Revelation Revisited

One of the intriguing aspects of “End Times, Last Days” prophecies which highlight ‘end of days’ events is how much new information or antecedent perspective can be discovered with each re-reading or consecutive ‘deep dive’ study of materials previously examined.
 
If you’ve had an opportunity to read any of my End Times series’, you may have noticed a ‘tweaking’ of contextual material that has occurred within subsequent presentations. Through additional study I have learned, or more precisely, better understood connections between scriptural texts I missed, or misinterpreted for prior postings.
 
Once again, I find myself at a new level of discernment between the ‘connect-the-dot’ rubrics of prophetic events. One of the rewards of continued scriptural study is realizing previously missed relationships. With each ‘neo’ enlightenment moment clarity surrounding the End Times becomes more astutely obvious.
 
Even with prior series completed additional research offers up anew, “veiled in plain view” prophecy details. Think of it as taking steps slowly, yet with more confidence and balance the pace quickens. Perhaps this is one reason in His wisdom God made End Times and Last Days revelations purposely convoluted. His parsings allow us to dig deeper while seeking His intent. Searching to know more about His planned actions we notice information that may have been overlooked or misconstrued.
 
God’s desire is to ensure that all who choose to become His children are exposed to His plan of ridding evil from this world. In doing so He shows how He will establish a post-apocalyptic millennial (1000 year) reign for and by His incarnate Word, Jesus Christ. Moreover, He wants His children to understand why events associated with this cleansing and abolishing of evil are necessary as part of the world’s inhabitants’ spiritual reconciliation and redemption.
 
Before going further in this article I’d like to suggest four videos for your edification available on YouTube. They’re brief yet informative and will answer questions for many who are seeking and searching.
 
“Seven Prophecies That Must Be Fulfilled Before Jesus Christ’s Return”
(Prophecies that will come to pass during the End Times).
 
“Five Amazing Hidden Messages in the Bible”
(How unique is the Bible? Like no other book!).
 
“Believe in God in Five Minutes (Scientific Proof)"
(Is God real and is there proof?)
 
“The Horrific State of the American Empire”
(What’s ahead for America?)
 
Let’s continue our journey together as students of prophecy. End Times prophecies are often difficult. Here are a few reasons why:
Prophesies are found in different books, written by separate authors, and complied in a variety of different verses.
Prophesies are not presented chronologically.
Prophesies use different symbols, labels, or names to represent the same character or event. It often becomes necessary to ‘read between-the-lines’ to draw and see related inferences. There is also extensive cross-referencing about End Times events. These are but a few.
 
Every generation since the death of Christ has thought or imagined they might be living in the End times. Every generation has expected Christ’s return. Every generation has been told of the terror, hell, and damnation that can be expected as results of the End Times. Even today most (media) representations of the End Times focus exclusively on three events: the Rapture, the Antichrist, and Armageddon.
 
The Bible explains there are five basic time frames in and around the End Times.

1. Lead up events to the seven-year tribulation (described by the “Seals”)
2. The actual seven-year tribulation events (described by the “Trumpets” and “Bowls” [or “Vials” in some texts])
3. The post tribulation events (described by Christ’s “Second Coming” and “Armageddon”)
4. The millennial (1000 year) kingdom reign of Jesus Christ
5. The eternal kingdom (‘New Eden’)

Within Each ‘time frame’ are found and experienced multiple events and consequences.
 
To a certain degree ‘End Times and Last Days’ are sometimes thought to be or can be represented as synonymous, yet at the same time different. For some End Times are thought to begin with the opening of the ‘Seals’ (a binding of the scroll held by the Lamb [in heaven]). Depending on one’s perspective the breaking of these seals can start with the resurrection of Christ after his death on the cross at Calvary (in 33 CE) or just before the blowing of the trumpets. Others believe the End Times started with the establishment of the Jewish state of Israel in May 1948.
 
Others believe the End Times will start with the signing of a peace treaty between Israel and her enemies, (ending the Ezekiel War). Or with the first blast of the seven trumpets. Or with the initiation of the seven-year tribulation. Irrespective of when the End Times start(ed) you can be assured we are progressing (day-by-day) closer to their culminating presence as prophecies unfold more clearly. Regardless of where one lands in this debate, know this, the End Times as foretold will happen!
 
One of the most important aspects of the bible often missed by readers is that the entirety of the bible is about Jesus Christ. That’s right. Both the Old Testament and New Testament scriptures pertain to the person, roles, commission, teachings, purpose, and presence of God incarnate in human form. In and through the man we know as Jesus of Nazareth (the Christ/Messiah).
 
Jesus Himself spoke of and referenced the ‘End Times and Last Days’ in several instances and settings. His most complete written record appears in the book of Matthew, chapter 24 as well as through the visions shown to John in the book of Revelation. If the Word of God is true and if Jesus is the Word of God, then what Jesus had to say to His listeners then and now are true. Therefore, we should take heed and notice.
 
Join me next time for Part 2: ‘Preparations’.  




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