Introduction
In
The
Book
of
Revelation,
God
has
provided
last-day
Christians
with
7
promised
blessings
(beatitudes).
Each
is
designed
to
magnify
hope,
motivation,
and
a
resolute
faith
to
endure
the
unimaginable
hardships
that
will
occur
during
the
Tribulation.
“For
then
there
will
be
great
tribulation,
such
as
has
not
been
since
the
beginning
of
the
world
until
this
time,
no,
nor
ever
shall
be.
And
unless
those
days
were
shortened,
no
flesh
would
be
saved;
but
for
the
elect’s
sake
those
days
will
be
shortened.”
Matthew 24:21-22
The
term
“beatitude”
comes
from
the
Latin
word
“beatitude”
which
means
“blessedness,”
or
to
be
blessed.
In
addition,
beatitudes
are
more
than
just
blessings
because
they
are
also
promises
from
God.
Jesus
declared
8
beatitudes
in
His
Sermon
on
the
Mount
(
Matthew
5:1-12
).
The
first
7
describe
blessings
based
upon
the
desires
and
“conditions”
of
our
spiritual
heart,
the
last
defines
blessings
for
persecution of faith.
Note: The above 8 beatitudes are described in the lesson
“THE BEATITUDES” on UniqueBibleStudies.com.
However,
God
provided
Christians
with
7
additional
and
different
beatitudes
in
Revelation
that
describe
blessed
promises
one
may
receive
during
the
end
times.
As
you
read,
note
how
the
words
of
these
blessings reveal:
•
They are not based upon the desires and conditions of our spiritual heart.
•
They are focused upon what one will receive because of their behavior.
•
Warnings
that
an
unprecedented
degree
of
darkness
will
occur
in
the
future—which
will
require
an
unprecedented degree of commitment to our faith in our Savior and Lord, and in God’s promises.
•
Our need to:
o
Strengthen our faith in Jesus.
o
Focus upon His promises—as motivation to stand firm—as life becomes progressively difficult.
1
.
“Blessed
is
he
who
reads
and
those
who
hear
the
words
of
this
prophecy,
and
keep
those
things
which are written in it; for the time is near.”
Rev. 1:3
2
.
“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.”
Rev. 14:13
3
.
“Behold,
I
am
coming
as
a
thief.
Blessed
is
he
who
watches,
and
keeps
his
garments,
lest
he
walk
naked and they see his shame.”
Rev. 16:15
4
.
‘“Blessed
are
those
who
are
called
to
the
marriage
supper
of
the
Lamb!’
And
he
said
to
me,
‘These
are the true sayings of God.’”
Rev. 19:9
5
.
“Blessed
and
holy
is
he
who
has
part
in
the
first
resurrection.
Over
such
the
second
death
has
no
power,
but
they
shall
be
priests
of
God
and
of
Christ,
and
shall
reign
with
Him
a
thousand
years.”
Rev. 20:6
6
.
“Behold,
I
am
coming
quickly!
Blessed
is
he
who
keeps
the
words
of
the
prophecy
of
this
book.”
Rev. 22:7
7
.
“Blessed
are
those
who
do
His
commandments,
that
they
may
have
the
right
to
the
tree
of
life,
and
may enter through the gates into the city.”
Rev. 22:14
1.
“Blessed
is
he
who
reads
and
those
who
hear
the
words
of
this
prophecy,
and
keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.”
Rev. 1:3
This
beatitude
is
unique
in
that
it
promises
a
blessing
to
those
who
(1)
read
the
Book
of
Revelation,
and (2) obediently adhere to what is written.
Imagine
you
are
flying
in
an
airplane
and
cruising
along
at
35,000
feet
without
any
turbulence
or
issues.
However,
you
begin
to
notice
the
aircraft
begins
to
be
buffeted
by
some
turbulence.
Shortly
thereafter
your
concern
and
anxiety
increases
as
things
begin
to
more
aggressively
bounce
around
as
the
plane
is
increasingly
jostled
by
unseen
winds.
Meanwhile,
you
are
able
to
feel
an
air
of
tense
concern
among
the
passengers.
The
pilot’s
voice
is
then
heard
over
the
speakers
instructing
all
passengers
to
verify
their
seat
belts
are
securely
fastened,
and
the
flight
attendants
need
to
return
to
their
seats—as
the
turbulence,
buffeting
and
anxiety
increases.
Then,
in
an
instant,
the
plane
loses
altitude
and
you
become
weightless
as
unsecured
items
fly
about
in
the
cabin—and
the
fear
of
some
passengers
cause
them
to
scream.
Meanwhile,
you
realize
what’s
occurring
is
outside
of
your
control
as
your
heart
rate,
blood
pressure,
and
grip
on
the
arm
rests
increases—which
are
magnified
as
you
begin
to
consider
potential worst-case scenarios.
It
is
important
to
understand
we
are
all
flying
on
this
“airplane”
together...and
the
present
worsening
turbulence
we
are
experiencing
is
a
prelude
to
the
inevitable
“crash”
that
is
depicted
in
Revelation.
And
in
the
same
way
we
should
listen
and
obey
the
flight
attendants
who
are
trained
in
how
to
prepare
passengers
for
impact—we
should
listen
and
obey
the
instructional
and
prophetic
words
in
Revelation
to insure our life will continue after death.
Jesus
spoke
to
seven
churches
that
existed
in
Asia
Minor.
(
Rev.
2
&
3
)
The
words
of
Jesus
revealed
His
intimate
knowledge
of
each
church,
the
activity
of
each
church,
what
they
have
accomplished,
and
what
requires
improvement.
But
what’s
most
important,
His
words
are
relevant
today,
and
even
more
important as we enter into the last days. Here is a summary of what He said:
•
Maintain the love you first experienced when you asked Him to be your Lord.
•
Do not fear when you suffer tribulation at the hands of Satan.
•
Do not allow someone in your church to influence and/or teach doctrines that:
o
Conflicts with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
o
Redirects someone to worship an idol.
o
Justifies sin, including sexual immorality.
•
Do not allow any form of earthly wealth to foster complacency—but continually recognize:
o
Our need to be completely dependent upon God for everything.
o
Everything we have is a gift from God and should be used for His glory.
As
darkness
seeks
to
extinguish
the
light
and
life
of
Jesus
upon
earth,
all
of
us
will
need
to
continually
evaluate
and
elevate
our
eternal
priorities.
In
addition,
we
will
become
more
dependent
upon
our
brothers
and
sisters
in
Christ
for
support
and
strength.
But
be
assured,
God
will
intervene,
for
He
“Will
pour
out
My
Spirit
on
all
flesh;
your
sons
and
you
daughters
shall
prophesy,
your
old
men
shall
dream
d
reams, your young men shall see visions.”
Joel 2:28
If
you
have
not
read
the
Book
of
Revelation...a
verse-by-verse
expository
titled
“Revelations
Blessings”
is
available
on
UniqueBibleStudies.com.
Because
of
the
length
of
the
lesson,
it
must
be
downloaded
to
read
the
content.
Video
instructions
on
how
to
download
lessons
is
provided
at
the
top
of
the
website’s
first page.
2. “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.”
Rev. 14:13
This last day beatitude creates a visual image of the stark reality of Christian faith and martyrdom.
As
life
upon
earth
worsens,
as
sin
and
darkness
permeates
the
hearts
of
those
who
reject
Jesus,
and
as
Satan’s
hatred
and
lies
influences
the
behavior
of
those
who
are
destined
to
an
eternity
in
the
lake
of
fire...Christians
will
die
because
of
their
faith:
some
murdered,
some
beheaded,
and
some
from
starvation.
In
a
similar
manner
where
God
exercised
His
power
through
Jesus
to
reach
the
lost,
Satan
will
exercise
his
power
through
the
“beast”
to
reach
the
saved
and
to
insure
those
who
believe
his
lies
will
join
him
in
the
lake
of
fire.
Two
of
the
greatest
means
that
Satan
will
use
to
reach
the
faithful
will
be
through
forcing
Christians
to
worship
an
image
of
the
beast,
and
to
accept
the
beast’s
mark
to
buy
and
sell.
“He
was
granted
power
to
give
breath
to
the
image
of
the
beast,
that
the
image
of
the
beast
should
both
speak
and
cause
as
many
as
would
not
worship
the
image
of
the
beast
to
be
killed.”
Revelation
13:15
‘“I
saw
under
the
altar
the
souls
of
those
who
had
been
slain
for
the
word
of
God
and
for
the
testimony
which
they
held.
And
they
cried
with
a
loud
voice,
saying,
‘How
long,
O
Lord,
holy
and
true,
until
You
judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?’”
Revelation 6:9-10
“Then
I
saw
the
souls
of
those
who
had
been
beheaded
for
their
witness
to
Jesus
and
for
the
word
of
God,
who
had
not
worshiped
the
beast
or
his
image,
and
had
not
received
his
mark
on
their
foreheads
or on their hands.”
Revelation 20:4
These
brutal
and
unimaginable
acts—driven
by
lies
and
hatred—are
occurring
now
in
various
parts
of
the world.
•
Google “Murdered Christians” for the latest reports on killings.
•
Go to (
OpenDoors
) to view their “World Watch List.”
•
Go to (
Persecution.org
) to read the latest global news reports on persecution.
In
addition
to
death
caused
by
heinous
acts
of
those
who
reject
Jesus,
some
Christians
will
also
die
from starvation.
“He
causes
all,
both
small
and
great,
rich
and
poor,
free
and
slave,
to
receive
a
mark
on
their
right
hand
or
on
their
foreheads,
and
that
no
one
may
buy
or
sell
except
one
who
has
the
mark
or
the
name
of
the
beast, or the number of his name.”
Revelation 13:16-17
All
upon
earth
will
know
of
the
consequences
of
worshipping
the
beast
and
his
image
and
accepting
his
mark.
“Then
a
third
angel
followed
them,
saying
with
a
loud
voice,
‘If
anyone
worships
the
beast
and
his
image,
and
receives
his
mark
on
his
forehead
or
on
his
hand,
he
himself
shall
also
drink
of
the
wine
of
the
wrath
of
God,
which
is
poured
out
full
strength
into
the
cup
of
His
indignation.
He
shall
be
tormented
with
fire
and
brimstone
in
the
presence
of
the
holy
angels
and
in
the
presence
of
the
Lamb.
And
the
smoke
of
their
torment
ascends
forever
and
ever;
and
they
have
no
rest
day
or
night,
who
worship
the
beast
and
his
image,
and
whoever
receives
the
mark
of
his
name.’
Here
is
the
patience
of
the
saints;
here
are
those
who
keep
the
commandments
of
God
and
the
faith
of
Jesus.
Then
I
heard
a
voice
from
heaven
saying
to
me,
‘Write:
Blessed
are
the
dead
who
die
in
the
Lord
from
now
on.’”
Revelation 14:9-13
As
you
take
the
time
to
fully
“chew
upon
and
digest”
these
prophetic
truths...they
are
likely
causing
an
uncomfortable
feeling
in
the
gut
of
your
stomach.
So...here
is
a
question
to
ponder...What
changes
must
occur
within
our
global
society
to
transition
from
where
we
are
today
to
the
unprecedented
future
darkness depicted in the above scriptures? For these are the type of things we need to watch for.
3.
“Behold,
I
am
coming
as
a
thief.
Blessed
is
he
who
watches,
and
keeps
his
garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.”
Rev. 16:15
Jesus
exhorts
Christians
to
stay
continually
alert
and
prepared
for
His
return—which
will
occur
when
not expected.
•
“Therefore
you
also
be
ready,
for
the
Son
of
Man
is
coming
at
an
hour
you
do
not
expect.”
Mat.
24:44
•
“But
of
that
day
and
hour
no
one
knows,
not
even
the
angels
of
heaven,
but
My
Father
only.”
Mat.,
24:36
The
relevance
of
why
Jesus
used
the
word
“thief”
to
describe
His
return
may
be
found
in
Matthew
24:23:
“If
the
master
of
the
house
had
known
what
hour
the
thief
would
come,
he
would
have
watched
and
not
allowed
his
house
to
be
broken
into.”
For
if
we
had
a
prewarning
of
a
thief
who
would
break
into
our
home...we
would
stay
awake
and
watch
for
the
thief
to
protect
our
property.
Therefore,
to
protect our home (i.e. our spiritual being), we must:
•
Use
spiritual
discernment
to
watch
for
polarizing
changes
within
our
global
society.
These
changes
are
evidenced
by
increased
degrees
of
hatred,
division,
destruction,
inconceivable
behavior,
and
murders
(including
mass
murders
by
terrorist
groups
and
by
demonically-inspired
individuals)—which are indicators of Satan’s increased influence upon earth.
•
“Put
on
the
whole
armor
of
God,
that
you
may
be
able
to
stand
against
the
wiles
of
the
devil.
For
we
do
not
wrestle
against
flesh
and
blood,
but
against
principalities,
against
powers,
against
the
rulers
of
the
darkness
of
this
age,
against
spiritual
hosts
of
wickedness
in
the
heavenly
places.
Therefore
take
up
the
whole
armor
of
God,
that
you
may
be
able
to
withstand
in
the
evil
day,
and
having
done
all,
to
stand.
Stand
therefore,
having
girded
your
waist
with
truth,
having
put
on
the
breastplate
of
righteousness,
and
having
shod
your
feet
with
the
preparation
of
the
gospel
of
peace;
above
all,
taking
the
shield
of
faith
with
which
you
will
be
able
to
quench
all
the
fiery
darts
of
the
wicked
one.
And
take
the
helmet
of
salvation,
and
the
sword
of
the
Spirit,
which
is
the
word
of
God;
praying
always
with
all
prayer
and
supplication
in
the
Spirit,
being
watchful
to
this
end
with
all
perseverance and supplication for all the saints”
Ephesians 6:11-18
Those
who
fail
to
watch—and
those
who
do
not
keep
their
protective
spiritual
garments—will
find
it
increasingly
difficult
to
not
succumb
to
Satan’s
lies.
For
this
will
be
a
time
unlike
any
other—since
the
beginning
of
time,
and
for
eternity.
“For
then
there
will
be
great
tribulation,
such
as
has
not
been
since
the
beginning
of
the
world
until
this
time,
no,
nor
ever
shall
be.
And
unless
those
days
were
shortened,
no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.”
Matthew 24:21-22
“Therefore
whoever
hears
these
sayings
of
Mine,
and
does
them,
I
will
liken
him
to
a
wise
man
who
built
his
house
on
the
rock:
and
the
rain
descended,
the
floods
came,
and
the
winds
blew
and
beat
on
that
house;
and
it
did
not
fall,
for
it
was
founded
on
the
rock.
But
everyone
who
hears
these
sayings
of
Mine,
and
does
not
do
them,
will
be
like
a
foolish
man
who
built
his
house
on
the
sand:
and
the
rain
descended,
the
floods
came,
and
the
winds
blew
and
beat
on
that
house;
and
it
fell. And great was its fa
ll.”
Matthew 7:24-27
Worshipping
the
beast
and
accepting
his
mark
will
separate
the
saved
from
the
non-saved.
In
addition,
those
who
declare
they
are
a
Christian—but
their
heart
is
far
from
Jesus—will
no
longer
be
able
to
live
a
lie.
Every
person
will
be
forced
to
consider
the
benefits
and
consequences
of
two
choices,
and
will
make
an
eternal
decision.
Jesus
used
earthly
aspects
of
life
to
explain
spiritual
truths.
In
the
Parable
of
the
Wheat
and
the
Tares,
the:
•
Seed (wheat) represents Christians.
•
Tares (weeds) represent non-Christians.
•
Enemy is Satan.
•
Harvest represents the last days.
•
Burning of the tares represents the lake of fire.
•
Gathering
of
the
wheat
into
the
barn
represents
those
who
love
God
with
all
of
their
heart,
soul,
mind and strength—for this is what it till take to endure. (
Mark 12:28-30
)
“The
kingdom
of
heaven
is
like
a
man
who
sowed
good
seed
in
his
field;
but
while
men
slept,
his
enemy
came
and
sowed
tares
among
the
wheat
and
went
his
way.
But
when
the
grain
had
sprouted
and
produced
a
crop,
then
the
tares
also
appeared.
So
the
servants
of
the
owner
came
and
said
to
him,
‘Sir,
did
you
not
sow
good
seed
in
your
field?
How
then
does
it
have
tares?’
He
said
to
them,
‘An
enemy
has
done
this.’
The
servants
said
to
him,
‘Do
you
want
us
then
to
go
and
gather
them
up?’
But
he
said,
‘No,
lest
while
you
gather
up
the
tares
you
also
uproot
the
wheat
with
them.
Let
both
grow
together
until
the
harvest,
and
at
the
time
of
harvest
I
will
say
to
the
reapers,
‘First
gather
together
the
tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.’”
Matthew 13:24-30
4.
‘“Blessed
are
those
who
are
called
to
the
marriage
supper
of
the
Lamb!’
And
he
said to me, ‘These are the true sayings of God.’”
Rev. 19:9
This
beatitude
is
an
absolute
promise
from
God
that
provides
motivational
strength
to
persevere
through
the
difficult
times—because
the
present
suffering
is
temporary
and
the
glory
that
is
before
us
is
eternal.
The
marriage
supper
of
the
Lamb
is
a
wedding
feast
that
culminates
the
relationship
between
the
Lamb
(Jesus
Christ),
and
His
bride
(those
who
were
saved
by
their
faith
in
His
sacrificial
death).
It
also
signifies the eternal celebration of the redeemed with the Redeemer.
The
Parable
of
the
Great
Supper
(spoken
by
Jesus
below)
provides
insight
into
God’s
desire
to
dwell
amongst
and
interact
with
those
who
love
Him—now
and
for
eternity.
He
initially
chose
and
dwelt
amongst
the
Israelites,
made
a
covenant
with
them,
provided
for
their
physical
and
spiritual
needs—but
they
rejected
Him.
So,
He
made
a
New
Covenant
through
the
sacrificial
death
of
His
Son,
Jesus,
that
invites
all
(Jew
and
non-Jew)
to
the
marriage
supper
of
the
Lamb,
and
into
an
eternal
relationship
with
Him.
(
Jer.
31:31-33;
Ezekiel
36:26-27;
Luke
22
:20;
Hebrews
8:6,
9:15;
Romans
6:23;
Ephesians
2:8-9,
5:25-27; Rev. 19:7-8
)
“A
certain
man
gave
a
great
supper
and
invited
many,
and
sent
his
servant
at
supper
time
to
say
to
those
who
were
invited,
‘Come,
for
all
things
are
now
ready.’
But
they
all
with
one
accord
began
to
make
excuses.
The
first
said
to
him,
‘I
have
bought
a
piece
of
ground,
and
I
must
go
and
see
it.
I
ask
you
to
have
me
excused.’
And
another
said,
‘I
have
bought
five
yoke
of
oxen,
and
I
am
going
to
test
them.
I
ask
you
to
have
me
excused.’
Still
another
said,
‘I
have
married
a
wife,
and
therefore
I
cannot
come.’
So
that
servant
came
and
reported
these
things
to
his
master.
Then
the
master
of
the
house,
being
angry,
said
to
his
servant,
‘Go
out
quickly
into
the
streets
and
lanes
of
the
city,
and
bring
in
here
the
poor
and
the
maimed
and
the
lame
and
the
blind.’
And
the
servant
said,
‘Master,
it
is
done
as
you
commanded,
and
still
there
is
room.’
Then
the
master
said
to
the
servant,
‘Go
out
into
the
highways
and
hedges,
and
compel
them
to
come
in,
that
my
house
may
be
filled.
For
I
say
to
you
that
none
of
those
men
who
were
invited
shall
taste
my
supper.’”
Luke
14:16-24
5.
“Blessed
and
holy
is
he
who
has
part
in
the
first
resurrection.
Over
such
the
second
death
has
no
power,
but
they
shall
be
priests
of
God
and
of
Christ,
and
shall
reign with Him a thousand years.”
Rev. 20:6
Throughout
time
all
humans
have
experienced
a
terrifying
unknown—which
causes
varying
degrees
of
an
uncontrollable
upwelling
of
anxiety
and
stress:
what
happens
to
us
after
our
physical
bodies
die?
These
life-draining
emotions
become
stronger
as
we
get
older—especially
when
we
are
facing
a
potential
life-ending
illness...or
a
last
day
situation
that
may
cause
us
to
be
murdered
because
of
our
faith in Jesus.
However,
those
who
will
die
for
their
testimony
during
the
last
days
will
have
absolute
proof
of
the
fulfillment
of
God’s
prophetic
word
occurring
in
the
world—all
of
which
will
strengthen
our
resolute
faith,
and will reduce our anxiety and stress in facing death because of His promised blessings.
What Occurs When We Die
All
of
us
are
born
with
a
spiritual
entity
within
our
body—which
is
commonly
referred
to
as
our
soul.
As
such,
our
body
may
be
considered
as
“a
tent
or
house”
that
our
souls
reside
in.
In
addition,
our
temporary body:
•
Has a limited life span.
•
Is designed to enable our soul to function within the physical world.
•
Provide a means for our soul to grow and mature.
•
Facilitates interaction with other souls.
•
Supports procreation.
•
Reflects the personality of our soul.
“For
we
know
that
if
our
earthly
house,
this
tent,
is
destroyed,
we
have
a
building
from
God,
a
house
not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.”
2 Corinthians 5:1
Our
souls
will
leave
our
physical
body
upon
death.
But
what
is
most
important
to
understand...our
souls
are
spiritual
and
will
exist
forever.
God’s
word
provides
us
with
insight
as
to
what
occurs
to
our
souls:
•
Our souls will temporarily “sleep.”
•
At some point in the future:
o
Those who placed their faith in Jesus will be raised to everlasting life (1st Resurrection).
o
Those who rejected Jesus will be raised to an everlasting second death (2nd Resurrection).
“And
many
of
those
who
sleep
in
the
dust
of
the
earth
shall
awake,
some
to
everlasting
life,
some
to
shame and everlasting contempt.”
Daniel 12:2
“Do
not
marvel
at
this;
for
the
hour
is
coming
in
which
all
who
are
in
the
graves
will
hear
His
voice
and
come
forth—those
who
have
done
good,
to
the
resurrection
of
life,
and
those
who
have
done
evil,
to
the resurrection of condemnation.”
John 5:28-29
“But
I
do
not
want
you
to
be
ignorant,
brethren,
concerning
those
who
have
fallen
asleep,
lest
you
sorrow
as
others
who
have
no
hope.
For
if
we
believe
that
Jesus
died
and
rose
again,
even
so
God
will
bring
with
Him
those
who
sleep
in
Jesus.
For
this
we
say
to
you
by
the
word
of
the
Lord,
that
we
who
are
alive
and
remain
until
the
coming
of
the
Lord
will
by
no
means
precede
those
who
are
asleep.
For
the
Lord
Himself
will
descend
from
heaven
with
a
shout,
with
the
voice
of
an
archangel,
and
with
the
trumpet
of
God.
And
the
dead
in
Christ
will
rise
first.
Then
we
who
are
alive
and
remain
shall
be
caught
up
together
with
them
in
the
clouds
to
meet
the
Lord
in
the
air.
And
thus
we
shall
always
be
with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.”
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
6.
“Behold,
I
am
coming
quickly!
Blessed
is
he
who
keeps
the
words
of
the
prophecy
of this book.”
Rev. 22:7
The sixth beatitude reinforces the messaging of the third, first and seventh beatitude.
•
He is coming quickly (as a thief).
•
Therefore, watch and obediently adhere for the time is near.
“Behold,
I
tell
you
a
mystery:
We
shall
not
all
sleep,
but
we
shall
all
be
changed—in
a
moment,
in
the
twinkling
of
an
eye,
at
the
last
trumpet.
For
the
trumpet
will
sound,
and
the
dead
will
be
raised
incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”
1 Corinthians 15:51-52
Consider
the
length
of
time
it
takes
for
our
eyes
to
blink...which
is
about
100
milliseconds
(0.1
seconds).
Go
ahead
and
blink
your
eyes...for
this
is
how
long
it
will
take
for
the
first
resurrection
to
occur.
In
a
fraction
of
a
second
all
who
believe
in
Jesus
will
be
transformed
and
raised
in
righteousness.
This
is
why
Jesus
warns
us
to
watch
and
be
constantly
ready
because
no
one
knows
the
day,
hour,
minute, and micro second when this event will occur.
“But
of
that
day
and
hour
no
one
knows,
not
even
the
angels
of
heaven,
but
My
Father
only.
But
as
the
days
of
Noah
were,
so
also
will
the
coming
of
the
Son
of
Man
be.
For
as
in
the
days
before
the
flood,
they
were
eating
and
drinking,
marrying
and
giving
in
marriage,
until
the
day
that
Noah
entered
the
ark,
and
did
not
know
until
the
flood
came
and
took
them
all
away,
so
also
will
the
coming
of
the
Son
of
Man
be.
Then
two
men
will
be
in
the
field:
one
will
be
taken
and
the
other
left.
Two
women
will
be
grinding
at
the
mill:
one
will
be
taken
and
the
other
left.
Watch
therefore,
for
you
do
not
know
what
hour
your
Lord
is
coming.
But
know
this,
that
if
the
master
of
the
house
had
known
what
hour
the
thief
would
come,
he
would
have
watched
and
not
allowed
his
house
to
be
broken
into.
Therefore
you
also
be
ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Matthew 24:36-44
7.
“Blessed
are
those
who
do
His
commandments,
that
they
may
have
the
right
to
the
tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.”
Rev. 22:14
There are three components of this beatitude: obey, tree of life, and entering into the gates of Heaven.
Obey
The
influential
power
of
Satan’s
lies
will
continually
increase
throughout
the
7-year
Tribulation.
Satan’s
intent
is
to
darken
the
minds
of
the
damned,
while
seeking
to
destroy
those
who
have
placed
their
faith
in Jesus by giving them reasons to disobey God.
“By
this
we
know
that
we
love
the
children
of
God,
when
we
love
God
and
keep
His
commandments.
For
this
is
the
love
of
God,
that
we
keep
His
commandments.
And
His
commandments
are
not
burdensome.
For
whatever
is
born
of
God
overcomes
the
world.
And
this
is
the
victory
that
has
overcome
the
world—our
faith.
Who
is
he
who
overcomes
the
world,
but
he
who
believes
that
Jesus
is
the Son of God?”
1 John 5:2-5
“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”
James 1:22
Tree of Life
The
Bible
specifically
identifies
two
trees
in
the
Garden
of
Eden:
the
Tree
of
Life
and
the
Tree
of
the
Knowledge
of
Good
and
Evil.
“And
out
of
the
ground
the
Lord
God
made
every
tree
grow
that
is
pleasant
to
the
sight
and
good
for
food.
The
tree
of
life
was
also
in
the
midst
of
the
garden,
and
the
tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
” Genesis 2:9
Eating
from
the
Tree
of
Life
provides
eternal
life
and
divine
sustenance.
Whereas,
eating
from
the
Tree
of
the
Knowledge
of
Good
and
evil
creates
moral
awareness
and
the
consequences
of
disobedience.
It
is
important
to
note
that
the
only
tree
in
the
Garden
of
Eden
that
God
told
Adam
not
to
eat
was
the
tree
of
the
knowledge
of
good
and
evil.
God
did
not
tell
Adam
not
to
eat
from
the
tree
of
life—which
would have caused Adam and Eve to live forever.
“Then
the
Lord
God
said,
‘Behold,
the
man
has
become
like
one
of
Us,
to
know
good
and
evil.
And
now,
lest
he
put
out
his
hand
and
take
also
of
the
tree
of
life,
and
eat,
and
live
forever.
So
He
drove
out
the
man;
and
He
placed
cherubim
at
the
east
of
the
garden
of
Eden,
and
a
flaming
sword
which
turned
every way, to guard the way to the tree of life.”
Genesis 3:22, 24
“And
he
showed
me
a
pure
river
of
water
of
life,
clear
as
crystal,
proceeding
from
the
throne
of
God
and
of
the
Lamb.
In
the
middle
of
its
street,
and
on
either
side
of
the
river,
was
the
tree
of
life,
which
bore
twelve
fruits,
each
tree
yielding
its
fruit
every
month.
The
leaves
of
the
tree
were
for
the
healing
of
the nations.”
Revelation 22:1-2
Entering Through the Gates of Heaven
Although
it
is
only
conceptual
at
this
point...consider
the
exhilaration
of
your
emotional
experience
when
your
eyes
see
the
gates.
Because
of
your
faith
and
obedience...all
that
you
have
hoped
for
has
come to fruition...and all of the difficulties that you persevered has become a distant memory.
“Then
one
of
the
seven
angels
who
had
the
seven
bowls
filled
with
the
seven
last
plagues
came
to
me
and
talked
with
me,
saying,
‘Come,
I
will
show
you
the
bride,
the
Lamb’s
wife.’
And
he
carried
me
away
in
the
Spirit
to
a
great
and
high
mountain,
and
showed
me
the
great
city,
the
holy
Jerusalem,
descending
out
of
heaven
from
God,
having
the
glory
of
God.
Her
light
was
like
a
most
precious
stone,
like
a
jasper
stone,
clear
as
crystal.
Also
she
had
a
great
and
high
wall
with
twelve
gates,
and
twelve
angels
at
the
gates,
and
names
written
on
them,
which
are
the
names
of
the
twelve
tribes
of
the
children
of
Israel:
three
gates
on
the
east,
three
gates
on
the
north,
three
gates
on
the
south,
and
three
gates
on
the
west.
Now
the
wall
of
the
city
had
twelve
foundations,
and
on
them
were
the
names
of
the
twelve apostles of the Lamb.”
Revelation 21:9-14
Summary
The
7
Revelation
beatitudes
are
comprised
of
warnings,
instructional
messages
and
blessings
for
compliance:
•
Warnings:
o
The time is near for the occurrence of things written in Revelation.
o
Christians will die because of their faith.
o
Those who do not take part in the first resurrection will experience a second death.
•
Instructional Messages:
o
Read and understand the Book of Revelation.
o
Jesus will return and is coming soon.
o
Obey instructions by:
▪
Continually watching for His return.
▪
Abstaining from sin.
•
Blessings:
o
Entry into Heaven.
o
Right to eat from the tree of life.
o
Reign with Jesus.
o
Participate in the marriage supper of the Lamb.
o
Will not die a second deat
h.
As
we
look
into
the
unknowns
of
a
progressively
dark
future...remember:
•
God is in control.
•
The hardship and turbulent times are temporary.
•
All that is occurring is prophesized in the Bible.
•
God will pour out His Spirit in the last days.
•
“He
Himself
has
said,
‘I
will
never
leave
you
nor
forsake
you.’
So
we
may
boldly
say
The
Lord
is
my
helper;
I
will
not fear. What can man do to me?”
Hebrews 13:5-6
•
“God
is
faithful,
who
will
not
allow
you
to
be
tempted
beyond what you are able.”
1 Cor. 10:13
When
you
“stand
back”
and
look
at
the
“big
picture”...there
is
nothing
we
can
do
to
change
what
will
occur
in
the
last
days.
Some
perceive
it
is
possible
to
avoid
the
last
days
via
political
means
or
military
strength. But these approaches are in vain—for God’s plan and His prophetic word will occur.
However, there are areas where we can make an impact. For example, we can make changes:
•
Within our own lives by enhancing our spiritual strength.
•
In the lives of others by:
o
Introducing them to Jesus.
o
Supporting
those
who
are
weak
in
their
faith
by
providing
them
with
biblical
reasons
to
endure,
and with prayer.
Jesus
spoke
of
the
benefits
of
overcoming
to
the
7
churches
in
Revelation.
(
Rev.
2
&
3
)
Here
are
a
few...
“To him who overcomes:
•
I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.”
•
Shall not be hurt by the
second death.”
•
To him I will give power
over the nations.”
•
Shall be clothed in
white garments.”
•
I will not blot out his name from The
Book of Life.”
•
I will confess his name before My
Father and before His angels.”
•
I will grant to sit with
Me on My throne.”
All for His Glory!
Harold D. Thomas
Thought-Provoking Questions
The
purpose
of
the
questions
is
to
facilitate
a
deeper
understanding
of
the
Bible,
this
Bible
study
topic,
and
ourselves.
The
questions
may
be
answered
by
each
reader,
or
used
by
a
Bible
study
group
leader,
or
church
pastor.
The
questions
should
be
answered
or
discussed
after
reading
the
lesson.
In
addition,
the
questions
are
designed
to
enhance
learning
via
the
determination
of
personal
opinions
and
discovering
how
the
lesson
content
relates
to
our
personal
lives.
As
such,
no
answers
are
provided.
Questions
Which of the 7 Revelation blessings do you think is most important?
Why do you think God added these 7 blessings to Revelation? What purpose do they provide?
The
lesson
described
how
we
emotionally
respond
to
the
experience
of
flying
in
airplane
that
is
severely buffeted by air turbulence. Identify at least 3 ways this analogy correlates to the last days.
Jesus
spoke
to
the
7
churches
(
Rev.
2
&
3
).
He
identified
something
within
each
church
that
requires
improvement.
•
Were you surprised to learn of the degree of specific knowledge Jesus had of each church?
•
Can
you
identify
an
example
of
how
His
words—written
almost
2,000
years
ago—are
relatable
to
today?
•
Which one speaks to your heart the most?
The
Bible
states
people
will
be
murdered
for
their
faith
because
they
did
not
worship
the
beast
and
did
not
receive
his
mark.
Consider
where
our
“global
society”
is
today
and
identify
aspects
that
will
change
for this to occur.
“Blessed
is
he
who
watches,
and
keeps
his
garments,
lest
he
walk
naked
and
they
see
his
shame.”
Rev. 16:15
•
What does it mean to watch?
•
What and where would you look?
•
What does it mean to keep your garments?
•
What do the words “walk naked” and “shame” mean?
Why do you think the Bible does not state the specific time when Jesus will return?
The
lesson
states
that
there
is
nothing
we
can
do
to
change
the
inevitable
direction
this
world
is
headed. Do you agree or disagree?
If
someone
was
interested
in
the
lesson
and
they
asked
you
to
provide
a
short
summary...what
would
you say?
Is there anything new you have learned from this lesson?
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Introduction
In
The
Book
of
Revelation,
God
has
provided
last-day
Christians
with
7
promised
blessings
(beatitudes).
Each
is
designed
to
magnify
hope,
motivation,
and
a
resolute
faith
to
endure
the
unimaginable
hardships
that
will
occur
during
the
Tribulation.
“For
then
there
will
be
great
tribulation,
such
as
has
not
been
since
the
beginning
of
the
world
until
this
time,
no,
nor
ever
shall
be.
And
unless
those
days
were
shortened,
no
flesh
would
be
saved;
but
for
the
elect’s
sake
those
days
will
be
shortened.”
Matthew 24:21-22
The
term
“beatitude”
comes
from
the
Latin
word
“beatitude”
which
means
“blessedness,”
or
to
be
blessed.
In
addition,
beatitudes
are
more
than
just
blessings
because they are also promises from God.
Jesus
declared
8
beatitudes
in
His
Sermon
on
the
Mount
(
Matthew
5:1-12
).
The
first
7
describe
blessings
based
upon
the
desires
and
“conditions”
of
our
spiritual
heart,
the last defines blessings for persecution of faith.
Note: The above 8 beatitudes are described in the lesson
“THE BEATITUDES” on UniqueBibleStudies.com.
However,
God
provided
Christians
with
7
additional
and
different
beatitudes
in
Revelation
that
describe
blessed
promises
one
may
receive
during
the
end
times.
As
you
read, note how the words of these blessings reveal:
•
They
are
not
based
upon
the
desires
and
conditions
of our spiritual heart.
•
They
are
focused
upon
what
one
will
receive
because
of their behavior.
•
Warnings
that
an
unprecedented
degree
of
darkness
will
occur
in
the
future—which
will
require
an
unprecedented
degree
of
commitment
to
our
faith
in
our Savior and Lord, and in God’s promises.
•
Our need to:
o
Strengthen our faith in Jesus.
o
Focus
upon
His
promises—as
motivation
to
stand
firm—as life becomes progressively difficult.
1
.
“Blessed
is
he
who
reads
and
those
who
hear
the
words
of
this
prophecy,
and
keep
those
things
which
are written in it; for the time is near.”
Rev. 1:3
2
.
“Blessed
are
the
dead
who
die
in
the
Lord
from
now
on.”
Rev. 14:13
3
.
“Behold,
I
am
coming
as
a
thief.
Blessed
is
he
who
watches,
and
keeps
his
garments,
lest
he
walk
naked and they see his shame.”
Rev. 16:15
4
.
‘“Blessed
are
those
who
are
called
to
the
marriage
supper
of
the
Lamb!’
And
he
said
to
me,
‘These
are
the true sayings of God.’”
Rev. 19:9
5
.
“Blessed
and
holy
is
he
who
has
part
in
the
first
resurrection.
Over
such
the
second
death
has
no
power,
but
they
shall
be
priests
of
God
and
of
Christ,
and
shall
reign
with
Him
a
thousand
years.”
Rev.
20:6
6
.
“Behold,
I
am
coming
quickly!
Blessed
is
he
who
keeps
the
words
of
the
prophecy
of
this
book.”
Rev.
22:7
7
.
“Blessed
are
those
who
do
His
commandments,
that
they
may
have
the
right
to
the
tree
of
life,
and
may
enter through the gates into the city.”
Rev. 22:14
1.
“Blessed
is
he
who
reads
and
those
who
hear
the
words
of
this
prophecy,
and
keep
those
things
which
are written in it; for the time is near.”
Rev. 1:3
This
beatitude
is
unique
in
that
it
promises
a
blessing
to
those
who
(1)
read
the
Book
of
Revelation,
and
(2)
obediently adhere to what is written.
Imagine
you
are
flying
in
an
airplane
and
cruising
along
at
35,000
feet
without
any
turbulence
or
issues.
However,
you
begin
to
notice
the
aircraft
begins
to
be
buffeted
by
some
turbulence.
Shortly
thereafter
your
concern
and
anxiety
increases
as
things
begin
to
more
aggressively
bounce
around
as
the
plane
is
increasingly
jostled
by
unseen
winds.
Meanwhile,
you
are
able
to
feel
an
air
of
tense
concern
among
the
passengers.
The
pilot’s
voice
is
then
heard
over
the
speakers
instructing
all
passengers
to
verify
their
seat
belts
are
securely
fastened,
and
the
flight
attendants
need
to
return
to
their
seats—as
the
turbulence,
buffeting
and
anxiety
increases.
Then,
in
an
instant,
the
plane
loses
altitude
and
you
become
weightless
as
unsecured
items
fly
about
in
the
cabin—and
the
fear
of
some
passengers
cause
them
to
scream.
Meanwhile,
you
realize
what’s
occurring
is
outside
of
your
control
as
your
heart
rate,
blood
pressure,
and
grip
on
the
arm
rests
increases—which
are
magnified
as
you
begin
to
consider
potential
worst-case
scenarios.
It
is
important
to
understand
we
are
all
flying
on
this
“airplane”
together...and
the
present
worsening
turbulence
we
are
experiencing
is
a
prelude
to
the
inevitable
“crash”
that
is
depicted
in
Revelation.
And
in
the
same
way
we
should
listen
and
obey
the
flight
attendants
who
are
trained
in
how
to
prepare
passengers
for
impact—we
should
listen
and
obey
the
instructional
and
prophetic
words
in
Revelation
to
insure
our
life
will
continue after death.
Jesus
spoke
to
seven
churches
that
existed
in
Asia
Minor.
(
Rev.
2
&
3
)
The
words
of
Jesus
revealed
His
intimate
knowledge
of
each
church,
the
activity
of
each
church,
what
they
have
accomplished,
and
what
requires
improvement.
But
what’s
most
important,
His
words
are
relevant
today,
and
even
more
important
as
we
enter
into
the last days. Here is a summary of what He said:
•
Maintain
the
love
you
first
experienced
when
you
asked Him to be your Lord.
•
Do
not
fear
when
you
suffer
tribulation
at
the
hands
of
Satan.
•
Do
not
allow
someone
in
your
church
to
influence
and/or teach doctrines that:
o
Conflicts with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
o
Redirects someone to worship an idol.
o
Justifies sin, including sexual immorality.
•
Do
not
allow
any
form
of
earthly
wealth
to
foster
complacency—but continually recognize:
o
Our
need
to
be
completely
dependent
upon
God
for
everything.
o
Everything
we
have
is
a
gift
from
God
and
should
be used for His glory.
As
darkness
seeks
to
extinguish
the
light
and
life
of
Jesus
upon
earth,
all
of
us
will
need
to
continually
evaluate
and
elevate
our
eternal
priorities.
In
addition,
we
will
become
more
dependent
upon
our
brothers
and
sisters
in
Christ
for
support
and
strength.
But
be
assured,
God
will
intervene,
for
He
“Will
pour
out
My
Spirit
on
all
flesh;
your
sons
and
you
daughters
shall
prophesy,
your
old
men
shall
dream
dreams,
your
young
men shall see visions.”
Joel 2:28
If
you
have
not
read
the
Book
of
Revelation,
a
verse-by-
verse
study
called
“Revelations
Blessings”
is
on
UniqueBibleStudies.com.
Because
of
the
length
of
the
lesson,
it
must
be
downloaded
to
read
the
content.
Video
instructions
on
how
to
download
lessons
is
provided at the top of the website’s first page.
2.
“Blessed
are
the
dead
who
die
in
the
Lord
from
now on.”
Rev. 14:13
This
last
day
beatitude
creates
a
visual
image
of
the
stark reality of Christian faith and martyrdom.
As
life
upon
earth
worsens,
as
sin
and
darkness
permeates
the
hearts
of
those
who
reject
Jesus,
and
as
Satan’s
hatred
and
lies
influences
the
behavior
of
those
who
are
destined
to
an
eternity
in
the
lake
of
fire...Christians
will
die
because
of
their
faith:
some
murdered, some beheaded, and some from starvation.
In
a
similar
manner
where
God
exercised
His
power
through
Jesus
to
reach
the
lost,
Satan
will
exercise
his
power
through
the
“beast”
to
reach
the
saved
and
to
insure
those
who
believe
his
lies
will
join
him
in
the
lake
of
fire.
Two
of
the
greatest
means
that
Satan
will
use
to
reach
the
faithful
will
be
through
forcing
Christians
to
worship
an
image
of
the
beast,
and
to
accept
the
beast’s
mark to buy and sell.
“He
was
granted
power
to
give
breath
to
the
image
of
the
beast,
that
the
image
of
the
beast
should
both
speak
and
cause
as
many
as
would
not
worship
the
image
of
the
beast to be killed.”
Revelation 13:15
‘“I
saw
under
the
altar
the
souls
of
those
who
had
been
slain
for
the
word
of
God
and
for
the
testimony
which
they
held.
And
they
cried
with
a
loud
voice,
saying,
‘How
long,
O
Lord,
holy
and
true,
until
You
judge
and
avenge
our
blood
on
those
who
dwell
on
the
earth?’”
Revelation
6:9-10
“Then
I
saw
the
souls
of
those
who
had
been
beheaded
for
their
witness
to
Jesus
and
for
the
word
of
God,
who
had
not
worshiped
the
beast
or
his
image,
and
had
not
received
his
mark
on
their
foreheads
or
on
their
hands.”
Revelation 20:4
These
brutal
and
unimaginable
acts—driven
by
lies
and
hatred—are occurring now in various parts of the world.
•
Google
“Murdered
Christians”
for
the
latest
reports
on
killings.
•
Go to (
OpenDoors
) to view their “World Watch List.”
•
Go
to
(
Persecution.org
)
to
read
the
latest
global
news
reports on persecution.
In
addition
to
death
caused
by
heinous
acts
of
those
who
reject
Jesus,
some
Christians
will
also
die
from
starvation.
“He
causes
all,
both
small
and
great,
rich
and
poor,
free
and
slave,
to
receive
a
mark
on
their
right
hand
or
on
their
foreheads,
and
that
no
one
may
buy
or
sell
except
one
who
has
the
mark
or
the
name
of
the
beast,
or
the
number of his name.”
Revelation 13:16-17
All
upon
earth
will
know
of
the
consequences
of
worshipping
the
beast
and
his
image
and
accepting
his
mark.
“Then
a
third
angel
followed
them,
saying
with
a
loud
voice,
‘If
anyone
worships
the
beast
and
his
image,
and
receives
his
mark
on
his
forehead
or
on
his
hand,
he
himself
shall
also
drink
of
the
wine
of
the
wrath
of
God,
which
is
poured
out
full
strength
into
the
cup
of
His
indignation.
He
shall
be
tormented
with
fire
and
brimstone
in
the
presence
of
the
holy
angels
and
in
the
presence
of
the
Lamb.
And
the
smoke
of
their
torment
ascends
forever
and
ever;
and
they
have
no
rest
day
or
night,
who
worship
the
beast
and
his
image,
and
whoever
receives
the
mark
of
his
name.’
Here
is
the
patience
of
the
saints;
here
are
those
who
keep
the
commandments
of
God
and
the
faith
of
Jesus.
Then
I
heard
a
voice
from
heaven
saying
to
me,
‘Write:
Blessed
are
the
dead
who
die
in
the
Lord
from
now
on.’”
Revelation 14:9-13
As
you
take
the
time
to
fully
“chew
upon
and
digest”
these
prophetic
truths...they
are
likely
causing
an
uncomfortable
feeling
in
the
gut
of
your
stomach.
So...here
is
a
question
to
ponder...What
changes
must
occur
within
our
global
society
to
transition
from
where
we
are
today
to
the
unprecedented
future
darkness
depicted
in
the
above
scriptures?
For
these
are
the
type
of things we need to watch for.
3.
“Behold,
I
am
coming
as
a
thief.
Blessed
is
he
who
watches,
and
keeps
his
garments,
lest
he
walk
naked and they see his shame.”
Rev. 16:15
Jesus
exhorts
Christians
to
stay
continually
alert
and
prepared
for
His
return—which
will
occur
when
not
expected.
•
“Therefore
you
also
be
ready,
for
the
Son
of
Man
is
coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Mat. 24:44
•
“But
of
that
day
and
hour
no
one
knows,
not
even
the
angels of heaven, but My Father only.”
Mat., 24:36
The
relevance
of
why
Jesus
used
the
word
“thief”
to
describe
His
return
may
be
found
in
Matthew
24:23:
“If
the
master
of
the
house
had
known
what
hour
the
thief
would
come,
he
would
have
watched
and
not
allowed
his
house
to
be
broken
into.”
For
if
we
had
a
prewarning
of
a
thief
who
would
break
into
our
home...we
would
stay
awake
and
watch
for
the
thief
to
protect
our
property.
Therefore,
to
protect
our
home
(i.e.
our
spiritual
being),
we must:
•
Use
spiritual
discernment
to
watch
for
polarizing
changes
within
our
global
society.
These
changes
are
evidenced
by
increased
degrees
of
hatred,
division,
destruction,
inconceivable
behavior,
and
murders
(including
mass
murders
by
terrorist
groups
and
by
demonically-inspired
individuals)—which
are
indicators of Satan’s increased influence upon earth.
•
“Put
on
the
whole
armor
of
God,
that
you
may
be
able
to
stand
against
the
wiles
of
the
devil.
For
we
do
not
wrestle
against
flesh
and
blood,
but
against
principalities,
against
powers,
against
the
rulers
of
the
darkness
of
this
age,
against
spiritual
hosts
of
wickedness
in
the
heavenly
places.
Therefore
take
up
the
whole
armor
of
God,
that
you
may
be
able
to
withstand
in
the
evil
day,
and
having
done
all,
to
stand.
Stand
therefore,
having
girded
your
waist
with
truth,
having
put
on
the
breastplate
of
righteousness,
and
having
shod
your
feet
with
the
preparation
of
the
gospel
of
peace;
above
all,
taking
the
shield
of
faith
with
which
you
will
be
able
to
quench
all
the
fiery
darts
of
the
wicked
one.
And
take
the
helmet
of
salvation,
and
the
sword
of
the
Spirit,
which
is
the
word
of
God;
praying
always
with
all
prayer
and
supplication
in
the
Spirit,
being
watchful
to
this
end
with
all
perseverance
and supplication for all the saints”
Ephesians 6:11-18
Those
who
fail
to
watch—and
those
who
do
not
keep
their
protective
spiritual
garments—will
find
it
increasingly
difficult
to
not
succumb
to
Satan’s
lies.
For
this
will
be
a
time
unlike
any
other—since
the
beginning
of
time,
and
for
eternity.
“For
then
there
will
be
great
tribulation,
such
as
has
not
been
since
the
beginning
of
the
world
until
this
time,
no,
nor
ever
shall
be.
And
unless
those
days
were
shortened,
no
flesh
would
be
saved;
but
for
the
elect’s
sake those days will be shorten
ed.”
Matthew 24:21-22
“Therefore
whoever
hears
these
sayings
of
Mine,
and
does
them,
I
will
liken
him
to
a
wise
man
who
built
his
house
on
the
rock:
and
the
rain
descended,
the
floods
came,
and
the
winds
blew
and
beat
on
that
house;
and
it
did
not
fall,
for
it
was
founded
on
the
rock.
But
everyone
who
hears
these
sayings
of
Mine,
and
does
not
do
them,
will
be
like
a
foolish
man
who
built
his
house
on
the
sand:
and
the
rain
descended,
the
floods
came,
and
the
winds
blew
and
beat
on
that
house;
and
it
fell.
And
great was its fa
ll.”
Matthew 7:24-27
Worshipping
the
beast
and
accepting
his
mark
will
separate
the
saved
from
the
non-saved.
In
addition,
those
who
declare
they
are
a
Christian—but
their
heart
is
far
from
Jesus—will
no
longer
be
able
to
live
a
lie.
Every
person
will
be
forced
to
consider
the
benefits
and
consequences
of
two
choices,
and
will
make
an
eternal
decision.
Jesus
used
earthly
aspects
of
life
to
explain
spiritual
truths. In the Parable of the Wheat and the Tares, the:
•
Seed (wheat) represents Christians.
•
Tares (weeds) represent non-Christians.
•
Enemy is Satan.
•
Harvest represents the last days.
•
Burning of the tares represents the lake of fire.
•
Gathering
of
the
wheat
into
the
barn
represents
those
who
love
God
with
all
of
their
heart,
soul,
mind
and
strength—for
this
is
what
it
till
take
to
endure.
(
Mark
12:28-30
)
“The
kingdom
of
heaven
is
like
a
man
who
sowed
good
seed
in
his
field;
but
while
men
slept,
his
enemy
came
and
sowed
tares
among
the
wheat
and
went
his
way.
But
when
the
grain
had
sprouted
and
produced
a
crop,
then
the
tares
also
appeared.
So
the
servants
of
the
owner
came
and
said
to
him,
‘Sir,
did
you
not
sow
good
seed
in
your
field?
How
then
does
it
have
tares?’
He
said
to
them,
‘An
enemy
has
done
this.’
The
servants
said
to
him,
‘Do
you
want
us
then
to
go
and
gather
them
up?’
But
he
said,
‘No,
lest
while
you
gather
up
the
tares
you
also
uproot
the
wheat
with
them.
Let
both
grow
together
until
the
harvest,
and
at
the
time
of
harvest
I
will
say
to
the
reapers,
‘First
gather
together
the
tares
and
bind
them
in
bundles
to
burn
them,
but
gather
the
wheat
into my barn.’”
Matthew 13:24-30
4.
‘“Blessed
are
those
who
are
called
to
the
marriage
supper
of
the
Lamb!’
And
he
said
to
me,
‘These
are
the true sayings of God.’”
Rev. 19:9
This
beatitude
is
an
absolute
promise
from
God
that
provides
motivational
strength
to
persevere
through
the
difficult
times—because
the
present
suffering
is
temporary and the glory that is before us is eternal.
The
marriage
supper
of
the
Lamb
is
a
wedding
feast
that
culminates
the
relationship
between
the
Lamb
(Jesus
Christ),
and
His
bride
(those
who
were
saved
by
their
faith
in
His
sacrificial
death).
It
also
signifies
the
eternal
celebration of the redeemed with the Redeemer.
The
Parable
of
the
Great
Supper
(spoken
by
Jesus
below)
provides
insight
into
God’s
desire
to
dwell
amongst
and
interact
with
those
who
love
Him—now
and
for
eternity.
He
initially
chose
and
dwelt
amongst
the
Israelites,
made
a
covenant
with
them,
provided
for
their
physical
and
spiritual
needs—but
they
rejected
Him.
So,
He
made
a
New
Covenant
through
the
sacrificial
death
of
His
Son,
Jesus,
that
invites
all
(Jew
and
non-Jew)
to
the
marriage
supper
of
the
Lamb,
and
into
an
eternal
relationship
with
Him.
(
Jer.
31:31-33;
Ezekiel
36:26-27;
Luke
22
:20;
Hebrews
8:6,
9:15;
Romans
6:23;
Ephesians
2:8-9, 5:25-27; Rev. 19:7-8
)
“
A
certain
man
gave
a
great
supper
and
invited
many,
and
sent
his
servant
at
supper
time
to
say
to
those
who
were
invited,
‘Come,
for
all
things
are
now
ready.’
But
they
all
with
one
accord
began
to
make
excuses.
The
first
said
to
him,
‘I
have
bought
a
piece
of
ground,
and
I
must
go
and
see
it.
I
ask
you
to
have
me
excused.’
And
another
said,
‘I
have
bought
five
yoke
of
oxen,
and
I
am
going
to
test
them.
I
ask
you
to
have
me
excused.’
Still
another
said,
‘I
have
married
a
wife,
and
therefore
I
cannot
come.’
So
that
servant
came
and
reported
these
things
to
his
master.
Then
the
master
of
the
house,
being
angry,
said
to
his
servant,
‘Go
out
quickly
into
the
streets
and
lanes
of
the
city,
and
bring
in
here
the
poor
and
the
maimed
and
the
lame
and
the
blind.’
And
the
servant
said,
‘Master,
it
is
done
as
you
commanded,
and
still
there
is
room.’
Then
the
master
said
to
the
servant,
‘Go
out
into
the
highways
and
hedges,
and
compel
them
to
come
in,
that
my
house
may
be
filled.
For
I
say
to
you
that
none
of
those
men
who
were
invited
shall
taste
my
supper.’”
Luke 14:16-24
5.
“Blessed
and
holy
is
he
who
has
part
in
the
first
resurrection.
Over
such
the
second
death
has
no
power,
but
they
shall
be
priests
of
God
and
of
Christ,
and
shall
reign
with
Him
a
thousand
years.”
Rev.
20:6
Throughout
time
all
humans
have
experienced
a
terrifying
unknown—which
causes
varying
degrees
of
an
uncontrollable
upwelling
of
anxiety
and
stress:
what
happens
to
us
after
our
physical
bodies
die?
These
life-
draining
emotions
become
stronger
as
we
get
older—especially
when
we
are
facing
a
potential
life-
ending
illness...or
a
last
day
situation
that
may
cause
us
to be murdered because of our faith in Jesus.
However,
those
who
will
die
for
their
testimony
during
the
last
days
will
have
absolute
proof
of
the
fulfillment
of
God’s
prophetic
word
occurring
in
the
world—all
of
which
will
strengthen
our
resolute
faith,
and
will
reduce
our
anxiety
and
stress
in
facing
death
because
of
His
promised blessings.
What Occurs When We Die
All
of
us
are
born
with
a
spiritual
entity
within
our
body—which
is
commonly
referred
to
as
our
soul.
As
such,
our
body
may
be
considered
as
“a
tent
or
house”
that our souls reside in. In addition, our temporary body:
•
Has a limited life span.
•
Is
designed
to
enable
our
soul
to
function
within
the
physical world.
•
Provide a means for our soul to grow and mature.
•
Facilitates interaction with other souls.
•
Supports procreation.
•
Reflects the personality of our soul.
“For
we
know
that
if
our
earthly
house,
this
tent,
is
destroyed,
we
have
a
building
from
God,
a
house
not
made
with
hands,
eternal
in
the
heavens.”
2
Corinthians
5:1
Our
souls
will
leave
our
physical
body
upon
death.
But
what
is
most
important
to
understand...our
souls
are
spiritual
and
will
exist
forever.
God’s
word
provides
us
with insight as to what occurs to our souls:
•
Our souls will temporarily “sleep.”
•
At some point in the future:
o
Those
who
placed
their
faith
in
Jesus
will
be
raised
to everlasting life (1st Resurrection).
o
Those
who
rejected
Jesus
will
be
raised
to
an
everlasting second death (2nd Resurrection).
“And
many
of
those
who
sleep
in
the
dust
of
the
earth
shall
awake,
some
to
everlasting
life,
some
to
shame
and
everlasting contempt.”
Daniel 12:2
“Do
not
marvel
at
this;
for
the
hour
is
coming
in
which
all
who
are
in
the
graves
will
hear
His
voice
and
come
forth—those
who
have
done
good,
to
the
resurrection
of
life,
and
those
who
have
done
evil,
to
the
resurrection
of
condemnation.”
John 5:28-29
“But
I
do
not
want
you
to
be
ignorant,
brethren,
concerning
those
who
have
fallen
asleep,
lest
you
sorrow
as
others
who
have
no
hope.
For
if
we
believe
that
Jesus
died
and
rose
again,
even
so
God
will
bring
with
Him
those
who
sleep
in
Jesus.
For
this
we
say
to
you
by
the
word
of
the
Lord,
that
we
who
are
alive
and
remain
until
the
coming
of
the
Lord
will
by
no
means
precede
those
who
are
asleep.
For
the
Lord
Himself
will
descend
from
heaven
with
a
shout,
with
the
voice
of
an
archangel,
and
with
the
trumpet
of
God.
And
the
dead
in
Christ
will
rise
first.
Then
we
who
are
alive
and
remain
shall
be
caught
up
together
with
them
in
the
clouds
to
meet
the
Lord
in
the
air.
And
thus
we
shall
always
be
with
the
Lord.
Therefore
comfort
one
another
with
these
words.”
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
6.
“Behold,
I
am
coming
quickly!
Blessed
is
he
who
keeps
the
words
of
the
prophecy
of
this
book.”
Rev.
22:7
The
sixth
beatitude
reinforces
the
messaging
of
the
third,
first and seventh beatitude.
•
He is coming quickly (as a thief).
•
Therefore,
watch
and
obediently
adhere
for
the
time
is near.
“Behold,
I
tell
you
a
mystery:
We
shall
not
all
sleep,
but
we
shall
all
be
changed—in
a
moment,
in
the
twinkling
of
an
eye,
at
the
last
trumpet.
For
the
trumpet
will
sound,
and
the
dead
will
be
raised
incorruptible,
and
we
shall
be
changed.”
1 Corinthians 15:51-52
Consider
the
length
of
time
it
takes
for
our
eyes
to
blink...which
is
about
100
milliseconds
(0.1
seconds).
Go
ahead
and
blink
your
eyes...for
this
is
how
long
it
will
take
for
the
first
resurrection
to
occur.
In
a
fraction
of
a
second
all
who
believe
in
Jesus
will
be
transformed
and
raised in righteousness.
This
is
why
Jesus
warns
us
to
watch
and
be
constantly
ready
because
no
one
knows
the
day,
hour,
minute,
and
micro second when this event will occur.
“But
of
that
day
and
hour
no
one
knows,
not
even
the
angels
of
heaven,
but
My
Father
only.
But
as
the
days
of
Noah
were,
so
also
will
the
coming
of
the
Son
of
Man
be.
For
as
in
the
days
before
the
flood,
they
were
eating
and
drinking,
marrying
and
giving
in
marriage,
until
the
day
that
Noah
entered
the
ark,
and
did
not
know
until
the
flood
came
and
took
them
all
away,
so
also
will
the
coming
of
the
Son
of
Man
be.
Then
two
men
will
be
in
the
field:
one
will
be
taken
and
the
other
left.
Two
women
will
be
grinding
at
the
mill:
one
will
be
taken
and
the
other
left.
Watch
therefore,
for
you
do
not
know
what
hour
your
Lord
is
coming.
But
know
this,
that
if
the
master
of
the
house
had
known
what
hour
the
thief
would
come,
he
would
have
watched
and
not
allowed
his
house
to
be
broken
into.
Therefore
you
also
be
ready,
for
the
Son
of
Man
is
coming
at
an
hour
you
do
not
expect.”
Matthew 24:36-44
7.
“Blessed
are
those
who
do
His
commandments,
that
they
may
have
the
right
to
the
tree
of
life,
and
may
enter
through
the
gates
into
the
city.”
Rev.
22:14
There
are
three
components
of
this
beatitude:
obey,
tree
of life, and entering into the gates of Heaven.
Obey
The
influential
power
of
Satan’s
lies
will
continually
increase
throughout
the
7-year
Tribulation.
Satan’s
intent
is
to
darken
the
minds
of
the
damned,
while
seeking
to
destroy
those
who
have
placed
their
faith
in
Jesus
by
giving them reasons to disobey God.
“By
this
we
know
that
we
love
the
children
of
God,
when
we
love
God
and
keep
His
commandments.
For
this
is
the
love
of
God,
that
we
keep
His
commandments.
And
His
commandments
are
not
burdensome.
For
whatever
is
born
of
God
overcomes
the
world.
And
this
is
the
victory
that
has
overcome
the
world—our
faith.
Who
is
he
who
overcomes
the
world,
but
he
who
believes
that
Jesus is the Son of God?”
1 John 5:2-5
“Be
doers
of
the
word,
and
not
hearers
only,
deceiving
yourselves.”
James 1:22
Tree of Life
The
Bible
specifically
identifies
two
trees
in
the
Garden
of
Eden:
the
Tree
of
Life
and
the
Tree
of
the
Knowledge
of
Good
and
Evil.
“And
out
of
the
ground
the
Lord
God
made
every
tree
grow
that
is
pleasant
to
the
sight
and
good
for
food.
The
tree
of
life
was
also
in
the
midst
of
the
garden,
and
the
tree
of
the
knowledge
of
good
and
evil.
” Genesis 2:9
Eating
from
the
Tree
of
Life
provides
eternal
life
and
divine
sustenance.
Whereas,
eating
from
the
Tree
of
the
Knowledge
of
Good
and
evil
creates
moral
awareness
and
the
consequences
of
disobedience.
It
is
important
to
note
that
the
only
tree
in
the
Garden
of
Eden
that
God
told
Adam
not
to
eat
was
the
tree
of
the
knowledge
of
good
and
evil.
God
did
not
tell
Adam
not
to
eat
from
the
tree
of
life—which
would
have
caused
Adam
and
Eve
to
live forever.
“Then
the
Lord
God
said,
‘Behold,
the
man
has
become
like
one
of
Us,
to
know
good
and
evil.
And
now,
lest
he
put
out
his
hand
and
take
also
of
the
tree
of
life,
and
eat,
and
live
forever.
So
He
drove
out
the
man;
and
He
placed
cherubim
at
the
east
of
the
garden
of
Eden,
and
a
flaming
sword
which
turned
every
way,
to
guard
the
way
to the tree of life.”
Genesis 3:22, 24
“And
he
showed
me
a
pure
river
of
water
of
life,
clear
as
crystal,
proceeding
from
the
throne
of
God
and
of
the
Lamb.
In
the
middle
of
its
street,
and
on
either
side
of
the
river,
was
the
tree
of
life,
which
bore
twelve
fruits,
each
tree
yielding
its
fruit
every
month.
The
leaves
of
the
tree
were
for
the
healing
of
the
nations.”
Revelation
22:1-2
Entering Through the Gates of Heaven
Although
it
is
only
conceptual
at
this
point...consider
the
exhilaration
of
your
emotional
experience
when
your
eyes
see
the
gates.
Because
of
your
faith
and
obedience...all
that
you
have
hoped
for
has
come
to
fruition...and
all
of
the
difficulties
that
you
persevered
has
become a distant memory.
“Then
one
of
the
seven
angels
who
had
the
seven
bowls
filled
with
the
seven
last
plagues
came
to
me
and
talked
with
me,
saying,
‘Come,
I
will
show
you
the
bride,
the
Lamb’s
wife.’
And
he
carried
me
away
in
the
Spirit
to
a
great
and
high
mountain,
and
showed
me
the
great
city,
the
holy
Jerusalem,
descending
out
of
heaven
from
God,
having
the
glory
of
God.
Her
light
was
like
a
most
precious
stone,
like
a
jasper
stone,
clear
as
crystal.
Also
she
had
a
great
and
high
wall
with
twelve
gates,
and
twelve
angels
at
the
gates,
and
names
written
on
them,
which
are
the
names
of
the
twelve
tribes
of
the
children
of
Israel:
three
gates
on
the
east,
three
gates
on
the
north,
three
gates
on
the
south,
and
three
gates
on
the
west.
Now
the
wall
of
the
city
had
twelve
foundations,
and
on
them
were
the
names
of
the
twelve
apostles
of
the Lamb.”
Revelation 21:9-14
Summary
The
7
Revelation
beatitudes
are
comprised
of
warnings,
instructional messages and blessings for compliance:
•
Warnings:
o
The
time
is
near
for
the
occurrence
of
things
written in Revelation.
o
Christians will die because of their faith.
o
Those
who
do
not
take
part
in
the
first
resurrection
will experience a second death.
•
Instructional Messages:
o
Read and understand the Book of Revelation.
o
Jesus will return and is coming soon.
o
Obey instructions by:
▪
Continually watching for His return.
▪
Abstaining from sin.
•
Blessings:
o
Entry into Heaven.
o
Right to eat from the tree of life.
o
Reign with Jesus.
o
Participate in the marriage supper of the Lamb.
o
Will not die a second deat
h.
As
we
look
into
the
unknowns
of
a
progressively
dark
future...remember:
•
God is in control.
•
The hardship and turbulent times are temporary.
•
All that is occurring is prophesized in the Bible.
•
God will pour out His Spirit in the last days.
•
“He
Himself
has
said,
‘I
will
never
leave
you
nor
forsake
you.’
So
we
may
boldly
say
The
Lord
is
my
helper;
I
will
not
fear.
What
can
man
do
to
me?”
Hebrews 13:5-6
•
“God
is
faithful,
who
will
not
allow
you
to
be
tempted
beyond what you are able.”
1 Cor. 10:13
When
you
“stand
back”
and
look
at
the
“big
picture”...there
is
nothing
we
can
do
to
change
what
will
occur
in
the
last
days.
Some
perceive
it
is
possible
to
avoid
the
last
days
via
political
means
or
military
strength.
But
these
approaches
are
in
vain—for
God’s
plan and His prophetic word will occur.
However,
there
are
areas
where
we
can
make
an
impact.
For example, we can make changes:
•
Within
our
own
lives
by
enhancing
our
spiritual
strength.
•
In the lives of others by:
o
Introducing them to Jesus.
o
Supporting
those
who
are
weak
in
their
faith
by
providing
them
with
biblical
reasons
to
endure,
and
with prayer.
Jesus
spoke
of
the
benefits
of
overcoming
to
the
7
churches
in
Revelation.
(
Rev.
2
&
3
)
Here
are
a
few...
“To
him who overcomes:
•
I
will
give
to
eat
from
the
tree
of
life,
which
is
in
the
midst of the Paradise of God.”
•
Shall not be hurt by the
second death.”
•
To him I will give power
over the nations.”
•
Shall be clothed in
white garments.”
•
I will not blot out his name from The
Book of Life.”
•
I
will
confess
his
name
before
My
Father
and
before
His angels.”
•
I will grant to sit with
Me on My throne.”
All for His Glory!
Harold D. Thomas
Thought-Provoking Questions
The
purpose
of
the
questions
is
to
facilitate
a
deeper
understanding
of
the
Bible,
this
Bible
study
topic,
and
ourselves.
The
questions
may
be
answered
by
each
reader,
or
used
by
a
Bible
study
group
leader,
or
church
pastor.
The
questions
should
be
answered
or
discussed
after
reading
the
lesson.
In
addition,
the
questions
are
designed
to
enhance
learning
via
the
determination
of
personal
opinions
and
discovering
how
the
lesson
content
relates
to
our
personal
lives.
As
such,
no
answers are provided.
Questions
Which
of
the
7
Revelation
blessings
do
you
think
is
most
important?
Why
do
you
think
God
added
these
7
blessings
to
Revelation? What purpose do they provide?
The
lesson
described
how
we
emotionally
respond
to
the
experience
of
flying
in
airplane
that
is
severely
buffeted
by
air
turbulence.
Identify
at
least
3
ways
this
analogy
correlates to the last days.
Jesus
spoke
to
the
7
churches
(
Rev.
2
&
3
).
He
identified
something
within
each
church
that
requires
improvement.
•
Were
you
surprised
to
learn
of
the
degree
of
specific
knowledge Jesus had of each church?
•
Can
you
identify
an
example
of
how
His
words—written
almost
2,000
years
ago—are
relatable
to today?
•
Which one speaks to your heart the most?
The
Bible
states
people
will
be
murdered
for
their
faith
because
they
did
not
worship
the
beast
and
did
not
receive
his
mark.
Consider
where
our
“global
society”
is
today
and
identify
aspects
that
will
change
for
this
to
occur.
“Blessed
is
he
who
watches,
and
keeps
his
garments,
lest he walk naked and they see his shame.”
Rev. 16:15
•
What does it mean to watch?
•
What and where would you look?
•
What does it mean to keep your garments?
•
What do the words “walk naked” and “shame” mean?
Why
do
you
think
the
Bible
does
not
state
the
specific
time when Jesus will return?
The
lesson
states
that
there
is
nothing
we
can
do
to
change
the
inevitable
direction
this
world
is
headed.
Do
you agree or disagree?
If
someone
was
interested
in
the
lesson
and
they
asked
you to provide a short summary...what would you say?
Is there anything new you have learned from this lesson?
You
may
download
a
PDF
version
of
the
questions
by
clicking this button.
