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The foundation of much of bible prophecy depends heavily on Dan 9:20-27 and its correct interpretation. As with many important scriptures, good, honest, intelligent and sincere people may have differing interpretations. For this reason Dan 9:20-27 is discussed in DETAIL in the first 2 sections: (1)... Chapter 2-1.1 Basis for 7-year Tribulation Period and (2)... Chapter 2-1.2 Start of 7-year Tribulation Period.
The DETAILS developed in these first 2 sections are then compared with INDEPENDENT SCRIPTURES, dealing with the same subject matter. This is done in the next 5 sections: (3)... Chapter 2-1.3 Satan Cast out of Heaven, Down to the Earth, (4)... Chapter 2-1.4 Satan Proclaims Himself to be God, (5)... Chapter 2-1.5 Arising of ANTICHRIST, FALSE PROPHET and IMAGE, (6)... Chapter 2-1.6 Wrath of God under Seals, Trumpets and Vials and (7)... Chapter 2-1.7 Timing of Seals, Trumpets and Vials. The comparisons made here are judged to be very good.
This process of comparing Dan 9:20-27, with other independent scriptures dealing with the same subject matter, could have been continued, but it was felt that if the presentation in these 7 sections wasn't convincing enough, then more comparisons would not have helped. Needless to say this initial emphasis on firmly Laying the Groundwork for the 7-year Tribulation Period, has significantly distorted what would have been a more orderly presentation of material in this chapter. Hopefully the price paid was worth it.
ESTIMATED DATES FOR TRIBULATION PERIOD: For a discussion of estimated dates for the 7-year Tribulation Period, refer to website "Countdown to Battle of Armageddon" at location http://members.aol.com/chasmcmull/armindex.html; Chapter 2 "Best Estimates of Dates in bible prophecy."
To access the Armageddon website immediately, point and CLICK below. To return to this present location you must use the browser "back" instruction. To return to the beginning of this present website, use the Table of Contents. Now point and CLICK,
CLICK to link to the Estimates etc website on AOL or on UM
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For review purposes you may wish to
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-2 Overview of 7-year Tribulation Period or Chapter 2-1 Laying Groundwork for Tribulation Period
This section, Chapter 2-1.1, is intended to show the scriptural basis for the 7-year Tribulation Period.
INTRODUCTION: My overall view of Bible Prophecy would be expressed in terms of the following periods of time: Age of Promise, Age of Law, Age of Grace, 7-year Tribulation Period, 1000-year Millennial Age and Eternity.
Because of their sinfulness, God had scattered the entire Jewish Nation throughout the world, that is, dispersed them from the Promised Land where they were living. We find the prophet Daniel praying for understanding regarding this matter, Dan 9:20-27. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-1 Overview of Age of Promise, Law etc
The angel tells Daniel about a time period expressed here as 70 weeks, where each week is 7 years (See Dan 9:24 note, The NIV Study Bible, Copyright 1985, the Zondervan Corporation). This was a period of JUDGMENT decreed for the Jews because of their sin against God. It started with the issuing of the decree to rebuild Jerusalem, which occurred in 445 bc (See Neh 2:1 note, The NIV Study Bible, Copyright 1985, the Zondervan Corporation).
Dan 9:25-27 breaks the 70 weeks into 3 parts: 7 weeks, 62 weeks and 1 week. After the 2nd period of 62 weeks, or a total of 69 weeks or 69X7 or 483 years, the Anointed One is cut off, that is, Jesus is rejected and crucified. At this point the passing of time in the 70 weeks came to a halt with 1 week of 7 years left to be fulfilled. This is frequently referred to as the 70th week of Daniel or the 7-year Tribulation Period.
From 445 bc to 30 ad, the time of the crucifixion, is 475 Julian years (365.25 days each). Thus 475X365.25/360 is 482, where the bible uses a 360 day year. Note the discrepancy of 1 year between 482 here and 483 in the above paragraph.
Now Jesus appeared on the scene toward the end of the 69th week, preaching "the Kingdom of God is at hand," Mat 4:12-13,17. Consequently people were expecting him to set up his kingdom on earth at that time. His rejection and crucifixion signaled the insertion of the Age of Grace, of undetermined length, before the 70th week. Thus the 70th week of judgment decreed for the Jews is still future. It is the 7-year Tribulation Period, following immediately after the Age of Grace, Dan 9:27. After the Tribulation Period, the Kingdom of God will be set up on earth by Jesus, that is, during the 1000-year Millennial Age. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-1 Overview of Age of Promise, Law and Grace or Chapter 1-3 Overview of 1000-year Millennial Age
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The last section, Chapter 2-1.1, was intended to establish the scriptural basis for the 7-year Tribulation Period. To review this,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.1 Basis for 7-year Tribulation Period
The present section, Chapter 2-1.2, is intended to add significant DETAILS of the 7-year Tribulation Period. These details are presented now and then will be supported in the sections which follow.
DETAILS TAKEN FROM Dan 9:27: (a)... A great world LEADER makes a covenant or treaty with the Jews for a time period of 7 years. The making of this covenant marks the beginning of the 7-year Tribulation Period. (b)... The temple is rebuilt sufficiently before the middle of the Tribulation Period, so that the sacrifices and offerings of Old Testament times can be restored. (c)... At the middle of the 7-year period the great LEADER puts an end to normal temple activities. He also defiles the temple, which is referred to as setting up an abomination. Defiling the temple probably involves the outer court. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.3 Temple Desecrated
FURTHER DETAILS FROM Rev 6:1-2: Under seal #1 a great LEADER with a bow was given a crown, and he went out conquering and to conquer. This person will achieve world-wide power and recognition through political, economic and military endeavors. The gaining of this "great LEADER status," would precede what happens in Dan 9:27.
Note that these 2 individuals in Rev 6:1-2 and Dan 9:27 are the same person. Since the great LEADER is in place at the very beginning of the 7-year Tribulation Period, then seal #1 mentioned here, must occur at the very beginning also.
The person referred to here as the great LEADER, will be called that until the middle of the Tribulation Period, when Satan enters into him and he becomes the ANTICHRIST (beast). This point as well as seal #1 will be discussed later in more detail. To examine these matters now,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.5 Arising of ANTICHRIST, etc or Chapter 2-1.7 Timing of Seals, Trumpets and Vials
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Scripture for Chapter 2-1.1 and 2-1.2
Dan 9:20-27 And whiles I was speaking, and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the LORD my God for the holy mountain of my God; 21Yea, whiles I was speaking in prayer, even the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, touched me about the time of the evening oblation. 22And he informed me, and talked with me, and said, O Daniel, I am now come forth to give thee skill and understanding. 23At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee; for thou art greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision. 24Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy. 25Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times. 26And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined. 27And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Mat 4:12-13 Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; 13And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:
Mat 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Rev 6:1-2 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see. 2And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.
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Earlier sections, Chapter 2-1.1 and 2-1.2, were intended to show: (1)... the scriptural basis for the 7 -year Tribulation Period and (2)... then to add significant DETAILS about this 7-year period. To review these sections,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.1 Basis for 7-year Tribulation Period or Chapter 2-1.2 Start of 7-year Tribulation Period
This present section, Chapter 2-1.3, is intended to begin showing support for the DETAILS already presented. Here we see that Satan enters the earthly scene in FULL FORCE at the middle of the 7-year Tribulation Period. He literally becomes dictator over the whole world at that time. This correlates with Dan 9:27 which shows significant things happening at the middle of the Tribulation Period.
GENERAL INFORMATION ON SATAN: Satan now has access to heaven where he is spoken of as our accuser before God, Rev 12:10. He is also described as one, who deceives the whole world, Rev 12:9. He has several names: Satan, dragon, serpent and devil, Rev 12:7,9. At the middle of the 7-year Tribulation Period, Michael the Archangel casts Satan and his angels (demons) out of heaven, down to the earth, Rev 12:7-10,12. For more information on Satan and Michael,
CLICK to link to Appendix A-5 Characteristics of Satan or Appendix A-7.1 Michael
At the middle of the 7-year Tribulation Period, after being cast down to the earth, Satan immediately pursues the woman (Israel) who gave birth to male child (Jesus) and tries to destroy her. God, however, protects the Jewish Nation from Satan for the next 3.5 years (a time, times and half a time), that is, the last half of the 7-year Tribulation Period, Rev 12:13-14 (See Rev 12:14 note, NIV Study Bible, Copyright 1985, the Zondervan Corporation). This is Satan's first attempt at destroying the Jewish Nation. He tries and fails 2 more times, at the: (1)... Battle of Armageddon (World War III) and (2)... Last Battle between God and Satan (World War IV). For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.8.1 Second coming of Jesus, Armageddon or Chapter 3-8 Last Battle between God and Satan
Since Satan is thwarted in destroying the Jews at the midpoint of the Tribulation Period, he turns his rage toward the Believers and God allows him to overcome them, Rev 12:17, 13:7. In fact he becomes a dictator over the whole world, Rev 13:7. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.5 Satan Given Power over Saints
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Earlier sections, Chapter 2-1.1 and 2-1.2, were intended to show: (1)... the scriptural basis for the 7 -year Tribulation Period and (2)... then to add significant DETAILS about this 7-year period. To review these sections,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.1 Basis for 7-year Tribulation Period or Chapter 2-1.2 Start of 7-year Tribulation Period
This present section, Chapter 2-1.4, is intended to continue showing support for the DETAILS already presented. Here we see Satan setting himself up in God's temple, proclaiming himself to be God. This is the abomination spoken of in Dan 9:27.
Satan comes on the earthly scene with all power and signs and lying wonders, 2 The 2:9-10. The show he puts on is so spectacular that Satan deceives the people on earth into accepting and worshipping him as God. He sets himself up in God's temple, proclaiming himself to be God, 2 The 2:4. This setting himself up as God in the temple is the abomination spoken of in Dan 9:27. It occurs at the middle of the 7-year Tribulation Period, since this is the time when Satan puts an end to normal sacrifices and offerings in the temple. The abomination probably involves the outer court of the temple. For more information,
CLICK to link to Appendix A-5 Characteristics of Satan or Chapter 2-3.3 Temple Desecrated etc
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Scripture for Chapter 2-1.3 and 2-1.4
Dan 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
2 The 2:1-4 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
2 The 2:6-10 And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. 7For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 8And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 9Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
Rev 12:7-10 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 8And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9And 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. 10And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.
Rev 12:12-14 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. 13And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child. 14And 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.
Rev 12:17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Rev 13:7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.
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In earlier sections, Chapter 2-1.1 and 2-1.2, it was intended to show: (1)... the scriptural basis for the 7 -year Tribulation Period and (2)... then to add significant DETAILS about this 7-year period. To review these sections,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.1 Basis for 7-year Tribulation Period or Chapter 2-1.2 Start of 7-year Tribulation Period
The present section, Chapter 2-1.5, is intended to continue showing support for the DETAILS already presented. Here we see the arising of the ANTICHRIST, the FALSE PROPHET and the IMAGE, all of these under the complete domination of Satan. This occurs at the middle of the 7-year Tribulation Period when Satan enters the earthly scene in FULL FORCE. Dan 9:27 shows significant things happening at the middle of the Tribulation Period, as well as an abomination related to the temple. The IMAGE is probably what is placed in the outer court of the temple, which is the abomination spoken of. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.3 Temple Desecrated etc
A beast (the ANTICHRIST) is seen to arise, and the dragon (Satan) gives him his power and his seat and great authority, Rev 13:1-2. Thus the great world LEADER, who existed during the first half of the Tribulation Period, now receives from Satan his power, seat and great authority. At this time the great world LEADER becomes the ANTICHRIST (beast). Men worshipped Satan because he had given authority to the ANTICHRIST, and they also worshipped the ANTICHRIST. All that dwell on the earth will worship the ANTICHRIST, all whose names have not been written in the book of life, Rev 13:4,8.
The ANTICHRIST was given authority over every people and nation, for 42 months which is the last half of the Tribulation Period, Rev 13:5,7.
Another beast (FALSE PROPHET) is seen to arise, and he exercised all the power of the first beast (ANTICHRIST), and made the inhabitants of the earth worship the ANTICHRIST, Rev 13:11-12. Thus the great world LEADER, who together with Satan becomes the ANTICHRIST, has a subordinate called the FALSE PROPHET. Both of these are humans beings whom Satan dominates.
The FALSE PROPHET performed great wonders, even causing fire to come down from heaven to earth in sight of men. Because of the miracles he was given power to do, he deceived the inhabitants of the earth, Rev 13:13-14. He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive the mark of the ANTICHRIST on their right hand or on their forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless they had the mark, Rev 13:16-17.
The FALSE PROPHET ordered them to set up a statue (IMAGE) of the ANTICHRIST. He was given power from Satan to give life to the IMAGE, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the IMAGE to be killed, Rev 13:14-15. Keep in mind that this statue or IMAGE of the ANTICHRIST is made out of ordinary construction materials such as wood, metal, concrete etc, yet Satan has the ENORMOUS power to bring this IMAGE to life.
At the middle of the Tribulation Period the ANTICHRIST will stop the normal offerings and sacrifices in the temple, and will probably set up this IMAGE of himself in the outer court of the temple. This is the abomination spoken of in Dan 9:27. Satan, the ANTICHRIST and the IMAGE will be worshipped as God, Rev 13:4,8,15. For more information,
CLICK to link to Appendix A-5 Characteristics of Satan or Chapter 2-3.3 Temple Desecrated etc
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Scripture for Chapter 2-1.5
Dan 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Rev 13:1-2 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. 2And 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.
Rev 13:4-8 And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him? 5And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. 6And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. 7And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. 8And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
Rev 13:11-17 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. 12And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. 13And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, 14And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. 15And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. 16And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: 17And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.
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In earlier sections, Chapter 2-1.1 and 2-1.2, it was intended to show: (1)... the scriptural basis for the 7 -year Tribulation Period and (2)... then to add significant DETAILS about this 7-year period. To review these sections,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.1 Basis for 7-year Tribulation Period or Chapter 2-1.2 Start of 7-year Tribulation Period
This present section, Chapter 2-1.6, is intended to continue showing support for the DETAILS already presented. Here we see in the discussion below, the TOTAL estimated deaths caused by the seals, trumpets and vials is 64% of the world's population. This is a conservative figure. However, the extensive pain and suffering which is also caused by some of the seals, trumpets and vials is not so easily quantified.
During the 7-year Tribulation Period, God pours out his wrath upon the earth through the 7 seals, 7 trumpets and 7 vials, in that order. Wrath takes the form of inflicting pain, suffering and/or death. Not all of these 21 items are episodes of wrath, however. Beyond a few descriptive words, putting a measure on pain and suffering is difficult to achieve. However, a very conservative estimate suggests that MORE THAN 50% of the earth's population will die during this 7-year period due to God's wrath.
Thus in the US, with a population of 265,000,000, this wrath of God will cause an additional 50,000 deaths, on the average, every single day for the entire 7-year period. Here the 50% estimate is used. The death rate will jump to about 8 times what it is presently. For US population data see website: http://www.census.gov/cgi-bin/popclock. For world population and death rates see website: http://www.census.gov/cgi-bin/ipc/popclockw.
To access population websites immediately, point and CLICK below. To return to this present location you must use the browser "back" instruction. To return to the beginning of this present website, use the Table of Contents. Now point and CLICK,
CLICK to link to the population websites US population or world population
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In the discussion below, the TOTAL estimated deaths caused by the seals, trumpets and vials is found to be 64%, which is still a conservative figure. However, the extensive pain and suffering which is also caused by some of the seals, trumpets and vials is not so easily quantified.
Under SEAL #2, Rev 6:3-4, peace is taken from the earth, so that the inhabitants will kill each other. 1% deaths estimated.
Under SEAL #4, Rev 6:7-8, power was given over a fourth part of the earth to kill by sword, hunger and beasts of the earth. 2% deaths estimated.
Under SEAL #6, Rev 6:12-14, there is a great world-wide earthquake, such that every mountain and island is moved out of its place. This quake is much more severe than anything the world has experienced up to this time. One would expect buildings everywhere to be badly damaged or destroyed. 3% deaths estimated.
Note that the kings of the earth, the great men, the chief captains, the rich, the mighty men, and every bond man and every free man hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains. They called to the mountains and the rocks, to fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb. For the great day of their wrath has come, and who shall be able to stand, Rev 6:15-17?
Under TRUMPET #1, Rev 8:7, a third part of the trees and all green grass was burned up. 2% deaths estimated.
Under TRUMPETS #2 and 3, Rev 8:8-11, a great burning mountain, was cast into the sea. A third of the sea became blood, a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed. A blazing star fell on a third of the rivers and fountains of water, and these became bitter and many men died. 2% deaths estimated.
Under TRUMPET #5, Rev 9:1-6, 11, demons were released from the Bottomless Pit. They were told not to hurt the grass or any green plant or those who have the seal of God on their foreheads. They were told not to kill, but only to torment men for 5 months. In those days men will desire death but will not find it. They will desire to die and death will flee from them. For more information,
CLICK to link to Appendix A-3 Prisons for Demons or Chapter 2-2.2 144,000 Jews Sealed by God
Under TRUMPET #6, Rev 9:13-19, a third of the inhabitants of the earth will die due to the fire, smoke and brimstone coming out of the mouths of 200,000,000 demons, which are released from a demon prison, referred to as the Euphrates River. 33% deaths expected. For more information,
CLICK to link to Appendix A-3 Prisons for Demons
The rest of men that were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshipping devils, and idols of gold, silver, brass, stone and wood. Neither did they repent of their murders, their sorceries, their fornication or their thefts, Rev 9:20-21.
Under VIAL #1, Rev 16:2, a noisome grievous sore broke out on those who had the mark of the ANTICHRIST and who worshipped the IMAGE.
Under VIALS #2 and 3, Rev 16:3-4, the sea, rivers and fountains of water all were turned into red sludge, like the blood of a dead man. All living things in the waters died. First, the loss to the world's food supply of all fish would be traumatic, and then consider the enormous task of world-wide filtering and purifying of this red sludge just to get drinking water. 10% deaths estimated.
Under VIAL #4, Rev 16:8-9, the sun was caused to scorch men with fire and great heat. Consider 2 articles in the Wall Street Journal, 9/13/95, Page A1 and in U.S. News & World Report, 9/25/95, Page 24: These reported that that the hole in the ozone layer above the Antarctica had doubled in size in the last year, and was then the size of the continent of Europe. The rate of increase in size of this hole was considered alarming. This meant that more of the sun's ultraviolet radiation was reaching the earth, causing more skin cancer. 1% deaths estimated.
Under VIAL #5, Rev 16:10-11, An angel poured out his vial on the throne of the beast, and his kingdom was full of darkness. They gnawed their tongues in pain and blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, but they refused to repent of their deeds.
Under VIAL #7, Rev 16:17-18, 20, an extremely severe world-wide earthquake occurred. There had never been a quake like this in the history of the world. Every island and mountain could not be found and cities of the nations fell. 10% deaths estimated.
Note too that hailstones of 100 pounds fell on men, and they blasphemed God because the plague of hail was exceedingly great, Rev 16:21.
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Scripture for Chapter 2-1.6
Rev 6:3-4 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see. 4And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.
Rev 6:7-8 And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see. 8And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.
Rev 6:12-17 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. 15And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; 16And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: 17For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
Rev 8:7-11 The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up. 8And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood; 9And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed. 10And 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; 11And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter.
Rev 9:1-6 And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. 2And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit. 3And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power. 4And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads. 5And to them it was given that they should not kill them, but that they should be tormented five months: and their torment was as the torment of a scorpion, when he striketh a man. 6And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them.
Rev 9:11 And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon.
Rev 9:13-21 And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, 14Saying to the sixth angel which had the trumpet, Loose the four angels which are bound in the great river Euphrates. 15And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men. 16And the number of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand, thousand: and I heard the number of them. 17And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued fire and smoke and brimstone. 18By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths. 19For their power is in their mouth, and in their tails: for their tails were like unto serpents, and had heads, and with them they do hurt. 20And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk: 21Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceress, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.
Rev 16:2-4 And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which worshipped his image. 3And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea. 4And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of waters; and they became blood.
Rev 16:8-11 And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and power was given unto him to scorch men with fire. 9And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God, which hath power over these plagues: and they repented not to give him glory. 10And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain, 11And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds.
Rev 16:17-21 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. 18And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great. 19And 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. 20And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found. 21And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great.
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In earlier sections, Chapter 2-1.1 and 2-1.2, it was intended to show: (1)... the scriptural basis for the 7 -year Tribulation Period and (2)... then to add significant DETAILS about this 7-year period. To review these sections,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.1 Basis for 7-year Tribulation Period or Chapter 2-1.2 Start of 7-year Tribulation Period
This present section, Chapter 2-1.7, is intended to continue showing support for the DETAILS already presented. Here we see that the timing of the seals, trumpets and vials fits into the framework of the 7-year Tribulation Period which has been developed in prior sections up to this point.
The 3 events: 7 seals, 7 trumpets and 7 vials are an extremely important aspect of the 7-year Tribulation Period. We want to determine the timing of these 3 events as much as possible. Arguments will be presented under the following Items #1 thru 10:
In Dan 9:27 a great LEADER makes a covenant or treaty with the Jews, for a time period of 7 years. The making of this covenant marks the beginning of the 7-year Tribulation Period.
Another picture of this great LEADER is given under seal #1, Rev 6:1-2. Here he is shown with a bow. He was given a crown and he goes forth conquering and to conquer. This person will achieve world-wide power and recognition through political, economic and military endeavors. It is expected that the gaining of this "great LEADER status," would precede what happens in Dan 9:27.
Note that these 2 individuals in Rev 6:1-2 and Dan 9:27 are the same person. Thus seal #1 occurs at the very beginning of the 7-year Tribulation Period.
It is clear from Rev 8:1-2 that the 7 trumpets follow immediately after seal #7: "When he opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given seven trumpets."
Note in Rev 15:1,7, 16:1 that the vials are referred to as: "the seven last plagues--last, because with them God's wrath is completed." It is clear from this that the vials are last in the sequence of seals, trumpets and vials. Thus vial #1 follows trumpet #7 but we don't know by how much.
In Rev 16:2,10-11, dealing with vials #1 and 5, reference is made to the ANTICHRIST (beast) who exists on earth only during the last half of the Tribulation Period. Thus the vials must occur during this same period of time, that is, the last half of the Tribulation Period. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.5 Arising of ANTICHRIST etc
Note with vial #6, Rev 16:12, the river Euphrates is dried up to make way for the kings from the east. They are coming to fight the Battle of Armageddon (World War III) which takes place at the Second Coming of Jesus, at the end of the Tribulation Period. This suggests that vials #6 and 7, occur toward the end of the Tribulation Period. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.8.1 Second Coming of Jesus, Armageddon
Since the seals and trumpets do not mention the ANTICHRIST, we suspect that they occur in the first half of the Tribulation Period. Admittedly this is not a strong argument. Even though no significant conclusion is based on this point, it seems worthwhile to at least consider briefly the argument made next, where trumpets #6 and 7 are placed at the beginning of the last half of the Tribulation.
Under trumpet #6, 33% of the earth's population of 5.8 billion, will die in a matter of a few months. Since all hell breaks loose on earth during the last half of the Tribulation Period, such a tragic loss of life would fit better in the last half than it fits in the first half. Thus an argument could be made for placing trumpets #6 and 7 at the beginning of the last half of the Tribulation Period. For world population data see website: http://www.census.gov/cgi-bin/ipc/popclockw.
To access population websites immediately, point and CLICK below. To return to this present location you must use the browser "back" instruction. To return to the beginning of this present website, use the Table of Contents. Now point and CLICK,
CLICK to link to the population websites US population or world population
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For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.5 Arising of ANTICHRIST etc or Chapter 2-1.6 Wrath of God under Seals, Trumpets etc
Under seal #6, Rev 6:12-14, there is a severe earthquake where every island and mountain is moved out of its place. Then Under vial #7, Rev 16:17-18,20, there is an earthquake more severe than had ever occurred since man was on the earth. Every island fled away and the mountains could not be found. Obviously vial #7 occurs after seal #6.
Under trumpet #2, Rev 8:8-9, a third of the creatures in the sea die, but in vial #2, Rev 16:3, all living things in the sea die. Obviously vial #2 occurs after trumpet #2.
The 7 seals and 7 trumpets are assumed to occur during the first half of the 7-year Tribulation Period, evenly distributed, that is, one event ever 3 months. In the last half of the Tribulation Period the 7 vials are assumed to occur evenly distributed, that is, one event every 6 months. The timing expressed here, that is, events being evenly distributed, is referred to as an approximation or an estimation.
What about the assumption of the seals, trumpets and vials being evenly distributed in their respective periods? There is no scriptural basis for saying this but, not knowing otherwise, it makes the best sense. However, no significant conclusion can be based on this concept of even distribution.
In Rev 11:15 the seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, which said: "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign for ever and ever." This sounds like the 1000-year Millennial Age and Eternity when Jesus, with the righteous from all past ages, will rule over the earth. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-3 Overview of 1000-year Millennial Age or Chapter 1-4 Overview of Eternity
Thus it could be said that trumpet #7 looks forward to these future events, but trumpet #7 does not occur at either of these future times.
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Scripture for Chapter 2-1.7
Dan 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Rev 6:1-2 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see. 2And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.
Rev 6:12-14 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.
Rev 8:1-2 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. 2And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets.
Rev 8:8-9 And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood; 9And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed.
Rev 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.
Rev 15:1 And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvelous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.
Rev 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.
Rev 16:1-3 And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth. 2And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which worshipped his image. 3And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea.
Rev 16:10-12 And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain, 11And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds. 12And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared.
Rev 16:17-18 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. 18And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great.
Rev 16:20 And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found.
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Chapter 2-1.1 thru 2-1.7 were used to present enough material, to establish the scriptural basis for the overall 7-year Tribulation Period. Now we want to examine the first half of this 7-year period in a little more detail. Expressed in outline form this will consider:
B... Events on Earth
1... First Half of Tribulation
a... 7 Seals
b... Sealing of 144,000 Jews
c... 7 Trumpets
For a complete outline of the 7-year Tribulation Period,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-2 Overview of 7-year Tribulation Period
Now let us review Chapter 2-1.1 thru 2-1.7.
FIRST HALF OF TRIBULATION PERIOD: We expect the Jewish Nation to face increasingly difficult times in the future, where their very survival might seem to be in doubt. Israel is surrounded by nations committed to her destruction. At some point when the situation gets bad enough, a great world LEADER will step forward and make a 7-year protective covenant or treaty with the Jews. That event signals the beginning of the 7-year Tribulation Period. The temple will be rebuilt sufficiently, so that Old Testament sacrifices and offerings can be reestablished before the middle of the Tribulation Period. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.1 Basis of 7-year Tribulation Period or Chapter 2-1.2 Start of 7-year Tribulation Period
SATAN CAST OUT OF HEAVEN: Satan is cast out of heaven, down to the earth at the middle of the 7-year Tribulation Period, and he immediately enters into the great world LEADER who becomes the ANTICHRIST at that time. The ANTICHRIST immediately sets himself up as God in the temple, which puts an end to the normal sacrifices and offering which had been reestablished. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.3 Satan Cast out of Heaven etc or Chapter 2-1.4 Satan Proclaims Himself to be God or Chapter 2-1.5 Arising of ANTICHRIST etc
7 SEALS, 7 TRUMPETS AND 7 VIALS: The seals, trumpets and vials are a very important aspect of the 7-year Tribulation Period. Many of these 21 events represent the wrath of God poured out on the earth. A conservative estimate suggests that more than 50% of the earth's population will die due to this wrath of God. Thus in the US alone, this wrath of God will cause 50,000 additional deaths, on the average, every single day for the entire 7-year Tribulation Period. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.6 Wrath of God under Seals, Trumpets etc or Chapter 2-1.7 Timing of Seals, Trumpets etc
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144,000 JEWS SEALED BY GOD: In the first half of the 7-year Tribulation Period, probably between seal #6 and 7, we see God putting a seal on the foreheads of 144,000 Jews, Rev 7:1-4. Note first that seal #6, Rev 6:12-14, is considered in the last part of Bible Chapter 6. Also note that seal #7, Rev 8:1, appears in the first part of Bible Chapter 8. Thus one might estimate that the sealing of these Jews on their forehead, takes place between seal #6 and 7, or roughly at the midpoint of the first half of the 7-year Tribulation Period. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.7 Timing of Seals, Trumpets etc
The sealed Jews will be protected from the wrath of God, as well as that of Satan, for the rest of the Tribulation Period. We see this under trumpet #5, Rev 9:1-5, where demons released from the Bottomless Pit, have instructions to torture people on earth for 5 months, but not those with the seal of God on their foreheads. Note in Dan 12:1 that the angel Michael is spoken of as the protector of the Jews, and he will function in this capacity at this time. For more information,
CLICK to link to Appendix A-3 Prisons for Demons or Appendix A-7.1 Michael
Now at the end of the 7-year Tribulation Period, we read of the Second Coming of Jesus in Mat 24:39-31. This says he will send his angels and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other. At least in part this gathering refers to the 144,000 Jews who were sealed and protected by God. Then they are shown with Jesus as he stands on Mount Zion (Jerusalem), Rev 14:1. For more information on the Second Coming,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.8.3 Second Coming of Jesus, Sets up Kingdom
1,000,000 JEWS RESTORED TO PROMISED LAND: The 144,000 sealed Jews are declared to be the firstfruits, Rev 14:3-4. Thus the total harvest would be at least 8 to 10 times as large (total, perhaps a million?). This total number will continue on into the 1000-year Millennial Age which follows, and they will constitute the Jewish Nation finally restored to the Promised Land. They will continue on earth as earth-people such as we are now.
For this to take place, it goes without saying that there must be this 1,000,000 righteous living Jews on earth at the end of the Tribulation Period. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.5 Satan Given Power over Saints
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Scripture for Chapter 2-2.2
Dan 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.
Mat 24:29-31 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: 30And 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. 31And 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.
Rev 6:12-14 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.
Rev 7:1-4 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. 2And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, 3Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. 4And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.
Rev 8:1 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour.
Rev 9:1-5 And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. 2And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit. 3And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power. 4And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads. 5And to them it was given that they should not kill them, but that they should be tormented five months: and their torment was as the torment of a scorpion, when he striketh a man.
Rev 14:1 And I looked, and, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
Rev 14:3-4 And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. 4These 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.
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Chapter 2-1.3 thru 2-1.7 are part of the material presented earlier to establish the scriptural basis for the overall 7-year Tribulation Period. Now we want to examine the last half of this 7-year period in a little more detail. Expressed in outline form this will consider:
B... Events on Earth
2... Last Half of Tribulation Period
a... Rapture of Church
b... Satan Takes Control on Earthly Scene
c... Satan, ANTICHRIST, FALSE PROPHET and IMAGE
d... 7 Vials
e... Destruction of World Religious System
f... Second Coming of Jesus
(1)... Fights Battle of Armageddon
(2)... Conducts Judgment of Nations
(3)... Sets up Kingdom on Earth
For a complete outline of the 7-year Tribulation Period,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-2 Overview of 7-year Tribulation Period
Now let us review Chapter 2-1.3 thru 2-1.7.
SATAN CAST OUT OF HEAVEN: Satan is cast out of heaven, down to the earth at the middle of the 7-year Tribulation Period, and he immediately enters into the great world LEADER who becomes the ANTICHRIST at that time. The ANTICHRIST immediately sets himself up as God in the temple, which puts an end to the normal sacrifices and offering which had been reestablished. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.3 Satan Cast out of Heaven etc or Chapter 2-1.4 Satan Proclaims Himself to be God or Chapter 2-1.5 Arising of ANTICHRIST etc
7 SEALS, 7 TRUMPETS AND 7 VIALS: The seals, trumpets and vials are a very important aspect of the 7-year Tribulation Period. Many of these 21 events represent the wrath of God poured out on the earth. A conservative estimate suggests that more than 50% of the earth's population will die due to this wrath of God. Thus in the US alone, this wrath of God will cause 50,000 additional deaths, on the average, every single day for the entire 7-year Tribulation Period. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.6 Wrath of God under Seals, Trumpets etc or Chapter 2-1.7 Timing of Seals, Trumpets etc
CLICK to link to Top of Page or Table of Contents
Let us examine what the scriptures say regarding the timing of the Rapture of the Church.
CONSIDERATION #1: The appearance of Satan (mystery of iniquity, Wicked) here on earth in FULL FORCE, is being held up by a significant Godly force, which will be removed, 2 The 2:6-10. This Godly force is thought to be the Holy Spirit which was given to Believers early in the Church Age, Act 2:1-4. Since Satan comes on the earthly scene in full force at the middle of the Tribulation Period, the removal of the Holy Spirit would occur at this time. The Rapture of the Church, 1 The 4:16-17, which ends the Church Age, could well coincide with the removal of the Holy Spirit from earth. This suggests that the Rapture occurs near the middle of the Tribulation Period.
CONSIDERATION #2: The Rapture of the Church is also spoken of in 2 The 2:1. Then with 2 The 2:3-4 this event can not occur until the man of sin is revealed. This refers to the ANTICHRIST who is none other than the great world LEADER on earth during the first half of the Tribulation Period. At the middle of the Tribulation, Satan will enter into this LEADER and he will become the ANTICHRIST at that time. This means that the Rapture follows the middle of the Tribulation Period, but it could follow by as little as a single day. For all practical purposes it is believed that the Rapture occurs at the middle of the Tribulation Period.
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.5 Arising of ANTICHRIST, etc
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Scripture for Chapter 2-3.2
Act 2:1-4 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
1 The 4:16-17 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: 17Then 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.
2 The 2:1-4 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
2 The 2:6-10 And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. 7For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 8And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 9Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
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TEMPLE DESECRATED BY GENTILES FOR 42 MONTHS: In Rev 11:1-2, John, writer of Revelation, was told to measure the temple in Jerusalem, but not the outer court which the Gentiles will trample for 42 months, that is, the last half of the Tribulation Period. This is spoken of in Dan 9:27 as: (1)... in the middle of the week he will put an end to sacrifice and offering and (2)... he will set up an abomination. The abomination is probably the ANTICHRIST setting up the IMAGE (statue) of himself in the outer court of the temple. This will continue for 42 months, that is, the last half of the 7-years Tribulation Period. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.4 Satan Proclaims Himself to be God or Chapter 2-1.5 Arising of ANTICHRIST etc
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Scripture for Chapter 2-3.3
Daniel 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
Rev. 11:1-2 And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein. 2But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.
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GOD'S 2 WITNESSES PREACH FOR 3.5 YEARS (1260/360), last half of Tribulation: As a result of this preaching, we are told that a multitude so large that no man could number had become Believers, and also had been slain for their faith, Rev 7:9, 13-14, 11:3. We know they had been slain since they appeared before the throne dressed in white robes. If they had not been slain they would have continued on into the 1000-year Millennial Age as righteous earth people. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.5 Satan Given Power over Saints.
These 2 witnesses will have the power to smite the earth with all plagues as often as they want, Rev 11:6. At the end of the Tribulation Period the ANTICHRIST will kill them and their bodies will lie in the street of Jerusalem for 3.5 days. The inhabitants of the earth will look at their bodies but will not bury them. They will celebrate, because these two prophets had tormented those who live on the earth, Rev 11:7-10. Finally these 2 are resurrected and taken up to heaven, Rev 11:11-12. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.5 Arising of ANTICHRIST, etc
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Scripture for Chapter 2-3.4
Rev. 7:9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;
Rev. 7:13-14 And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? 14And 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.
Rev. 11:3 And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.
Rev. 11:5-12 And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed. 6These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will. 7And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. 8And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. 9And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves. 10And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth. 11And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them. 12And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.
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SATAN GIVEN POWER OVER THE SAINTS: During the last half of the 7-year Tribulation Period, Satan is given power to make war with the saints, and to overcome them, Rev 13:4-7. Thus Satan will have almost unlimited freedom to slay the saints during this period of time. The slain ones are described as a great multitude, which no man could number, Rev 7:9,13-14. We know they had been slain since they appeared before the throne dressed in white robes. If they had not been slain they would have continued on into the 1000-year Millennial Age as righteous earth people.
God will still have a respectable number of righteous living Jews and Gentiles at the end of the Tribulation Period, to continue on earth into the 1000-year Millennial Age, and to populate the earth at that time. A reasonable estimate of 1,000,000 righteous living Jews can be expected at the end of the Tribulation Period. An intelligent estimate of 10,000,000 righteous living Gentiles seems acceptable, even though the earth's population is presently about 5.8 billion. Most of the righteous on earth in the last half of the Tribulation Period will be slain by Satan. For world population data see website: http://www.census.gov/cgi-bin/ipc/popclockw.
To access population websites immediately, point and CLICK below. To return to this present location you must use the browser "back" instruction. To return to the beginning of this present website, use the Table of Contents. Now point and CLICK,
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For more information,
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Chapter 2-2.2 144,000 Jews Sealed by God or Chapter 2-3.4 God's 2 Witnesses etc
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Top of Page or Table of Contents Scripture for Chapter 2-3.5
Rev 7:9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;
Rev 7:13-14 And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? 14And 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.
Rev 13:4-7 And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him? 5And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. 6And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. 7And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.
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RELIGIOUS SYSTEM SPOKEN OF AS A WHORE: Late in the 7-year Tribulation Period we see a woman characterized as a whore who has committed immoral acts with the kings of the earth. Furthermore, the inhabitants of the earth were drunk with the wine of her immorality, Rev 17:1-2. This woman represents the world's religious system at that time, including Protestants, Catholics, Jews, Muslims etc.
HEADQUARTERS AT ROME: The woman is shown sitting on a beast that had seven heads and ten horns. The seven heads are seven hills on which the woman sits. The woman is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth, Rev 17:3,7,9,18. The woman sits on many waters which are peoples, multitudes, nations and languages, Rev 17:1,15. Rome is a city widely known as situated on 7 hills.
Protestants and Catholics are the 2 largest groups of religious people in the world. Protestants are badly fragmented, with leadership largely focused at the local church level. However, Catholics are better organized, with clergy throughout the world looking to the Pope for leadership. It would not be surprising if world religious leadership gravitates toward Rome.
ANTICHRIST HEADS 10-NATION CONFEDERATION: The beast with 10 horns is the ANTICHRIST, heading up his 10-nation confederation of nations, which will exist toward the end of the 7-year Tribulation Period. These will be destroyed at the Battle of Armageddon (World War III), Rev 17:12-14. For more information,
CLICK to link to
Chapter 2-3.7 ANTICHRIST Heads 10-Nation Confederation or Chapter 2-3.8.1 Second coming of Jesus, Armageddon
ANTICHRIST AND 10 KINGS DESTROY THE WHORE: The ANTICHRIST and the 10 kings will hate the whore. They will make her desolate and naked; they will eat her flesh and burn her with fire, Rev 17:16.
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Top of Page or Table of Contents Scripture for Chapter 2-3.6
Rev. 17:1-3 And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters: 2With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication. 3So 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.
Rev. 17:7 And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns.
Rev. 17:9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.
Rev. 17:12-16 And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast. 13These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast. 14These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful. 15And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues. 16And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire.
Rev. 17:18 And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.
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The ANTICHRIST is described as having seven heads and ten horns (10 kings), with ten crowns on his horns, Rev 13:1-2. An angel explains this in Rev 17:3,7,12-13. "The ten horns are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but who for one hour will receive power as kings with the beast. They have one mind and will give their power and strength to the beast." Thus the ANTICHRIST becomes the head of a 10-nation confederation, probably a group from the present 15-member European Union. This arrangement starts sometime during the last half of the Tribulation Period, but it will certainly be in full effect toward the end. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 3-2 God Sets up Kingdom which Lasts Forever
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Top of Page or Table of Contents Scripture for Chapter 2-3.7
Rev 13:1-2 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. 2And 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.
Rev 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.
Rev 17:7 And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns.
Rev 17:12-13 And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast. 13These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.
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SECOND COMING OF JESUS: At the Second Coming of Jesus at the end of the 7-year Tribulation Period, he does the following: (1)... fights the Battle of Armageddon (World War III), (2)... conducts the Judgment of the Nations and (3)... sets up his Kingdom on Earth for the 1000-year Millennial Age.
Two viewpoints will be considered: (A)... one from the book of Revelation and (B)... one from the book of Zechariah.
(A)... BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON (World War III), from the book of Revelation: (a)... The great river Euphrates is dried up to make a roadway for the kings of the East to use in coming to Armageddon, Rev 16:12. (b)... Satan, the ANTICHRIST and the FALSE PROPHET send out evil spirits to gather the kings of the whole world to do battle at Armageddon, Rev 16:13-14,16. (c)... Heaven stands open showing Jesus ready to make war. The armies of heaven follow him, Rev 19:11-14. These armies are wearing white robes; they are the righteous from all past ages. (d)... The ANTICHRIST, with the kings of the earth and their armies, are gathered to make war against Jesus and his heavenly armies, Rev 19:19. (e)... The ANTICHRIST and the FALSE PROPHET are captured, and then cast into the Lake of Fire, Rev 19:20. (f)... The rest of this earthly army were killed and the birds gorged themselves on their flesh, Rev 19:21. (g)... Satan is bound and cast into Bottomless Pit for 1000 years, Rev 20:1-3. For more information,
CLICK to link to
Chapter 2-4.1.1 Judgment Seat of Christ, White Robes or Appendix A-4 Lake of Fire or Appendix A-3 Prisons for Demons
(B)... BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON (World War III), from the book of Zechariah: Consider another picture of this event as given in Zec 14:1-5. In verses 1-3, at this coming of the Lord, he brings the nations to fight against Jerusalem. The city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity. Then shall the LORD go forth, and fight against those nations.
Note in particular in verse 4 that the feet of Jesus will stand upon the Mount of Olives, to the east of Jerusalem. This mountain will split apart, making a very wide valley running from east to west, for half the mountain will move toward the north and half toward the south. During the 1000-year Millennial Age, a river of water flows from the temple, east to the Dead Sea through this valley. Where ever this water flows fish and plant life thrive. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-3 Overview of 1000-year Millennial Age.
In verse 5 we see that the Lord shall come, and all his saints and angels with him. The saints here includes the righteous from all past ages who will be coming back to earth with Jesus, to reign with him during the 1000-year Millennial Age which follows next. These righteous ones, as well as Jesus, come back to earth as resurrected people, to be contrasted with earth-people such as we are now.
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Top of Page or Table of Contents Scripture for Chapter 2-3.8.1
Zec 14:1-5 Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, and thy spoil shall be divided in the midst of thee. 2For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city. 3Then shall the LORD go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle. 4And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south. 5And ye shall flee to the valley of the mountains; for the valley of the mountains shall reach unto Azal: yea, ye shall flee, like as ye fled from before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah: and the LORD my God shall come, and all the saints with thee.
Rev 16:12-14 And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared. 13And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. 14For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.
Rev 16:16 And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon.
Rev 19:11-14 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. 12His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 13And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. 14And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.
Rev 19:19-20:3 And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army. 20And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. 21And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh. 20:1And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. 2And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, 3And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.
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SECOND COMING OF JESUS: At the Second Coming of Jesus at the end of the 7-year Tribulation Period, he does the following: (1)... fights the Battle of Armageddon (World War III), (2)... conducts the Judgment of the Nations and (3)... sets up his Kingdom on Earth for the 1000-year Millennial Age.
JUDGMENT OF NATIONS: Mat 25:31 speaks of the Second Coming of Jesus, as well as his sitting on his throne of glory. It appears that he has already set up his Kingdom on Earth. In verse 32 the nations of earth are gathered before him, and the Judgment of the Nations follows where he separates the righteous from the unrighteous.
The unrighteous on earth are separated and sent off to eternal punishment, Mat 25:32-33,41. The righteous, however, are told in Mat 25:32-34, "take your inheritance, the kingdom ... ." This refers to the Kingdom on earth during the 1000-year Millennial Age. Thus the righteous on earth at the end of the Tribulation Period, continue on earth into the Millennial Age which follows. These would continue on earth as earth-people, such as you and I are now. For more information,
CLICK to link to
Chapter 1-2 Overview of 7-year Tribulation Period or Chapter 1-3 Overview of 1000-year Millennial Age
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Top of Page or Table of Contents Scripture for Chapter 2-3.8.2
Matthew 25:31-34 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: 32And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: 33And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
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:
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SECOND COMING OF JESUS: At the Second Coming of Jesus at the end of the 7-year Tribulation Period, he does the following: (1)... fights the Battle of Armageddon (World War III), (2)... conducts the Judgment of the Nations and (3)... sets up his Kingdom on Earth for the 1000-year Millennial Age.
SETTING UP KINGDOM, Nebuchadnezzar's Dream: Daniel was required to describe and to interpret a dream of King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, Dan 2:1,31-36, 41-45. In the dream the king saw a large statue, with emphasis on : (1)... head of gold, (2)... breast and arms of silver, (3)... belly and thighs of brass, (4)... legs of iron and (5)... feet and 10 toes of clay and iron. Each of these represented a world empire which would come to pass down through history. For example, the head was Babylon which existed at the time of Daniel. The legs were the Roman Empire which existed at the time Jesus was on earth. However, the feet and 10 toes represent a future world empire which will exist during the latter part of the 7-year Tribulation Period. This is what we are primarily interested in.
10-NATION CONFEDERATION: In verses 33 and 41-43, we see that the feet and toes were partly of clay and partly of iron, so this will be a divided kingdom; yet it will have some of the strength of iron in it. This kingdom will be partly strong and partly broken. The people will be a mixture and will not remain united, any more than iron mixes with clay. For more information on 10-nation confederation,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.7 ANTICHRIST Heads 10-Nation Confederation
BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON (World War III): Verse 44 tells us: In the time of those 10 kings, the God of heaven will break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms and bring them to an end. This speaks of the Battle of Armageddon where the ANTICHRIST and his 10-nation confederation of nations are destroyed. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.8.1 Second Coming of Jesus, Armageddon
SETTING UP KINGDOM ON EARTH: Verse 44 also tells us that the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed; it will stand forever. This speaks of Jesus setting up his Kingdom on Earth for the 1000-year Millennial Age. Then Jesus and the righteous from all past ages, will reign over the present earth for 1000 years. After that they will reign over the new earth for the rest of eternity.
For more information,
CLICK to link to
Chapter 1-3 Overview of Millennial Age or
Chapter 1-4 Overview of Eternity===================================================
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Chapter 2-3_Last Half of 7-year Tribulation Period, Events on Earth
Chapter 2-3.6_Destruction of World Religious System
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Chapter 2-3_Last Half of 7-year Tribulation Period, Events on Earth
Chapter 2-3.7_ANTICHRIST heads 10-Nation Confederation
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Chapter 2-3_Last Half of 7-year Tribulation Period, Events on Earth
Chapter 2-3.8_Second Coming of Jesus
Chapter 2-3.8.1_Fights Battle of Armageddon
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Chapter 2-3_Last Half of 7-year Tribulation Period, Events on Earth
Chapter 2-3.8_Second Coming of Jesus
Chapter 2-3.8.2_Conducts Judgment of Nations
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Chapter 2-3_Last Half of 7-year Tribulation Period, Events on Earth
Chapter 2-3.8_Second Coming of Jesus
Chapter 2-3.8.3_Sets up Kingdom on Earth
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Scripture for Chapter 2-3.8.3
Dan 2:1 And in the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams, wherewith his spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him.
Dan 2:31-36 Thou, O king, sawest, and behold a great image. This great image, whose brightness was excellent, stood before thee; and the form thereof was terrible. 32This image's head was of fine gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his thighs of brass, 33His legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay. 34Thou sawest till that a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the image upon his feet that were of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces. 35Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshing floors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth. 36This is the dream; and we will tell the interpretation thereof before the king.
Dan 2:41-45 And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes, part of potters' clay, and part of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; but there shall be in it of the strength of the iron, forasmuch as thou sawest the iron mixed with miry clay. 42And as the toes of the feet were part of iron, and part of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong, and partly broken. 43And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay. 44And 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. 45Forasmuch 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.
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We want to examine now, in some detail, events in heaven during the last half of the 7-year Tribulation Period. Expressed in outline form this will consider:
A... Events in Heaven
1... Last Half of Tribulation Period
a... Judgment Seat of Christ
b... Marriage Supper of Jesus
c... Second coming of Jesus
For a complete outline of the 7-year Tribulation Period,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-2 Overview of 7-year Tribulation Period
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JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST: This event occurs in heaven, early in the last half of the 7-year Tribulation Period. At this time the Believing Church receives rewards for "good works" done while here on earth. Consider the following scriptures referring to this topic: (1)... For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is coming to him for the things done while in the body, whether it is good or bad, 2 Cor 5:10. (2)... Why do you judge your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ, Rom 14:10. Thus Believers may receive rewards for things done while in the body.
IN HEAVEN, EARLY IN LAST HALF OF TRIBULATION PERIOD: Consider the following scriptures concerning the Rapture where Jesus says he will reward Believers at this time according to their works: (a)...For the Son of Man shall come in his Father's glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to his works, Mat 16:27. (b)... Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according what he has done, Rev 22:12. Since the Rapture of the Church occurs near the midpoint of the 7-year Tribulation Period, the Judgment Seat of Christ would take place early in the last half. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.2 Rapture of Church
OUR "GOOD WORKS" WILL BE JUDGED HARSHLY: Every man's work shall be made manifest, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire, 1 Cor 3:13-15.
WE MAY BE DISQUALIFIED FOR REWARDS: Consider the following 3 references pertaining to earning rewards, and then the possibility of losing some or all of what has been earned. (1)... In 1 Cor 9:24-27, the writer tells us: "I keep my body under control, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." This suggests that the prize or reward for good works can be lost. (2)... In 2 Joh 1:8 we are told to: "Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have gained, but that we receive a full reward." Again this suggests that the reward for good works can be lost, at least in part. (3)... In 2 Tim 2:5 we are told that service to God must be performed according to the rules he sets up, if we expect to receive the reward or crown.
FOR THE BELIEVING CHURCH ONLY: The discussion here has focused on the Believing Church at the Judgment Seat of Christ, which is a New Testament concept. In other words the righteous from all past ages are not be included in this event. Nevertheless, it is thought that God rewards the righteous from all past and future ages at appropriate times.
To illustrate this point consider seal #5, which probably occurs before the midpoint in the first half of the 7-year Tribulation Period, Rev 6:9-11. Here we see the righteous dead under the altar in heaven. These are Believers who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They cried out to the Lord for vengeance against those who had slain them, but instead they were each given a white robe and were told to wait a little longer until the rest who were to be killed, was completed. The receiving of a white robe here is significant, since it is one of the 3 important rewards which the Lords gives to Believers. The giving of this reward was BEFORE the Judgment Seat of Christ. For more information on seal #5 and white robes,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-1.7 Timing of Seals, Trumpets etc or Chapter 2-4.1.1 Judgment Seat of Christ, White Robes
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Scripture for Chapter 2-4.1
Mat 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.
Rom 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.
1 Cor 3:11-15 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13Every 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. 14If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
1 Cor 9:24-27 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25And 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. 26I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
2 Cor 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
2 Tim 2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
2 Joh 1:8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.
Rev 6:9-11 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: 10And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? 11And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.
Rev 22:12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
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REWARD TYPE #1, DRESSED IN (BRIGHT) WHITE: Consider the following 5 references showing the righteous dressed in white. (1)... The Believers in the church at Sardis were told if they overcome they will be dressed in white, Rev 3:4-5. (2)... Early in the 7-year Tribulation Period, the Believers who had been slain for their faith were impatiently asking that their blood be avenged. They were each given a white robe and told to wait a little longer until the rest who were to be killed, was completed, Rev 6:9-11. (3)... A great multitude that no man could count, wearing white robes, were standing before the throne of God. These were the slain who had come out of the Great Tribulation (last 3.5 years), Rev 7:9, 13-14.
(4)...MARRIAGE SUPPER OF JESUS: The setting for this event is in heaven, after the Judgment Seat of Christ, toward the end of the 7-year Tribulation Period. We are told to be glad and rejoice for the Marriage Supper of Jesus has come. His wife has made herself ready; fine linen clean and white was given her to wear. Fine linen stands for the righteousness of the saints, Rev 19:7-9. Her being given fine linen clean and white probably occurred earlier at the Judgment Seat of Christ. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-4.2 Marriage Supper of Jesus
It is believed that this concept of being the bride or wife of Jesus, applies only to the Believing Church. Jesus has selected the Believing Church to enjoy this special relationship with him as his bride or wife, and this will continue throughout the ages of eternity. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-4 Overview of Eternity
(5)... SECOND COMING OF JESUS: At the end of the Tribulation Period, Jesus comes back to earth to fight the Battle of Armageddon (World War III), among other things. The armies of heaven follow him, dressed in fine linen, white and clean. These are the righteous of all past ages, including the Believing Church, Rev 19:11-14. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-3.8.1 Second Coming of Jesus, Armageddon
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Scripture for Chapter 2-4.1.1
Rev 3:4-5 Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. 5He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
Rev 6:9-11 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: 10And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? 11And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.
Rev 7:9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;
Rev 7:13-14 And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? 14And 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.
Rev 19:6-9 And I heard as it were 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. 7Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. 8And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. 9And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.
Rev 19:11-14 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. 12His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 13And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. 14And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.
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REWARD TYPE #2, REIGNING WITH GOD AND/OR JESUS: Consider the following 4 references showing the righteous reigning with God and/or Jesus. (1)... I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may obtain salvation. If we suffer, we shall also reign with him, 2 Tim 2:10-12. (2)... We have been redeemed to God by the blood of Jesus. We have been made to our God kings and priests, and we shall reign on the earth, Rev 5:8-10.
(3)... The FIRST RESURRECTION is complete at the end of the 7-year Tribulation Period. It consists of 4 parts: (a)... those raised at the resurrection of Jesus, Mat 27:52-53, (b)... those resurrected at the Rapture of the Church, 1 The 4:16-17 and (c)... those resurrected at the end of the Tribulation Period, Rev 20:4. The righteous living at the time of the Rapture would also be included as part #4, with this group (a), (b) and (c). Those of the FIRST RESURRECTION are shown seated on thrones. They are also said to reign with Jesus for 1000 years, which would be during the Millennial Age, Rev 20:4-6. For more information,
CLICK to link to Appendix A-2 Two Resurrections
(4)... During Eternity the righteous from all past ages will reign with God and Jesus, for ever and ever, Rev 22:1-5. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-4 Overview of Eternity
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Scripture for Chapter 2-4.1.2
Mat 27:52-53 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, 53And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.
1 The 4:16-17 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: 17Then 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.
2 Tim 2:10-12 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. 11It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: 12If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:
Rev 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. 9And 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; 10And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
Rev 20:4-6 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. 5But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6Blessed 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.
Rev 22:1-5 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. 2In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: 4And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. 5And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
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REWARD TYPE #3, RECEIVING CROWNS: Consider the following 5 references to crowns. (1)... If one, endures temptation, suffering, persecution and imprisonment, yet is faithful even to the point of death, a CROWN OF LIFE is promised, Jam 1:12, Rev 2:10. (2)... If one endures affliction, discharges the duties of his ministry, keeps the faith and longs for his appearing, a CROWN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS is promised, 2 Tim 4:5, 7-8. (3)... A CROWN OF GLORY is promised, for feeding the flock of God willingly, and for providing an example to them, 1 Pet 5:2-4. (4)... The CROWN we strive for will last forever, that is, it is incorruptible and does not fade away, 1 Cor 9:25, 1 Pet 5:4. (5)... Hold on to what you have, so that no man take your CROWN, Rev 3:11.
It is believed that the righteous being rewarded CROWNS, is a New Testament concept which a applies only to the Believing Church.
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Scripture for Chapter 2-4.1.3
1 Cor 9:24-25 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25And 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.
2 Tim 4:5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
2 Tim 4:7-8 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8Henceforth 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.
Jam 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.
1 Pet 5:2-4 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 4And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
Rev 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.
Rev 3:11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.
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SPECIAL REWARDS FOR 12 DISCIPLES: Peter asked Jesus, "We have forsaken all, and followed you; what then will there be for us?" Jesus said to them, "When the Son of man shall sit on the throne of his glory, you who have followed me shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel, Mat 19:27-28.
SITTING ON THRONES JUDGING TRIBES OF ISRAEL: Thus during the 1000-year Millennial Age when Jesus has set up his Kingdom on earth, the 12 disciples will sit on 12 thrones, judging the 12 tribes of Israel. At this time the Jewish Nation will have been restored to their Promised Land. Part of those restored will be the 144,000 Jews sealed by God during the 7-year Tribulation Period, Rev 7:1-4, 9:4. They will be completely protected by God during the Tribulation Period, and will continue on into the 1000-year Millennial Age. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-3 Overview of Millennial Age or Chapter 2-2.2 144,000 Jews Sealed by God
NAMES ON FOUNDATIONS OF WALL OF HOLY CITY: During Eternity, the 12 disciples will be rewarded by having their names on the 12 foundations of the wall of the Holy City, Rev 21:1-2, 14. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-4 Overview of Eternity
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Scripture for Chapter 2-4.1.4
Mat 19:27-28 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? 28And 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.
Rev 7:1-4 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. 2And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, 3Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. 4And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.
Rev 9:4 And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads.
Rev 21:1-2 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. 2And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
Rev 21:14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
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BELIEVING CHURCH IS THE BRIDE OF JESUS: The setting here is in heaven, after the Judgment Seat of Christ, toward the end of the 7-year Tribulation Period. First consider that Jesus spoke of himself as a bridegroom, Luk 5:34-35. Also the New Testament teaches that the relationship between husband and wife is analogous to the relationship between Jesus and the Believing Church, Eph 5:22-32. Thus the subject here is the Marriage Supper of Jesus and his bride, the Believing Church. Just as God selected Israel to play a special role in bringing his plan of salvation to the world, Jesus has selected the Believing Church to enjoy this special relationship with him, as his bride.
BELIEVING CHURCH GIVEN FINE LINEN, BRIGHT AND CLEAN TO WEAR: We are told to rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the Marriage Supper of Jesus has come, and his wife has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear. Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints, Rev 19:7-8. The Lamb here is Jesus and the wife is the Believing Church, which has been to the Judgment Seat of Christ where rewards have been given, 2 Cor 5:10. The invited guests to this Marriage Supper are thought to be the righteous from all past ages, Rev 19:9. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 2-4.1.1 Judgment Seat of Christ, White Robes
THE HOLY CITY SPOKEN OF AS THE BRIDE, THE WIFE OF JESUS: The setting here is after the 1000-year Millennial Age has ended and Eternity has just begun. In John's (writer of Revelation) vision he saw a new sky and a new earth, for the first sky and the first earth had passed away, Rev 21:1. Then he saw the Holy City, the New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband, Rev 21:2. For more information,
CLICK to link to Chapter 1-4 Overview of Eternity or Chapter 4-2 New Sky, New Earth and Holy City
The Holy City is also described as the bride, the wife of the Lamb (Jesus), Rev 21:9-11. Since the Believing Church has been referred to as the bride or wife of Jesus, it appears that the Holy City will be the residence of the Believing Church throughout the ages of eternity. It is expected that the rest of the righteous from all past ages will also live in the Holy City as guests, just as they attended the Marriage Supper of Jesus as guests, Rev 19:9.
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Scripture for Chapter 2-4.2
Luk 5:33-35 And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink? 34And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? 35But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.
2 Cor 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
Eph 5:22-32 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23For 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. 24Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. 25Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 28So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. 29For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: 30For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 31For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
Rev 19:6-9 And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice