How can I understand the Bible book of Revelation?

Can you give some helps for understanding the book of Revelation?

(1) Remember it is a revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ. Look for Him everywhere.

(2) The book is divided into "the things which thou hast seen", "the things which are" and finally "the things which shall be hereafter" (1:19). This three-fold division of the book is helpful to gain an overview. Chapter 1 is the "things which thou hast seen," chapters 2 and 3 the "things which are," chapters 4-22 the "things hereafter."

(3) Care needs to be practiced not to take all events as occurring one right after the other. The book is made up of seven seals, trumpets and bowls. The seventh seal contains the seven trumpets; the seventh trumpet contains the seven bowls. Parenthesis dot the book: 7:1-17; 10:1-11; 14:1-13; 16:13-16; 19:1-6.

(4) Four great scenes occur in heaven and four on earth.

(5) Only interpret symbols by use of other portions of Scriptures. Most symbols in the Revelation appear elsewhere in Scripture. Their interpretation is given there. Interpret literally whenever possible and reasonable.

A. Higgins

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What does the Bible phrase mean - "The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous"?

What is the meaning of Proverbs 21:18," TARGET="_blank">Proverbs 21:18, “The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright”?
Compare the following passages, in which a similar thought is more clearly expressed: “The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead” (Proverbs 11: 8)." TARGET="_blank">Proverbs 11: 8).
“I gave Egypt for thy ransom, . . . I have loved thee, therefore will I give men for thee and people for thy life” (Isaiah 43:3, 4)." TARGET="_blank">Isaiah 43:3, 4).
“They hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai” (Esther 7:10)." TARGET="_blank">Esther 7:10).
“Those men which had accused Daniel. . . cast. . . into the den of lions” (Daniel 6:24)." TARGET="_blank">Daniel 6:24).
And note the use of the same word “ransom” in the Isaiah passage, and of “in his stead” in Proverbs 11." TARGET="_blank">Proverbs 11.
The above Scriptures, and others which might be added, suggest two things. First, that God may sometimes deliver His own at the cost of severe suffering, or even destruction, to the unsaved. Second, that the wicked at times suffer the very fate which they themselves had prepared for the righteous. Proverbs 21:18" TARGET="_blank">Proverbs 21:18 contains the first of these thoughts, and probably the second as well.
W.R.

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Is Song of Solomon about the Church and Christ?

Who are the speakers in the Song of Solomon? Some say they are Christ and the Church; others, God and Israel. Who is the questioner in Song of Solomon 5:9" TARGET="_blank">Song of Solomon 5:9?

The Song of Songs is not, of course, a mere love-song; nor is it a song of espousals, but a marriage song. Certain companies of persons are introduced and take part in the dialogue, e.g., the watchmen, the daughters of Jerusalem; but the Bridegroom and the bride are the principals. Who are they? The Church was an unrevealed mystery in the Old Testament, so may safely be ruled out.

Surely there can be no doubt that we have in this Book, a beautiful picture of the affections of Jehovah toward the true Israel, and the response of the bride. “I am married to you, saith Jehovah” (Jeremiah 3:14)." TARGET="_blank">Jeremiah 3:14). “Thy maker is thy husband” (Isaiah 54:5)." TARGET="_blank">Isaiah 54:5). The watchmen of the city seem to represent men of the world with no sympathy for the bride, while the daughters of Jerusalem may stand for nominal Israel. These distinctions being made, the inspired language of the Book fits in well with the affections of a believer to-day toward Christ, when enjoying communion with the “Lover of his soul.” The spiritual believer knows how to use the Book in this way to his own soul’s blessing and to the glory of Christ.

W.H.

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How much intimacy is appropriate for couples who are dating?

What activities and how much intimacy are appropriate for couples who are dating?

Christians should seek God's will for a life's partner during courtship. Dating is the time for learning to know each other and planning for the future. It is not (as in society) simply for a good time, or experimentation, or conquest.

Two words help answer our question: purity and modesty Paul instructed Timothy in 1 Timothy 5:2" TARGET="_blank">1 Timothy 5:2 to encourage "the younger (women) as sisters, with all purity." In Genesis 24:65," TARGET="_blank">Genesis 24:65, Rebecca, when about to meet her husband-to-be, "took a vail, and covered herself."

A young man should regard his intended as his "sister" during courtship. He should have genuine respect for her that will preserve from violating her purity. An embrace and kiss when greeting or parting is appropriate with his sister and is equally so with his intended. Their greetings may be more than a quick peck on the cheek but they should avoid any activity leading to greater physical intimacy. Both should dress and behave so as not to stir up strong desire in the other. Strong desire may lead to disaster and loss of purity. Couples should avoid circumstances or activities where they would be ashamed to be found. A good testimony is vital.

Couples need time together. Eating out, drives through the country and visiting points of interest afford suitable opportunities. Visiting older Christians will encourage them. The young may also gain insights of great value for their future together.

They need to learn each other's values, expectations and goals. They should recognize and make needed adjustments. These are easier to make during courtship than after marriage. Reading and praying together will promote spiritual bonding and growth and begin a good habit for a lifetime together.

J. Slabaugh

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How is our priesthood related to the Breaking of Bread?

How is our priesthood related to the Breaking of Bread?

Old Testament priests offered for themselves (Hebrews 9:27)," TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 9:27), but primarily their work was mediatory. They functioned on behalf of others. When New Testament priests offer up spiritual sacrifices (1 Peter 2:5)," TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 2:5), they express what they have personally enjoyed of Christ, but they are offering worship to God on behalf of other believers. The worship of both sisters and brothers in Christ ascends to God in each expression of praise, for all are holy priests. The males lead in praise, as taught in 1 Corinthians 14:34," TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 14:34, while the sisters are silent. All join in saying "Amen" to the words of thanksgiving (v 16), because those words have expressed their thanksgiving.

Younger brothers in Christ help the gathering as they express their heartfelt appreciation of the Lord. Understanding their role as priests may increase the value of their contributions. Each is not merely adding his voice to the praise, but is expressing his appreciation as part of the assembly’s worship.

D. Oliver
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What is the New Testament

What is the New Testament’s pattern for commending a person for the work of the Lord?

Paul and Barnabas returned to Antioch, from which they had been commended to the grace of God for their work (Acts 14:26)." TARGET="_blank">Acts 14:26). The details of that commendation give us a New Testament precedent to follow. The leaders of the Antioch assembly fasted (13:2) due to a spiritual burden. The outcome indicates they were burdened about the spread of the gospel "unto the uttermost part of the earth" (1:8). The Spirit identified the men He had called for that work (13:2). The leaders continued their waiting on God through prayer and fasting. The assembly then expressed its identification with Barnabas and Saul when the leaders laid their hands on these two. The assembly had not acted on its own but was the vehicle through which the Spirit worked, for the two were "sent forth by the Holy Spirit" (v 4). Their later report (14:26) in Antioch implies they were accountable to the assembly.

In summary, an assembly’s commendation expresses its concern for the work of God. The Spirit of God uses the assembly to send out those whom He has called and now intends to use in the field. Assembly leaders guide the assembly’s concern for the work of God and for specific areas of labor. This should characterize every assembly, whether or not suitable young men are part of that assembly.

D. Oliver

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Is the Spirit of God equal to the Father and the Son?

Is the Spirit of God equal to the Father and the Son?

Called "the Lord, the Spirit" (2 Corinthians 3:18," TARGET="_blank">2 Corinthians 3:18, JND), lying to Him and to God are equivalent (Acts 5:3, 4)." TARGET="_blank">Acts 5:3, 4). He is equated with God in the creation (Genesis 1:2; 2:2)," TARGET="_blank">Genesis 1:2; 2:2), incarnation (Luke 1:35;" TARGET="_blank">Luke 1:35; Galatians 4:4)," TARGET="_blank">Galatians 4:4), anointing (Acts 10:38)," TARGET="_blank">Acts 10:38), miracles (Matthew 12:28;" TARGET="_blank">Matthew 12:28; Luke 11:20)," TARGET="_blank">Luke 11:20), crucifixion (Hebrews 9:14)," TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 9:14), resurrection (Acts 3:15;" TARGET="_blank">Acts 3:15; 1 Peter 3:18)," TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 3:18), saints' resurrection (Romans 8:11;" TARGET="_blank">Romans 8:11;1 Corinthians 15:38," TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 15:38, and operation of gifts (1 Corinthians 12:6, 11)." TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 12:6, 11).

The Lord equates the Spirit's deity with His own by saying, "another (of the same kind) Comforter" (John 14:16)." TARGET="_blank">John 14:16). In 1 Corinthians 12" TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 12-4-6 the Spirit, the Lord and God are parallel (see also Matthew 28:29;" TARGET="_blank">Matthew 28:29; 2 Corinthians 13:14;" TARGET="_blank">2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 Peter 1:2;" TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 1:2; Jude 21)." TARGET="_blank">Jude 21). hi the same chapter, He "wills" (verse 11), as does God Games 1:18). His omnipresence and God's are equivalent (Psalm 139:7)." TARGET="_blank">Psalm 139:7). He is omniscient (1 Corinthians 2:11)" TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 2:11) and omnipotent (Romans 8:11;" TARGET="_blank">Romans 8:11; Matthew 22:29)." TARGET="_blank">Matthew 22:29).

He wills (John 3:8)," TARGET="_blank">John 3:8), knows (1 Corinthians 2:11)," TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 2:11), acts (Acts 16:7)," TARGET="_blank">Acts 16:7), speaks (1 Timothy 4:1)," TARGET="_blank">1 Timothy 4:1), and feels (Ephesians 4:30)." TARGET="_blank">Ephesians 4:30). He is a distinct person, though equal with the Father and Son. When the Son stood at Jordan, the Spirit descended, and the Father spoke from heaven, this distinction was visible (Matthew 3:16, 17," TARGET="_blank">Matthew 3:16, 17, paralleling the Old Testament revelation in Isaiah 42:1)." TARGET="_blank">Isaiah 42:1).

D. Oliver

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Was Shem or Japeth the oldest son of Noah?

Which of Noah’s sons was the eldest?

In Genesis 9:24" TARGET="_blank">Genesis 9:24 Ham is spoken of as Noah’s younger (or “youngest,” R.V.) son, though some commentators would connect the expression there with his grandson Canaan because of the prominence given to the latter in the curse of verse 25. This leaves us as the two elder ones, Shem and Japheth, and the decision between them depends on the rendering which is accepted as the correct one of Genesis 10: 21." TARGET="_blank">Genesis 10: 21. The AN. gives it, “Shem . . . the brother of Japheth the elder,” which would imply that Japheth was oldest; but the R.V. with more probability translates it, “Shem . . . the elder brother of Japheth,” which would
give the honour to Shem.

W.R.

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How were people saved in the Old Testament?

How were people saved in the Old Testament?

Did people in the Old Testament get saved by performing sacrifices? Were they saved because they were Jews? If not, then how could they be saved if they had never heard of Jesus, the cross or the resurrection? Some people say that God credits salvation to people who are sincere in their understanding of regardless of what they believe as long as they are faithful. They extend that thinking to the saints of the Old Testament who were saved because they believed what God had revealed up to that time which excluded the knowledge of Christ dying for sins on the cross. Let's see what the Bible says about people in the Old Testament in their salvation.

Works vs Grace

Some mistakenly believe that salvation in the Old Testament was based on keeping the law, doing sacrifices and doing good works. This is refuted multiple times in the Bible.

"It is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins?" (Hebrews 10:4)." TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 10:4).

"By the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight?" (Romans 3:20" TARGET="_blank">Romans 3:20 ).

Those activities, though God-honoring, are not the manner in which a believer was ever, or ever will be saved.

Salvation through Christ

Every sacrifice and prophecy ultimately points to Christ and his work on the cross. The people who believed in Christ in the Old Testament had less information about the ultimate sacrifice, but had the faith to believe that God eventually would resolve the problem of sin.

Romans 3:25-26" TARGET="_blank">Romans 3:25-26 teaches us that Christ died for sins of all time, including those of the Old Testament. Christ was foreordained to be the Lamb of God since before the world began. Revelation 13:8." TARGET="_blank">Revelation 13:8. Isaiah 53:6" TARGET="_blank">Isaiah 53:6 tells us that "the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all." The salvation that God imputed to Old Testament believers was based on the death of Christ, which in the mind of God was as good as accomplished even before the creation.

Salvation through faith in Christ

The greatest example of salvation through faith was Abraham. "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness... ...But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness" (Romans 4:3, 5)." TARGET="_blank">Romans 4:3, 5). Abraham didn't earn salvation, it was accounted to him for his faith.

But what exactly did Abraham believe? Some would say that Abraham simply believed that God would multiply his seed like the stars of the heaven. That is the immediate context of Genesis 15:6." TARGET="_blank">Genesis 15:6. But Christ tells us that Abraham believed something more about the Seed that would be multiplied. "Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad" (John 8:56" TARGET="_blank">John 8:56 ). Abraham knew that the Messiah was coming and trusted God to work out the matter of salvation at a future time. Abraham was saved by faith in Christ.

Job knew that "my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth. And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God" (Job 19:25" TARGET="_blank">Job 19:25 -26). Obviously, Job didn't know how or when, but he trusted God to take care of his redemption.

Moses also trusted in Christ many years before Christ came. Hebrews says Moses "...esteemed the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt ; for he looked to the reward" (Hebrews 11:26" TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 11:26 ).

Although we look back to Christ's life and death, we don't know all the details, only what God has chosen to preserve in His Word. The Old Testament believers didn't know all the details about the Messiah either, but they trusted Him for their salvation. They looked forward to Christ who was coming. We look back to Christ who has come.

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What is the meaning of Hebrews 2:3?

What is the meaning of Hebrews 2:3" TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 2:3?

During the life of the Lord Jesus on earth, many who followed him and claimed to be disciples proved to be false (John 6:60-66; 8:31-37)." TARGET="_blank">John 6:60-66; 8:31-37). They missed the significance of the miracles, but enjoyed the food (John 6:26)." TARGET="_blank">John 6:26). During the apostolic days, the same was true. They "tasted... the powers of the world to come" (the age to come, JND) (Hebrews 6:5)," TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 6:5), enjoying the apostolic signs that confirmed the Messiahship of the Lord Jesus. The prophesied powers of the coming kingdom (Isaiah 35:4-6)" TARGET="_blank">Isaiah 35:4-6) were present in the service of Christ and His disciples. These signs confirmed that Jesus was the Christ (Hebrews 2:3,4)" TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 2:3,4) who would fulfill the prophets words, "Behold, you God will come with vengeance, even God with recompense; He will come and save you" (verse 4). Those who didnt continue in the Lords words (John 8:31)" TARGET="_blank">John 8:31) were not genuine disciples. Those who let the word slip (or who slipped away from the word, JND) (Hebrews 2:1)" TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 2:1) during the apostolic times were not genuine. In drifting away from the truth about the Son of God, they would not escape Gods judgment (verse 2). This epistle, written before the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D., is heavy with the foreboding clouds of Gods wrath soon to burst on the nation. This is likely in view here and in verses 25-31 of chapter 10.

D. Oliver
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