Symbols of Revelation defined

Symbols of Revelation
© copyright 2008 Pastor Nicholas. Founder of Presents of God ministry at www.RemnantofGod.org

I tried to keep all of the symbolic definitions in the context with the prophetic, however, oftentimes there are more than one meaning to a specific symbol. So please use the definition in the context of the passage it is found in at the time. At times it was necessary to identify secondary symbols so as to better understand those found in the verse being defined. In Revelation 1:14 for example, the secondary definition of "fire" being that which the Lord baptizes us with was needed to further illustrate the power of His eyes to “see the need for our baptism” in fire.

NOTICE: I do not “define” common words using Strong’s Concordance because if the one studying needs to understand such words, they can access Strong’s or their favorite Concordance themselves. Else the study would entail massive data that many would find unnecessary. However, in the event a definition to the word is necessary so as to better understand the prophetic context, I do find the need to have the word “DEFINED.” Such is the case with the word, “Nicolaitanes” in 2:6.

1:1. NOTE: This verse proves the Vatican's idea that Nero was "the Antichrist" was wrong. This book was written in 95AD. It clearly states the events described herein, "must shortly come to pass." The man the Vatican claims to be Antichrist (Nero) was dead many years before this book was written.

Christ = Lord's goat, Sanctuary, Lamb of God, Son of God, Jesus, Messiah, all knowing, Saviour, Head of church, God, Lord (see notes on 11:15)

God = Love (see notes on 2:7)

servant = the redeemed

Psalms 34:22, "The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate."

short = near/abrupt, brief, lacking

Job 17:12, "They change the night into day: the light is short because of darkness."

Job 20:5, "That the triumphing of the wicked is short, and the joy of the hypocrite but for a moment?"

Psalms 89:47, "Remember how short my time is: wherefore hast thou made all men in vain?"

1 Corinthians 7:29, "But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none;"

1 Thessalonians 2:17, "But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire."

Romans 3:23, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"

Romans 9:28, "For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth."

Hebrews 4:1, "Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it."

angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors

Revelation 1:20, "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."

Psalms 104:4, "Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire:"

Hebrews 1:13-14, "But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?"

Daniel 8:16, "And I heard a man's voice between the banks of Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this man to understand the vision."

Luke 1:19, "And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings."

Luke 20:36, "Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection."

Matthew 25:31, "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:"

Psalms 103:20, "Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word."

1 Peter 1:12, "Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into."

Psalms 34:7, "The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them."

1:2. testimony = evidence of His hand, the Law, His Word, truthful witness

Exodus 16:32-34, "And Moses said, This is the thing which the LORD commandeth, Fill an omer of it to be kept for your generations; that they may see the bread wherewith I have fed you in the wilderness, when I brought you forth from the land of Egypt. And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a pot, and put an omer full of manna therein, and lay it up before the LORD, to be kept for your generations. As the LORD commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept."

Luke 21:12-13, "But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake. And it shall turn to you for a testimony."

Exodus 25:16, "And thou shalt put into the ark the testimony which I shall give thee."

Exodus 26:34, "And thou shalt put the mercy seat upon the ark of the testimony in the most holy place."

Psalms 19:7, "The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple."

Psalms 78:5, "For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children:"

Isaiah 8:16, "Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples."

Isaiah 8:20, "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."

John 3:33, "He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true."

John 8:17, "It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true."

John 21:24, "This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true."

2 Thessalonians 1:10, "When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day."

testimony of Jesus Christ = is the Spirit of prophecy, book of Revelation

Revelation 19:10, "And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy."

Revelation 1:9, "I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ."

Christ = Lord's goat, Sanctuary, Lamb of God, Son of God, Jesus, Messiah, all knowing, Saviour, Head of church, God, Lord (see notes on 11:15)

Word of God = fire, hammer, quick, powerful, sharper then any two edged sword, reads the heart, the Sword of the Spirit, in agreement with Heavenly host, Guide, buckler, right, Creator, Jesus, Healer, Truth, merciful, filled with hope, comforting, eternal, righteous, pure, awesome, understanding, deliverance, swift, etc

Jeremiah 23:29, "Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?"

Hebrews 4:12, "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."

Ephesians 6:17, "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:"

Daniel 10:6, "His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude."

Psalms 119:105, "NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."

Psalms 17:4, "Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer."

Psalms 18:30, "As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him."

Psalms 33:4, "For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth."

Psalms 33:6, "By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth."

John 1:14, "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth."

Psalms 107:20, "He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions."

Psalms 119:43, "And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; for I have hoped in thy judgments."

Psalms 119:58, "I intreated thy favour with my whole heart: be merciful unto me according to thy word."

Psalms 119:74, "They that fear thee will be glad when they see me; because I have hoped in thy word."

Psalms 119:82, "Mine eyes fail for thy word, saying, When wilt thou comfort me?"

Psalms 119:89, "LAMED. For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven."

Psalms 119:123, "Mine eyes fail for thy salvation, and for the word of thy righteousness."

Psalms 119:140, "Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it."

Psalms 119:161, "SCHIN. Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word."

Psalms 119:169, "TAU. Let my cry come near before thee, O LORD: give me understanding according to thy word."

Psalms 119:170, "Let my supplication come before thee: deliver me according to thy word."

Psalms 147:15, "He sendeth forth his commandment upon earth: his word runneth very swiftly."

1:3. time = year (times = 2)

Daniel 4:16, "Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him."

NOTE: Strong's # 05732 `iddan (Aramaic) {id-dawn'} from a root corresponding to that of 05708; TWOT - 2900; n m

AV - time 13; 13

1) time

1a) time (of duration)

1b) year

NOTE: When this calculation (time = year) is taken into account, the "time, times, and half a time" of Revelation 12:14 and Daniel 7:25 would mean 3.5 years, or 1260 prophetic days, which actually equals 1260 years in reality. Furthermore, when we see in Revelation 13:5 the "42 months" which is also 1260 prophetic days, we notice they are all speaking of the same period in time. Therefore, if the calculation (time = year) is correct, then the 1260 year period must be a reality in historic fact. The Roman church became a church & State in 538AD. It was later "wounded" in 1798AD and lost its State power. Doing the math, 538 - 1798 = exactly 1260 years, thereby confirming the calculation that time = year.

time is at hand = Now

Matthew 26:18, "And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The Master saith, My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples."

Revelation 22:10, "And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand."

NOTE: Revelation was never sealed as Daniel's book was. The prophecies of Revelation were "shortly to come to pass."

hand = work, knowledge, wisdom, power, might (See notes on 1:16)

1:4. Jesus preaches 7 different ways to understand the truth to the Seven churches throughout human history.

seven = completeness, place of rest

Genesis 2:2 And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.

Exodus 12:15 Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel.

Exodus 24:16, "And the glory of the LORD abode upon mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days: and the seventh day he called unto Moses out of the midst of the cloud."

Exodus 31:17, "It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed."

Deuteronomy 15:1 At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release.

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

Revelation 11:15 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.

Revelation 16:17 And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done.

Psalms 12:6 The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.

Psalms 119:164 Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.

Proverbs 9:1 Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars:

etc.

Genesis 2:3 And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.

Genesis 8:4 And the ark rested in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month, upon the mountains of Ararat.

Exodus 16:30, "So the people rested on the seventh day."

Exodus 20:11, "For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it."

Exodus 23:11, "But the seventh year thou shalt let it rest and lie still; that the poor of thy people may eat: and what they leave the beasts of the field shall eat. In like manner thou shalt deal with thy vineyard, and with thy oliveyard."

etc...

The number seven appears 463 times in 391 verses in the KJV Bible. The word "seventh" come sup 115 times.

The word "Seven" (HEPTA in the Greek), corresponds to the Hebrew word sheba’ (which is akin to saba’, signifying to be full, abundant), it generally expresses completeness. -Strongs

From creation to the end of time we see the number 7 being used to indicate completeness. Scholars of old called it "the symbol of perfection" because of its repetitive use in such instances by God. When God created all that is seen and unseen He finished by creating the 7th day Sabbath and rested. And as we learned in verse 11 of this chapter, the work of the church is to be completed after 7 stages.

To name but a few we find in Scripture wherein this number is used to symbolize "completeness." Jacob's seven years of service to Laban. In the dream of Pharaoh we see seven fat kine and seven skinny ones. We have the seven branches on the golden candlestick, seven trumpets and the seven priests who sound them. The siege of Jericho was "complete" on the seventh day. The seven periods throughout history of the Christian church. Later on in Revelation we will also see such things as seven spirits, seven stars, seven seals, seven vials. All throughout Scripture, and especially in prophecy the number 7 comes up repeatedly as a sacred as well as complete number.

churches = pillar and ground of truth

1 Timothy 3:15, "But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth."

NOTE: Church has been known since Christ first used the word in Matthew 16:18 as a place where absoulte faith and the truth of God can be found via God's faithful and obedient people.

Seven churches = The seven stages of the church through time. (See notes on 1:11)

"Him which is and which was, and which is to come" = Jesus

Which is = He has always been alive as God. Even long before man was created.

Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth."

Which was = When He walked among us as Messiah.

1 Timothy 3:16, "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory."

Acts 1:21, "Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,"

Which is to come = When He returns as Saviour

John 14:3, "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also."

Matthew 24:30-31, "And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."

1 Corinthians 15:54-55, "So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?"

Philippians 3:20, "For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:"

Titus 2:13, "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;"

I Peter 5:4 "And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away."

1 Thessalonians 4:15 - 17 "For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord."

The Seven Spirits = Jesus' message to the church throughout history.

Revelation 5:6, "And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth."

Revelation 4:5, "And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God."

Lamp = the Lord, Salvation in Christ, the Word, His Law (also see lamp at 4:5)

2 Samuel 22:29, "For thou art my lamp, O LORD: and the LORD will lighten my darkness."

Isaiah 62:1, "For Zion's sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until the righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth."

2 Samuel 22:29, "For thou art my lamp, O LORD: and the LORD will lighten my darkness."

Psalms 119:105, "NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."

Proverbs 6:23, "For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:"

fire = Holy Spirit, God's Word, ministers, God, judgment, His presence, destroys enemies

Acts 2:1-4, "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."

Jeremiah 23:29, "Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?"

Psalms 104:4, "Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire:"

Zechariah 2:5, "For I, saith the LORD, will be unto her a wall of fire round about, and will be the glory in the midst of her."

Hebrews 12:29, "For our God is a consuming fire."

Deuteronomy 4:24, "For the LORD thy God is a consuming fire, even a jealous God."

Malachi 3:2, "But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap:"

Isaiah 10:17, "And the light of Israel shall be for a fire, and his Holy One for a flame: and it shall burn and devour his thorns and his briers in one day;"

Genesis 19:24, "Then the LORD rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven;"

Exodus 9:24, "So there was hail, and fire mingled with the hail, very grievous, such as there was none like it in all the land of Egypt since it became a nation."

Exodus 3:2, "And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed."

Exodus 13:21, "And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:"

Psalms 97:3, "A fire goeth before him, and burneth up his enemies round about."

Psalms 140:10, "Let burning coals fall upon them: let them be cast into the fire; into deep pits, that they rise not up again."

Revelation 21:8, "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."

NOTE: The Lord also "Baptizes with fire" and we His people are the fuel.

Matthew 3:11, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:"

Isaiah 9:19, "Through the wrath of the LORD of hosts is the land darkened, and the people shall be as the fuel of the fire: no man shall spare his brother."

This note is mentioned because He "sees" our need for this baptism

throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace

1 Samuel 4:4, "So the people sent to Shiloh, that they might bring from thence the ark of the covenant of the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth between the cherubims: and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were there with the ark of the covenant of God."

Psalms 80:1, "<To the chief Musician upon Shoshannimeduth, A Psalm of Asaph.> Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou that leadest Joseph like a flock; thou that dwellest between the cherubims, shine forth."

Psalms 99:1, "The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved."

Isaiah 66:1, "Thus saith the LORD, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest?"

Matthew 5:34, "But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:"

1 Samuel 2:8, "He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them."

Matthew 19:28, "And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel."

Hebrews 4:16, "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."

1:5. Christ = Lord's goat, Sanctuary, Lamb of God, Son of God, Jesus, Messiah, all knowing, Saviour, Head of church, God, Lord (see notes on 11:15)

faithful witness = Jesus Christ

John 18:37, "Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice."

John 3:10-11, "Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness."

witness = altar, Christians, Holy Spirit, the Lord, tabernacle (temple), testimony

Joshua 22:26-27, "Therefore we said, Let us now prepare to build us an altar, not for burnt offering, nor for sacrifice: But that it may be a witness between us, and you, and our generations after us, that we might do the service of the LORD before him with our burnt offerings, and with our sacrifices, and with our peace offerings; that your children may not say to our children in time to come, Ye have no part in the LORD."

Joshua 22:34, "And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad called the altar Ed: for it shall be a witness between us that the LORD is God."

Acts 5:32, "And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him."

1 John 5:10, "He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son."

Jeremiah 29:23, "Because they have committed villany in Israel, and have committed adultery with their neighbours' wives, and have spoken lying words in my name, which I have not commanded them; even I know, and am a witness, saith the LORD."

Micah 1:2, "Hear, all ye people; hearken, O earth, and all that therein is: and let the Lord GOD be witness against you, the Lord from his holy temple."

Malachi 2:14, "Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant."

NOTE: When they did as they did to Antipas, they did so unto our Lord. Matthew 25:40, "And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

Numbers 17:7-8, "And Moses laid up the rods before the LORD in the tabernacle of witness. And it came to pass, that on the morrow Moses went into the tabernacle of witness; and, behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi was budded, and brought forth buds, and bloomed blossoms, and yielded almonds."

Job 16:8, "And thou hast filled me with wrinkles, which is a witness against me: and my leanness rising up in me beareth witness to my face."

Job 16:19, "Also now, behold, my witness is in heaven, and my record is on high."

Job 29:11, "When the ear heard me, then it blessed me; and when the eye saw me, it gave witness to me:"

first = mighty, just, righteous and faithful (before sin), The Lord

Genesis 49:3, "Reuben, thou art my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power:"

Proverbs 18:17, "He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him."

Isaiah 1:26, "And I will restore thy judges as at the first, and thy counsellors as at the beginning: afterward thou shalt be called, The city of righteousness, the faithful city."

Jeremiah 33:7, "And I will cause the captivity of Judah and the captivity of Israel to return, and will build them, as at the first."

Isaiah 41:27, "The first shall say to Zion, Behold, behold them: and I will give to Jerusalem one that bringeth good tidings."

Isaiah 41:4, "Who hath wrought and done it, calling the generations from the beginning? I the LORD, the first, and with the last; I am he."

Isaiah 44:6, "Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God."

etc

begotten = first-fruits

Psalms 2:7, "I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee."

John 1:14, "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth."

John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Acts 13:33, "God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee."

According to Acts 13:33, Jesus was indeed "begotten" on the day He became the first-fruits of all them that slept in the grave! Many believe Psalm 2:7 is saying Jesus was "born" or "created" of God one day. But Acts 13:33 clears that up. Jesus was begotten by the Father on the very day He rose Him from the grave. This day He became the "firstfruits" of them that slept in the graves.

1 Corinthians 15:20, "But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept."

NOTE: For the Father to say "this day" I have begotten Thee declares Jesus was "begotten" AFTER creation. This too proves He was not "created" at one time because "All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made." -John 1:3

begotten of the dead = firstfruits of the dead

1 Peter 1:3, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,"

prince = propitiated (offered) to die, Michael, alive forever, Saviour, Judge

Proverbs 14:28, "In the multitude of people is the king's honour: but in the want of people is the destruction of the prince."

Daniel 10:21, "But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince."

Daniel 12:1, "And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book."

Acts 3:15, "And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses."

Acts 5:31, "Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins."

NOTE: In this context of definition, the "prince of the kings of the earth" would also be the Saviour of those kings.

Isaiah 32:1, "Behold, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment."

king = ruler, originally a judge, Christians

Isaiah 19:4, "And the Egyptians will I give over into the hand of a cruel lord; and a fierce king shall rule over them, saith the Lord, the LORD of hosts."

Psalms 2:10, "Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth."

NOTE: Israel never had a king until Saul. Christ was their King and judges ruled the land under the direction of Christ.

Ruth 1:1, "Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehemjudah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons."

1 Samuel 8:6, "But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the LORD."

Israel actually "re-fashioned" how the Lord planned to rule. It was first that God was King, and the judges followed His instruction to rule. Isaiah gives an idea of this proper and eternal structure...

Isaiah 32:1, "Behold, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment."

Revelation 5:10, "And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth."

earth = world, land, man, devilish, furnace, beastly abode (see notes on 3:10)

loved = act of God

1 John 4:8, "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love."

washed = cleansed

Leviticus 14:8, "And he that is to be cleansed shall wash his clothes, and shave off all his hair, and wash himself in water, that he may be clean: and after that he shall come into the camp, and shall tarry abroad out of his tent seven days."

John 13:10, "Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all."

sin = transgression of the Law, cords/bondage

1 John 3:4, "Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law."

James 2:10-12, "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty."

Proverbs 5:22, "His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins."

blood = New Testament, atonement, justification, right to passover during plagues, right to be overcomers, washed, life

Matthew 26:28, "For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins."

Leviticus 17:11, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul."

Romans 5:9, "Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him."

Exodus 12:13, "And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt."

Revelation 12:11, "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."

Revelation 7:14, "And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb."

Genesis 9:4, "But flesh with the life thereof, which is the blood thereof, shall ye not eat."

Leviticus 17:11, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul."

Deuteronomy 12:23, "Only be sure that thou eat not the blood: for the blood is the life; and thou mayest not eat the life with the flesh."

1:6. king = ruler, originally a judge, Christians (See notes on 1:5)

priests = Christians

1 Peter 2:9, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:"

Revelation 5:10, "And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth."

1:7. clouds = evidence He blot out our sins, chariot, strength, goodness, witness, answered prayer

Isaiah 44:22, "I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins: return unto me; for I have redeemed thee."

Psalms 104:3, "Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters: who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind:"

Psalms 68:34, "Ascribe ye strength unto God: his excellency is over Israel, and his strength is in the clouds."

Hosea 6:4, "O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away."

Hebrews 12:1, "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,"

Zechariah 10:1, "Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; so the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field."

NOTE: clouds "without rain" represent the wicked

Jude 1:11-12, "Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core. These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;"

every eye = all eyes will be "opened" this day,

Numbers 22:31, "Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face."

2 Kings 6:17, "And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha."

Psalms 19:8, "The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes."

NOTE: "every eye" does not denote camera eyes. On December 31, 1999 the powers that be already set the stage on this lie by placing numerous cameras on poles at the mount of Olives to video tape the second coming. Today many declare every eye will see Jesus return thanks to Satellite TV and such. But what about the people living in the wild in Africa? Or those in prison dungeons? What about the millions of poor without TV's? Etc. For some reason people think because hundreds of millions will be watching a TV that this means "every eye" is seeing.

eye(s) = reflects inner being, knowledge, watchful, residence of grace

Psalms 19:8, "The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes."

1 Samuel 14:27, "But Jonathan heard not when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth the end of the rod that was in his hand, and dipped it in an honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were enlightened."

2 Kings 6:17, "And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha."

Amos 9:8, "Behold, the eyes of the Lord GOD are upon the sinful kingdom, and I will destroy it from off the face of the earth; saving that I will not utterly destroy the house of Jacob, saith the LORD."

1 Kings 15:11, "And Asa did that which was right in the eyes of the LORD, as did David his father."

Proverbs 15:3, "The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good."

2 Chronicles 16:9, "For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars."

Daniel 9:18, "O my God, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by thy name: for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousnesses, but for thy great mercies."

Isaiah 37:17, "Incline thine ear, O LORD, and hear; open thine eyes, O LORD, and see: and hear all the words of Sennacherib, which hath sent to reproach the living God."

Psalms 33:18, "Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;"

Psalms 34:15, "The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry."

Genesis 6:8, "But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD."

which pierced Him = Those that have killed Him and His followers,

Psalms 22:16, "For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet."

Zechariah 12:10, "And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn."

John 19:34, "But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water."

John 19:37, "And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced."

NOTE: This denotes all those instrumental in Christ's illegal trial and execution will be resurrected to see His Second Coming. When they were questioning Him he declared and prophecied the following...

Matthew 26:64, "Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven."

Many have "pierced Him" throughout history as well as present day when they persecute His people. For it is written...

Matthew 25:40, "And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

earth = world, land, man, devilish, furnace, beastly abode (see notes on 3:10)

1:8. Alpha = Beginning. Omega = Ending

Revelation 1:8, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty."

Revelation 1:11, "Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea."

Revelation 21:6, "And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely."

Revelation 22:13, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last."

Lord = Creator God, our Sanctuary, God of Israel, God of Truth, righteous, strength and song, greatest, with His people, our inheritance, God, our Rock, Fortress Deliverer, exalted above all things, King, perfect and sure, pure, our Shepherd, Light, shield, powerful, right

Genesis 2:4, "These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens,"

Isaiah 8:13-14, "Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem."

Exodus 34:23, "Thrice in the year shall all your men children appear before the Lord GOD, the God of Israel."

Psalms 31:5, "Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth."

Exodus 9:27, "And Pharaoh sent, and called for Moses and Aaron, and said unto them, I have sinned this time: the LORD is righteous, and I and my people are wicked."

Exodus 15:2, "The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him."

Exodus 18:11, "Now I know that the LORD is greater than all gods: for in the thing wherein they dealt proudly he was above them."

Numbers 14:9, "Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the LORD is with us: fear them not."

Numbers 14:18, "The LORD is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation."

Deuteronomy 10:9, "Wherefore Levi hath no part nor inheritance with his brethren; the LORD is his inheritance, according as the LORD thy God promised him."

Joshua 22:34, "And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad called the altar Ed: for it shall be a witness between us that the LORD is God."

2 Samuel 22:2, "And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;"

1 Chronicles 29:11, "Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all."

Psalms 10:16, "The LORD is King for ever and ever: the heathen are perished out of his land."

Psalms 19:7, "The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple."

Psalms 19:8, "The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes."

Psalms 23:1, "<A Psalm of David.> The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want."

Psalms 27:1, "<A Psalm of David.> The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

Psalms 28:7, "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him."

Psalms 29:4, "The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is full of majesty."

Psalms 33:4, "For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth."

NOTICE: There are 167 verses with the term, "Lord is" in them proving our Lord God is absolutely exalted above ALL things great and small.

(stopped at Ps 34:8)

which is, and which was, and which is to come = (See notes on 1:4)

1:9. patience = steadfastness

Luke 8:15, "But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience."

Romans 15:4, "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope."

Colossians 1:11, "Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;"

James 1:3, "Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience."

James 5:11, "Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy."

Revelation 14:12, "Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus."

testimony of Jesus Christ = is the Spirit of prophecy, book of Revelation (see notes on 1:2)

Christ = Lord's goat, Sanctuary, Lamb of God, Son of God, Jesus, Messiah, all knowing, Saviour, Head of church, God, Lord (see notes on 11:15)

Word of God = fire, hammer, quick, powerful, sharper then any two edged sword, reads the heart, the Sword of the Spirit, in agreement with Heavenly host, Guide, buckler, right, Creator, Jesus, Healer, Truth, merciful, filled with hope, comforting, eternal, righteous, pure, awesome, understanding, deliverance, swift, etc (See notes on 1:2)

1:10. Amazing fact is, the Catholic church didn't attempt to change the Sabbath to Sunday until March 7, 321AD. All Sunday preachers know this, or should know this historic fact. Yet they insist John is speaking as if he is "in the Spirit" on Sunday here.

in the Spirit = in vision, prayer, worship

Ezekiel 37:1, "The hand of the LORD was upon me, and carried me out in the spirit of the LORD, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full of bones,"

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

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

1 Timothy 3:16, "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory."

Revelation 4:2, "And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne."

Ephesians 6:18, "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;"

Philippians 3:3, "For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh."

The Lord's day = Sabbath

Isaiah 58:13, "If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:"

On March 7, 321 A.D. Constantine declared the first Sunday law...

"On the venerable day of the Sun let the magistrates and people residing in cities rest, and let all workshops be closed. In the country however persons engaged in agriculture may freely and lawfully continue their pursuits because it often happens that another day is not suitable for grain-sowing or vine planting; lest by neglecting the proper moment for such operations the bounty of heaven should be lost." -Given the 7th day of March, Crispus and Constantine: Codex Justinianus, lib. 3, tit. 12, 3; translated by Philip Schaff, History of the Christian Church, Vol. 3 (1902), p. 380

"Let all the judges and towns people, and the occupation of all trades rest ON THE VENERABLE DAY OF THE SUN: but let those who are situated in the country, freely and at full liberty attend to the business of agriculture: because it often happens that no other day is so fit for sowing corn and planting vines: lest, the critical moment let slip, men should lose the commodities granted by heaven." The Book of Facts, by H. M. Rouff, p. 542, noted, "The FIRST law, either ecclesiastical or civil, by which the Sabbatical observance of Sunday is known to have been ordained, is the Edict of Constantine, A. D. 321."

trumpet = alarm, associated with God, voice, warning

Joel 2:1, "Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the LORD cometh, for it is nigh at hand;"

1 Thessalonians 4:16, "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:"

Revelation 1:10, "I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,"

Revelation 4:1, "After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter."

Revelation 8:13, "And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound!"

Exodus 19:16, "And it came to pass on the third day in the morning, that there were thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud upon the mount, and the voice of the trumpet exceeding loud; so that all the people that was in the camp trembled."

Ezekiel 33:6, "But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman's hand."

NOTE: In recent times past when generals sought to give their troops direction, the trumpet would blast certain sounds of warning, charge, retreat, etc.

Also note that the trumpet must be "blown" to do its work. In prophecy, one symbol of the Holy Spirit's presence is in fact, wind.

Acts 2:1-4, "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."

The wind was "rushing" because the message was urgent, and "mighty" for obvious reasons. It was of God.

voice of a trumpet = God's voice, Holy Spirit utterance

Exodus 19:16, "And it came to pass on the third day in the morning, that there were thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud upon the mount, and the voice of the trumpet exceeding loud; so that all the people that was in the camp trembled."

Exodus 19:19 And when the voice of the trumpet sounded long, and waxed louder and louder, Moses spake, and God answered him by a voice.

Hebrews 12:18-19, "For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest, And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more:"

Isaiah 58:1 Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.

Revelation 1:10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,

1:11. Alpha = Beginning. Omega = Ending (See notes on 1:8)

first = mighty, just, righteous and faithful (before sin), The Lord (See notes on 1:5)

last = end, hindermost, final

Genesis 49:1, "And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days."

Genesis 49:19, "Gad, a troop shall overcome him: but he shall overcome at the last."

Numbers 23:10, "Who can count the dust of Jacob, and the number of the fourth part of Israel? Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!"

2 Samuel 19:11, "And king David sent to Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, saying, Speak unto the elders of Judah, saying, Why are ye the last to bring the king back to his house? seeing the speech of all Israel is come to the king, even to his house."

2 Samuel 19:12, "Ye are my brethren, ye are my bones and my flesh: wherefore then are ye the last to bring back the king?"

Ezra 8:13, "And of the last sons of Adonikam, whose names are these, Eliphelet, Jeiel, and Shemaiah, and with them threescore males."

2 Samuel 23:1, "Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said,"

1 Chronicles 23:27, "For by the last words of David the Levites were numbered from twenty years old and above:"

first and the last = The Lord

Isaiah 41:4, "Who hath wrought and done it, calling the generations from the beginning? I the LORD, the first, and with the last; I am he."

Isaiah 44:6, "Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God."

Isaiah 48:12, "Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last."

Isaiah 44:6, "Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God."

Book = Record of judgments and remembrance

Daniel 7:10, "A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened."

Malachi 3:16, "Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name."

NOTE: The "book" is also a literal scroll that John is logging this "Revelation" on filled with judgments that need to be remembered by believers. It is eventually read and understood by all "true" churches from that day forward.

seven = completeness, place of rest (See notes on 1:4)

Seven churches = The seven stages of the church through time.

1.Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7) - the church that forsakes its first love (2:4).

2.Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11) - the church that suffered 10 years of persecution (2:10).

3.Pergamos (Revelation 2:12-17) - the church that needed to repent (2:16).

4.Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29) - the church that embraced Jesebel theology (2:20).

5.Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6) - the church that was alive and dead. (3:1).

6.Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13) - the church that endured patiently (3:10).

7.Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22) - the rejected church with the lukewarm faith (3:16).

These churches actually existed in literal time, and some still exist spiritually to this day.

Names of the churches defined:

1.Ephesus = "permitted / desireable chief" Christ taught this church Himself when He walked among us.

2.Smyrna = "myrrh" They suffered courageosly for their faith even though they were persecuted. Like a sweet smelling savor they arose out of tribulation victorious.

3.Pergamos = "height or elevation" These were very worldly and in need of repentance. So much so, it wa sdurign this period the "man of sin" was received into the church.

4.Thyatira = "odour of affliction" This was the 1260 years of great tribulation for the church wherein the "man of sin" killed hundreds of millions of God's people.

5.Sardis = "red ones / song of joy" These are those that were among the first to hear the 3 angels message in the ninth hour. This church was "alive" in a way they proclaimed Christ as Lord. But dead to obedience. Hence, the 9th hour workers Jesus spoke of in Matthew 20:1-7 that were replaced by the 11th hour workers.

6.Philadelphia "brotherly love" Those that left Sardis where entering into this church after accepting the advent message of the 9th hour workers.

7.Laodicea = "judgment of the people" These are they that either left Philadelphia, became complacent while in the church, or refused her message altogether. These are they that are rejected of God. (See Rev. 3:14 - 16) It is this church the 11th hour workers of Matthew 20:1-7 focus their efforts.

1:12. Seven golden candlesticks = The seven churches

Revelation 1:20, "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."

seven = completeness, place of rest (See notes on 1:4)

Golden = tried in purifying fire, sons of Zion (the church), ruler/reigning, faith

Revelation 3:18, "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."

Job 23:10, "But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold."

Proverbs 17:3, "The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts."

Zechariah 13:9, "And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God."

1 Peter 1:7, "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:"

Lamentations 4:2, "The precious sons of Zion, comparable to fine gold, how are they esteemed as earthen pitchers, the work of the hands of the potter!"

Daniel 2:38, "And wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. Thou art this head of gold."

Zechariah 13:9, "And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God."

1 Peter 1:7, "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:"

Candlestick = churches, people in the churches, (candle = people. stick = church. candlestick = filled church), heavenly wisdom, prosperous work of the church, God’s truth / justice

Revelation 1:20, "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."

Proverbs 20:27, "The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly."

Job 29:3, "When his candle shined upon my head, and when by his light I walked through darkness;"

Proverbs 31:18, "She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night."

Zephaniah 1:12, "And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, The LORD will not do good, neither will he do evil."

1:13. midst = among (midnight)

Jesus is walking among the candlesticks because He is always present in the churches.

Matthew 28:20, "Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen."

NOTE: The word "midst" can also be translated to = midnight. The fact these are lit candles declares the churches here in Revelation 1 are surrounded by moral darkness as the church has been since its inception.

seven candlesticks = seven churches (See notes on 1:12)

Son of man = Jesus Christ

Matthew 13:37, "He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man;"

Matthew 16:13, "When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?"

Matthew 18:11, "For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost."

etc.

clothed = salvation, righteousness

2 Chronicles 6:41, "Now therefore arise, O LORD God, into thy resting place, thou, and the ark of thy strength: let thy priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation, and let thy saints rejoice in goodness."

Job 29:14, "I put on righteousness, and it clothed me: my judgment was as a robe and a diadem."

garment = salvation, righteousness

Isaiah 61:10, "I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels."

foot = His righteousness stands firm

Psalms 121:3, "He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber."

Proverbs 3:23, "Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble."

Proverbs 3:26, "For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken."

girt = fastened / placed

John 21:7, "Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him, (for he was naked) and did cast himself into the sea."

paps = chest (in men) breasts (in women)

Luke 11:27, "And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked."

golden = tried in purifying fire, sons of Zion (the church), ruler/reigning, faith (See notes on 1:12)

girdle = righteousness, faithfulness, truth

Isaiah 11:5, "And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins."

Ephesians 6:14, "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;"

NOTE: The "breastplate of righteousness" reaches unto the "paps."

1:14. head = Place of recognition, strength, cornerstone, resting place of blessings, home of visions, King, God

Psalms 21:3, "For thou preventest him with the blessings of goodness: thou settest a crown of pure gold on his head."

Psalms 23:5, "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over."

Psalms 133:2, "It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;"

Psalms 27:6, "And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD."

Proverbs 4:9, "She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee."

Psalms 60:7, "Gilead is mine, and Manasseh is mine; Ephraim also is the strength of mine head; Judah is my lawgiver;"

Psalms 118:22, "The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner."

Proverbs 10:6, "Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked."

Proverbs 11:26, "He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it."

Daniel 2:28, "But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days. Thy dream, and the visions of thy head upon thy bed, are these;"

As Daniel deciphered the dream of Nebuchadnezzar, he described the "head of gold" and told the king...

Daniel 2:38, "And wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. Thou art this head of gold."

1 Corinthians 11:3, "But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God."

white = light, pure, clean / purified, righteousness

Matthew 17:2, "And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light."

Daniel 12:10, "Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand."

Psalms 51:7, "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow."

Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

Revelation 19:8, "And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints."

NOTE: white (hair) = glory

Proverbs 16:31, "The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness."

NOTE: "hoary" = gray or white hair

In present day a gray headed man or women is seen as "wise" because of their expereinces in life. However, it can only be seen to reflect God's glory if the gray head is "found in the way of righteousness."

wool = similar in definition to "snow", white, pure

Psalms 147:16, "He giveth snow like wool: he scattereth the hoarfrost like ashes."

Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

Ezekiel 27:18, "Damascus was thy merchant in the multitude of the wares of thy making, for the multitude of all riches; in the wine of Helbon, and white wool."

Daniel 7:9, "I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire."

snow = sinless, Word of God, obedient to His Word, cleansing, treasure, refreshing to the soul, white (pure),

Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

Isaiah 55:10-11, "For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it."

Psalms 148:8, "Fire, and hail; snow, and vapour; stormy wind fulfilling his word:"

Job 9:30, "If I wash myself with snow water, and make my hands never so clean;"

Job 38:22, "Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow? or hast thou seen the treasures of the hail,"

Proverbs 25:13, "As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters."

Daniel 7:9, "I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire."

Matthew 28:3, "His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:"

Mark 9:3, "And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them."

eyes = reflects inner being, knowledge, watchful, residence of grace (See notes on 1:7)

flame = Holy / His holy one, ascends unto Heaven, devouring, power, ministers / ministry

Isaiah 10:17, "And the light of Israel shall be for a fire, and his Holy One for a flame: and it shall burn and devour his thorns and his briers in one day;"

Exodus 3:2, "And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed."

Judges 13:20, "For it came to pass, when the flame went up toward heaven from off the altar, that the angel of the LORD ascended in the flame of the altar. And Manoah and his wife looked on it, and fell on their faces to the ground."

Judges 20:40, "But when the flame began to arise up out of the city with a pillar of smoke, the Benjamites looked behind them, and, behold, the flame of the city ascended up to heaven."

Isaiah 29:6, "Thou shalt be visited of the LORD of hosts with thunder, and with earthquake, and great noise, with storm and tempest, and the flame of devouring fire."

Isaiah 30:30, "And the LORD shall cause his glorious voice to be heard, and shall shew the lighting down of his arm, with the indignation of his anger, and with the flame of a devouring fire, with scattering, and tempest, and hailstones."

Isaiah 47:14, "Behold, they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them; they shall not deliver themselves from the power of the flame: there shall not be a coal to warm at, nor fire to sit before it."

Hebrews 1:7, "And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire."
Psalms 104:4, "Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire:"

fire = Holy Spirit, God's Word, ministers, God, judgment, His presence, destroys enemies (See notes on 1:4)

1:15. feet = beauty of His Gospel, proper dressing of feet, all things under, where they pierced Him, deliverance

Romans 10:15, "And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!"

Ephesians 6:15, "And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;"

Psalms 8:6, "Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet:"

Psalms 91:13, "Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet."

Psalms 22:16, "For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet."

Psalms 56:13, "For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?"

Psalms 66:9, "Which holdeth our soul in life, and suffereth not our feet to be moved."

Psalms 116:8, "For thou hast delivered my soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling."

NOTE: foot = His righteousness stands firm (See notes on 1:13)

fine = purified, pure

Job 28:1, "Surely there is a vein for the silver, and a place for gold where they fine it."

Job 28:17, "The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it shall not be for jewels of fine gold."

Job 31:24, "If I have made gold my hope, or have said to the fine gold, Thou art my confidence;"

etc

brass = strength, from earth

Deuteronomy 33:25, "Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be."

Job 6:12, "Is my strength the strength of stones? or is my flesh of brass?"

Job 40:18, "His bones are as strong pieces of brass; his bones are like bars of iron."

Leviticus 26:19, "And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass:"

NOTE: Iron comes from earth, but brass comes from the rock of earth by mixing two or more metals found in rock. Jesus is the "Rock" that came from Heaven. He also mixes divine with human as Saviour.

Job 28:2, "Iron is taken out of the earth, and brass is molten out of the stone."

burned = zeal, judgment

Psalms 39:3, "My heart was hot within me, while I was musing the fire burned: then spake I with my tongue,"

Isaiah 42:25, "Therefore he hath poured upon him the fury of his anger, and the strength of battle: and it hath set him on fire round about, yet he knew not; and it burned him, yet he laid it not to heart."

Ezekiel 20:47, "And say to the forest of the south, Hear the word of the LORD; Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will kindle a fire in thee, and it shall devour every green tree in thee, and every dry tree: the flaming flame shall not be quenched, and all faces from the south to the north shall be burned therein."

Micah 1:7, "And all the graven images thereof shall be beaten to pieces, and all the hires thereof shall be burned with the fire, and all the idols thereof will I lay desolate: for she gathered it of the hire of an harlot, and they shall return to the hire of an harlot."

Matthew 13:40, "As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world."

John 15:6, "If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned."

Hebrews 6:8, "But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned."

2 Peter 3:10, "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up."

Revelation 18:8, "Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her."

furnace = Affliction, purified, heart tested, deliverence from, His altar, His perfect wrath, perfect judgment

Isaiah 48:10, "Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction."

Ezekiel 22:20, "As they gather silver, and brass, and iron, and lead, and tin, into the midst of the furnace, to blow the fire upon it, to melt it; so will I gather you in mine anger and in my fury, and I will leave you there, and melt you."

Psalms 12:6, "The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times."

Daniel 3:26, "Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire."

NOTE: See Daniel 3:15-26 for full context.

Proverbs 17:3, "The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts."

Deuteronomy 4:20, "But the LORD hath taken you, and brought you forth out of the iron furnace, even out of Egypt, to be unto him a people of inheritance, as ye are this day."

Isaiah 31:9, "And he shall pass over to his strong hold for fear, and his princes shall be afraid of the ensign, saith the LORD, whose fire is in Zion, and his furnace in Jerusalem."

Ezekiel 22:22, "As silver is melted in the midst of the furnace, so shall ye be melted in the midst thereof; and ye shall know that I the LORD have poured out my fury upon you."

Genesis 19:28, "And he looked toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the plain, and beheld, and, lo, the smoke of the country went up as the smoke of a furnace."

Exodus 9:8-9, "And the LORD said unto Moses and unto Aaron, Take to you handfuls of ashes of the furnace, and let Moses sprinkle it toward the heaven in the sight of Pharaoh. And it shall become small dust in all the land of Egypt, and shall be a boil breaking forth with blains upon man, and upon beast, throughout all the land of Egypt."

Matthew 13:42, "And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth."

voice as the "sound" of many waters = loud / thunderous / powerful, His Word, many peoples

Revelation 14:2, "And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps:"

Exodus 20:19, "And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die."

Hebrews 12:19-21, "And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more: (For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart: And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake)"

Job 37:4-5, "After it a voice roareth: he thundereth with the voice of his excellency; and he will not stay them when his voice is heard. God thundereth marvellously with his voice; great things doeth he, which we cannot comprehend."

Psalms 103:20, "Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word."

Revelation 17:15, "And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues."

NOTE: In Revelation 17:15, the angel says “waters” but in Revelation 17:1 the angel calls it “many waters” while defining it.

NOTE: "many waters" is defined in Revelation 19:6 as, "...the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth." When Jesus speaks He not only speaks His Word, but He speaks for His many children that agree with His Word. Hence the many voices.

1:16. right = conquers, fellowship

Exodus 15:6 Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy.

Galatians 2:9 And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.

hand = work, knowledge, wisdom, power, might

Ecclesiastes 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

Deuteronomy 8:17 And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth.

His right hand = filled with righteousness, victorious, wisdom, His favor, His position on the Throne,

Psalms 48:10 According to thy name, O God, so is thy praise unto the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteousness.

Psalms 98:1 <A Psalm.> O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory.

Ecclesiastes 10:2, "A wise man's heart is at his right hand; but a fool's heart at his left."

Matthew 25:33, "And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left."

Hebrews 8:1, "Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;"

seven = completeness, place of rest (See notes on 1:4)

star = angels, God's people, brethren

Revelation 1:20 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.

Genesis 22:17, "That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies;"

Genesis 26:4, "And I will make thy seed to multiply as the stars of heaven, and will give unto thy seed all these countries; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed;"

Exodus 32:13, "Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, thy servants, to whom thou swarest by thine own self, and saidst unto them, I will multiply your seed as the stars of heaven, and all this land that I have spoken of will I give unto your seed, and they shall inherit it for ever."

Nehemiah 9:23 Their children also multipliedst thou as the stars of heaven, and broughtest them into the land, concerning which thou hadst promised to their fathers, that they should go in to possess

Deuteronomy 1:10, "The LORD your God hath multiplied you, and, behold, ye are this day as the stars of heaven for multitude."

Deuteronomy 10:22, "Thy fathers went down into Egypt with threescore and ten persons; and now the LORD thy God hath made thee as the stars of heaven for multitude."

1 Chronicles 27:23, "But David took not the number of them from twenty years old and under: because the LORD had said he would increase Israel like to the stars of the heavens."

Daniel 12:3 And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

Hebrews 11:12, "Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable."

etc

Genesis 37:9-10, "And he dreamed yet another dream, and told it his brethren, and said, Behold, I have dreamed a dream more; and, behold, the sun and the moon and the eleven stars made obeisance to me. And he told it to his father, and to his brethren: and his father rebuked him, and said unto him, What is this dream that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down ourselves to thee to the earth?"

NOTE: star = Jesus (bright & morning), Satan (day star)

Revelation 22:16, "I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star."

Isaiah 14:12, "How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!"

The seven stars = the seven churches, angels

Isaiah 4:1 And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.

Revelation 1:20 says, "...the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches"

His mouth = All creation relies on it for existence, wisdom, His Law proclaimed from, judgment proclaimed, Prophecy, Truth, righteousness, deliverance

Psalms 33:6, "By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth."

Psalms 37:30, "The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment."

Psalms 49:3, "My mouth shall speak of wisdom; and the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding."

Proverbs 2:6, "For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding."

Proverbs 4:5, "Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth."

Psalms 78:1, "<Maschil of Asaph.> Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth."

Psalms 119:72, "The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver."

Psalms 105:5, "Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;"

Psalms 119:13, "With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth."

Psalms 119:88, "Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth."

Proverbs 8:7, "For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips."

Proverbs 8:8, "All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them."

Proverbs 12:6, "The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them."

NOTE: Isaiah 49:2 declares the, "...mouth like a sharp sword;" which leads into the next symbol of this passage.

sharp = cuts, conviction, provokes

Ezekiel 5:1, "And thou, son of man, take thee a sharp knife, take thee a barber's razor, and cause it to pass upon thine head and upon thy beard: then take thee balances to weigh, and divide the hair."

NOTE: Hebrews 4:12, "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."

Acts 7:54, "When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth."

Acts 15:39, "And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;"

The two edged sword = the Old and New Testament:

Hebrews 4:12, "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword,"

sword = Word of God, bitter words, military violence, evil, lies, wicked

Ephesians 6:17, "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:"

Psalms 64:3, "Who whet their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their arrows, even bitter words:"

Psalms 57:4, "My soul is among lions: and I lie even among them that are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword."

Isaiah 49:2, "And he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he hid me, and made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he hid me;"

Isaiah 3:25, "Thy men shall fall by the sword, and thy mighty in the war."

Isaiah 13:15, "Every one that is found shall be thrust through; and every one that is joined unto them shall fall by the sword."

Acts 12:1-2, "Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword."

Jeremiah 48:2, "There shall be no more praise of Moab: in Heshbon they have devised evil against it; come, and let us cut it off from being a nation. Also thou shalt be cut down, O Madmen; the sword shall pursue thee."

2 Chronicles 20:9, "If, when evil cometh upon us, as the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we stand before this house, and in thy presence, (for thy name is in this house,) and cry unto thee in our affliction, then thou wilt hear and help."

Proverbs 30:14, "There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men."

Proverbs 25:18, "A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow."

Psalms 17:13, "Arise, O LORD, disappoint him, cast him down: deliver my soul from the wicked, which is thy sword:"

countenance = face, expression

Psalms 11:7, "For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright."

1 Samuel 16:7, "But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart."

1 Samuel 16:12, "And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look to. And the LORD said, Arise, anoint him: for this is he."

1 Samuel 17:42, "And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and of a fair countenance."

1 Samuel 1:18, "And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more sad."

Nehemiah 2:2, "Wherefore the king said unto me, Why is thy countenance sad, seeing thou art not sick? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart. Then I was very sore afraid,"

Proverbs 15:13, "A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken."

Proverbs 25:23, "The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue."

Daniel 5:6, "Then the king's countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees smote one against another."

etc

Matthew 6:16, "Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward."

Sun = Father, His throne, His glory, righteousness, Ruler

Psalms 84:11, "For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly."

Psalms 89:36, "His seed shall endure for ever, and his throne as the sun before me."

Revelation 21:23, "And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof."

Malachi 4:2, "But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall."

Matthew 13:43, "Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear."

Psalms 136:8, "The sun to rule by day: for his mercy endureth for ever:"

shineth = enlighten, guidance, salvation, merciful / blessings, knowledge, glory, good works, righteousness, God's image, truth, Holy Spirit

Numbers 6:25, "The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:"

Job 22:28, "Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the light shall shine upon thy ways."

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

Psalms 31:16, "Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: save me for thy mercies' sake."

Psalms 80:3, "Turn us again, O God, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved."

Psalms 67:1, "<To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm or Song.> God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; Selah."

Psalms 119:135, "Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes."

Ecclesiastes 8:1, "Who is as the wise man? and who knoweth the interpretation of a thing? a man's wisdom maketh his face to shine, and the boldness of his face shall be changed."

Daniel 12:3, "And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever."

2 Peter 1:19, "We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:"

Isaiah 60:1, "Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee."

Matthew 5:16, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

Matthew 13:43, "Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear."

2 Corinthians 4:4, "In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them."

1 John 2:8, "Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth."

Psalms 104:15, "And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man's heart."

NOTE: In prophecy "oil" = Holy Spirit
Exodus 30:31-32, "And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, This shall be an holy anointing oil unto me throughout your generations. Upon man's flesh shall it not be poured, neither shall ye make any other like it, after the composition of it: it is holy, and it shall be holy unto you."

Psalms 89:20, "I have found David my servant; with my holy oil have I anointed him:"

Matthew 25:1-9, "Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves."

Revelation 4:5, "And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God."

James 5:14, "Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:"

* Oil was used to keep the lamps burning in the Holy Place. They were never to be allowed to run dry. Exodus 27:20 says, "And thou shalt command the children of Israel, that they bring thee pure oil olive beaten for the light, to cause the lamp to burn always." Without God's Holy Presence by His Sprit in our lives constantly we would be taken by spiritual darkness.

strength = perfected by God, godly joy, sin, greatness, weak

2 Corinthians 12:9, "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

Hebrews 2:10, "For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings."

Nehemiah 8:10, "Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength."

1 Corinthians 15:56, "The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law."

Job 39:11, "Wilt thou trust him, because his strength is great? or wilt thou leave thy labour to him?"

Psalms 22:15, "My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death."

Isaiah 23:14, "Howl, ye ships of Tarshish: for your strength is laid waste."

Psalms 73:4, "For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm."

Isaiah 30:7, "For the Egyptians shall help in vain, and to no purpose: therefore have I cried concerning this, Their strength is to sit still."

1:17. feet = beauty of His Gospel, proper dressing of feet, all things under, where they pierced Him, deliverance (See notes on 1:15)

right = conquers, fellowship (See notes on 1:16)

hand = work, knowledge, wisdom, power, might (See notes on 1:16)

His right hand = filled with righteousness, victorious, wisdom, His favor, His position on the Throne (See notes on 1:16)

fear = reverence, respect, wisdom, instruction, treasure

Psalms 111:9, "He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name."

Psalms 61:5, "For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name."

Psalms 86:11, "Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name."

Psalms 102:15, "So the heathen shall fear the name of the LORD, and all the kings of the earth thy glory."

Isaiah 29:23, "But when he seeth his children, the work of mine hands, in the midst of him, they shall sanctify my name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and shall fear the God of Israel."

Jeremiah 33:9, "And it shall be to me a name of joy, a praise and an honour before all the nations of the earth, which shall hear all the good that I do unto them: and they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and for all the prosperity that I procure unto it."

Malachi 1:6, "A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master: if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear? saith the LORD of hosts unto you, O priests, that despise my name. And ye say, Wherein have we despised thy name?"

Acts 19:17, "And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified."

Job 28:28, "And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding."

Psalms 111:10, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever."

Proverbs 1:7, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

Proverbs 9:10, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding."

Proverbs 15:33, "The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility."

Isaiah 33:6, "And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is his treasure."

fear not = absolute and/or prophetic statement to follow

Genesis 15:1 After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.

Genesis 35:17 And it came to pass, when she was in hard labour, that the midwife said unto her, Fear not; thou shalt have this son also.

Genesis 50:19 And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?

Exodus 20:20 And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not.

Joshua 8:1 And the LORD said unto Joshua, Fear not, neither be thou dismayed: take all the people of war with thee, and arise, go up to Ai: see, I have given into thy hand the king of Ai, and his people, and his city, and his land:

Joshua 10:25 And Joshua said unto them, Fear not, nor be dismayed, be strong and of good courage: for thus shall the LORD do to all your enemies against whom ye fight.

1 Samuel 4:20 And about the time of her death the women that stood by her said unto her, Fear not; for thou hast born a son. But she answered not, neither did she regard it.

1 Samuel 12:20 And Samuel said unto the people, Fear not: ye have done all this wickedness: yet turn not aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart;

1 Samuel 22:23 Abide thou with me, fear not: for he that seeketh my life seeketh thy life: but with me thou shalt be in safeguard.

1 Samuel 23:17 And he said unto him, Fear not: for the hand of Saul my father shall not find thee; and thou shalt be king over Israel, and I shall be next unto thee; and that also Saul my father knoweth.

2 Samuel 9:7 And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely shew thee kindness for Jonathan thy father's sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually.

1 Kings 17:13 And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son.

2 Kings 6:16 And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.

2 Kings 25:24 And Gedaliah sware to them, and to their men, and said unto them, Fear not to be the servants of the Chaldees: dwell in the land, and serve the king of Babylon; and it shall be well with you.

Isaiah 41:13 For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.

Isaiah 41:14 Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.

Isaiah 43:1 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.

Isaiah 43:5 Fear not: for I am with thee: I will bring thy seed from the east, and gather thee from the west;

Isaiah 44:2 Thus saith the LORD that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, which will help thee; Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jesurun, whom I have chosen.

Isaiah 54:4 Fear not; for thou shalt not be ashamed: neither be thou confounded; for thou shalt not be put to shame: for thou shalt forget the shame of thy youth, and shalt not remember the reproach of thy widowhood any more.

Jeremiah 40:9 And Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan sware unto them and to their men, saying, Fear not to serve the Chaldeans: dwell in the land, and serve the king of Babylon, and it shall be well with you.

Lamentations 3:57 Thou drewest near in the day that I called upon thee: thou saidst, Fear not.

Daniel 10:12 Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.

Joel 2:21 Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice: for the LORD will do great things.

Matthew 28:5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

Luke 1:13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.

Luke 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.

Luke 2:10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

Luke 5:10 And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.

Luke 8:50 But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.

Luke 12:7 But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Luke 12:32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

John 12:15 Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt.

Acts 27:24 Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.

first = mighty, just, righteous and faithful (before sin), The Lord (See notes on 1:5)

last = end, hindermost, final (See notes on 1:11)

first and the last = The Lord (See notes on 1:11)

1:18. I am He that liveth, and was dead = Jesus Christ

Acts 25:19, "But had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive."

Acts 2:31-32, "He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses."

Romans 6:5, "For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:"

1 Peter 1:3, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,"

Revelation 2:8, "And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;"

NOTE: the first and the last = The Lord (See notes on 1:11)

key = (keys) knowledge, power to open and close, jurisdiction

Luke 11:52, "Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered."

Isaiah 22:22, "And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open."

Revelation 3:7, "And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These 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;"

Matthew 16:19, "And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."

hell = grave / death

Psalms 16:10, "For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption."

NOTE: Jesus was out of the grave in 3 days. Human bodies will be totally corrupted (like Lazarus) in 4 days.

Psalms 55:15, "Let death seize upon them, and let them go down quick into hell: for wickedness is in their dwellings, and among them."

Psalms 139:8, "If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there."

NOTE: If hell were as the world teaches, "the kingdome of Satan" then God would not be there. Hence, this proves that even in the grave, the Lord is aware of His people.

Proverbs 7:27, "Her house is the way to hell, going down to the chambers of death."

Matthew 10:28, "And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell."

NOTE: If hell were as the world teaches, "eternal life in fire" then how is it God destroys both soul and body in it?

Acts 2:27, "Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption."

NOTE: (Echo of Psalm 16:10) Jesus was out of the grave in 3 days. Human bodies will be totally corrupted (like Lazarus) in 4 days.

Acts 2:31, "He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption."

Amos 9:2, "Though they dig into hell, thence shall mine hand take them; though they climb up to heaven, thence will I bring them down:"

Proverbs 5:5, "Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell."

Proverbs 9:18, "But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell."

Isaiah 28:15, "Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves:"

Ezekiel 31:17, "They also went down into hell with him unto them that be slain with the sword; and they that were his arm, that dwelt under his shadow in the midst of the heathen."

Ezekiel 32:27, "And they shall not lie with the mighty that are fallen of the uncircumcised, which are gone down to hell with their weapons of war: and they have laid their swords under their heads, but their iniquities shall be upon their bones, though they were the terror of the mighty in the land of the living."

death = sleep, sleep in grave

Psalms 13:3, "Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death;"

John 11:11, "These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead."

John 11:13, "Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep."

1 Thessalonians 4:13-15, "But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep."

Psalms 6:5 For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks?

Psalms 49:14 Like sheep they are laid in the grave; death shall feed on them; and the upright shall have dominion over them in the morning; and their beauty shall consume in the grave from their dwelling.

Psalms 89:48 What man is he that liveth, and shall not see death? shall he deliver his soul from the hand of the grave? Selah.

Isaiah 38:18 For the grave cannot praise thee, death can not celebrate thee: they that go down into the pit cannot hope for thy truth.

Isaiah 53:9 And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.

Hosea 13:14 I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death: O death, I will be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction: repentance shall be hid from mine eyes.

1 Corinthians 15:55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

1:19. NOTE: When Jesus said to "write the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter;" He again confirms the Vatican lied about Nero being "the Antichrist." Jesus did not tell John to write anything of the PAST. Only what was happening at present time and then for the future.

1:20. seven = completeness, place of rest (See notes on 1:4)

star = angels, God's people, brethren (See notes on 1:16)

The seven stars = the seven churches, angels (See notes on 1:16)

Golden = tried in purifying fire, sons of Zion (the church), ruler/reigning, faith (See notes on 1:12)

Candlestick = churches, people in the churches, (candle = people. stick = church. candlestick = filled church), heavenly wisdom, prosperous work of the church, God’s truth / justice. (See notes on 1:12)

angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors (See notes on 1:1)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

Revelation 2

2:1. angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors (See notes on 1:1)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

Ephesus DEFINED = "permitted / desireable chief" Christ taught this church Himself when He walked among us. (See notes on 1:11)

seven = completeness, place of rest (See notes on 1:4)

star = angels, God's people, brethren (See notes on 1:16)

The seven stars = the seven churches, angels (See notes on 1:!6)

right = conquers, fellowship (See notes on 1:16)

hand = work, knowledge, wisdom, power, might (See notes on 1:16)

His right hand = filled with righteousness, victorious, wisdom, His favor, His position on the Throne (See notes on 1:16)

midst = among (midnight) (see notes on 1:13)

Golden = tried in purifying fire, sons of Zion (the church), ruler/reigning, faith (See notes on 1:12)

Candlestick = churches, people in the churches, (candle = people. stick = church. candlestick = filled church), heavenly wisdom, prosperous work of the church, God’s truth / justice (See notes on 1:12)

Seven golden candlesticks = The seven churches (See noteson 1:12)

2:2. works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty

Matthew 16:27, "For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works."

2 Corinthians 11:15, "Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works."

Revelation 20:13, "And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works."

NOTE: Refusing to accept Christ as Lord is an evil "work" when looked upon in the context of this passage. Because nothing we do in the way of works will gain Heaven.

Romans 4:6, "Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,"

Galatians 2:16, "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified."

Still it is understood that once a person comes to Christ, they are compelled unto good works.

James 2:17, "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."

James 2:20, "But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?"

James 2:26, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also."

Exodus 5:4, "And the king of Egypt said unto them, Wherefore do ye, Moses and Aaron, let the people from their works? get you unto your burdens."

Exodus 5:13, "And the taskmasters hasted them, saying, Fulfil your works, your daily tasks, as when there was straw."

Exodus 31:4, "To devise cunning works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass,"

Acts 7:41, "And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands."

Hebrews 1:10, "And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:"

etc

Matthew 5:16, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

Matthew 11:2, "Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples,"

James 2:17, "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."

James 2:20, "But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?"

patience = steadfastness (See notes on 1:9)

tried = examined / proven, tested

Job 23:10, "But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold."

Job 34:36, "My desire is that Job may be tried unto the end because of his answers for wicked men."

Psalms 12:6, "The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times."

Psalms 18:30, "As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him."

Psalms 66:10, "For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried."

etc

2:3. patience = steadfastness (See notes on 1:9)

fainted = given up / gave up

Psalms 27:13, "I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living."

Jonah 4:8, "And it came to pass, when the sun did arise, that God prepared a vehement east wind; and the sun beat upon the head of Jonah, that he fainted, and wished in himself to die, and said, It is better for me to die than to live."

2:4. left = out of favor

Matthew 25:33, "And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left."

Matthew 25:41, "Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:"

first = mighty, just, righteous and faithful (before sin), The Lord (See notes on 1:5)

love = God

1 John 4:8, "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love."

1 John 4:16, "And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him."

NOTE: Using definitions for "first" and "love" we can understand that, first love = mighty God, righteous God, faithful God, the Lord God

2:5. fallen = sinned, cast down, to fall, become poor, dead, given

Psalms 36:12, "There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise."

Isaiah 3:8, "For Jerusalem is ruined, and Judah is fallen: because their tongue and their doings are against the LORD, to provoke the eyes of his glory."

Isaiah 14:12, "How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!"

Isaiah 21:9, "And, behold, here cometh a chariot of men, with a couple of horsemen. And he answered and said, Babylon is fallen, is fallen; and all the graven images of her gods he hath broken unto the ground."

Jeremiah 50:14-15, "Put yourselves in array against Babylon round about: all ye that bend the bow, shoot at her, spare no arrows: for she hath sinned against the LORD. Shout against her round about: she hath given her hand: her foundations are fallen, her walls are thrown down: for it is the vengeance of the LORD: take vengeance upon her; as she hath done, do unto her."

Lamentations 5:16, "The crown is fallen from our head: woe unto us, that we have sinned!"

Hosea 7:7, "They are all hot as an oven, and have devoured their judges; all their kings are fallen: there is none among them that calleth unto me."

Hosea 14:1, "O Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity."

Genesis 4:6, "And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen?"

Job 1:16, "While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, The fire of God is fallen from heaven, and hath burned up the sheep, and the servants, and consumed them; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee."

Psalms 55:4, "My heart is sore pained within me: and the terrors of death are fallen upon me."

Leviticus 13:40, "And the man whose hair is fallen off his head, he is bald; yet is he clean."

1 Samuel 5:3, "And when they of Ashdod arose early on the morrow, behold, Dagon was fallen upon his face to the earth before the ark of the LORD. And they took Dagon, and set him in his place again."

Esther 7:8, "Then the king returned out of the palace garden into the place of the banquet of wine; and Haman was fallen upon the bed whereon Esther was. Then said the king, Will he force the queen also before me in the house? As the word went out of the king's mouth, they covered Haman's face."

Isaiah 9:10, "The bricks are fallen down, but we will build with hewn stones: the sycomores are cut down, but we will change them into cedars."

etc

Leviticus 25:35, "And if thy brother be waxen poor, and fallen in decay with thee; then thou shalt relieve him: yea, though he be a stranger, or a sojourner; that he may live with thee."

Joshua 8:24, "And it came to pass, when Israel had made an end of slaying all the inhabitants of Ai in the field, in the wilderness wherein they chased them, and when they were all fallen on the edge of the sword, until they were consumed, that all the Israelites returned unto Ai, and smote it with the edge of the sword."

Judges 3:25, "And they tarried till they were ashamed: and, behold, he opened not the doors of the parlour; therefore they took a key, and opened them: and, behold, their lord was fallen down dead on the earth."

1 Samuel 31:8, "And it came to pass on the morrow, when the Philistines came to strip the slain, that they found Saul and his three sons fallen in mount Gilboa."

2 Samuel 1:4, "And David said unto him, How went the matter? I pray thee, tell me. And he answered, That the people are fled from the battle, and many of the people also are fallen and dead; and Saul and Jonathan his son are dead also."

etc

Numbers 32:19, "For we will not inherit with them on yonder side Jordan, or forward; because our inheritance is fallen to us on this side Jordan eastward."

Judges 18:1, "In those days there was no king in Israel: and in those days the tribe of the Danites sought them an inheritance to dwell in; for unto that day all their inheritance had not fallen unto them among the

tribes of Israel."

Psalms 16:6, "The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage."

first = mighty, just, righteous and faithful (before sin), The Lord (See notes on 1:5)

works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See notes 2:2)

Candlestick = churches, people in the churches, (candle = people. stick = church. candlestick = filled church), heavenly wisdom, prosperous work of the church, God’s truth / justice (See notes on 1:12)

place = home, space, secret, wide, plains, country, city, position, refuge, step aside

Job 2:11, "Now when Job's three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came every one from his own place; Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite: for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him."

Job 7:10, "He shall return no more to his house, neither shall his place know him any more."

Psalms 76:2, "In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion."

Proverbs 27:8, "As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place."

etc

Job 9:6, "Which shaketh the earth out of her place, and the pillars thereof tremble."

Job 26:7, "He stretcheth out the north over the empty place, and hangeth the earth upon nothing."

Ecclesiastes 1:5, "The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to his place where he arose."

Psalms 18:11, "He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies."

Psalms 32:7, "Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah."

Psalms 81:7, "Thou calledst in trouble, and I delivered thee; I answered thee in the secret place of thunder: I proved thee at the waters of Meribah. Selah."

Psalms 91:1, "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."

etc

Psalms 18:19, "He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me."

Psalms 118:5, "I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place."

Psalms 26:12, "My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the LORD."

Psalms 104:8, "They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them."

Matthew 14:35, "And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that were diseased;"

Mark 6:10, "And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place."

Proverbs 1:21, "She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying,"

Proverbs 25:6, "Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men:"

Proverbs 14:26, "In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge."

Matthew 9:24, "He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn."

2:6. Nicolaitans DEFINED = "destruction of people"

Strong's # 3531

1) a sect mentioned in Rev. 2:6,15, who were charged with holding the

error of Balaam, casting a stumbling block before the church of

God by upholding the liberty of eating things sacrificed to idols

as well as committing fornication

The fruits of the "Nicolaitans" suggests them to be the forefathers of the Roman Catholic church. Their name came from "Nicolas the Bishop of Samaria" that was a known heretic often in the company of a Pagan magician named Simon Magus. He was the first "Simon Pater" or "Simon Peter" of the Roman church. His name being "Simon" and his title being "Pater" or "Peter." A "Pater" or "Peter" is a high priest in he Pagan church. Rome used this title (Simon Peter) to declare Simon Peter the Christian Apostle to be their first Pope.

Nicolaitanes have also been identified as the first historic compromise between Pagans and Christianity.

Jude speaks of the Nicolaitanes lascivious "fruit" in his letter...

Jude 1:4, "For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ."

Nicolaitanes were also known to be first to preach the Law of God was unnecessary after the cross of Christ. This allowed for doctrines of demons to make their way into the church that eventually lead to Sunday Laws by the Pagan leader Constantine on March 7, 321ad.

The Nicolaitanes were also known to be the forefathers of the hierarchical structure of the Roman church, wherein they divided the laity from the clergy. Thereby placing the clergy above the people. With this came many murderous acts and unjust laws.

The Nicolaitanes were also know to preach antinomianism.

an·ti·no·mi·an·ism (nt-nm--nzm)

n.

1. Theology The doctrine or belief that the Gospel frees Christians from required obedience to any law, whether scriptural, civil, or moral, and that salvation is attained solely through faith and the gift of divine grace.

2. The belief that moral laws are relative in meaning and application as opposed to fixed or universal.

This is Roman theology wherein you can be saved IN sin rather then FROM sin. This effectively does away with the LAw of God and preaches His grace will save you if you only believe.

Romans 6:1-2, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?"

2:7. ear = obedience, service, listen, understand, understanding His prophetic voice

Exodus 15:26, "And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee."

Exodus 21:6, "Then his master shall bring him unto the judges; he shall also bring him to the door, or unto the door post; and his master shall bore his ear through with an aul; and he shall serve him for ever."

Deuteronomy 15:17, "Then thou shalt take an aul, and thrust it through his ear unto the door, and he shall be thy servant for ever. And also unto thy maidservant thou shalt do likewise."

Deuteronomy 32:1, "Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth."

Judges 5:3, "Hear, O ye kings; give ear, O ye princes; I, even I, will sing unto the LORD; I will sing praise to the LORD God of Israel."

2 Chronicles 24:19, "Yet he sent prophets to them, to bring them again unto the LORD; and they testified against them: but they would not give ear."

Job 12:11, "Doth not the ear try words? and the mouth taste his meat?"

Job 13:1, "Lo, mine eye hath seen all this, mine ear hath heard and understood it."

Job 34:2, "Hear my words, O ye wise men; and give ear unto me, ye that have knowledge."

Proverbs 5:1, "My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding:"

1 Samuel 9:15, "Now the LORD had told Samuel in his ear a day before Saul came, saying,"

Job 4:12-13, "Now a thing was secretly brought to me, and mine ear received a little thereof. In thoughts from the visions of the night, when deep sleep falleth on men,"

Spirit = goodness, righteousness, truth, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance

Ephesians 5:9, "(For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth)"

Galatians 5:22-23, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

overcometh = born again, not of this world, believers

1 John 5:4, "For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith."

1 John 5:5, "Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?"

Genesis 3:6, "And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat."

Jeremiah 15:16, "Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts."

Revelation 10:9, "And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey."

John 6:51, "I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world."

1 Corinthians 11:24, "And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me."

Exodus 12:15, "Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel."

Proverbs 13:2, "A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence."

Proverbs 18:21, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."

2 Samuel 9:10, "Thou therefore, and thy sons, and thy servants, shall till the land for him, and thou shalt bring in the fruits, that thy master's son may have food to eat: but Mephibosheth thy master's son shall eat bread alway at my table. Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants."

Psalms 78:25, "Man did eat angels' food: he sent them meat to the full."

eat = knowledge, study, acceptance, agreement / communion, justice, nourishment, consume

Genesis 3:6, "And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat."

Jeremiah 15:16, "Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts."

Revelation 10:9, "And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey."

Ezekiel 2:8-10, "But thou, son of man, hear what I say unto thee; Be not thou rebellious like that rebellious house: open thy mouth, and eat that I give thee. And when I looked, behold, an hand was sent unto me; and, lo, a roll of a book was therein; And he spread it before me; and it was written within and without: and there was written therein lamentations, and mourning, and woe."

John 6:51, "I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world."

1 Corinthians 11:24, "And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me."

Exodus 12:15, "Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel."

Proverbs 13:2, "A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence."

Proverbs 18:21, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."

2 Samuel 9:10, "Thou therefore, and thy sons, and thy servants, shall till the land for him, and thou shalt bring in the fruits, that thy master's son may have food to eat: but Mephibosheth thy master's son shall eat bread alway at my table. Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants."

Psalms 78:25, "Man did eat angels' food: he sent them meat to the full."

Genesis 2:16, "And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat:"

Exodus 12:18, "In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at even, ye shall eat unleavened bread, until the one and twentieth day of the month at even."

Job 1:4, "And his sons went and feasted in their houses, every one his day; and sent and called for their three sisters to eat and to drink with them."

Psalms 53:4, "Have the workers of iniquity no knowledge? who eat up my people as they eat bread: they have not called upon God."

etc

tree = righteous man, righteousness

Psalms 1:1-3, "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."

Psalms 92:12, "The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon."

Isaiah 61:3, "To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified."

tree of life = fruit of righteous, accessable to righteous, a wholesome tongue

Proverbs 11:30, "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise."

Revelation 22:14, "Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."

Proverbs 15:4, "A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit."

midst = among (midnight) (see notes on 1:13)

Paradise = Heaven

Luke 23:43, "And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee To day, shalt thou be with me in paradise."

God = Love

1 John 4:8, "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love."

1 John 4:16, "And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him."

2:8. angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors (See notes on 1:1)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

Smyrna DEFINED = "myrrh" They suffered courageosly for their faith even though they were persecuted. Like a sweet smelling savor they arose out of tribulation victorious. (See notes on 1:11)

first = mighty, just, righteous and faithful (before sin), The Lord (See notes on 1:5)

last = end, hindermost, final (See notes on 1:11)

first and the last = The Lord (See notes on 1:11)

which was dead, and is alive = Jesus Christ (See notes on 1:18)

2:9. works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See notes on 2:2)

tribulation = trial / persecution, necessary for Christian growth, necessary for evangelization, justice upon those against us

Matthew 24:29, "Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:"

Mark 13:24, "But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light,"

NOTE: Jesus is speaking of a historic time in the church when 500 million Christians died for their faith. Most students of prophecy understand these signs in the sun, moon and stars came after Rome stopped killing Christians. Hence, the time they did kill them was the time of "tribulation" Jesus spoke of, and therefore "trial and persecution."

John 16:33, "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."

Romans 5:3, "And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;"

Romans 12:12, "Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;"

Acts 14:22, "Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God."

Revelation 7:14, "And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb."

2 Corinthians 1:4, "Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."

1 Thessalonians 3:4, "For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know."

2 Thessalonians 1:6, "Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;"

poverty = denial of world

2 Corinthians 8:9, "For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich."

2 Corinthians 8:2, "How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality."

blasphemy = man claiming to be God, man claiming to forgive sins

John 10:33, "The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God."

Mark 2:7, "Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only?"

Jew = inward Christian, true Israel

Romans 2:28-29, "For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God."

Galatians 3:27-29, "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."

Romans 9:6-8, "Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed."

synagogue of Satan = backslidden believers, worshipers of the creature more then the Creator (Romans 1:25)

Revelation 2:9, "I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan."

Revelation 3:9, "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, and to know that I have loved thee."

Satan = angel of light, devil, roaring lion, offense unto Christ, dragon, hates truth, fallen, possessor of souls, vexes souls, destroyer, tempter, liar, slated for death, unclean, murderer, oppresser, condemns, snares, first sinner, angry

2 Corinthians 11:14, "And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light."

Revelation 20:2, "And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years,"

Revelation 12:9, "And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him."

1 Peter 5:8, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:"

Matthew 16:23, "But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men."

Revelation 20:2, "And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years,"

Revelation 12:9, "And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him."

Mark 4:15, "And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts."

Luke 8:12, "Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved."

Luke 10:18, "And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven."

Luke 22:3, "Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve."

John 13:27, "And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly."

Matthew 9:32, "As they went out, behold, they brought to him a dumb man possessed with a devil."

Matthew 12:22, "Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw."

Mark 5:15, "And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid."

Matthew 15:22, "And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil."

1 Corinthians 5:5, "To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus."

1 Corinthians 7:5, "Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency."

Matthew 4:1, "Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil."

Luke 4:2, "Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered."

John 13:2, "And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him;"

2 Thessalonians 2:9, "Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,"

John 8:44, "Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it."

Matthew 25:41, "Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:"

Revelation 20:10, "And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever."

Luke 4:33, "And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice,"

Luke 8:29, "(For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For oftentimes it had caught him: and he was kept bound with chains and in fetters; and he brake the bands, and was driven of the devil into the wilderness)"

Luke 9:42, "And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father."

John 8:44, "Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it."

Hebrews 2:14, "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;"

Acts 10:38, "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him."

1 Timothy 3:6, "Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil."

1 Timothy 3:7, "Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."

2 Timothy 2:26, "And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will."

1 John 3:8, "He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."

Revelation 12:12, "Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time."

2:10. fear = reverence, respect, wisdom, instruction, treasure (See notes on 1:17)

devil = dragon, old serpant, Satan

Revelation 12:9, "And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him."

prison = literal prison, spiritual prison, (sin)

Historic fact is many were cast into prison by the Vatican for their faith.

Psalms 142:7, "Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me."

Romans 7:23, "But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members."

1 Peter 3:18-19, "For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;"

NOTE: 1Peter 3:19 goes on to relate the "time" Jesus went to "preach unto the spirits in prison" and it was in "the days of Noah" (1Peter 3:20) that He preached to the "disobedient" sinners with His Spirit through Noah "a preacher of righteousness" (2Peter 2:5)

tried = examined / proven, tested (See notes on 2:2)

suffer = allowed

Exodus 12:23, "For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when he seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you."

Exodus 22:18, "Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live."

Leviticus 2:13, "And every oblation of thy meat offering shalt thou season with salt; neither shalt thou suffer the salt of the covenant of thy God to be lacking from thy meat offering: with all thine offerings thou shalt offer salt."

Psalms 55:22, "Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."

Matthew 3:15, "And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him."

etc

NOTE: Yes, the word "suffer" menas just that. However, to "suffer" for the Lord is a blessing we are "allowed" to be tested with so as to help our faith grow.

tribulation = trial / persecution, necessary for Christian growth, necessary for evangelization, justice upon those against us (See notes on 2:9)

ten = perfection

Psalms 19:7, "The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple."

ten days = ten years

Numbers 14:34, "After the number of the days in which ye searched the land, even forty days, each day for a year, shall ye bear your iniquities, even forty years, and ye shall know my breach of promise."

Ezekiel 4:6, "And when thou hast accomplished them, lie again on thy right side, and thou shalt bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: I have appointed thee each day for a year."

faithful = hopeful, demonstrate, Law abiding, testify

Hebrews 11:1, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Matthew 8:5-10, "And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel."

Psalms 119:86, "All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me."

John 14:15, "If ye love me, keep my commandments."

Psalms 119:138, "Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful."

death = sleep, sleep in grave (see notes on 1:18)

crown = kingship, victory, reward, Christ's glory, grace, virtue, righteousness, life, lovingkindness, mercy, rejoicing, honour

2 Kings 11:12, "And he brought forth the king's son, and put the crown upon him, and gave him the testimony; and they made him king, and anointed him; and they clapped their hands, and said, God save the king."

1 Chronicles 20:2, "And David took the crown of their king from off his head, and found it to weigh a talent of gold, and there were precious stones in it; and it was set upon David's head: and he brought also exceeding much spoil out of the city."

Ezekiel 21:26-27, "Thus saith the Lord GOD; Remove the diadem, and take off the crown: this shall not be the same: exalt him that is low, and abase him that is high. I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no more, until he come whose right it is; and I will give it him."

James 1:12, "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him."

2 Timothy 4:7-8, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

1 Corinthians 9:25, "And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible."

1 Peter 5:4, "And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away."

2 Timothy 4:8, "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

Hebrews 2:9, "But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man."

Isaiah 28:5, "In that day shall the LORD of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people,"

Job 19:9, "He hath stripped me of my glory, and taken the crown from my head."

Proverbs 4:9, "She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee."

Proverbs 12:4, "A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones."

NOTICE: In prophecy a "woman = a church." (Jeremiah 6:2) therefore the context of this "virtuous woman" can be applied to the victorous Christian as they are His church.

2 Timothy 4:8, "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

Revelation 2:10, "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."

Psalms 103:4, "Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;"

1 Thessalonians 2:19, "For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?"

Hebrews 2:7, "Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands:"

2:11. ear = obedience, service, listen, understand, understanding His prophetic voice (See notes on 2:7)

Spirit = goodness, righteousness, truth, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance (See notes on 2:7)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes 1:4)

overcometh = born again, not of this world, believers (See notes 2:7)

hurt = harmed, unto death

Psalms 105:18, "Whose feet they hurt with fetters: he was laid in iron:"

Daniel 3:25, "He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God."

Esther 9:2, "The Jews gathered themselves together in their cities throughout all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus, to lay hand on such as sought their hurt: and no man could withstand them; for the fear of them fell upon all people."

Psalms 38:12, "They also that seek after my life lay snares for me: and they that seek my hurt speak mischievous things, and imagine deceits all the day long."

Jeremiah 7:6, "If ye oppress not the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, and shed not innocent blood in this place, neither walk after other gods to your hurt:"

Mark 16:18, "They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover."

etc

second death = eternal death

Hebrews 9:26-28, "For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation."

NOTE: Since it has been designed that obedient men should only die once due to the sacrifice of Christ. If they refuse His sacrifice for their sins, they will die for their own sins.

Revelation 20:6, "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years."

Revelation 21:8, "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."

Revelation 20:14, "And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death."

2:12. angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors (See notes on 1:1)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

Pergamos DEFINED = "height or elevation" These were very worldly and in need of repentance. So much so, it was during this period the "man of sin" was received into the church. CHURCH #3~ Pergamos (Revelation 2:12-17) - the church that needed to repent (2:16). (See notes on 1:11)

sharp = cuts, conviction, provokes (See notes 1:16)

sword = Word of God, bitter words, military violence, evil, lies, wicked (See notes on 1:16)

sword with two edges = the Old and New Testament (See notes on 1:16)

2:13. works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See noteson 2:2)

dwellest = home, abides, live, agreement

Deuteronomy 19:1, "When the LORD thy God hath cut off the nations, whose land the LORD thy God giveth thee, and thou succeedest them, and dwellest in their cities, and in their houses;"

Deuteronomy 26:1, "And it shall be, when thou art come in unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance, and possessest it, and dwellest therein;"

John 1:38, "Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master) where dwellest thou?"

2 Kings 19:15, "And Hezekiah prayed before the LORD, and said, O LORD God of Israel, which dwellest between the cherubims, thou art the God, even thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; thou hast made heaven and earth."

Psalms 80:1, "<To the chief Musician upon Shoshannimeduth, A Psalm of Asaph.> Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou that leadest Joseph like a flock; thou that dwellest between the cherubims, shine forth."

Isaiah 10:24, "Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD of hosts, O my people that dwellest in Zion, be not afraid of the Assyrian: he shall smite thee with a rod, and shall lift up his staff against thee, after the manner of Egypt."

Zechariah 2:7, "Deliver thyself, O Zion, that dwellest with the daughter of Babylon."

Satan = angel of light, devil, roaring lion, offense unto Christ, dragon, hates truth, fallen, possessor of souls, vexes souls, destroyer, tempter, liar, slated for death, unclean, murderer, oppresser, condemns, snares, first sinner, angry (See notes on 2:9)

seat = presence, place of rest, authority, ownership, judgment, high position

Exodus 25:22, "And there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubims which are upon the ark of the testimony, of all things which I will give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel."

Exodus 30:6, "And thou shalt put it before the vail that is by the ark of the testimony, before the mercy seat that is over the testimony, where I will meet with thee."

Leviticus 16:2, "And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the vail before the mercy seat, which is upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat."

Numbers 7:89, "And when Moses was gone into the tabernacle of the congregation to speak with him, then he heard the voice of one speaking unto him from off the mercy seat that was upon the ark of testimony, from between the two cherubims: and he spake unto him."

Job 23:3, "Oh that I knew where I might find him! that I might come even to his seat!"

NOTE: As is obvious in the mercy seat that the Lord's presence is known in His Sanctuary, so is Satan's presence known in the worldly churches.

1 Samuel 1:9, "So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had drunk. Now Eli the priest sat upon a seat by a post of the temple of the LORD."

1 Samuel 4:13, "And when he came, lo, Eli sat upon a seat by the wayside watching: for his heart trembled for the ark of God. And when the man came into the city, and told it, all the city cried out."

1 Samuel 20:25, "And the king sat upon his seat, as at other times, even upon a seat by the wall: and Jonathan arose, and Abner sat by Saul's side, and David's place was empty."

2 Samuel 23:8, "These be the names of the mighty men whom David had: The Tachmonite that sat in the seat, chief among the captains; the same was Adino the Eznite: he lift up his spear against eight hundred, whom he slew at one time."

1 Kings 2:19, "Bathsheba therefore went unto king Solomon, to speak unto him for Adonijah. And the king rose up to meet her, and bowed himself unto her, and sat down on his throne, and caused a seat to be set for the king's mother; and she sat on his right hand."

Esther 3:1, "After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, and advanced him, and set his seat above all the princes that were with him."

Job 29:7, "When I went out to the gate through the city, when I prepared my seat in the street!"

Proverbs 9:14, "For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,"

Ezekiel 28:2, "Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thine heart is lifted up, and thou hast said, I am a God, I sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou art a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God:"

Revelation 13:2, "And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority."

1 Samuel 20:18, "Then Jonathan said to David, To morrow is the new moon: and thou shalt be missed, because thy seat will be empty."

Psalms 1:1, "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful."

Ezekiel 28:2, "Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thine heart is lifted up, and thou hast said, I am a God, I sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou art a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God:"

Amos 6:3, "Ye that put far away the evil day, and cause the seat of violence to come near;"

Matthew 23:2, "Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat:"

etc

Matthew 27:19, "When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him."

John 19:13, "When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha."

Acts 18:12, "And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,"

Acts 18:16, "And he drave them from the judgment seat."

Romans 14:10, "But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ."

etc

Esther 3:1, "After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, and advanced him, and set his seat above all the princes that were with him."

John 19:13, "When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha."

NOTICE: The word "Gabbatha" is defined "elevated, platform, raised, or elevation" in Strong's # 1042

NOTICE: a "seat" can also be a low position as we find often in Scripture. In Psalms 1:1 we find, "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful."

fast = tight

2 Kings 6:32, "But Elisha sat in his house, and the elders sat with him; and the king sent a man from before him: but ere the messenger came to him, he said to the elders, See ye how this son of a murderer hath sent to take away mine head? look, when the messenger cometh, shut the door, and hold him fast at the door: is not the sound of his master's feet behind him?"

Job 27:6, "My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go: my heart shall not reproach me so long as I live."

Proverbs 4:13, "Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life."

Matthew 26:48, "Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast."

name = blessing, excellence, strength / safety, surname / identity, character

Job 1:21, "And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD."

Psalms 8:1, "<To the chief Musician upon Gittith, A Psalm of David.> O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens."

Proverbs 18:10, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe."

Isaiah 4:1, "And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach."

Job 42:14, "And he called the name of the first, Jemima; and the name of the second, Kezia; and the name of the third, Kerenhappuch." etc

Isaiah 9:6, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

NOTE: For further study, there are 832 verses with the word "name" in them.

faith = trust, righteousness

Matthew 6:30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

Matthew 8:9-10, "For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel."

Matthew 8:26 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.

Matthew 9:22 But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.

Matthew 9:29-30, "Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it."

Matthew 14:31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

Matthew 15:28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

etc

Romans 4:5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

Romans 4:13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.

Romans 4:9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness.

Romans 9:30 What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.

Romans 10:6 But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)

Philippians 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith

etc

Antipas = DEFINED: "like the father"

NOTE: a Christian of Pergamos who suffered martyrdom in 92AD by being burned inside the "brazen bull." (the brazen bull was a cast iron hollow bull, wherein Christians were placed inside while a large flame heated the iron.)

martyr = killed for their faith

Acts 22:20, "And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him."

Satan = devil, dragon, old serpant (See notes on 2:10)

dwellest = home, abides, live, agreement (See notes on 2:13)

2:14. doctrine of Balaam = ecumenicalism / fellowship with unbelievers for gain

NOTE: The prophet Ballam was offered wealth and honor if he would do what he knew God did not desire. Of course Ballam was unable to curse Israel, but he was able to convince them to yolk unequally.

Numbers 22:16-17, "And they came to Balaam, and said to him, Thus saith Balak the son of Zippor, Let nothing, I pray thee, hinder thee from coming unto me: For I will promote thee unto very great honour, and I will do whatsoever thou sayest unto me: come therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people."

Numbers 25:1-3, "And Israel abode in Shittim, and the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab. And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods. And Israel joined himself unto Baalpeor: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel."

Numbers 31:16, "Behold, these caused the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to commit trespass against the LORD in the matter of Peor, and there was a plague among the congregation of the LORD."

Balac = King Balak, who sought Balaam to curse Israel

Numbers 22:4-6, "And Moab said unto the elders of Midian, Now shall this company lick up all that are round about us, as the ox licketh up the grass of the field. And Balak the son of Zippor was king of the Moabites at that time. He sent messengers therefore unto Balaam the son of Beor to Pethor, which is by the river of the land of the children of his people, to call him, saying, Behold, there is a people come out from Egypt: behold, they cover the face of the earth, and they abide over against me: Come now therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people; for they are too mighty for me: peradventure I shall prevail, that we may smite them, and that I may drive them out of the land: for I wot that he whom thou blessest is blessed, and he whom thou cursest is cursed."

When God prevented Balaam from cursing Israel, Balaam later convinced, or "taught" Balak to hold an idolatrous feast of which Balaam convinced Israel to join in thereby causing them to sin against God.

stumblingblock = offense, trial, idols, temptation

Isaiah 57:14, "And shall say, Cast ye up, cast ye up, prepare the way, take up the stumblingblock out of the way of my people."

Romans 11:9, "And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:"

1 Corinthians 1:23, "But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;"

Ezekiel 3:20, "Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand."

Ezekiel 7:19, "They shall cast their silver in the streets, and their gold shall be removed: their silver and their gold shall not be able to deliver them in the day of the wrath of the LORD: they shall not satisfy their souls, neither fill their bowels: because it is the stumblingblock of their iniquity."

Ezekiel 14:3, "Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their heart, and put the stumblingblock of their iniquity before their face: should I be enquired of at all by them?"

Romans 14:13, "Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way."

1 Corinthians 8:9, "But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak."

children = Israel

Exodus 4:22-23, "And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn: And I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn."

Hosea 11:1, "When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt."

Israel = God's people, believers in Christ, children of promise, Christians

Hosea 2:23 And I will sow her unto me in the earth; and I will have mercy upon her that had not obtained mercy; and I will say to them which were not my people, Thou art my people; and they shall say, Thou art my God.

Acts 13:46 Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.

Romans 2:28,29 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.

Galatians 3:29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Romans 9:6-8 Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.

eat = knowledge, study, acceptance, agreement / communion, justice, nourishment, consume (See notes on 2:7)

sacrificed = offered

Exodus 24:5, "And he sent young men of the children of Israel, which offered burnt offerings, and sacrificed peace offerings of oxen unto the LORD."

Joshua 8:31, "As Moses the servant of the LORD commanded the children of Israel, as it is written in the book of the law of Moses, an altar of whole stones, over which no man hath lift up any iron: and they offered thereon burnt offerings unto the LORD, and sacrificed peace offerings."

idols = false gods made or carved by man

Leviticus 19:4, "Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the LORD your God."

Deuteronomy 29:17, "And ye have seen their abominations, and their idols, wood and stone, silver and gold, which were among them:)"

1 Kings 15:12, "And he took away the sodomites out of the land, and removed all the idols that his fathers had made."

1 Chronicles 16:26, "For all the gods of the people are idols: but the LORD made the heavens."

NOTE: Idols can also be made without a physical format. For example; alcohol can become an idol.

DEFINED: i·dol·a·try (-dl-tr) n. pl. i·dol·a·tries

1. Worship of idols.
2. Blind or excessive devotion to something.
(thefreedictionary.com)

fornication = seek after / worship another god, false doctrine, ecumenicalism, connecting church with world

2 Chronicles 21:11, "Moreover he made high places in the mountains of Judah, and caused the inhabitants of Jerusalem to commit fornication, and compelled Judah thereto."

John 8:41, "Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God."

Revelation 14:8, "And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication."

Ezekiel 16:15, "But thou didst trust in thine own beauty, and playedst the harlot because of thy renown, and pouredst out thy fornications on every one that passed by; his it was."

Ezekiel 16:26, "Thou hast also committed fornication with the Egyptians thy neighbours, great of flesh; and hast increased thy whoredoms, to provoke me to anger."

Isaiah 23:17, "And it shall come to pass after the end of seventy years, that the LORD will visit Tyre, and she shall turn to her hire, and shall commit fornication with all the kingdoms of the world upon the face of the earth."

James 4:4, "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."

NOTE: The true church is not defiled by these churches. Hence, Revelation 14:4, "These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb."

Ezekiel 16:15, "But thou didst trust in thine own beauty, and playedst the harlot because of thy renown, and pouredst out thy fornications on every one that passed by; his it was."

Ezekiel 16:26, "Thou hast also committed fornication with the Egyptians thy neighbours, great of flesh; and hast increased thy whoredoms, to provoke me to anger."

Isaiah 23:17, "And it shall come to pass after the end of seventy years, that the LORD will visit Tyre, and she shall turn to her hire, and shall commit fornication with all the kingdoms of the world upon the face of the earth."

James 4:4, "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."

Revelation 14:4, "These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb."

NOTE: The "woman" here are churches... Jeremiah 6:2, "I have likened the daughter of Zion to a comely and delicate woman."

Ezekiel 16:15, "But thou didst trust in thine own beauty, and playedst the harlot because of thy renown, and pouredst out thy fornications on every one that passed by; his it was."

Ezekiel 16:26, "Thou hast also committed fornication with the Egyptians thy neighbours, great of flesh; and hast increased thy whoredoms, to provoke me to anger."

Isaiah 23:17, "And it shall come to pass after the end of seventy years, that the LORD will visit Tyre, and she shall turn to her hire, and shall commit fornication with all the kingdoms of the world upon the face of the earth."

James 4:4, "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."

NOTE: The true church is not defiled by these churches. Hence, Revelation 14:4, "These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb."

2:15. Nicolaitans DEFINED = "destruction of people" (See notes on 2:6)

doctrine of Nicolaitans = mixing Paganism with Christianity

Nicolaitanes have been identified as the first historic compromise between Pagans and Christianity. Jude speaks of the Nicolaitanes lascivious "fruit" in his letter...

Jude 1:4, "For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ."

NOTE: lascivious DEFINED:

las·civ·i·ous (l-sv-s) adj.

1. Given to or expressing lust; lecherous.
2. Exciting sexual desires; salacious.

Lasciviousness is a well known fruit of Roman Catholicism and Paganism. Jude saw some that "mixed" Christianity and Paganism in his day.

Nicolaitanes were also known to be first to preach the Law of God was unnecessary after the cross of Christ. This allowed for doctrines of demons to make their way into the church that eventually lead to Sunday Laws by the Pagan leader Constantine on March 7, 321ad.

2:16. sword = Word of God, bitter words, military violence, evil, lies, wicked (See notes on 1:16)

mouth = All creation relies on it for existence, wisdom, His Law proclaimed from, judgment proclaimed, Prophecy, Truth, righteousness, deliverance (See notes on 1:16)

2:17. ear = obedience, service, listen, understand, understanding His prophetic voice (See notes on 2:7)

Spirit = goodness, righteousness, truth, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance (See noteson 2:7)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See noteson 1:4)

overcometh = born again, not of this world, believers (See notes on 2:7)

eat = knowledge, study, acceptance, agreement / communion, justice, nourishment, consume (See notes on 2:7)

hidden = mysterious, heart, protected, secret

Deuteronomy 30:11, "For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off."

Job 15:20, "The wicked man travaileth with pain all his days, and the number of years is hidden to the oppressor."

1 Corinthians 2:7, "But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:"

Psalms 51:6, "Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom."

1 Peter 3:4, "But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price."

Proverbs 28:12, "When righteous men do rejoice, there is great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden."

Isaiah 48:6, "Thou hast heard, see all this; and will not ye declare it? I have shewed thee new things from this time, even hidden things, and thou didst not know them."

manna = His Word

Exodus 16:15, "And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, It is manna: for they wist not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the LORD hath given you to eat."

Deuteronomy 8:3, "And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live."

John 6:58, "This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever."

hidden manna = Christ Jesus

John 6:49-50, "Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die."

John 6:53, "Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you."

Matthew 13:44, "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field."

John 6:35, "And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst."

John 6:48, "I am that bread of life."

white = light, pure, clean / purified, righteousness (See notes on 1:14)

Daniel 12:10, "Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand."

Revelation 19:8, "And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints."

Psalms 51:7, "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow."

Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

stone = God's people, Jesus, God's kingdom

1 Peter 2:5, "Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ."

Ephesians 2:19-22, "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit."

Genesis 49:24, "But his bow abode in strength, and the arms of his hands were made strong by the hands of the mighty God of Jacob; (from thence is the shepherd, the stone of Israel:)"

1 Peter 2:6-8, "Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed."

Ephesians 2:20-22, "And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit."

Daniel 2:44-45, "And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever. Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure."

name = blessing, excellence, strength / safety, surname / identity, character (See notes on 2:13)

2:18. angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors (See notes on 1:1)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

Thyatira DEFINED = "odour of affliction" This was the 1260 years of great tribulation for the church wherein the "man of sin" killed hundreds of millions of God's people (See notes on 1:11)

Son = Jesus, Israel

Revelation 12:5, "And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne."

NOTE: Since the 144,000 will reflect Christ perfectly, this prophecy (see Revelation 12:1-5) also applies to them in the way that Satan seeks to make war with them during their life on earth (Rev. 12:2) all the way up to, and especially the moment they are "born" (Rev. 12:4) via the prophecied Latter Rain. (

Exodus 4:22-23, "And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn: And I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn."

Son of God = Jesus Christ

Matthew 14:33, "Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God."

Matthew 27:43, "He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he said, I am the Son of God."

Matthew 27:54, "Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God."

Mark 1:1, "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;"

Luke 1:35, "And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God."

Luke 22:70-71, "Then said they all, Art thou then the Son of God? And he said unto them, Ye say that I am. And they said, What need we any further witness? for we ourselves have heard of his own mouth."

John 1:34, "And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God."

John 1:49, "Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel."

Matthew 3:17, "And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

Matthew 17:5, "While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him."

Mark 1:11, "And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

Luke 3:21-22, "Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased."

etc

eyes = reflects inner being, knowledge, watchful, residence of grace (See notes on 1:7)

flame = Holy / His holy one, ascends unto Heaven, devouring, power, ministers / ministry (See noteson 1:14)

fire = Holy Spirit, God's Word, ministers, God, judgment, His presence, destroys enemies (See notes on 1:4)

feet = beauty of His Gospel, proper dressing of feet, all things under, where they pierced Him, deliverance (see notes on 1:15)

fine = purified, pure (See notes on 1:15)

brass = strength, from earth (See notes on 1:15)

2:19. works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See notes on 2:2)

charity = love of Christ

1 Corinthians 13:1-4, "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 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. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,"

1 Corinthians 13:8, "Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away."

NOTE: In today's language "Charity never faileth" has been translated to say "Love never fails."

1 Corinthians 13:13, "And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."

Colossians 3:14, "And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness."

NOTE: Galatians 3:27 also says, "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ." and 1 John 4:8 says, "...God is love."

1 Peter 5:14, "Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen."

1 Timothy 1:5, "Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:"

NOTE: Mark 12:30,31, "And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these."

Keeping His law reflects love (charity) for Him and each other. Also note that each time the word "charity" is used when the passage is speaking of the fruits of Christians, the word "love" is never used. But we know love is the first key in the fruits of the Spirit...

Galatians 5:22-23, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

Also note the word "charity" is not used when the word "love" is used. To do so would be redundant.

service = labor

Genesis 29:27, "Fulfil her week, and we will give thee this also for the service which thou shalt serve with me yet seven other years."

1 Kings 12:4, "Thy father made our yoke grievous: now therefore make thou the grievous service of thy father, and his heavy yoke which he put upon us, lighter, and we will serve thee."

1 Chronicles 6:48, "Their brethren also the Levites were appointed unto all manner of service of the tabernacle of the house of God."

Jeremiah 22:13, "Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour's service without wages, and giveth him not for his work;"

etc

faith = trust, righteousness (See notes on 2:13)

patience = steadfastness (See notes on 1:9)

works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See notes on 2:2)

last = end, hindermost, final (See notes on 1:11)

first = mighty, just, righteous and faithful (before sin), The Lord (See notes on 1:5)

2:20. woman = church

Jeremiah 6:2, "I have likened the daughter of Zion to a comely and delicate woman."

Jeremiah 3:20, "Surely as a wife treacherously departeth from her husband, so have ye dealt treacherously with me, O house of Israel, saith the LORD."

2 Corinthians 11:2, "For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ."

Ephesians 5:22-25, "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;"

Jezebel = wickedness; idolatry; witchcraft, Paganism, murderous

1 Kings 21:25-26, "But there was none like unto Ahab, which did sell himself to work wickedness in the sight of the LORD, whom Jezebel his wife stirred up. And he did very abominably in following idols, according to all things as did the Amorites, whom the LORD cast out before the children of Israel."

2 Kings 9:22, "And it came to pass, when Joram saw Jehu, that he said, Is it peace, Jehu? And he answered, What peace, so long as the whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts are so many?"

1 Kings 16:31, "And it came to pass, as if it had been a light thing for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, that he took to wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Zidonians, and went and served Baal, and worshipped him."

2 Kings 9:30, "And when Jehu was come to Jezreel, Jezebel heard of it; and she painted her face, and tired her head, and looked out at a window."

1 Kings 18:4, "For it was so, when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the LORD, that Obadiah took an hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water.)"

1 Kings 18:13, "Was it not told my lord what I did when Jezebel slew the prophets of the LORD, how I hid an hundred men of the LORD'S prophets by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water?"

1 Kings 21:7-10, 14,15, "And Jezebel his wife said unto him, Dost thou now govern the kingdom of Israel? arise, and eat bread, and let thine heart be merry: I will give thee the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite. So she wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed them with his seal, and sent the letters unto the elders and to the nobles that were in his city, dwelling with Naboth. And she wrote in the letters, saying, Proclaim a fast, and set Naboth on high among the people: And set two men, sons of Belial, before him, to bear witness against him, saying, Thou didst blaspheme God and the king. And then carry him out, and stone him, that he may die. Then they sent to Jezebel, saying, Naboth is stoned, and is dead. And it came to pass, when Jezebel heard that Naboth was stoned, and was dead, that Jezebel said to Ahab, Arise, take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give thee for money: for Naboth is not alive, but dead."

servants = the redeemed (See notes on 1:1)

fornication = seek after / worship another god, false doctrine, ecumenicalism, connecting church with world (See notes on 2:14)

eat = knowledge, study, acceptance, agreement / communion, justice, nourishment, consume (See notes on 2:7)

sacrificed = offered (See notes on 2:14)

idols = false gods made or carved by man (See notes on 2:14)

2:21. her / she = church

NOTE: The words "her" or "she" denotes "woman." Woman = Church. (See notes on 2:20)

space = time, distance

Genesis 29:14, "And Laban said to him, Surely thou art my bone and my flesh. And he abode with him the space of a month."

Leviticus 25:8, "And thou shalt number seven sabbaths of years unto thee, seven times seven years; and the space of the seven sabbaths of years shall be unto thee forty and nine years."

Leviticus 25:30, "And if it be not redeemed within the space of a full year, then the house that is in the walled city shall be established for ever to him that bought it throughout his generations: it shall not go out in the jubile."

Deuteronomy 2:14, "And the space in which we came from Kadeshbarnea, until we were come over the brook Zered, was thirty and eight years; until all the generation of the men of war were wasted out from among the host, as the LORD sware unto them."

Jeremiah 28:11, "And Hananiah spake in the presence of all the people, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Even so will I break the yoke of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon from the neck of all nations within the space of two full years. And the prophet Jeremiah went his way."

etc

Genesis 32:16, "And he delivered them into the hand of his servants, every drove by themselves; and said unto his servants, Pass over before me, and put a space betwixt drove and drove."

Joshua 3:4, "Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure: come not near unto it, that ye may know the way by which ye must go: for ye have not passed this way heretofore."

1 Samuel 26:13, "Then David went over to the other side, and stood on the top of an hill afar off; a great space being between them:"

Ezekiel 40:12, "The space also before the little chambers was one cubit on this side, and the space was one cubit on that side: and the little chambers were six cubits on this side, and six cubits on that side."

etc

fornication = seek after / worship another god, false doctrine, ecumenicalism, connecting church with world (See notes on 2:14)

2:22. bed = vulnerability, grave, false sense of security, lukewarmness, spiritual sickness

2 Samuel 4:7, "For when they came into the house, he lay on his bed in his bedchamber, and they smote him, and slew him, and beheaded him, and took his head, and gat them away through the plain all night."

2 Samuel 4:11, "How much more, when wicked men have slain a righteous person in his own house upon his bed? shall I not therefore now require his blood of your hand, and take you away from the earth?"

2 Chronicles 24:25, "And when they were departed from him, (for they left him in great diseases,) his own servants conspired against him for the blood of the sons of Jehoiada the priest, and slew him on his bed, and he died: and they buried him in the city of David, but they buried him not in the sepulchres of the kings."

Daniel 2:28, "But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days. Thy dream, and the visions of thy head upon thy bed, are these;"
Daniel 4:5, "I saw a dream which made me afraid, and the thoughts upon my bed and the visions of my head troubled me."

Matthew 9:2, "And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee."

2 Chronicles 16:14, "And they buried him in his own sepulchres, which he had made for himself in the city of David, and laid him in the bed which was filled with sweet odours and divers kinds of spices prepared by the apothecaries' art: and they made a very great burning for him."

Job 17:13, "If I wait, the grave is mine house: I have made my bed in the darkness."

Psalms 139:8, "If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there."

Luke 17:34, "I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left."

Job 7:13, "When I say, My bed shall comfort me, my couch shall ease my complaint;"

Job 33:15, "In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falleth upon men, in slumberings upon the bed;"

Psalms 36:4, "He deviseth mischief upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way that is not good; he abhorreth not evil."

Proverbs 26:14, "As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed."

Luke 11:7, "And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee."

Psalms 41:3, "The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness."

adultery = false worship, unrighteousness

Jeremiah 3:6-9, "The LORD said also unto me in the days of Josiah the king, Hast thou seen that which backsliding Israel hath done? she is gone up upon every high mountain and under every green tree, and there hath played the harlot. And I said after she had done all these things, Turn thou unto me. But she returned not. And her treacherous sister Judah saw it. And I saw, when for all the causes whereby backsliding Israel committed adultery I had put her away, and given her a bill of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah feared not, but went and played the harlot also. And it came to pass through the lightness of her whoredom, that she defiled the land, and committed adultery with stones and with stocks."

Jeremiah 23:14, "I have seen also in the prophets of Jerusalem an horrible thing: they commit adultery, and walk in lies: they strengthen also the hands of evildoers, that none doth return from his wickedness: they are all of them unto me as Sodom, and the inhabitants thereof as Gomorrah."

Ezekiel 23:37, "That they have committed adultery, and blood is in their hands, and with their idols have they committed adultery, and have also caused their sons, whom they bare unto me, to pass for them through the fire, to devour them."

2 Peter 2:13-15, "And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness;"

tribulation = trial / persecution, necessary for Christian growth, necessary for evangelization, justice upon those against us (See notes on 2:9)

2:23. children = Israel (See notes on 2:14)

death = sleep, sleep in grave (see notes on 1:18)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes 1:4)

reins = internal organs, instinct, passion

Job 16:13, "His archers compass me round about, he cleaveth my reins asunder, and doth not spare; he poureth out my gall upon the ground."

Job 19:27, "Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me."

Psalms 7:9, "Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just: for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins."

Psalms 16:7, "I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons."

Psalms 26:2, "Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart."

Jeremiah 12:2, "Thou hast planted them, yea, they have taken root: they grow, yea, they bring forth fruit: thou art near in their mouth, and far from their reins."

Isaiah 11:5, "And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins."

NOTE: To this day people declare they have a "gut feeling" when instinct moves them to act.

Lamentations 3:13 actually points to the "gut" in these words, "He hath caused the arrows of his quiver to enter into my reins."

Psalms 73:21, "Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins."

Proverbs 23:16, "Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things."

heart = home of wisdom and knowledge

Exodus 36:2, "And Moses called Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whose heart the LORD had put wisdom, even every one whose heart stirred him up to come unto the work to do it:"

Proverbs 2:9-10, "Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path. When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;"

Ecclesiastes 1:16, "I communed with mine own heart, saying, Lo, I am come to great estate, and have gotten more wisdom than all they that have been before me in Jerusalem: yea, my heart had great experience of wisdom and knowledge."

works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See notes on 2:2)

2:24. Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29) - the church that embraced Jesebel theology (2:20). (See notes on 1:11)

Satan = angel of light, devil, roaring lion, offense unto Christ, dragon, hates truth, fallen, possessor of souls, vexes souls, destroyer, tempter, liar, slated for death, unclean, murderer, oppresser, condemns, snares, first sinner, angry (See notes on 2:9)

2:25. fast = tight (See notes on 2:13)

2:26. overcometh = born again, not of this world, believers (See notes on 2:7)

works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See noteson 2:2)

power = ability, authority, strength, Word

Genesis 31:6, "And ye know that with all my power I have served your father."

Numbers 22:38, "And Balaam said unto Balak, Lo, I am come unto thee: have I now any power at all to say any thing? the word that God putteth in my mouth, that shall I speak."

Deuteronomy 8:18, "But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day."

etc

Genesis 32:28, "And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed."

Ezra 4:23, "Now when the copy of king Artaxerxes' letter was read before Rehum, and Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they went up in haste to Jerusalem unto the Jews, and made them to cease by force and power."

Esther 10:2, "And all the acts of his power and of his might, and the declaration of the greatness of Mordecai, whereunto the king advanced him, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia?"

Ecclesiastes 8:4, "Where the word of a king is, there is power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?"

Leviticus 26:37, "And they shall fall one upon another, as it were before a sword, when none pursueth: and ye shall have no power to stand before your enemies."

Daniel 11:6, "And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king's daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her, and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in these times."

Genesis 31:29, "It is in the power of my hand to do you hurt: but the God of your father spake unto me yesternight, saying, Take thou heed that thou speak not to Jacob either good or bad."

Ecclesiastes 8:4 Where the word of a king is, there is power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?

Luke 4:32 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power.

Luke 4:36 And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.

Hebrews 1:3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

nation = people, countries, families, descendants

Genesis 10:5, "By these were the isles of the Gentiles divided in their lands; every one after his tongue, after their families, in their nations."

Psalms 67:2, "That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations."

Psalms 86:9, "All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O Lord; and shall glorify thy name."

Psalms 117:1, "O praise the LORD, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people."

etc

Genesis 17:6, "And I will make thee exceeding fruitful, and I will make nations of thee, and kings shall come out of thee."

Luke 21:24, "And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled."

Luke 24:47, "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem."

Revelation 14:8, "And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication."

Revelation 16:19, "And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath."

etc

Genesis 10:32, "These are the families of the sons of Noah, after their generations, in their nations: and by these were the nations divided in the earth after the flood."

Romans 4:18, "Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be."

Genesis 17:4, "As for me, behold, my covenant is with thee, and thou shalt be a father of many nations."

Genesis 17:5, "Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee."

Genesis 17:16, "And I will bless her, and give thee a son also of her: yea, I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of people shall be of her."

etc

2:27. rod = correction, strength, men, His Word

Proverbs 22:15, "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him."

Proverbs 13:24, "He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes."

Proverbs 29:15, "The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame."

Psalms 110:2, "The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies."

2 Samuel 7:14, "I will be his father, and he shall be my son. If he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men:"

Isaiah 11:4, "But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked."

iron = strength, Heaven

Deuteronomy 33:25, "Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be."

Leviticus 26:19, "And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass:"

rod of iron = Jesus and saints will rule with

Psalms 2:9, "Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel."

Revelation 12:5, "And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne."

Revelation 19:15, "And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God."

Revelation 2:27, "And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father."

vessel = believers, chosen person, God's glove, mankind, body

2 Timothy 2:20-21, "But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work."

Jeremiah 51:34, "Nebuchadrezzar the king of Babylon hath devoured me, he hath crushed me, he hath made me an empty vessel, he hath swallowed me up like a dragon, he hath filled his belly with my delicates, he hath cast me out."

Acts 9:15, "But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:"

2 Corinthians 4:6-7, "For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us."

Romans 9:21-23, "Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction: And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory,"

1 Peter 3:7, "Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered."

NOTE: This is why the Lord used the term "vessel" when Peter wasin vision... Acts 10:11, "And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:" The sheet descended three times (Acts 10:16) because "three men" were at his door. (Acts 10:19)

Psalms 2:9, "Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel."

etc

1 Thessalonians 4:4, "That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;"

Potter = God the Father

Isaiah 64:8, "But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand."

Jeremiah 18:1-6, "The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words. Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it. Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel."

power = ability, authority, strength, Word (See notes on 2:26)

shivers DEFINED = "broken in pieces"

Strong's # 4937

1) break, to break in pieces, shiver

2) to tread down

2a) to put Satan under foot and (as a conqueror) trample on him

2b) to break down, crush

2b1) to tear one's body and shatter one's strength

2:28. Morning Star = Jesus

Revelation 22:16, "I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star."

2:29. ear = obedience, service, listen, understand, understanding His prophetic voice (See notes on 2:7)

Spirit = goodness, righteousness, truth, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance (See noteson 2:7)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

Revelation 3

3:1. angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors (See notes on 1:1)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

Sardis DEFINED = "red ones / song of joy" (See notes on 1:11)

seven = completeness, place of rest (See notes on 1:4)

Spirits = God's presence and message in each of the seven churches. (See notes on 1:4)

NOTE: angels also carry the message of the Holy Spirit. Notice the word "spirit" is not capitalized in translation.

Psalms 104:4, "Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire:"

Hebrews 1:7, "And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire."

Hebrews 1:13-14, "But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?"

The seven Spirits = Jesus' message to the church throughout history. (See notes on 1:4)

The seven Spirits of God = each individual unction of His Spirit unto the seven churches.

Revelation 2:7 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, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

Revelation 2:11 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.

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

Revelation 2:29 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Revelation 3:6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Revelation 3:13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Revelation 3:22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

star = angels, God's people, brethren (See notes on 1:16)

The seven stars = the seven churches, angels (See notes on 1:!6)

works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See notes on 2:2)

name = blessing, excellence, strength / safety, surname / identity, character (See notes on 2:13)

livest = lifestyle

Galatians 2:14, "But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?"

3:2. watchful = on guard (physically and spiritually)

2 Kings 11:6, "And a third part shall be at the gate of Sur; and a third part at the gate behind the guard: so shall ye keep the watch of the house, that it be not broken down."

Ezra 8:29, "Watch ye, and keep them, until ye weigh them before the chief of the priests and the Levites, and chief of the fathers of Israel, at Jerusalem, in the chambers of the house of the LORD."

Nahum 2:1, "He that dasheth in pieces is come up before thy face: keep the munition, watch the way, make thy loins strong, fortify thy power mightily."

Matthew 24:43, "But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up."

etc

Habakkuk 2:1, "I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved."

Matthew 24:42, "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come."

Matthew 26:41, "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Luke 21:36, "Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man."

1 Thessalonians 5:6, "Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober."

NOTE: The end result of being watchful is to be ready. Hence it is our duty to be watchmen on the wall so as to help others ready themselves and their house.

Isaiah 62:6, "I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night: ye that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence,"

Jeremiah 31:6, "For there shall be a day, that the watchmen upon the mount Ephraim shall cry, Arise ye, and let us go up to Zion unto the LORD our God."

Ezekiel 33:7, "So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me."

strenghten the things which remain = focus on remaining good points

The church (Sardis) was "alive" in their desire to proclaim Christ Lord. But because of disobedience even these good "things" were about to die off. Hence, Christ counsels them to "strenghten the things which remain" so as to gain blessings. (See notes on "Sardis" in 1:11)

works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See notes on 2:2)

perfect = complete, whole, without blemish, obedient, diligent

Genesis 6:9, "These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God."

2 Samuel 22:31, "As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him."

2 Samuel 22:33, "God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect."

Psalms 139:22, "I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies."

1 Corinthians 13:10, "But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away."

Colossians 4:12, "Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God."

etc

Leviticus 22:21, "And whosoever offereth a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD to accomplish his vow, or a freewill offering in beeves or sheep, it shall be perfect to be accepted; there shall be no blemish therein."

Psalms 18:32, "It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect."

2 Timothy 3:17, "That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."

Hebrews 11:40, "God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect."

Hebrews 12:23, "To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,"

Deuteronomy 32:4, "He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he."

Psalms 19:7, "The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple."

1 Kings 8:61, "Let your heart therefore be perfect with the LORD our God, to walk in his statutes, and to keep his commandments, as at this day."

1 Kings 15:3,14 "And he walked in all the sins of his father, which he had done before him: and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God, as the heart of David his father. But the high places were not removed: nevertheless Asa's heart was perfect with the LORD all his days."

Job 1:1, "There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil."

James 3:2, "For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body."

Luke 1:3, "It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,"

Acts 22:3, "I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day."

James 3:2, "For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body."

3:3. fast = tight (See noteson 2:13)

watchful = on guard (physically and spiritually) (See notes on 3:2)

thief = reckoning, Jesus, unsuspected

Zechariah 5:3-4, "Then said he unto me, This is the curse that goeth forth over the face of the whole earth: for every one that stealeth shall be cut off as on this side according to it; and every one that sweareth shall be cut off as on that side according to it. I will bring it forth, saith the LORD of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name: and it shall remain in the midst of his house, and shall consume it with the timber thereof and the stones thereof."

1 Thessalonians 5:2, "For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night."

Matthew 24:42-43, "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up."

Revelation 3:3, "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."

Revelation 16:15, "Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame."

NOTE: There is a reason the Lord allows Himself to be described as a thief. Not only does a thief come suddenly when unexpected, so does a reckoning for sins unrepentant. The Pharisees sealed their fate with the ultimate in unexpected judgment upon them when they looked upon Jesus as a thief the night they came to arrest Him as such...

Matthew 26:55, "In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me."

NOTE: In John Jesus describes the better aspects of His being a theif when He says...

John 10:10, "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

NOTE: Jesus is coming to steal us away from this world.

Job 24:14, "The murderer rising with the light killeth the poor and needy, and in the night is as a thief."

Jeremiah 2:26, "As the thief is ashamed when he is found, so is the house of Israel ashamed; they, their kings, their princes, and their priests, and their prophets,"

NOTE" To be "ashamed when found" means the thief prefers to be well hidden and undetectable.

Joel 2:9, "They shall run to and fro in the city; they shall run upon the wall, they shall climb up upon the houses; they shall enter in at the windows like a thief."

John 10:1, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber."

NOTE: As a friend comes in through the door, the thief will sneak in through a window to be undetected.

Matthew 24:43, "But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up."

1 Thessalonians 5:2, "For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night."

2 Peter 3:10, "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up."

Revelation 3:3, "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."

hour = moment, measure of time, time of day, at that time, time (also 1/24^th of prophetic day)

Daniel 3:15, "Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?"

Daniel 4:33, "The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar: and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles' feathers, and his nails like birds' claws."

Daniel 5:5, "In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaister of the wall of the king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote."

Matthew 9:22, "But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour."

etc.

Daniel 4:19, "Then Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, was astonied for one hour, and his thoughts troubled him. The king spake, and said, Belteshazzar, let not the dream, or the interpretation thereof, trouble thee. Belteshazzar answered and said, My lord, the dream be to them that hate thee, and the interpretation thereof to thine enemies."

Matthew 20:3, "And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace,"

Matthew 26:40, "And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?"

etc

Matthew 8:13, "And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour."

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

Matthew 24:42, "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come."

Matthew 10:19, "But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak."

Matthew 26:45, "Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners."

1 Corinthians 4:11, "Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwellingplace;"

NOTICE: "Hour" is also a unit if time in calculating prophetic dates. In both Numbers 14:34 and Ezekiel 4:6 the Lord has declared He has appointed "each day for a year." There are 24 hours in a day and 12 months in a year. That means there are 2 hours for every month. Hence and hour in prophetic time would be 15 days.

A biblical month = 30 days. Looking in Genesis 7:11, we find the Bible says the rains of Noah started on the 17 day of the 2nd month. In Genesis 8:3,4 we find the water receded at the end of exactly 150 days. Then we find the ark rested on the 17th day of the 7th month. That's exactly 5 months to the very day. If we divide the 150 days, by the 5 months, we will get 30 days per month.

ALSO… hour = 1/24 of a prophetic day (see notes "day" 7:15)

3:4. name = blessing, excellence, strength / safety, surname / identity, character (See notes on 2:13)

Sardis DEFINED = "red ones / song of joy" These are those that were among the first to hear the 3 angels message in the ninth hour. This church was "alive" in a way they proclaimed Christ as Lord. But dead to obedience. Hence, the 9th hour workers Jesus spoke of in Matthew 20:1-7 focused on these people.(See notes on 1:11)

defiled = to make unclean

Leviticus 11:43, "Ye shall not make yourselves abominable with any creeping thing that creepeth, neither shall ye make yourselves unclean with them, that ye should be defiled thereby."

Leviticus 13:46, "All the days wherein the plague shall be in him he shall be defiled; he is unclean: he shall dwell alone; without the camp shall his habitation be."

Numbers 19:20, "But the man that shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation, because he hath defiled the sanctuary of the LORD: the water of separation hath not been sprinkled upon him; he is unclean."

garments = Light of Heaven that covers self, salvation, righteousness of Christ, heavenly strength

Psalms 104:2, "Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain:"

Isaiah 61:10, "I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels."

Zechariah 3:3-5, "Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the angel. And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment. And I said, Let them set a fair mitre upon his head. So they set a fair mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments. And the angel of the LORD stood by."

Romans 13:14, "But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof."

Isaiah 52:1, "Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city: for henceforth there shall no more come into thee the uncircumcised and the unclean."

NOTE: Garments are of different natures and for different purposes that protect the child of God from the enemy of souls.

Ephesians 6:14-17, "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:"

walk = life's path, (good or evil)

Psalms 23:4, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."

Psalms 26:11, "But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me."

Psalms 56:13, "For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?"

Psalms 84:11, "For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly."

Psalms 86:11, "Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name."

Psalms 89:15, "Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy countenance."

Psalms 101:2, "I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart."

Psalms 116:9, "I will walk before the LORD in the land of the living."

Psalms 119:1, "ALEPH. Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD."

Psalms 119:3, "They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways."

Psalms 143:8, "Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee."

Proverbs 2:20, "That thou mayest walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous."

etc

white = light, pure, clean / purified, righteousness (See notes on 1:14)

3:5. overcometh = born again, not of this world, believers (See notes on 2:7)

clothed = salvation, righteousness (See notes on 1:13)

white = light, pure, clean / purified, righteousness (See notes on 1:14)

raiment = clothing

Genesis 27:15, "And Rebekah took goodly raiment of her eldest son Esau, which were with her in the house, and put them upon Jacob her younger son:"

Genesis 41:14, "Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in unto Pharaoh."

Genesis 45:22, "To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment."

Judges 3:16, "But Ehud made him a dagger which had two edges, of a cubit length; and he did gird it under his raiment upon his right thigh."

Psalms 45:14, "She shall be brought unto the king in raiment of needlework: the virgins her companions that follow her shall be brought unto thee."

etc

white raiment = Jesus' heavenly clothing, Angelic clothing

Matthew 17:1-2, "And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light."

Mark 9:2-3, "And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves: and he was transfigured before them. And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them."

Matthew 28:2-3, "And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:"

blot = remove, destroy, forget, blemish / mark

Exodus 32:32, "Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin--; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book which thou hast written."

Exodus 32:33, "And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book."

Deuteronomy 29:20, "The LORD will not spare him, but then the anger of the LORD and his jealousy shall smoke against that man, and all the curses that are written in this book shall lie upon him, and the LORD shall blot out his name from under heaven."

etc

Deuteronomy 9:14, "Let me alone, that I may destroy them, and blot out their name from under heaven: and I will make of thee a nation mightier and greater than they."

Deuteronomy 25:19, "Therefore it shall be, when the LORD thy God hath given thee rest from all thine enemies round about, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance to possess it, that thou shalt blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven; thou shalt not forget it."

Job 31:7, "If my step hath turned out of the way, and mine heart walked after mine eyes, and if any blot hath cleaved to mine hands;"

Proverbs 9:7, "He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot."

name = blessing, excellence, strength / safety, surname / identity, character (See notes on 2:13)

book = grounds for judgment, record of works (See notes on 1:11)

book of life = names of Christians

Philippians 4:3, "And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life."

confess = acknowledge, to profess, promise

Matthew 10:32, "Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven."

John 9:22, "These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue."

John 12:42, "Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue:"

Acts 23:8, "For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both."

etc

Philippians 2:11, "And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Romans 15:9, "And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name."

angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors (See notes on 1:1)

3:6. ear = obedience, service, listen, understand, understanding His prophetic voice (See notes on 2:7)

Spirit = goodness, righteousness, truth, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance (See notes on 2:7)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

3:7. angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors (See notes on 1:1)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

Philadelphia DEFINED = the church that endured patiently (See notes on 1:11)

holy = glorious, clean from all sin, hallowed

Exodus 15:11, "Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?"

2 Corinthians 7:1, "Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God."

Leviticus 22:2, "Speak unto Aaron and to his sons, that they separate themselves from the holy things of the children of Israel, and that they profane not my holy name in those things which they hallow unto me: I am the LORD."

Leviticus 22:32, "Neither shall ye profane my holy name; but I will be hallowed among the children of Israel: I am the LORD which hallow you,"

1 Chronicles 16:10, "Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD."

NOTICE: The word "hallowed" can also be defined as "set apart for holy use" as in Commandment #4 as well as the shewbread in the Sanctuary.

-Exodus 20:11, "For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it."

1 Samuel 21:4, "And the priest answered David, and said, There is no common bread under mine hand, but there is hallowed bread; if the young men have kept themselves at least from women."

To be set apart is also to be "sanctified," as in the name of God.

Matthew 6:9, "After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name."

The name of God is sanctified and set apart for holy use whenever the people of God cry out to Him.

Key = (keys) knowledge, power to open and close, jurisdiction (See notes on 1:18)

key of David = eternal blessing

Isaiah 22:21-22, "And I will clothe him with thy robe, and strengthen him with thy girdle, and I will commit thy government into his hand: and he shall be a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to the house of Judah. And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open."

NOTICE: Such a "key" denotes a "lock" on that which is given. I.E. Certain promises given to David were never to be removed even when the people rebelled.

2 Kings 8:18-19, "And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, as did the house of Ahab: for the daughter of Ahab was his wife: and he did evil in the sight of the LORD. Yet the LORD would not destroy Judah for David his servant's sake, as he promised him to give him alway a light, and to his children."

This doesn't declare sin was allowed. It proves the Lord kept His promise to David in that He kept His "Light" before the people so as to help them come back to Him.

This same "lock" can be seen in the Christian church in Matthew 16:19 wherein it says, "And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."

3:8. works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See notes on 2:2)

open door = Jesus Christ, faith, Heaven, ability to speak of Christ, unlimited opportunities

John 10:7, "Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep."

John 10:9, "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture."

Acts 14:27, "And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles."

Revelation 4:1, "After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter."

Colossians 4:3, "Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:"

1 Corinthians 16:9, "For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries."

strength = perfected by God, godly joy, sin, greatness, weak (see notes on 1:16)

Word of God = fire, hammer, quick, powerful, sharper then any two edged sword, reads the heart, the Sword of the Spirit, in agreement with Heavenly host, Guide, buckler, right, Creator, Jesus, Healer, Truth, merciful, filled with hope, comforting, eternal, righteous, pure, awesome, understanding, deliverance, swift, etc (See notes on 1:2)

name = blessing, excellence, strength / safety, surname / identity, character (See notes on 2:13)

3:9. synagogue of Satan = backslidden believers, worshipers of the creature more then the Creator (See notes on 2:9)

Jew = inward Christian, true Israel (See notes on 2:9)

feet = beauty of His Gospel, proper dressing of feet, all things under, where they pierced Him, deliverance (See notes on 1:15)

loved = act of God (See notes on 1:5)

3:10. Word of God = fire, hammer, quick, powerful, sharper then any two edged sword, reads the heart, the Sword of the Spirit, in agreement with Heavenly host, Guide, buckler, right, Creator, Jesus, Healer, Truth, merciful, filled with hope, comforting, eternal, righteous, pure, awesome, understanding, deliverance, swift, etc (See notes on 1:2)

patience = steadfastness (See notes on 1:9)

hour = moment, measure of time, time of day, at that time, time (see notes on 3:3) (also 1/24^th of prophetic day)

hour of temptation = end of plague 6 (see more info here)

Daniel 12:1, "And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book."

NOTICE: The fact the Lord says in Revelation 3:10 that He "will keep" us from this hour confirms it to be the hour Michael stands up to deliver "every one that shall be found written in the book."

Leviticus 26:21, "And if ye walk contrary unto me, and will not hearken unto me; I will bring seven times more plagues upon you according to your sins."

Jeremiah 50:13, "Because of the wrath of the LORD it shall not be inhabited, but it shall be wholly desolate: every one that goeth by Babylon shall be astonished, and hiss at all her plagues."

Revelation 18:8, "Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her."

NOTICE: All those that deny the Lord's command in Revelation 18:4 wherein it says, "...Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues." Will be found in Babylon and therefore worthy of her plagues.

world = inhabited earth

Psalms 24:1, "<A Psalm of David.> The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein."

Psalms 33:8, "Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him."

Psalms 49:1, "<To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah.> Hear this, all ye people; give ear, all ye inhabitants of the world:"

Etc

NOTE: in 11:15 it states “the kingdoms of THIS world..” which denotes other worlds exist in the Universe. This confirms what Paul said in, Hebrews 1:2, "Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;" and, Hebrews 11:3, "Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear."

try = test

Psalms 26:2, "Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart."

Psalms 139:23, "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:"

1 Corinthians 3:13, "Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is."

1 Peter 4:12, "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:"

dwell = inhabitants, dwellers

Job 19:15, "They that dwell in mine house, and my maids, count me for a stranger: I am an alien in their sight."

Job 30:5-6, "They were driven forth from among men, (they cried after them as after a thief;) To dwell in the clifts of the valleys, in caves of the earth, and in the rocks."

Psalms 23:6, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever."

earth = world, land, man, devilish, furnace, beastly abode

Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth."

Genesis 1:10, "And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good."

NOTICE: to be "of the earth" is to be earthly, sensual, devilish, evil, and confusing. James 3:15-16, "This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work."

To be "earthly" is also to be a hypocrite. Job 8:13-20, "So are the paths of all that forget God; and the hypocrite's hope shall perish: Whose hope shall be cut off, and whose trust shall be a spider's web. He shall lean upon his house, but it shall not stand: he shall hold it fast, but it shall not endure. He is green before the sun, and his branch shooteth forth in his garden. His roots are wrapped about the heap, and seeth the place of stones. If he destroy him from his place, then it shall deny him, saying, I have not seen thee. Behold, this is the joy of his way, and out of the earth shall others grow. Behold, God will not cast away a perfect man, neither will he help the evil doers:"

1 Corinthians 15:47-48, "The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly."

James 3:14-15, "But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish."

Psalms 12:6, "The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times."

Daniel 7:17, "These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth."

3:11. fast = tight (See notes on 2:13)

crown = kingship, victory, reward, Christ's glory, grace, virtue, righteousness, life, lovingkindness, mercy, rejoicing, honour (See notes on Revelation 2:10)

3:12. overcometh = born again, not of this world, believers (See notes on 2:7)

pillar = church, people, overcomer, truth, Apostles James Cephas and John, mark of God's presence, central theme of the Remnant

1 Timothy 3:15, "But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth."

1 Samuel 2:8-9, "He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them. He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail."

Revelation 3:12, "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: and I will write upon him my new name."

1 Timothy 3:15, "But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth."

Galatians 2:9, "And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision."

Genesis 28:16-22, "And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not. And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven. And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it. And he called the name of that place Bethel: but the name of that city was called Luz at the first. And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, So that I come again to my father's house in peace; then shall the LORD be my God: And this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God's house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee."

Daniel 8:14, "And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed."

temple = body / church, God's presence, location of ark

1 Corinthians 6:19, "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?"

Psalms 27:4-5, "One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock."

Revelation 21:22, "And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it."

Revelation 11:19, "And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail."

name = blessing, excellence, strength / safety, surname / identity, character (See notes on 2:13)

city = the people of God

Isaiah 60:14, "The sons also of them that afflicted thee shall come bending unto thee; and all they that despised thee shall bow themselves down at the soles of thy feet; and they shall call thee, The city of the LORD, The Zion of the Holy One of Israel."

Jerusalem = Bride of Christ

Revelation 21:2, "And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband."

Revelation 21:9-10, "And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,"

New Jerusalem = Heavenly city of God, Holy city of God

Revelation 3:12, "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: and I will write upon him my new name."

Revelation 21:2, "And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband."

Psalms 2:4, "He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision."

Psalms 11:4, "The LORD is in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne is in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men."

Job 22:12, "Is not God in the height of heaven? and behold the height of the stars, how high they are!"

Job 22:14, "Thick clouds are a covering to him, that he seeth not; and he walketh in the circuit of heaven."

Psalms 14:2, "The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God."

Psalms 33:13, "The LORD looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men."

etc

Deuteronomy 30:19, "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:"

Deuteronomy 31:28, "Gather unto me all the elders of your tribes, and your officers, that I may speak these words in their ears, and call heaven and earth to record against them."

Job 16:19, "Also now, behold, my witness is in heaven, and my record is on high."

1 John 5:7, "For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one."

name = blessing, excellence, strength / safety, surname / identity, character (See notes on 2:13)

3:13. ear = obedience, service, listen, understand, understanding His prophetic voice (See notes on 2:7)

Spirit = goodness, righteousness, truth, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance (See notes on 2:7)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

3:14. angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors (See notes on 1:1)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes on 1:4)

Laodicea DEFINED = "judgment of the people" (See notes on 1:11)

witness = altar, Christians, Holy Spirit, the Lord, tabernacle (temple), testimony (See notes on 1:5)

Amen = truth, so be it

Psalms 41:13, "Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen."

Psalms 89, "...Blessed be the LORD for evermore. Amen, and Amen."

1 Corinthians 14:16, "Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?"

2 Corinthians 1:20, "For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us."

faithful = hopeful, demonstrate, Law abiding, testify (See notes on 2:10)

witness = altar, Christians, Holy Spirit, the Lord, tabernacle (temple), testimony (See notes on 1:5)

true witness = the Lord Jesus Christ

Jeremiah 42:5, "Then they said to Jeremiah, The LORD be a true and faithful witness between us, if we do not even according to all things for the which the LORD thy God shall send thee to us."

Proverbs 14:25, "A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies."

beginning = origin, chief, first / head / corner, start

Matthew 19:4, "And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,"

Matthew 19:8, "He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so."

Matthew 24:8, "All these are the beginning of sorrows."

Hebrews 3:14, "For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;"

etc

Genesis 10:10, "And the beginning of his kingdom was Babel, and Erech, and Accad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar."

Exodus 12:2, "This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you."

Deuteronomy 21:17, "But he shall acknowledge the son of the hated for the firstborn, by giving him a double portion of all that he hath: for he is the beginning of his strength; the right of the firstborn is his."

Psalms 119:160, "Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever."

Proverbs 8:23, "I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was."

Colossians 1:18, "And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence."

Revelation 1:8, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty."

Ruth 1:22, "So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter in law, with her, which returned out of the country of Moab: and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning of barley harvest."

2 Samuel 21:9, "And he delivered them into the hands of the Gibeonites, and they hanged them in the hill before the LORD: and they fell all seven together, and were put to death in the days of harvest, in the first days, in the beginning of barley harvest."

3:15. works = standard of judgment, fruits of thy labor, Christian duty (See notes on 2:2)

cold = without righteousness, unpreparedness, joyless, Christless

Job 24:7, "They cause the naked to lodge without clothing, that they have no covering in the cold."

NOTICE: With "garments" they are without Christ. In prophecy the clothing, or "garments" are "Light of Heaven that covers self, salvation, righteousness of Christ, heavenly strength" (See notes on garments at 3:4)

Proverbs 20:4, "The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing."

Proverbs 25:20, "As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart."

John 18:18, "And the servants and officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals; for it was cold: and they warmed themselves: and Peter stood with them, and warmed himself."

Matthew 24:12, "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold."

NOTICE: In prophecy it is well understand that, "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love." - 1 John 4:8 Also note that when Jesus was in "the belly of the earth" the Apostles were "without Christ" and the fact it was "cold" that night attests to this in an offhand manner.

hot = zealous, "on fire", conscious of sin

Deuteronomy 9:19, "For I was afraid of the anger and hot displeasure, wherewith the LORD was wroth against you to destroy you. But the LORD hearkened unto me at that time also."

Deuteronomy 19:6, "Lest the avenger of the blood pursue the slayer, while his heart is hot, and overtake him, because the way is long, and slay him; whereas he was not worthy of death, inasmuch as he hated him not in time past."

Psalms 39:3, "My heart was hot within me, while I was musing the fire burned: then spake I with my tongue,"

etc

Psalms 78:48, "He gave up their cattle also to the hail, and their flocks to hot thunderbolts."

Daniel 3:22, "Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego."

Hosea 7:6-7, "For they have made ready their heart like an oven, whiles they lie in wait: their baker sleepeth all the night; in the morning it burneth as a flaming fire. They are all hot as an oven, and have devoured their judges; all their kings are fallen: there is none among them that calleth unto me."

NOTICE: In today's world the term "on fire" for the Lord still depicts an overzealous heart.

1 Timothy 4:2, "Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;"

3:16. lukewarm = complacent

The word "lukewarm" appears only once in Scripture. When you look at the basic definition of the word in regards to it's Greek origin (chliaros) we find the following...

Strong's # 5513 chliaros {khlee-ar-os'} from chlio (to warm); TDNT - 2:876,296; adj

AV - lukewarm 1; 1

1) tepid, lukewarm

2) metaph. of the condition of the soul wretchedly fluctuating between a torpor and a fervour of love

cold = without righteousness, unpreparedness, joyless, Christless (See notes on 3:15)

hot = zealous, "on fire", conscious of sin (See notes on 3:15)

spue = disgorge, vomit

Leviticus 18:28, "That the land spue not you out also, when ye defile it, as it spued out the nations that were before you."

Leviticus 20:22, "Ye shall therefore keep all my statutes, and all my judgments, and do them: that the land, whither I bring you to dwell therein, spue you not out."

Jeremiah 25:27, "Therefore thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Drink ye, and be drunken, and spue, and fall, and rise no more, because of the sword which I will send among you."

mouth = All creation relies on it for existence, wisdom, His Law proclaimed from, judgment proclaimed, Prophecy, Truth, righteousness, deliverance (See notes on 1:16)

3:17. rich = wealth, blessed, understanding

NOTE: The word "rich" like many words in Scripture has two meanings. #1 to be wealthy, and #2 to be rich in Christ. In this instance the word is used thusly...

Strong's # 4145 plousios {ploo'-see-os} from 4149; TDNT - 6:318,873; adj

AV - rich 28; 28

1) wealthy, abounding in material resources

2) metaph. abounding, abundantly supplied

To be used in similar context we see the same word "rich" (plousios) being used by Christ in the following passage.

Matthew 19:24, "And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God."

Strong's # 4147 plouteo {ploo-teh'-o} from 4148; TDNT - 6:318,873; v

AV - be rich 7, be made rich 2, rich 1, wax rich 1,

be increased with goods 1; 12

1) to be rich, to have abundance

2) metaph. to be richly supplied

2a) is affluent in resources so that he can give blessings of

salvation to all

To be used in similar context we see the same word "rich" (plouteo) being used by Paul in the following passage.

Colossians 1:27, "To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:"

Colossians 2:2, "That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;"

increased with goods = wealth added unto

Job 1:10, "Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land."

The term "increased with goods" is a repeat of the word "rich" in more explicative language.

Strongs # 4147 plouteo {ploo-teh'-o} from 4148; TDNT - 6:318,873; v

AV - be rich 7, be made rich 2, rich 1, wax rich 1,

be increased with goods 1; 12

1) to be rich, to have abundance

1a) of outward possessions

2) metaph. to be richly supplied

wretched = body of death

Romans 7:24, "O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?"

miserable = grievous, pitiful

Job 16:2, "I have heard many such things: miserable comforters are ye all."

1 Corinthians 15:19, "If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable."

poor = needy, sorrowful

Psalms 37:14, "The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, and to slay such as be of upright conversation."

Psalms 40:17, "But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God."

Psalms 70:5, "But I am poor and needy: make haste unto me, O God: thou art my help and my deliverer; O LORD, make no tarrying."

etc

Psalms 69:29, "But I am poor and sorrowful: let thy salvation, O God, set me up on high."

blind = in darkness

Psalms 146:8, "The LORD openeth the eyes of the blind: the LORD raiseth them that are bowed down: the LORD loveth the righteous:"

Isaiah 29:18, "And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness."

Isaiah 42:7, "To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house."

naked = without salvation

NOTICE: to be without garment is to have an unrighteous walk. The "garment" in prophecy defines the walk of the saved soul. (See notes on "garment" at 1:13)

3:18. gold = tried in purifying fire, sons of Zion (the church), ruler/reigning, faith (See notes on 1:12)

tried = examined / proven, tested (See notes on 2:2)

rich = wealth, blessed, understanding (See notes on 3:17)

white = light, pure, clean / purified, righteousness (See notes on 1:14)

raiment = clothing (See notes on 3:5)

white raiment = Jesus' heavenly clothing, Angelic clothing (See notes on 3:5)

clothed = salvation, righteousness (See notes on 1:13)

nakedness = without salvation (See notes on 3:17)

eyes = reflects inner being, knowledge, watchful, residence of grace (See notes on 1:7)

eyesalve = Holy Spirit, the Law of God, Word of God

Ephesians 1:17-19, "That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,"

John 16:7-13, "Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not on me; Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come."

Psalms 119:18, "Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law."

3:19. love = act of God (See notes on 1:5)

3:20. stand = present, endure, testify, arise, remain, appoint, go forth, be faithful

Job 33:5, "If thou canst answer me, set thy words in order before me, stand up."

Job 37:14, "Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God."

Psalms 30:7, "LORD, by thy favour thou hast made my mountain to stand strong: thou didst hide thy face, and I was troubled."

Psalms 122:2, "Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem."

Psalms 20:8, "They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright."

Psalms 24:3, "Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place?"

Psalms 78:13, "He divided the sea, and caused them to pass through; and he made the waters to stand as an heap."

Psalms 89:43, "Thou hast also turned the edge of his sword, and hast not made him to stand in the battle."

Psalms 33:8, "Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him."

Psalms 38:11, "My lovers and my friends stand aloof from my sore; and my kinsmen stand afar off."

Psalms 76:7, "Thou, even thou, art to be feared: and who may stand in thy sight when once thou art angry?"

Psalms 45:9, "Kings' daughters were among thy honourable women: upon thy right hand did stand the queen in gold of Ophir."

Psalms 73:7, "Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish."

Psalms 89:28, "My mercy will I keep for him for evermore, and my covenant shall stand fast with him."

Psalms 111:8, "They stand fast for ever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness."

door = Christ, faith, opportunity, probation

John 10:9, "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture."

Acts 14:27, "And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles."

2 Corinthians 2:12, "Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,"

Luke 13:24-25, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:"

knock = call

Song of Solomon 5:2, "I sleep, but my heart waketh: it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh, saying, Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled: for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night."

Matthew 7:7, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:"

Luke 13:25, "When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:"

sup = dine

Luke 17:8, "And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?"

3:21. overcometh = born again, not of this world, believers (See notes 2:7)

sit = dwell

Psalms 110:1, "<A Psalm of David.> The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool."

Psalms 132:12, "If thy children will keep my covenant and my testimony that I shall teach them, their children shall also sit upon thy throne for evermore."

Daniel 7:9, "I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire."

etc

throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace (See notes on 1:4)

3:22. ear = obedience, service, listen, understand, understanding His prophetic voice (See notes on 2:7)

Spirit = goodness, righteousness, truth, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance (See notes on 2:7)

churches = pillar and ground of truth (See notes 1:4)

Revelation 4

4:1. door = Christ, faith, opportunity, probation (See notes on 3:20)

Heaven = God's Throne, Life's record (See notes on 3:12)

first = mighty, just, righteous and faithful (before sin), The Lord (See notes on 1:5)

trumpet = alarm, associated with God, voice, warning (See notes on 1:10)

voice of a trumpet = God's voice, Holy Spirit utterance (See notes on 1:10)

4:2. in the Spirit = in vision, prayer, worship (See notes on 1:10)

throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace (See notes on 1:4)

Heaven = God's Throne, Life's record (See notes on 3:12)

sit = dwell (See notes on 3:21)

4:3. sit = dwell (See notes on 3:21)

jasper = most precious, a stone in the "breastplate of judgment" (Urim & Thummim), a stone on Lucifer before falling to become Satan, one of the stones that makes up the foundation and wall of New Jerusalem, a stone in the "Urim and Thummin"

Revelation 21:11, "Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;"

Exodus 28:15,20 "And thou shalt make the breastplate of judgment with cunning work; after the work of the ephod thou shalt make it; of gold, of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine twined linen, shalt thou make it. And the fourth row a beryl, and an onyx, and a jasper: they shall be set in gold in their inclosings."

Ezekiel 28:13, "Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created."

Revelation 21:19, "And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;"

Revelation 21:18, "And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass."

sardine (also called sardius) = a stone in the "breastplate of judgment" (Urim & Thummim), a stone on Lucifer before falling to become Satan, one of the stones that makes up the foundation and wall of New Jerusalem

Exodus 28:15,17 "And thou shalt make the breastplate of judgment with cunning work; after the work of the ephod thou shalt make it; of gold, of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine twined linen, shalt thou make it. And thou shalt set in it settings of stones, even four rows of stones: the first row shall be a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: this shall be the first row."

Ezekiel 28:13, "Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created."

Revelation 21:19-20, "And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst."

rainbow = God's glory, evidence of promise kept

Ezekiel 1:28, "As the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness round about. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I saw it, I fell upon my face, and I heard a voice of one that spake."

Genesis 9:12-17, "And God said, This is the token of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth. And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud: And I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth. And God said unto Noah, This is the token of the covenant, which I have established between me and all flesh that is upon the earth."

throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace (See notes on 1:4)

emerald = a stone in the "breastplate of judgment" (Urim & Thummim), a stone on Lucifer before falling to become Satan, one of the stones that makes up the foundation and wall of New Jerusalem, a stone in the "Urim and Thummin"

Exodus 28:15,18, "And thou shalt make the breastplate of judgment with cunning work; after the work of the ephod thou shalt make it; of gold, of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine twined linen, shalt thou make it. And the second row shall be an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond."

Ezekiel 28:13, "Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created."

Revelation 21:19, "And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;"

4:4. throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace (See notes on 1:4)

NOTE: There are 24 courses of priests in the Sanctuary service each serving twice a year, one week at a time. Therefore, there are 24 elders in Heaven.

seat = presence, place of rest, authority, ownership, judgment, high position (See notes on 2:13)

sit = dwell (See notes on 3:21)

elder = pastors/leaders in the church, great, older sibling, older

1 Timothy 5:17, "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine."

1 Peter 5:1, "The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:"

NOTE: There are 24 courses of priests in the Sanctuary service each serving twice a year, one week at a time. Therefore, there are 24 elders in Heaven.

Genesis 10:21, "Unto Shem also, the father of all the children of Eber, the brother of Japheth the elder, even to him were children born."

Genesis 25:23, "And the LORD said unto her, Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger."

Genesis 27:42, "And these words of Esau her elder son were told to Rebekah: and she sent and called Jacob her younger son, and said unto him, Behold, thy brother Esau, as touching thee, doth comfort himself, purposing to kill thee."

Genesis 29:16, "And Laban had two daughters: the name of the elder was Leah, and the name of the younger was Rachel."

Luke 15:25, "Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing."

etc

Job 15:10, "With us are both the grayheaded and very aged men, much elder than thy father."

Job 32:4, "Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he."

clothed = salvation, righteousness (See notes on 1:13)

white = light, pure, clean / purified, righteousness (See notes on 1:14)

raiment = clothing (See notes on 3:5)

white raiment = Jesus' heavenly clothing, Angelic clothing (See notes on 3:5)

crown = kingship, victory, reward, Christ's glory, grace, virtue, righteousness, life, lovingkindness, mercy, rejoicing, honour (See notes on 2:10)

gold = tried in purifying fire, sons of Zion (the church), ruler/reigning, faith (See notes on 1:12)

4:5. throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace (See notes on 1:4)

lightnings = power, enlightens, angelic countenance, visible righteousness of God

Exodus 20:18, "And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off."

Psalms 77:18, "The voice of thy thunder was in the heaven: the lightnings lightened the world: the earth trembled and shook."

Psalms 97:4, "His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled."

Matthew 28:2-3, "And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:"

Psalms 97:1-6, "The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof. Clouds and darkness are round about him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne. A fire goeth before him, and burneth up his enemies round about. His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled. The hills melted like wax at the presence of the LORD, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory."

thunder = God's voice

2 Samuel 22:14, "The LORD thundered from heaven, and the most High uttered his voice."

Job 37:5, "God thundereth marvellously with his voice; great things doeth he, which we cannot comprehend."

Job 40:9, "Hast thou an arm like God? or canst thou thunder with a voice like him?"

Psalms 18:13, "The LORD also thundered in the heavens, and the Highest gave his voice; hail stones and coals of fire."

Psalms 29:3, "The voice of the LORD is upon the waters: the God of glory thundereth: the LORD is upon many waters."

Psalms 104:7, "At thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away."

John 12:28-30, "Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again. The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him. Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes."

seven = completeness, place of rest (See notes on 1:4)

lamp = Lord, the Word, the Law, God's will

2 Samuel 22:29, "For thou art my lamp, O LORD: and the LORD will lighten my darkness."

Psalms 119:105, "NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."

Matthew 25:1, "Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom."

Proverbs 6:23, "For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:"

Isaiah 62:1, "For Zion's sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until the righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth."

Revelation 8:10, "And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters;"

seven lamps = seven Spirits of God

Revelation 4:5, "And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God."

The seven Spirits = Jesus' message to the church throughout history. (See notes on 1:4)

The seven Spirits of God = each individual unction of His Spirit unto the seven churches. (See notes on 3:1)

4:6. throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace (See notes on 1:4)

sea = people

Revelation 17:15, "And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues."

NOTICE: When the "sea" is troubled in prophecy it speaks of wicked people. Isaiah 57:20, "But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt."

NOTICE: When the "sea" is dried up, it is God's rebuke upon the people. Isaiah 50:2, "Wherefore, when I came, was there no man? when I called, was there none to answer? Is my hand shortened at all, that it cannot redeem? or have I no power to deliver? behold, at my rebuke I dry up the sea, I make the rivers a wilderness: their fish stinketh, because there is no water, and dieth for thirst."

glass = the Law of God, reflected glory

James 1:23-25, "For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed."

2 Corinthians 3:18, "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord."

crystal = perfect glass

Revelation 21:11, "Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;"

Revelation 22:1, "And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb."

four beasts = true Christians

Revelation 5:8-10, "And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth."

Revelation 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."

Revelation 15:7, "And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever."

Revelation 19:4, "And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia."

NOTICE: Ordinarily "beasts" = kingdoms. (See Daniel 7:23) Also see notes on 11:7 for definition of “beast.”

four = compass directions, (N.S.E.W)

Jeremiah 49:36, "And upon Elam will I bring the four winds from the four quarters of heaven, and will scatter them toward all those winds; and there shall be no nation whither the outcasts of Elam shall not come."

eyes = reflects inner being, knowledge, watchful, residence of grace (See notes 1:7)

NOTICE: These "four beasts" are also present when the Lord reveals His glory to Ezekiel in Ezekiel chapter 1. Ezekiel however sees the calf as an ox.

Ezekiel 1:10, "As for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle."

Strong's translates the "ox" as "cow" as well as "cattle."

Later in Ezekiel 10:14 he sees the same four beasts, but now the ox / calf appears as a "cherub."

Ezekiel 10:14, "And every one had four faces: the first face was the face of a cherub, and the second face was the face of a man, and the third the face of a lion, and the fourth the face of an eagle."

4:7. first = mighty, just, righteous and faithful (before sin), The Lord (See notes on 1:5)

beasts = True Christians (See notes on 4:6)

NOTICE: Ordinarily "beasts" = kingdoms. (See Daniel 7:23) However, as is read in context (See Rev. 6-10) Also see notes on 11:7 for definition of “beast.”

lion = Christ, strong nation, fearless, royalty, of Judah, strength, fierce, vicious, wicked, lurking destroyer, generates fear, devil

Revelation 5:5, "And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof."

NOTICE: The verse says the first beast was "like" a Lion. Like Christans are "like" Christ is the context here.

Joel 1:6, "For a nation is come up upon my land, strong, and without number, whose teeth are the teeth of a lion, and he hath the cheek teeth of a great lion."

Proverbs 30:30, "A lion which is strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any;"

Proverbs 28:1, "The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion."

2 Chronicles 9:17-19, "Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold. And there were six steps to the throne, with a footstool of gold, which were fastened to the throne, and stays on each side of the sitting place, and two lions standing by the stays: And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps. There was not the like made in any kingdom."

Revelation 5:5, "And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof."

Genesis 49:9, "Judah is a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son, thou art gone up: he stooped down, he couched as a lion, and as an old lion; who shall rouse him up?"

Proverbs 30:30, "A lion which is strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any;"

Isaiah 38:13, "I reckoned till morning, that, as a lion, so will he break all my bones: from day even to night wilt thou make an end of me."

Job 4:10, "The roaring of the lion, and the voice of the fierce lion, and the teeth of the young lions, are broken."

Job 10:16, "For it increaseth. Thou huntest me as a fierce lion: and again thou shewest thyself marvellous upon me."

Job 28:8, "The lion's whelps have not trodden it, nor the fierce lion passed by it."

Psalms 7:2, "Lest he tear my soul like a lion, rending it in pieces, while there is none to deliver."

Psalms 17:12, "Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey, and as it were a young lion lurking in secret places."

Hosea 13:8, "I will meet them as a bear that is bereaved of her whelps, and will rend the caul of their heart, and there will I devour them like a lion: the wild beast shall tear them."

2 Timothy 4:17, "Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion."

Psalms 10:8-9, "He sitteth in the lurking places of the villages: in the secret places doth he murder the innocent: his eyes are privily set against the poor. He lieth in wait secretly as a lion in his den: he lieth in wait to catch the poor: he doth catch the poor, when he draweth him into his net."

Lamentations 3:10, "He was unto me as a bear lying in wait, and as a lion in secret places."

Jeremiah 2:30, "In vain have I smitten your children; they received no correction: your own sword hath devoured your prophets, like a destroying lion."

Jeremiah 4:7, "The lion is come up from his thicket, and the destroyer

Jeremiah 5:6, "Wherefore a lion out of the forest shall slay them, and a wolf of the evenings shall spoil them, a leopard shall watch over their cities: every one that goeth out thence shall be torn in pieces: because their transgressions are many, and their backslidings are increased."of the Gentiles is on his way; he is gone forth from his place to make thy land desolate; and thy cities shall be laid waste, without an inhabitant."

Amos 3:8, "The lion hath roared, who will not fear? the Lord GOD hath spoken, who can but prophesy?"

Amos 5:19, "As if a man did flee from a lion, and a bear met him; or went into the house, and leaned his hand on the wall, and a serpent bit him."

1 Peter 5:8, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:"

Genesis 18:7, "And Abraham ran unto the herd, and fetcht a calf tender and good, and gave it unto a young man; and he hasted to dress it."

Leviticus 9:2, "And he said unto Aaron, Take thee a young calf for a sin offering, and a ram for a burnt offering, without blemish, and offer them before the LORD."

Leviticus 9:8, "Aaron therefore went unto the altar, and slew the calf of the sin offering, which was for himself."

Luke 15:21-23, "And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:"

Luke 15:30-32, "But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf. And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found."

NOTICE: The verse says the first beast was "like" a calf. Like Christans are "like" Christ is the context here.

man = Israel

Exodus 4:22-23, "And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn: And I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn."

four = compass directions, (N.S.E.W) (See notes on 4:6)

flying = position of defense and deliverance

Isaiah 31:5, "As birds flying, so will the LORD of hosts defend Jerusalem; defending also he will deliver it; and passing over he will preserve it."

eagle = swiftness, defender, lifted up, great, exalted, the Lord

Deuteronomy 28:49, "The LORD shall bring a nation against thee from far, from the end of the earth, as swift as the eagle flieth; a nation whose tongue thou shalt not understand;"

Job 9:26, "They are passed away as the swift ships: as the eagle that hasteth to the prey."

Deuteronomy 32:11, "As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings:"

Jeremiah 49:16, "Thy terribleness hath deceived thee, and the pride of thine heart, O thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, that holdest the height of the hill: though thou shouldest make thy nest as high as the eagle, I will bring thee down from thence, saith the LORD."

Job 39:27, "Doth the eagle mount up at thy command, and make her nest on high?"

Proverbs 23:5, "Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven."

Proverbs 30:19, "The way of an eagle in the air; the way of a serpent upon a rock; the way of a ship in the midst of the sea; and the way of a man with a maid."

Ezekiel 17:3, "And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; A great eagle with great wings, longwinged, full of feathers, which had divers colours, came unto Lebanon, and took the highest branch of the cedar:"

Ezekiel 17:7, "There was also another great eagle with great wings and many feathers: and, behold, this vine did bend her roots toward him, and shot forth her branches toward him, that he might water it by the furrows of her plantation."

Revelation 12:14, "And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent."

Obadiah 1:4, "Though thou exalt thyself as the eagle, and though thou set thy nest among the stars, thence will I bring thee down, saith the LORD."

Hosea 8:1, "Set the trumpet to thy mouth. He shall come as an eagle against the house of the LORD, because they have transgressed my covenant, and trespassed against my law."

NOTICE: The verse says the first beast was "like" a flying eagle. Like Christans are "like" Christ is the context here.

NOTICE: These "four beasts" are also present when the Lord reveals His glory to Ezekiel in Ezekiel chapter 1. Ezekiel however sees the calf as an ox.

Ezekiel 1:10, "As for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle."

Strongs translates the "ox" as "cow" as well as "cattle."

Later in Ezekiel 10:14 he sees the same four beasts, but now the ox / calf appears as a "cherub."

Ezekiel 10:14, "And every one had four faces: the first face was the face of a cherub, and the second face was the face of a man, and the third the face of a lion, and the fourth the face of an eagle."

4:8. four = compass directions, (N.S.E.W) (See notes on 4:6)

beasts = True Christians (See notes on 4:6)

NOTICE: Ordinarily "beasts" = kingdoms. (See Daniel 7:23) However, as is read in context (See Rev. 6-10) Also see notes on 11:7 for definition of “beast.”

wings = deliverance, healing, protection, refuge, trusted, destroying, wind

Exodus 19:4, "Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself."

Deuteronomy 32:11, "As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings:"

Malachi 4:2, "But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall."

Psalms 17:8, "Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,"

Matthew 23:37, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!"

Psalms 57:1, "<To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave.> Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast."

Ruth 2:12, "The LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust."

Psalms 36:7, "How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings."

Psalms 91:4, "He shall cover thee with his feathers, and

under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler."

Jeremiah 48:40-42, "For thus saith the LORD; Behold, he shall fly as an eagle, and shall spread his wings over Moab. Kerioth is taken, and the strong holds are surprised, and the mighty men's hearts in Moab at that day shall be as the heart of a woman in her pangs. And Moab shall be destroyed from being a people, because he hath magnified himself against the LORD."

Jeremiah 49:22, "Behold, he shall come up and fly as the eagle, and spread his wings over Bozrah: and at that day shall the heart of the mighty men of Edom be as the heart of a woman in her pangs."

Isaiah 8:8, "And he shall pass through Judah; he shall overflow and go over, he shall reach even to the neck; and the stretching out of his wings shall fill the breadth of thy land, O Immanuel."

2 Samuel 22:11, "And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: and he was seen upon the wings of the wind."

eyes = reflects inner being, knowledge, watchful, residence of grace (See notes on 1:7)

"was, and is, and is to come" = Jesus

He "was" on Earth 2000 years ago to be our Sacrifice for sin, He "is" in Heaven doing the work as Advocate, and He "is to come" as Messiah.

NOTICE: These "four beasts" are also present when the Lord reveals His glory to Ezekiel in Ezekiel chapter 1. Ezekiel however sees the calf as an ox.

Ezekiel 1:10, "As for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle."

Strong's translates the "ox" as "cow" as well as "cattle."

Later in Ezekiel 10:14 he sees the same four beasts, but now the ox / calf appears as a "cherub."

Ezekiel 10:14, "And every one had four faces: the first face was the face of a cherub, and the second face was the face of a man, and the third the face of a lion, and the fourth the face of an eagle."

4:9. beasts = True Christians (See notes on 4:6)

NOTICE: Ordinarily "beasts" = kingdoms. (See Daniel 7:23) However, as is read in context (See Rev. 6-10) Also see notes on 11:7 for definition of “beast.”

NOTICE: These "four beasts" are also present when the Lord reveals His glory to Ezekiel in Ezekiel chapter 1. Ezekiel however sees the calf as an ox.

Ezekiel 1:10, "As for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle."

Strong's translates the "ox" as "cow" as well as "cattle."

Later in Ezekiel 10:14 he sees the same four beasts, but now the ox / calf appears as a "cherub."

Ezekiel 10:14, "And every one had four faces: the first face was the face of a cherub, and the second face was the face of a man, and the third the face of a lion, and the fourth the face of an eagle."

throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace (See notes on 1:4)

4:10. four and twenty = courses of priests (See notes on 4:4)

elder = pastors/leaders in the church, great, older sibling, older (See notes on 4:4)

throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace (See notes on 1:4)

crown = kingship, victory, reward, Christ's glory, grace, virtue, righteousness, life, lovingkindness, mercy, rejoicing, honour (See notes on Revelation 2:10)

4:11. Lord = Creator God, our Sanctuary, God of Israel, God of Truth, righteous, strength and song, greatest, with His people, our inheritance, God, our Rock, Fortress Deliverer, exalted above all things, King, perfect and sure, pure, our Shepherd, Light, shield, powerful, right (see notes on 1:8)

Revelation 5

5:1. right hand = filled with righteousness, victorious, wisdom, His favor, His position on the Throne (See notes on 1:16)

sit = dwell (See notes on 3:21)

throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace (See notes on 1:4)

book = grounds for judgment, record of works (See notes on 1:11)

backside = last, last

Exodus 26:12 And the remnant that remaineth of the curtains of the tent, the half curtain that remaineth, shall hang over the backside of the tabernacle.

Seven = completeness, place of rest (See notes on 1:4)

sealed = officially locked, marked

1 Kings 21:8, "So she wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed them with his seal, and sent the letters unto the elders and to the nobles that were in his city, dwelling with Naboth."

Esther 3:12, "Then were the king's scribes called on the thirteenth day of the first month, and there was written according to all that Haman had commanded unto the king's lieutenants, and to the governors that were over every province, and to the rulers of every people of every province according to the writing thereof, and to every people after their language; in the name of king Ahasuerus was it written, and sealed with the king's ring."

Esther 8:8, "Write ye also for the Jews, as it liketh you, in the king's name, and seal it with the king's ring: for the writing which is written in the king's name, and sealed with the king's ring, may no man reverse."

Daniel 12:9, "And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end."

etc

John 6:27, "Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed."

Ephesians 1:13, "In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,"

Ephesians 4:30, "And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption."

etc

seals = righteousness, Holy Spirit, act of God, Law, love

Romans 4:11, "And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also:"

Ephesians 1:13, "In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,"

Ephesians 4:30, "And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption."

John 6:27, "Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed."

Isaiah 8:16, "Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples."

Song of Solomon 8:6, "Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame."

NOTE: A "seal" is used to keep that which is sealed, sealed. The only seal that could do such a thing would be righteous and of the Holy Spirit. This would also be considered an act of God that is both based on His Law and performed with perfect love.

5:2. strong = Christ's strength, Joy of Lord, absolute

2 Corinthians 12:9, "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

Nehemiah 8:10, "Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength."

1 Corinthians 15:56, "The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law."

angel = stars, ministering spirits, messengers, immortal, holy, obedient, strong, concerned for us, protectors (see notes on 1:1)

loud voice = to proclaim, shock

Deuteronomy 27:14, "And the Levites shall speak, and say unto all the men of Israel with a loud voice,"

Isaiah 36:13, "Then Rabshakeh stood, and cried with a loud voice in the Jews' language, and said, Hear ye the words of the great king, the king of Assyria."

Book = Record of judgments and remembrance (see notes on 1:11)

seals = righteousness, Holy Spirit, act of God, Law, love (see notes on 5:1)

5:3. man = Israel (see notes on 4:7)

Heaven = God's Throne, Life's record (see notes on 3:12)

earth = world, land, man, devilish, furnace, beastly abode (see notes on 3:10)

book = grounds for judgment, record of works (See notes on 1:11)

5:4. man = Israel (see notes on 4:7)

book = grounds for judgment, record of works (See notes on 1:11)

5:5. elder = pastors/leaders in the church, great, older sibling, older (See notes on 4:4)

lion = Christ, strong nation, fearless, royalty, of Judah, strength, fierce, vicious, wicked, lurking destroyer, generates fear, devil (see notes on 4:7)

tribe of Judah = loved ones

Psalms 78:68, "But chose the tribe of Judah, the mount Zion which he loved."

root = Jesus

John 15:2-4, "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me."

NOTICE: Satan can also be considered a root to the wicked.

Malachi 4:1, "For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch."

root of David = Jesus

Proverbs 12:3, "A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved."

NOTICE: The righteousness that David is speaking of here is in fact Jesus Christ.

Romans 10:4, "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth."

1 Corinthians 1:30, "But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:"

Philippians 1:11, "Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God."

etc

book = grounds for judgment, record of works (See notes on 1:11)

Seven = completeness, place of rest (See notes on 1:4)

seals = righteousness, Holy Spirit, act of God, Law, love (see notes on 5:1)

5:6. midst = among (midnight) (see notes on 1:13)

throne = the Ark of Covenant, Heaven, glory, grace (See notes on 1:4)

four = compass directions, (N.S.E.W) (see notes on 4:6)

four beasts = True Christians (see notes on 4:6)

NOTICE: Ordinarily "beasts" = kingdoms. (See Daniel 7:23) However, as is read in context (See Rev. 6-10) Also see notes on 11:7 for definition of “beast.”

elder = pastors/leaders in the church, great, older sibling, older (See notes on 4:4)

Lamb = Jesus, sacrifice for sin