “walks among” the 7 churches, by the last age He has been kicked out of His own church – replaced by creeds, dogma, etc. “In that day seven women will take hold of one man…we will eat our own bread & wear our own clothes, but be called by your name…” Isaiah 4:1; Rev 18:7

“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock.”

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The Breach between the Seven Church Ages and the Seven Seals

Chapter Four and Five of Revelation is called “The Breach” because they lay positioned between Chapter Three and Chapter Six. They also appear to occur in Heaven, whereas Chapters Two and Three that deal with the Seven Church Ages, and Chapter Six which is the events that transpire upon the Earth after the Seals are opened. The Breach is also a transition from a world order under grace, to a world order under judgment and wrath. The very act of the Lamb of God leaving the mercy seat to retrieve the Sealed Book signifies a cessation of the old order under a dispensation of intercessory grace, to a new era of The Lion of Judah assuming his Kingly throne to sit as ruler and judge.

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The Lamb’s blood had been upon the mercy seat for nearly two thousand years, that blood was “the blood of an everlasting covenant. (Hebrews 13:20). Everlasting is a long span of time, not time without end or eternal. The lamb’s redemptive work concludes during the Last Days, the ceremonial act of Kinsman Redeemer calls for Him to leave the throne of mercy to take the book out of the right hand of God. Once the bloody lamb leaves his intercessory work, the same throne becomes a throne of judgment; there is no longer any mercy, grace or power to wash away the Gentiles sins - “and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still.” (Revelation 22:11)

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When the Seventh Seal is broken, the mystery of God is finished – One part of this mystery reveals who was sealed during Christ's mediation, and how each sealed believer overcame in each of Seven Church Ages. Another aspect of this finishing mystery is the restoration of the Word of God – all doctrinal errors promulgated over the span of the Gentile Church Ages will be corrected and taught. The results of the seventh seal will manifest to the Christian believers as an acceptance of the corrected Word of God and faith for the resurrection (The Rapture), in nominal church-goers as faith to endure the Great Tribulation, and in unbelievers as hatred towards Jesus and unwillingness to repent of their sins.

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RevelationCHAPTER 4-6

AMOS 3:7 Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.

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Malachi 4:5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD:

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The Preliminary to the Opening of the Seven Seals

Rev. William Branham’s ministry flourished during the 1950’s; he conducted the largest Christian meetings in history during that time. He traveled all over the world preaching the gospel, conducting healing campaigns and proclaiming what he considered to be “the message of the hour” – which, to him, was the restored Word of God as prophesied by the Prophet Joel (Joel 2) and by Jesus (Matthew 17:11).

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Regarding the opening of the Seven Seals and the restoration of the Word, on December 22, 1962, the Lord gave William Branham a vision foretelling this event immediately after six dreams in succession were brought to him by brothers and sisters in the Lord. On December 30, 1962, William Branham told his Jeffersonville congregation of a mysterious vision he received. In the vision, he saw himself standing on the side of a mountain when a terrible blast occurred. Troubled because he did not know the meaning of the vision, William Branham wondered if the “third pull” (his term for the last stage of his ministry – also for the fullness of the Holy Spirit present from the effects of the restored Word) was imminent. In addition, he informed his supporters that he felt a divine compulsion to move to Tucson, Arizona.

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In January 1963, William Branham was in Sabino Canyon, located in the Coronado Mountains north of Tucson. There he sought solitude to determine the meaning of the mysterious vision. Suddenly, he claimed, a sword appeared in his hand. A voice informed him, “that is the King’s sword,” and just as suddenly the sword disappeared. William Branham described the incident: “If it would have said, ‘A King’s sword,’ it might have been that I would understand it, but it said, ‘The King’s sword’…I thought, there’s only One The King; that’s God. And His sword is this…sharper than any two-edged sword. ‘Ye abide in me and my Words’…see. William Branham later asserted that the incident of the King’s sword was preparing him for the reception of God’s Word in the opening of the seven seals.

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Having gone west at the command of the Lord and in Spring 1963, William Branham, Fred Sothmann and Gene Norman all left Tucson on a javelina hunting trip. It was mid-day when they left for an area in Northern Arizona referred by some as Sunset Mountain. Less than two hours after leaving Tucson, they turned off the paved road at Wilcox and unto the dirt road that led to Bonita and into the canyons scattered along the rock cliffs and plateaus of Rattlesnake Mesa.

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As the javelina season in 1963 ran from March 1 through 10, it would have been during this time span that his vision of the terrific blast would have been fulfilled. It was while hunting alone that he witnessed an explosion. Immediately, he says he was caught up in a large cloud that was, in reality, a heavenly constellation of seven angels. The angels commanded: “Return back east from where you came and by revelation and vision, God will open the seven seals that have been sealed since John the Revelator wrote them in the Book of Revelation.”

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The angel commanded:”Return back… God will open the seven seals.””First, a blast shook the earth; then what looked like little dots off in the distance rushed in, and materialized as a constellation of seven angels in a pyramid, into which he was caught up. The seventh notable angel on top spoke to him of matters that St. John was forbidden to write in the Book of Revelations, "Seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered, and write them not." It was at this time that he was told the mysteries of the seven seals would be revealed to him. He was to go back East, to Jeffersonville, Indiana and there Jesus Christ would open the Seals and reveal the mystery to him; afterwards he would then take the “open book” and share this knowledge with first his congregation and then to the world.

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Mat 24:1-14 ¶ And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple. 2And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.

vs3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?

vs4 And Jesus answered and said unto them:

Deception - many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ.

Wars and rumours of wars Nation shall rise against nation, and

kingdom against kingdom: Famines, and pestilences, Earthquakes, in divers places.

Gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

vs8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. Aka “birth pangs”

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The first six seals correlate strongly with the sequence of events in the Olivet Discourse of Matthew 24. Here is a brief overview:

First Seal ~ False Christs and counterfeit religionMatt 24:5 ~ False Christs

Second Seal ~ War (Natural and Spiritual)Matt 24:6-7 ~ Wars and rumors of wars Third Seal ~ Famine (Natural and Spiritual)Matt 24:7 ~ And there shall be famines

Fourth Seal ~ Death (Natural and Spiritual)Matt 24:7 ~ and pestilences

Fifth Seal ~ Jewish MartyrsMatt 24:9 ~ Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you Sixth Seal ~ The Great Tribulation Period & Judgment on Jerusalem beginsMatt 24:15 ~ When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation Seventh Seal ~ Silence in Heaven – The Coming of the Lord (Rapture)Matt 24:28 ~ Wheresoever the carcasse is, there will the eagles be gathered.

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RevelationCHAPTER 4

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Chapter 4Chapter Focus John was given a vision. There was only one who sat on the

throne and it is Jesus. “ONE THRONE” The 24 elders cast their crowns before

Jesus' feet. Seven lamps are the 7 spirits of God / 7

angels. Jesus is worthy to receive glory, honor

and power. Jesus created all things

FOUR LIVING CREATURES

• Rev 4:7 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.

• Rev 4:8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.

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FOCUS!Remember!

• THEY WORSHIPPED JESUS CHRIST • Rev 4:8 And the four beasts had each of

them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.

• Rev 4:9 And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,

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RevelationCHAPTER 5

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Chapter 5 Focus

John saw a book sealed with seven seals. The Lamb (Jesus) is the only one worthy

to open the book. Opening this book looses the seven seals. The Lamb (Jesus) is in the midst of the

throne. The Lamb (Jesus) takes the book. The golden vials (7 vials/7 last

plagues/wrath of God) are filled with the prayers of the saints.

We will reign on the earth with Christ. Jesus liveth for ever and ever.

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RevelationCHAPTER 6

Why is the world the way it is?Why can’t we have more love and peace among nations and churches to make the world a better place?

You’ll find the answer to that in the Bible, beginning with Revelation chapter 6, about the four horsemen of the Apocalypse.

In Revelation Chapter 6, Jesus opens the book of the future, the book of prophecy, which is sealed with seven seals…

… and shows the apostle John the future of the world from that time (about 90 AD) to the Last Days (the time in which we are now living) and beyond.

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The Sealed Book - ScrollWhat is a seal? A seal was a tab made from hot candle wax used to seal up a letter or document until it was delivered to the rightful person. When the intended reader received the document or letter which was sealed with the wax, the recipient would break the seal and reveal what was written, either to himself or to his authorized audience.

Regarding the Book (a.k.a. scroll or roll) that was closed and sealed with seven seals, Jesus was the only one found worthy to break or loose the seals and reveal the contents of what was written within.

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The Sealed Book - ScrollThe Holy Spirit is a Seal and a seal signifies a finished work. The saints of all Seven Ages are sealed into Christ by the Holy Spirit.

Writing to the Ephesians (Eph. 1:13-14), Paul said--"Ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession." Then there is a possession that is to be redeemed. What this is, Paul tells us in Romans 8:22-23, "We know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they (all earthly created things), but ourselves also..."

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The Sealed Book - Scroll

This roll is a legal document after the ancient form and custom (See Jeremiah 32:6-15). Jesus has the part of the near kinsman (Leviticus 25:49) and ours is the part of the one having lost his inheritance. The Redeemer must be both worthy, willing and able to loose the seals, reveal the contents, clear the title and restore the inheritance to its lawful heirs. Jesus is qualified and competent. He is willing (“I lay my life down…”) He is worthy because He is the sinless Lamb once slain. He is able being the Lion of Judah. (Revelation4:9-10) Thus this whole scene in Revelation 5 is a scene of Jesus fulfilling the part of Kinsman Redeemer.

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The sealed book is obviously the book of redemption, which lists all that he intends to redeem or buy back. The ceremony is a solemn and formal occasion that consummates the right of redemption. It is performed before the elders of Israel’s twelve tribes and the elders of Christendom’s twelve Apostles.

The opening of the seals reveals the plan of salvation for each age or era of the Christian church; what spiritual battles were fought, how the elect lived, died and ultimately overcame.

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With the taking of the scroll, Christ has been committed the lordship over the world (1 Peter 3:22; Philippians 2:9-11). What the Devil pretentiously offered to Jesus is now rightfully assumed (Matthew 4:8).

The scroll and the finalization of the redemptive process would thus signify the rightful transfer of dominion back to Christ – “the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord…” (Revelation 11:15).

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THE FOUR LIVING CREATURES

Which are the FOUR ANOINTINGS for

the TRUE CHURCH in 7 Ages

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The Four HorsemenOf The Apocalypse

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THE FIRST FOUR SEALS

Which are the FOUR

HORSEMEN

The First Seal

And I saw when the Lamb (Jesus) opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying: “Come and see.” And I saw, and behold a white horse and He that sat on him had a bow, and a crown was given unto Him: and He went forth conquering, and to conquer.

Revelation 6:1-2

(John writes:)

THE WHITE HORSE

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FOCUSFirst Seal: White Horse: Deception

Rev 6:1 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see.

Rev 6:2 And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.

*NOTE: The rider is the Antichrist..

Jesus Warning: DeceptionMat 24:4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.Mat 24:5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.Mat 24:11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. Mat 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.

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First Seal: White Horse: Deception

Rev 6:1-2All the horse riders of Apocalypse are some manifestation of Satan. The white horse rider of the First Seal is false religion. False religion has paralleled true religion, and counterfeit spiritual leaders have competed with God’s leaders, and His own Christ-life and ministry. Satan via the Serpent, set in motion false religion from the day that he caused the fall of Eve; he did this by supplanting the conjugal and pastoral position of Adam. (2 Corinthians 11: 2-4)

Paul spoke of these men, who would come up with strange doctrines and draw disciples after themselves (Acts 20: 29-31). This religious movement soon preached another Jesus, another Gospel, and was under the influence of another spirit (2 Corinthians 11: 3-4).

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Rev 6:3-4Notice that this rider had a “bow”, but he had no “arrow”. It shows that he is a “bluffer”. He is a deceiver and a liar.

Notice also that he was “crowned”. The “crowning” refers to the founding of the “Deeds of the Nicolaitans”, a force that brought hybrid doctrines and creeds injected into the true church of God. “Nicolaitan” is a Greek word which was coined from “Nikao”, meaning to “conquer”, and “Laus”, meaning the “laity”. This was when politics started to pollute the church and propagated the “man-over-man hierarchy”, perverted men (grievous wolves in sheep’s clothing) invading the church of God by teaching “man-made creeds and dogmas” (Rev 2:8, 15).

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Rev 6:1-2From the very beginning this antichrist power existed parallel to the true Church of Jesus Christ. It started as a very insignificant doctrine of the Nicolaitans (Revelation 2: 6). John referred to this branch as he wrote, "They went out from us, but they were not of us …" (1 Jn. 2: 19). Those who seemed to be believers were deceived by the enemy after they were separated from the biblical church and went astray.

Later they became prey to the teachings of Balaam (Revelation 2: 14), which brought spiritual death, and finally suffered the woman Jezebel who was a false prophetess (Revelation 2: 20) to be their spiritual leader.

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Rev 6:3-4The whole time frame of the First Seal refers to the ensuing ministry of Apostle PAUL when he started ministering unto the Gentiles, which then started the Ephesian Church Age. The WHITE HORSE RIDER is none other than the ANTICHRIST spirit, bringing an impersonation of the Truth, trying to deceive the electif it were possible. This evil force of the White Horse Rider was countered by the LION Spirit from God. “Lion”, which was the First Beast of God which announced the opening of the First Seal, signifying “BOLDNESS of the preaching of the Gospel”.

The first seal covers about the space of the first three church ages (33-606 AD – Ephesus, Smyrna and Pergamos).

And when He had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, “Come and see.” And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to

take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another; and there was given unto him a great sword.

The Second Seal

Revelation 6:3-4

THE RED HORSE

What takes “peace from the earth”?

War!

This red horse symbolizes war, and religious bloodshed.

The horse’s color, red, is appropriate because it represents all the blood shed in man’s

hellish wars – particularly during the times of Roman and Roman Catholic persecution of the

Church – 65 million plus.

“From whence come wars and fightings among you? Come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in

your members?”

JAMES 4:1

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Second Seal; Red Horse: Wars

Rev 6:3 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see.

Rev 6:4 And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.

*NOTE: The rider is the false prophet.

Jesus Warning: Wars

Mat 24:6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

Mat 24:7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.

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Second Seal: Red Horse: War

Rev 6:3-4The first seal resulted in the divisions that we saw come out of the Councils of the fourth and fifth century. The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD altered the structure of the Godhead and introduced the Trinitarian concept of three Gods in one. Eventually, through a subtle process, the Babylonian system established itself and through the Roman Catholic entity took over the planet.

John now sees a red horse.

The time of the peaceful co-existence of these two movements (true church and false church) was now over forever.

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Rev 6:3-4”RED” Horse symbolizes persecution and tribulation leading to the Holy Inquisition of Rome. It was the time when the Roman Church began to persecute the Christians. Millions of Christians were burnt at the stake, fed to the lions, and tortured to death by the Roman Catholic Church, which even included Joan of Arc and St. Patrick.

As recorded in history, from the time of St. Augustine in 300 AD until AD 1850, 68 million Protestants have been killed by the Roman Catholic Church.

The Nicolaitan system moved on through this age, from doctrine to deed.

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Rev 6:3-4The false church said, “It takes a special education to read and understand the Word. Why even Peter said that many things Paul wrote were hard to understand.”

Having taken away the Word from the people, it soon came to the people listening only by what the priest had to say, and doing what he told them. They took over the minds and lives of the people and made them the servants of a despotic priesthood.

Those who fought this terrible anti-Christ church were destroyed.

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The following chapter taken from Foxe's Christian Martyrs of the World describes the martyrdom of God's faithful servant, Dr. Rowland Taylor:

“Taylor kneeled down and prayed, and a poor woman that was among the people came close and prayed with him; but they thrust her away, and threatened to tread her down with horses. In spite of this, she would not go away, but remained and prayed with him. When he had prayed, he went to the stake, and set himself into a pitch-barrel, which they had prepared for him to stand in, and so stood with his back upright against the stake, with his hands folded together, and his eyes toward heaven.”

FOXES BOOK of MARTYRS - CHAPTER XXIIIENGLAND DURING THE REIGN OF QUEEN MARYMARTYRDOM OF DR. ROWLAND TAYLOR (1554)

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Rev 6:3-4The ‘great sword’ was epitomized by a 10-year bloody slaughter of 200,000 by Emperor Diocletian around 304 AD, which had been prophesied in Revelation 2:10 “ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death.”

The result of war was pestilence because of the dislocations in society; pestilence begat famine, hence the third seal opened.

These seals are ongoing and they develop, war to pestilence, to famine and then to death. The second seal falls into the time when people were forced to accept the Catholic state-religion and extended right into the Dark Ages.

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Rev 6:3-4While Satan (through the Roman Church) was destroying the Christians during the Smyrnean, Pergamean and Thyaterian ages, his evil power was then counteracted by God’s higher standard – God’s second BEAST, the CALF – which is the spirit of a “beast of burden, a beast of sacrifice”.

The saints during this time willingly gave their lives for the Gospel no matter what the cost. It was given to the Christians in this age that they should bear the ‘OX” spirit, to bear the “burden of sacrifice” till death.

Though they were persecuted, tortured, burned at stake, fed to lions, they still were so courageous and were faithful until death.

The Third Seal

Revelations 6:5-6

And when He had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, “Come and see.” And I beheld, and lo a black horse, and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, “A measure of wheat for a penny; and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and

the wine.”

THE BLACK HORSE

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Third Seal; Black Horse: Famines

Rev 6:5 And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand.

Rev 6:6 And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.

Jesus Warning: Famines

Mat 24:7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.

The black horse’s rider with the pair of balances in his hand symbolizes Satan in the false church during the “Dark Ages”, and the near death of the true Church.

“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD.” Amos 8:11

The prophet, Amos, also said that the merchants – the systems of this World (political, economical & religious) rob the poor instead of helping them – “set forth wheat, making the ephah (unit of measure) small, and the shekel (price) great, and falsifying the balances by deceit… that swallow up the needy, even to make the poor of the land to fail.” Amos 8:4-6

The black horse, then, represents both literal and spiritual famines and poverty perpetrated by the “the god of this evil age.” 2 Cor 4:1; Gal 1:1-4

The fact that the oil and wine were “hurt not” indicates a prohibition by God and an edict to allow the baptism & work of the Holy Spirit, as well as “stimulation” that comes from true REVELATION of the Word.

Oil and wine, in the Scriptures, symbolize the Holy Spirit and “stimulation”.

Though Believers would suffer, and be poor by Earthly standards, they would prosper spiritually – just as Elijah did in the wilderness (1 Kings 17).

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Third Seal: Black Horse: Darkness & Famine

Rev 6:5-6So great will this famine be, that it will take a "denarius" - a day's wages, to buy a "choenix" (a “measure” - 2 pints) of wheat," -- the daily ration of a slave.

Jesus provided the promises that His children will have an abundance of spiritual food, without price. (John 4:23; Isaiah 55:1; Luke 12:42; Revelation 2:17)

Therefore, while many suffered natural and spiritual hunger, the elect Church had a “feast prepared before them in the midst of their enemies.” (Psalms 23:5)

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Rev 6:5-6BLACK HORSE RIDER. Satan was not contented with just persecuting the Christians, here he changed his horse again from Red to Black. Introducing a new way of squeezing the lives of Christians during the succeeding Sardisean and Philadelphian Ages.

“BLACK” is a color which signified spiritual darkness, and the “greed and abuse” of the Roman Catholic Church during their reign known as “the Dark Ages”.

The Catholic Church began charging money for novenas, and charging money to get souls out of Purgatory, and to sell “indulgences.” That sure sounds appealing to the flesh…forgiveness in advance to commit a sin!

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Rev 6:5-6God raised up the standard for the true Christians by giving them the spirit of a “FACE OF A MAN”. Man is gifted with “wisdom and knowledge”. This age brought reformers and the great “Reformation”. An OPEN DOOR was set by God before the Christians to evangelize the whole world with the truth of the Bible.

During this time the printing press was invented in Germany by a man known as Gutenberg. It paved the way for Bibles to be printed in volumes which allowed the truth to spread out.

Revelation 3:8 “Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my Name.”

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Rev 6:5-6This age introduced Martin Luther, a Catholic priest who protested the Roman Catholic Church by exposing the abuses of the papacy and its false teachings through his “95 thesis”. He spearheaded printing of the Bibles. He introduced the doctrine of “justification”, living by faith and not by works.

This age was also the age of John Wesley, who introduced ‘sanctification” or “holiness” to the church of the living God. Other well-known evangelists that appeared in this “MAN AGE” were Knox, Calvin, Moody, Sankey, Finney, along with many others.

The Third Seal extends through the Reformation period into the eighteenth century, which is known as the Age of Enlightenment.

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5th Seal

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Fourth Seal; Pale Horse: Pestilences

Rev 6:7 And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see.

Rev 6:8 And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

Jesus Warning: Pestilences

Mat 24:9-14 They shall…kill you: … many shall be offended … because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.

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Fourth Seal: Grey/Pale Horse: Death & Hell

Rev 6:7-8The Fourth Seal revealed a Pale Horse Rider. This is the final ride of Satan through the seven church ages.

The color “PALE” is nothing but a mixture of “white, red and black”. It is a combined forces of the power of Satan mixing WHITE (deception), RED (persecution), and BLACK (spiritual famine) into ONE…

The Anti-Christ spirit moving through and into a False prophet, riding his last trail, his final stage of leading his people to the “Mark of the Beast” system.

The PALE HORSE RIDER is riding in our Laodicean age right now, controlling politics, military, economics and religion. He is the “prince of the power of the air”. --Ephesians 6:12

The characters that were revealed when the second, third, and fourth seals were opened – are almost as old as the

world itself, but the Biblical picture both here and elsewhere is that each of these forces has taken on greater

power since the time of this revelation.

WAR, GREED, AND DEATH…

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Rev 6:7-8There is still a form of religion left, but no trace of God's power is found therein. The actual goal is the executing of worldly power under a religious cloak. This is made plain by the proud rider on the horse. The first four seals uncover the antichrist developments right from the beginning of the New Testament. The four stages were already mentioned by the Prophet Joel, who spoke about the four insects trying to destroy this fruit tree of God (Joel 1: 4).

The Prophet Zechariah mentioned these developments by referring to the four horses (Zechariah 1: 8 and 6: 2-5), also being symbolized by the four horns (Zechariah 1: 18-22).

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Rev 6:7-8During the last phase of this seal, the antichrist himself is the head of this world institution, and is represented in each of the riders holding the reins in his hands. That is to say, the religious power is ruling and subduing the earthly power of which he is making use.

We have to be aware of these things, and know what is happening. Our place of safety is the faith in the Lord, and in knowing what He is doing. And knowing that God is in charge; it is happening for the right reasons, and that it is going to work out.

During the time of this seal, the prophet of Malachi 4:5 and Luke 17:11 appears. His ministry restores God’s word to its original state and thus prepares the Bride for the First Resurrection, a.k.a. The Rapture.

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Rev 6:7-8

The Fourth Seal concludes the Gentile dispensation of grace; Introduces the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Jews of the 21st century; and ultimately ushers in the Great Tribulation period.

Today, scripture is unfolding before our eyes. This is what the Seven Seals reveal.

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Rev 6:7-8God cannot be defeated by Satan. God in this last age, has raised His standard once again by giving his people the power to overcome the evils of the PALE Horse Rider.

God gave the Christians of this age the power of the “FLYING EAGLE” – the spirit of “prophetic utterance”. With a true Holy Spirit experience, today’s believers can receive the revelation of God, and understand the deep mysteries of the Bible, readying them for the “catching away” in the rapture! This is our age, my friends, the Eagle Age.

7th Seal – “wheresover the carcass (the Fresh Word) is, there will the eagles be gathered..” Math 24:28

Only within the last few years has the human race developed the potential to destroy itself. The Devil (red horse) now has nuclear bombs, intercontinental missiles, chemical and biological weapons, and other lethal technologies to fulfill the Plagues of Revelation 16.

Plagues literally, represent the terrible physical and emotional experience of the last generation of the wicked. God’s restraining

hand is removed from the actions of Satan. Wars increase and crime and instability are rampant. Diseases get out of control and

no amount of medical or pharmaceutical remedy seems able to stem the tide. The weather goes haywire, producing extremes of

heat, wind and rain.

And following the others comes the fourth horsemen, on the pale horse – DEATH IN EVERY FORM.

So there you have the Four Horsemen Of The Apocalypse. They will continue to ride until the End, when Jesus returns to take us to heavenly places with Him, before pouring out His judgments on the perpetrators of the hell on earth below. Then He will come back once more at the Battle of Armageddon. God will then cleanse and purify the earth and set up His kingdom, ruled by Jesus Christ for 1000 years.

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“How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?”

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Fifth Seal: Souls Under the Altar – Martyrdom

Rev 6:9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:

Rev 6:10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?

Rev 6:11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

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Fifth Seal: Souls Under the Altar – Martyrdom

The souls of the Jewish martyrs are under the altar. They cannot as yet enter the Glory of God, because they did not accept the reconciliation in Christ.

They are calling for vengeance, crying out, "How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?" Those who truly believe in Jesus Christ are reconciled with God and do not cry for vengeance, but rather pray for those who persecuted them as did their Redeemer.

These white garments are the same white garments these people were given, who were slain for the word of God and testimony they bore. Those Jews who were martyred in the past 1,500 years, including the 6 million killed during the twentieth century, did not have the testimony of Jesus Christ. They had the testimony of God's Word as entrusted to Israel.

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And all the people answered, “His blood be on us and on our children!” -- Matthew 27:25

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Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial

How Long, Oh LORD?

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Fifth Seal: Souls Under the Altar – MartyrdomThe souls under the altar were murdered because of the Word of God, and the testimony they had as Jews. They waited for the coming of the Messiah. As already mentioned, they did not have the revelation that Jesus Christ of Nazareth was their Messiah. Therefore, they are not part of the Redeemed of the New Testament Church.

God has a special way with His people Israel, according to His plan of salvation that He laid down from before the foundation of the world. The people of Israel will know Him and be “grafted” again, for they are covenanted with Him (Romans 11). They are to bear witness of Him, the only true God.

Christians wouldn’t call for vengeance – the souls under the altar are Jews.

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SIXTH SEAL

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Sixth Seal: Heavenly Signs

Rev 6:12 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;

Rev 6:13 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.

Rev 6:14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.

Rev 6:15 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;

Rev 6:16 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:

Rev 6:17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

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Sixth Seal: Tribulation Period

The sixth seal has to do with the end phase of God’s plan for the Earth, as the Day of the Lord is ushered in.

To understand the successive order of the predicted events, they are as follows: 1. the Bride of Christ (a.k.a. the Church) will be taken into Glory in the First Resurrection. 2. A covenant between the Vatican, Israel, and the Arab states will be made, 3. The three and a half years ministry of the two prophets in Jerusalem will commence. 4. After the completion of their ministry, the 144,000 Jewish Christian converts will await on Mount Zion for;5. The Battle of Armageddon.

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Sixth Seal: Tribulation PeriodThis time period is known as the Great Tribulation and it will be marked by persecution, especially upon the Jews (Daniel 7: 25). Complete dominion of the antichrist over all the nations will be experienced (Revelation 13: 5-7).

This will also be purging time for the FOOLISH VIRGINS of Matthew 25.

The foolish virgins are those who are left behind, missing the rapture. They failed to heed the End Time Message, and were devoid of the "OIL" or the baptism of the Holy Spirit that's why they were left behind, weeping, wailing and gnashing their teeth. They will be hunted down like dogs by the AntiChrst and will be tortured to death during the Tribulation Period. They have to shed their blood in order to attain their salvation.

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Sixth Seal: Tribulation Period

*The CALLING of the 144,000 Israelites back to the true Gospel of Jesus Christ.

When God is through with us Gentiles, He will turn back to the Jews and open their eyes to the true Gospel of salvation. God will send His two prophets, Moses and Elijah (the 2 olive trees of Revelation 11), to call upon the elect of Israel. Jesus will be preached to them and they will accept Him as their Messiah.

This event will be like that of Joseph revealing himself again to his brethren, yet in nail-scarred hands, while they wail in sackloth with tears in their eyes, realizing that it was JESUS CHRIST who was their real Messiah.

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Sixth Seal: Tribulation PeriodWhen the sixth seal breaks, the grace of God which was given to all humanity through reconciliation and forgiveness is then over forever. The throne of grace turns into the throne of judgment.

The meek Lamb will then become a Lion and the sovereign Judge. The wrath of God breaks forth at the beginning of the Day of the Lord and includes all the preliminary judgments and the cleaning up, before the Millennial Reign commences. "For the great day of his wrath is come, and who shall be able to stand?" (Revelation 6: 17)

Ref: Isaiah 24: 19-20

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Sixth Seal: Tribulation PeriodThe times leading up to the great tribulation are described as “pangs” – sharp, powerful, involuntary contractions proceeding a momentous event.

What is experienced during the last three years can only be described as a complete breakdown of all the Earth’s systems, disruption of the laws of nature – all order is gone.

These times that forerun the new millennial era are so utterly loathsome, only one lament need be uttered: “Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth.” (Revelation 8:13)

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Seventh Seal: Silence in Heaven– Completion & the Rapture

Rev 8:1 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour.

Rev 10:1-7 And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a rainbow was upon his head, and his face was as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire: And he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot upon the sea, and his left foot on the earth, And cried with a loud voice, as when a lion roareth: and when he had cried, seven thunders uttered their voices.

Rev 11:15-19 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.

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The seventh seal runs concurrent with the fourth, fifth and sixth seals.

There is silence. God ceases communication with the inhabitants on the Earth, for by now his Bride, the Church, the Elect – this tiny group is safely in Heaven. There is nothing left to say. There are no more dire warnings, no further prelude – just the utter desolation of the world’s citizenry which chose to reject Jesus Christ.

“Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth.”

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The Seventh Seal is not to be known to the public.

According to Biblical pattern and precedent, revelation is hidden from casual seekers and unbelievers. Since the way to God is through Jesus Christ, that way is hidden and made available as God wills it.

The Apocalypse is the unveiling of Jesus Christ and therefore is not understood with human ability – it requires a revelation; and revelation is sovereign with God, as we see below:

The hidden things belong to the Lord our God. – Deuteronomy 29:29

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The Seventh Seal is not to be known to the public.

And he said unto them, Unto you is given the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all things are done in parables: (Mark 4:11)

Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. (Luke 8:10)

In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. (Luke 10:21)

But unto us God revealed them through the Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. even so the things of God knoweth no man, but [by] the Spirit of God. (1 Corinthians 2:10-11)

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SEVENTH SEAL

7th Seal – “wheresover the carcass (the Fresh Word) is, there will the eagles be gathered..” Math 24:28

1. # Seven (completion)- Roman Candle analogy2. Wheat ripening in the sun3. The ‘Word’ Sarah believed was growing in her womb4. Fruit maturing (opposite to Jude 1:12’s “Autumn trees

who’s fruit withers and dies”)5. Line upon line (Isaiah 28:10-13)6. Secret Coming (Matt 24:36-42; 1 Thes 5:2-4) 7. Perousia ‘Elijah has already come.’ (Matt 17:9-12)8. Shout, Voice, Trump (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)9. ‘I show you a mystery…’ (1 Corinthians 15:51-53)10.2 Corinthians 12:1-4 - heard things not lawful to be

uttered in public11.3rd Pull – love secrets whispered to a bride12.Wedding supper of the Lamb (Rev 19)

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‘Like a Roman candle firework, the seventh seal is the beginning of the end for all things

… the dispensation of grace, the blindness of the Jews towards Jesus Christ, the seven trumpets, the seven vials of the wrath of God – even time.’

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SEVENTH SEAL

The Bride will not have to face the cataclysmic events the Bible prophesies for the end times. We will be taken to heaven before the Tribulation-the time period the Bible describes as ” . . . a time of trouble, Such as never was since there was a nation, Even to that time.” [Dan 12:1]

During the first phase of His Second Coming, Jesus will come secretly to “catch away His Bride”-the Church. Three and one half years later, during the “Day of the Lord,” the second phase of His coming will take place. At that time Christ will come visibly with all power and authority to establish His kingdom on earth (Matt 24:29).

The saints will spend the intervening time in heaven before returning with Christ. Jesus will come for the saints during the first phase, and with the saints in the second phase. Christ is coming to rapture the saints before the Tribulation-but returning with them afterward, the time when He pours out His wrath in divine vengeance.

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Revelation 19:7-9

Let us rejoice and be glad and give honor to him, for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of the saints.

And he saith unto me, write, blessed are they which are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb.

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And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

I Corinthians 13:2

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Rich Giberti – Tucson, AZRich is the Founder of First Stone Publishing, LLC. As a teenager, Rich had everything a typical middle-class teen raised in Southern California could want—everything but happiness. His search led him to drugs, fights, and alcohol abuse. The happiness he wanted eluded him until the day he became a Christian at a Second Chapter of Acts musical concert in Ventura, California. What happened next can only be described as a miracle! His complete life was changed, the desire to use drugs or alcohol completely vanished and this reckless lifestyle was replaced with a new-found desire to live for God. Today, Rich lives in Tucson, Arizona, with his wife and two younger teenage children. His oldest son currently is an Army Scout. Rich is the author of several books.

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