Author: Kate Plourde Page 37 of 59

Revelation at a Glance – Day 35

On July 8, 2022

Rev 15:1-8 And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God. (2) And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. (3) And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. (4) Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest. (5) And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened: (6) And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles. (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. (8) And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his power; and no man was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.

Have you ever wondered just how much worse it can get before the Tribulation begins? Good morning, reader! I know this thought has crossed my mind countless times. I’ve believed we were in the end times since 1980! So much the more do I believe that now. Actually, reader, if you are born again and looking forward to the Lord’s coming for us in the clouds to rapture us away, then you know for yourself that we are close! You have to know if you are reading the Bible at all.

Daniel 9:27 tells us that the Antichrist will sign a covenant with Israel for one week (which is seven years). In order for him to do this, logically speaking, it would mean that there must be war prior to the signing. Today, we are actually seeing and hearing about wars and rumors of wars with Russia and Ukraine. This may very well be the time where countries will come together to create a war which will culminate into the great war of Armageddon!

Today’s post deals with Revelation Chapter 15 and we see that it is a “preview” of Chapter 16. It is an introduction to the seven Vial Judgments. These particular events occur in Heaven and the Apostle John sees seven angels who have the seven last plagues, which have God’s wrath filled in them. Did you know that the number seven is used eight times in this chapter alone?! As you know, the number seven signifies completion or perfection. The Greek term for “completion” is the same as the term in John 19:30 when Jesus says “It is finished:”! Yes, the sacrificial lamb of the Law was no longer needed as this sacrifice was pointing to the Perfect sacrifice to come. The Perfect Lamb’s shed blood was not only perfect but complete … ONCE for ALL for the forgiveness of sin. From that point, no more daily sacrifices at the altar were needed nor are they needed today! That includes the “sacrifice” of the Catholic mass is needed to be offered in order for sins to be forgiven. Jesus paid it all! All we have to do now is to rejoice that we have salvation through Him and through His sacrifice on the cross! Praise the Lord!

Next we read in Revelation 15:2-3 that John sees a sea of glass mingled with fire. When the word “sea” is used in Scripture, it sometimes refers to the sea of humanity; this is what is meant here. This sea of humanity has victory over the beast but have lost their lives for the Gospel! These are Christians from all over singing the song of Moses and the Lamb (Exodus 15:1-21). What a beautiful song it is indeed! In Revelation 15:3-4, we read that this song is about God’s marvellous works, His just and true ways and His worth: He is holy for all nations and His salvation is for all!

In this exciting chapter, we see in verses 5-7 that the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony was opened in Heaven. The seven angels come out of this temple and they were given the last seven golden vials full of God’s wrath. (On a side note, did you know that there are seven golden vials in the Temple for the Jewish priests? I find that interesting 😊.) No one will enter the temple until these seven plagues are fulfilled.

Our next post will reveal these last seven plagues which will be unleashed upon the earth. I’m so thankful that I will not be a part of this. Can you say the same, reader? Have you received Christ as your Saviour? If no, your sins are not covered by His sacrificial offering of Himself. You have not been redeemed by His blood. It is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Revelation at a Glance – Day 34

By Kate Plourde

On July 6, 2022

In Devotionals, Revelation at a Glance

Rev 14:14-20 And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. (15) And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. (16) And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped. (17) And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle. (18) And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe. (19) And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. (20) And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs.

Good morning! Today we will be thinking like farmers 😁! It helps to put ourselves in that mindset as we read about the Great Harvests about to come during the Tribulation. I’m praying you are ready, dear Reader. I’m praying that you have Christ living within you and that you are truly born again.

We begin today’s study with Revelation 14:14. In my Bible, this segment is entitled the Harvest of the Earth. This verse references the Son of man (Revelation 1:13 and Daniel 7:13) sitting on a cloud, having a crown of gold and a sharp sickle in his hand. We know that this is Jesus because He has a golden crown. The angels do not have crowns. Here Jesus is going to be the harvester of the earth and will harvest both believers and unbelievers.

Notice that Jesus comes:

seated on a white cloud, which indicates His purity
wearing a golden crown, which indicates His victory, and
holding a sharp sickle, which indicates His authority where He separates the sheep from the goats.

During the first part of the harvest of the earth, we see this is a harvest of separation between the saved and the unsaved. This is the in-gathering of believers (Revelation 14:15-16). During the second part of the harvest, we see the harvest of the earth’s vine (Revelation 14:18) and these are the grapes, which is the harvest of destruction – the judgment of non believers (Revelation 14:17-20). This is referred to in Matthew 13:36-43 where Jesus talks about the tares and wheat. God will use angels as part of this harvesting process. Toward the end of the Tribulation, they will separate the righteous (the wheat and the sheep) from the unrighteous(the tares and the goats). It amazes me still how God’s Word is knit together within its beautiful pages!

Friend, God has called us to be salt and light to the earth. Use your time wisely! There are people out there that claim to be Christians but are not. The Bible says you will know them by their fruit! (Matthew 7:15-20) You cannot call yourself a car just because you are standing in the garage. Nor can you call yourself a Christian just because you are standing in a church. Dear reader, PLEASE, I beg you. Don’t be satisfied with a mediocre faith. One who is born again has been given the spark of life in his spirit – a new life in Christ Jesus. (2 Corinthians 5:17) This verse does not say that a few things are become new! It says all things are become new!. Don’t fool yourself. I know for certain that I am born again and am going to Heaven because my heart literally changed in a split second! The desire to curse God and live a worldly life style immediately disappeared. Yes, the desire was the there but His Holy Spirit’s power within me helped me to defeat the my flesh and its temptations.

Can you say the same, reader? Have you received Christ as your Saviour? If no, your sins are not covered by His sacrificial offering of Himself. You have not been redeemed by His blood. It is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Revelation at a Glance – Day 33

By Kate Plourde

On July 4, 2022

In Devotionals, Revelation at a Glance

Rev 14:6-13 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, (7) Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. (8) And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. (9) And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, (10) The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: (11) And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. (12) Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. (13) And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.

How I love coming to my desk in the mornings to spend time in the Word and with the Word! The Lord Jesus Christ reveals Himself through the Scriptures and teaches me about the upcoming events. How thrilling it is to be able to share these things with you, dear Reader!

So let’s get on with our series! 😀 Today, we see three angels appearing on the scene. These angels each have a mission to complete. The first angel’s mission shows us the Lord’s great mercy! How can I say this when the worse judgment ever is coming to earth and its inhabitants? I can say this because God is giving every soul an opportunity to be saved before the rest of His judgments are dispersed! That is true mercy!! The first angel role is to (Revelation 14:6-7):

proclaim the gospel to all the earth
exhort people to fear God and to worship Him
warn of God’s judgment
declare God as Creator

The second angel (Revelation 14:8) announces the fall of Babylon the Great. This Babylon will have the same foundation as the original Babylon. Original Babylon was known for being the seat of the occult and sexual immorality. We see this behavior in today’s society and it will be all the more prevalent during the Tribulation. Notice that all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication! Noah Webster’s 1828 Diction defines fornication below. If we take his definition literally, the Tribulation Babylon will reveal people who cannot contain themselves sexually; notice it includes incest! Not only will Babylon be sexually perverted but she will forsake God and worship idols! That idol is none other than the Tribulation idol, the Antichrist!

FORNICA’TION, n. [L. fornicatio.]
The incontinence or lewdness of unmarried persons, male or female; also, the criminal conversation of a married man with an unmarried woman.
Adultery. Mat 5.
Incest. 1 Cor 5.
Idolatry; a forsaking of the true God, and worshipping of idols. 2 Chr 21. Rev 19.

Now we take a look at the third angel (Revelation 14:9-11) and he reveals the upcoming judgment:

warns of God’s judgment coming upon the inhabitants of the earth who have worshipped the beast and his image and received the mark of the beast.
their torment is eternal (see Revelation 20:10 and Mark 9:48)

As we look into these three angels and their message, we see that the first one shows God’s grace despite the turmoil on the planet. This invitation to accept the Gospel of Christ is unique in that God will be using an angel to preach the Gospel. This has always been entrusted to people up until this point. Now that the church has been removed, the 144,000 are gone, the Two Witnesses are gone, who is left? In these verses, we see that God calls upon an angel to fly in mid air (atmosphere) proclaiming the Gospel to every nation, tongue and tribe! How will they do this? Again, the Internet may play a huge role in this. Everyone will hear the Gospel in his own language! If you recall the previous posts covering global population up to this point, four billion people have died from the judgments! The five plus billion that remain have spiritually hardened hearts and they would rather follow the Antichrist than hear about God!

This goes to show you God’s mercy, amen? Once again, everyone will have an opportunity to hear the good news and they will all be without excuse when they stand before the Lord on judgment day. God will use trials and tribulation as a “last call” to draw people to salvation. He loves us so much that as a last ditch effort, He goes after His creation to give them another opportunity to hear. 1Ti 2:4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. People, don’t you get it? God didn’t create Hell for you. He originally created it for the devil and the fallen angels. Instead, God created Eden for mankind. Eden was a perfect place providing Adam and Eve with everything they could possibly want! There was no sin – all the animals were docile and there was no death! But Adam and Eve chose to listen to Satan as he tempted them and caused them to doubt God’s Word! The temptation Satan provided was but for a moment, but their choice was for eternity. They tried to cover their sin with a covering made by their own hands. But that did not work. They were kicked out of Eden for that one sin, Reader! After that point, they could not make up for that sin on their own. They could not cover it up nor could they erase it on their own. The shed blood of a spotless lamb was taught to them by God as a promise of what was to come. That is the whole purpose of Christ’s birth, death, burial and resurrection! Only His perfect shed blood could cover and erase that sin. (Titus 3:5-7)

Moving on to the second angel, he announces the fall of Babylon the Great (Revelation 14:8) which we will read about further in chapter 18. This declaration will bring an end of this system which caused all the nations to drink the wine of the wrath of her fornication. The word “fornication” is used twelve times in the Book of Revelation alone! As we read above, not only can this word mean sex outside of marriage, adultery and incest, but it can also mean idolatry. Idolatry is the forsaking of the One True God and worshipping idol. An idol is anything that consumes our thoughts and time instead of God. On a side note, we can spend our time doing all the right things in life, including philanthropic deeds, but if we neglect our salvation and living for the Lord, we have replaced God with an idol. We are at the point in this series where the false prophet has convinced the world to worship the Antichrist. Is it any wonder that this Babylon (a city which reflects the sins of the original Babylon) is going to fall because of God’s judgments?

The third angel (Revelation 14:9-11) warns of God’s upcoming judgments on the inhabitants of earth who have worshipped the beast and his image and have received his mark. He tells them they will be tormented for all eternity. Notice that Revelation 14:11 continues to say that this torment will give them no rest at all, day or night!

Our verses end with a blessing to those who are saved and keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus! Another blessing will be given to those who die from this point on that they may rest from their work for Christ on earth and this work will not be forgotten.

Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Revelation at a Glance – Day 32

By Kate Plourde

On July 1, 2022

In Devotionals, Revelation at a Glance

Rev 14:1-5 And I looked, and, lo, 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. (2) And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: (3) 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. (4) These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. (5) And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.

It’s a new day and we have another opportunity to learn a bit more about what is to come upon the entire earth during the Tribulation period! The last time God judged the entire earth was with the Great Flood where Noah, his wife, three sons and their wives were saved from destruction. We also know that God promised not to destroy the whole earth by giving us the rainbow as His sign of that promise. However, He may not destroy the entire earth during His judgments during the Tribulation, but He will allow much death and destruction in order to waken the spiritually sleeping hearts!

As Christians in 2022, we can clearly see the demonic forces through the changes which have occurred in just the past two years. It is our responsibility to warn those in our circle of family and friends that the time is ever so near! Once the Rapture happens, the influence of the Holy Spirit will be removed and it will open the door to Satan and his minions. Their influence will now take over and if we think times have gotten bad now, wait and see! Christian’s possess the Holy Spirit and it is His influence within us that restrains the Antichrist from making his appearance to the world.

This chapter isn’t chronological but more parenthetical so we can see what happens in Heaven during the Antichrist’s reign. It’s as though the Apostle John wants to insert some ray of hope in the midst of God’s wrath. We know that the Lord is near to His child (Matthew 28:20). But these Tribulation Saints won’t possess the Holy Spirit as we do in the current Church age. The Spirit’s role will be as it was in the Old Testament, empowering some like Moses, David and others for their task at hand.

Tribulation Saints will need all the encouragement they can get from each other as they gather together in secret to worship God. If you don’t think this is possible, this has already happened in our own country and it can easily happen again! I used to go to church with an elderly lady whose grandmother was a slave in New Market, Virginia during the Civil War. Her grandmother told her many stories of her life growing up during this terrible time. Their entire family consisted of born again believers who had a few tattered pages from the Book of Psalms. They treasured these pages and hid them under the floor boards of their one room cabin. In order to worship God as a “church,” they would gather together in the woods in the middle of the night so they wouldn’t be seen. Each family brought whatever Bible pages they had and would share the Blessed Word with the others. They would quietly sing hymns and encourage one another in the Lord. Reader, this happened in our own country just a little over 160 years ago! We don’t hear about this on the liberal news but Christian persecution exists around the world today! Christianity is the most persecuted religion in the world. As of 2019, the top ten countries persecuting Christians in the world are:

1. North Korea, East Asia (Communist) – Population 25.4 million (1.7% Christian)
2. Afghanistan, South Central Asia (Islamic) – Population 31.6 million (99.7% Muslim)
3. Somalia, The Horn of Africa (Islamic) – Population 11 million (99.8% Muslim)
4. Libya, North Africa (Islamic) – Population 7.2 million (97% Muslim)
5. Pakistan, South Asia (Islamic) – Population 213 million (96% Muslim)
6. Eritrea, The Horn of Africa (Christian/Islamic) – Population 5 million (36% Muslim)
7. Yemen, Western Asia (Islamic) – Population 27.6 million (99.6% Muslim)
8. Iran, Western Asia (Islamic) – 81.6 million (99.5% Muslim)
9. Nigeria, Western Africa (Mixed) – 206.2 million (46.3% Christian)
10. India, South Asia (Hindu) – 1.35 billion (79.8% Hindu, 14.23% Muslim)

It will be much worse than this during the Tribulation! It won’t just be selected countries but the entire world will be against Christianity! Jesus said:

Mar 13:9-13 But take heed to yourselves: for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in the synagogues ye shall be beaten: and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them. (10) And the gospel must first be published among all nations. (11) But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost. (12) Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. (13) And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

During the Tribulation, Christian persecution will be so great that even children will turn in their parents and vice versa! When those in your own family betray you, that’s pretty bad!

The hope of these remaining Tribulation Saints is that they remain strong, not receiving the mark of the Beast, and live to see Christ’s return to earth to conquer Satan and his followers! As we saw in chapter 13, our planet is already headed toward a one world government and a one world economy. Author Allan Bloom said:

“The essential component to establishing globalism is to eliminate any system of absolutes.”
The Closing of the American Mind

This sets the stage for globalism. Everything becomes relative; it removes absolute truth. Today, it is said that “Your truth says this but my truth says that.” There aren’t two versions of the truth, friend. There is only one truth and the other is false. Jesus said in John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. The devil is the father of lies (John 8:44) and his earthly reign is devoid of truth. He cannot speak the truth because his pride wants everything to revolve around him. He is the ultimate narcissist!

We are currently moving forward and are very close to this one world government. We hear more and more prominent leaders saying things like Nobel prize winning economist, Jan Tinbergen:

“Mankind’s problems can no longer be solved by national governments. What is needed is world government.”

As well, Hillary Clinton stated:

“My dream is a hemispheric common market, with open trade and open borders, some time in the future with energy that is as green and sustainable as we can get it, powering growth and opportunity for every person in the hemisphere.”
Paid speech in 2013 at Brazil-based Banco Itau

The far left wing proponents want this one world government and are pouring vast amounts of money into achieving this very goal. The stage has been set and the mindset for globalism is currently at work through liberal leadership and the world’s most wealthy people. You can’t put your head in the sand and think this could never happen today! Friend, it is already happening! As the world lies asleep spiritually, mentally and intellectually, the powers that be are diligently working.

This will all come together with the Antichrist and false prophet to promote a one world religion. But God will still get His gospel out one way or another. As we look into chapter 14, note that it is divided into three parts:

Verse 1 – And I looked – Jesus’ return with the 144,000
Verse 6 – And I saw – Three angels to proclaim the Gospel and judge the world
Verse 14 – And I looked – Three angels to harvest the world by separating believers from unbelievers

In the first five verses, John sees a Lamb (Jesus), who is the ultimate atonement for all people for all time. He’s standing on Mount Zion, which is a preview of Christ in chapter 19. John also sees the 144,000 servants of God (also see Revelation 7:3-4) who were sealed on the foreheads with the Father’s name. This brought to mind the Tefillin, which looks like a little box that orthodox Jews put on their arm and forehead. It is a reminder to the orthodox Jew to think about the Torah (first five books of Moses in the Old Testament). I love that God would mark His servants on their forehead! These 144,000 are virgins (Revelation 14:4) which I believe describes to us the purity of their faith. They followed the Lamb wherever He went and they were redeemed by Him. This is the same truth applied to us in Jude 1:24. We stand in Christ’s righteousness and our sin is not held against us. We will stand faultless before the Throne and we will sing a new song! Praise Him!! \o/ I long for the day when we no longer have to fight sin in our flesh.

Revelation at a Glance – Day 31

By Kate Plourde

On June 29, 2022

In Devotionals, Revelation at a Glance

Rev 13:11-18 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. (12) And 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. (13) And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, (14) And 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. (15) And 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. (16) And 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: (17) And 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. (18) Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.

I’m happy to see that you have come back 😀 This series has stirred my heart and rekindled the fire in my spirit for the end times! As you’ve read before, this is the very topic that led me to Jesus and I have always had a desire to learn anything about this topic. It is easy for me to write about this because this is my testimony. The Lord revealed Himself to me through the Scriptures that revolved around the Rapture and the end times. Whatever your testimony is, reach out to the lost and let that testimony prick their hearts through the Holy Spirit. Tell them your story because no one knows it better than you!

Today, we are introduced to the second beast (Revelation 13:11). We see here that this beast comes up out of the earth having two horns like a lamb but yet spoke as a dragon. This beast rises out of humanity and appears to be like a lamb indicating he will have the appearance of the one true Lamb, Jesus Christ. However, this lamb may look like the Messiah but will speak like a dragon. His words will be from the pits of Hell and he will promote the Antichrist – he will be the False Prophet.

The False Prophet will have an agenda like no other religious leader before! His sole purpose will be to convince the world that his religion (and that of the Antichrist) is what people need. Furthermore, his religion will be the only one allowed, a religious dictatorship if you will. If one doesn’t follow after this Tribulation religion, he will be martyred. Let’s take a look at what this False Prophet will be all about:

His purpose: His purpose is to promote the Antichrist and to cause all of earth’s inhabitants to worship him. (Revelation 13:12) Furthermore, it says that it will be done in the sight of men. In no time in history has this ever been possible until now. With internet availability practically world-wide, these events can be seen by everyone. His whole purpose will be to draw attention away from God and righteous living to the Antichrist and his sinful ways. To top it off, the False Prophet will encourage people to believe that the Antichrist is actually the Messiah and Saviour of the world! He will promote this with ways you and I could think up.
His power: He performs miracles and gives life to the beast after he is mortally wounded. This mimics Elijah, so this will fool the whole world, but especially the Jews. The Jews have been long awaiting their Messiah so when they start seeing miracles and signs, they will most certainly be deceived. The Apostle Paul said: 1Co 1:22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:. Of course, these will be counterfeit signs and wonders and they will deceive the entire world except for the Tribulation Saints. Remember, the devil is known as the angel of light so everything he will do will “mimic” God and people will believe that the Antichrist is God! (2Corinthians 7:14).
His plan: He will make earth’s inhabitants take the mark of the Beast on their right hand or forehead so that they cannot buy or sell without that mark. Just as the Lord seals on the foreheads of the 144,000 and those who get saved during the Tribulation, so will the Antichrist try to imitate this by having a number given on the forehead or the right hand. Why do you think the devil imitates God? Just as he deceived Adam and Eve, he will deceive those on earth. So at some point during the Tribulation, the ability to imprint the Antichrist’s number or code will go worldwide. I find it interesting that the Antichrist’s mark might go on the right hand. Man has always strived to “work” for their salvation, but it is not so with God (Ephesians 2:8-9). It would be like the Antichrist to want mankind to take his mark so they can’t work, buy or sell without it. Sweden already provides bionic banking on a chip which contains ID’s, wallets and keys! I couldn’t believe that we were actually at that point – take a look at this video here. As you can see, this technology has already arrived! When I was first saved in 1980, I could not imagine how the Antichrist would accomplish this. But I can now totally see how he will be using some form of it during the Tribulation.
His number: The Antichrist’s number is 666 but we cannot know for sure how that number will be used. Man was created on the sixth day, so it is known that the number six is the number for man. In the Antichrist’s case, it’s in triplicate which may be to signify Satan / Antichrist / False Prophet. For example, once the world is under a one-world government, I wonder if each person’s identifying numbers (like Social Security numbers) will begin with 666. How will that number be incorporated into tracking each person? We can see this ability has already entered as we read this article. Please take a few minutes to read the article and watch the video. It is mind boggling what has happened behind the scenes while the world is being distracted by pandemics, wars and rumors of wars! The Scriptures say that this is his number (666) so we can be sure that there will be some kind of number assigned to each human being which will track them. Christians won’t accept this mark and will either starve and/or be martyred for it. They will have to go underground and barter with other Christians in order to get what they need. But we don’t plan to be here for all of this, amen? The Scriptures encourage believers with these words:

1Th 5:4-11 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. (5) Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. (6) Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. (7) For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. (8) But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. (9) For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, (10) Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. (11) Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

Revelation at a Glance – Day 30

By Kate Plourde

On June 27, 2022

In Devotionals, Revelation at a Glance

Rev 13:1-10 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. (2) And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. (3) And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast. (4) 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? (5) And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. (6) And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. (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. (8) And 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. (9) If any man have an ear, let him hear. (10) He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.

Welcome back! Our study is coming along and we are currently smack dab in the middle of the Tribulation period. You know, reader, my heart is conflicted: I’m excited to be with the Lord but I am also grieved. I grieve because I still have lost family and friends who think that I am a religious nut. I would rather be known as a religious nut than the person who did not give them the gospel of Jesus Christ! If you want to get an idea of what will happen once you die, this little booklet is a minute read and is right on point!

As we move on, this chapter introduces the diabolical duo. The first beast rises out of the sea and is known as the Antichrist, who is the devil incarnate. Just as Satan entered Judas to betray Jesus, Satan will enter the Antichrist and the Antichrist will do his bidding. He will be a global dictator and will work in concert with the second beast, who is the false prophet. The false prophet will be in charge of the one world religion and its religious leaders. They will team up to achieve Satan’s demonic agenda for the earth. Are you able to see that this one world religion is in its formative years? I surely can. By the time these two come on the scene, people will be ready – their hearts will be so entrapped in sin that makind will not want to hear about their sin or that they need to repent!

This Beast is none other than the man of sin and son of perdition referenced in 2Thessalonians 2:3. Zechariah prophesied of him in Zechariah 11:15-17 and says he is the idol shepherd. Daniel prophesied of him in Daniel 11:36-39. Wow … just wow! This timeframe is in the second half of the Tribulation because we see in Revelation 13:5 that the Beast “continues” for forty and two months. If you recall, the Antichrist comes into power with peace at the beginning of the Tribulation when he signs a peace treaty with Israel. In the middle of the Tribulation, he breaks that peace treaty. He continues to wage war and raises up two imposing figures. It isn’t till this second half of the Tribulation that they impose their power upon the earth. If you think Hitler was bad, history records that Stalin killed 30 million of his own people! The Antichrist will be even worse. He will have this type of evil power until the end of the Tribulation and King Jesus will put an end to that power.

Daniel prophesied (Daniel 11:36-39) that the Antichrist will speak blasphemies against God. This prophecy comes true in Revelation 13:6. Also, Daniel says (Daniel 11:37) the Antichrist will not “regard the God of his fathers” which leads us to believe he may be Jewish but won’t be following Judaism since he blasphemes “his tabernacle.” If he were a Gentile, he would have no need to blaspheme the tabernacle. The Antichrist’s reign will revolve around the following characteristics:

Wickedness – Revelation 13:1 – the definition for blasphemy reveals to us just how wicked he is. Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines it as: vilification (especially against God): – blasphemy, evil speaking, railing.
Wounding – Revelation 13:3 – The injury sustained will result in healing and all will worship him because of it. He will be raised from the dead or will be healed which reveals that the Antichrist will be able to do counterfeit miracles. Remember, Zechariah 11:15-17 calls him an “idol shepherd,” which is a good choice of words!
Words of – Revelation 13:5-6 – He will speak great things. It reminds me of today’s preachers who don’t preach the Word of God but preach what people want to hear; words that will tickle their ears. (2Timothy 4:3) Just what is this tickling of the ears? Preaching sin does not tickle the ears, so it will be the total opposite! Today’s popular preachers are great orators and “life coaches,” but they do not preach from the Word of God; they love to speak of prosperity and the “love” gospel. Yes, God is love and He loves us so much that He sent Jesus to die for us. But God doesn’t stop there. Those who do not love His Son, Jesus, and are not born again will receive His judgment. These preachers do not talk about sin and God’s judgment for that sin. Be leary, reader, of whose teachings you sit under. The Antichrist will speak blasphemies and deceive earth’s inhabitants, so much so, they will be led to believe that he is God.
Warfare – Revelation 13:7 – We see war against the saints in this verse. But notice a very important word here: he overcomes them. This is yet more proof that today’s Church is not going through the Tribulation because these saints are martyred. We are not to go through God’s wrath: 1Thessalonians 1:10, 1Thessalonians 5:9, Romans 5:9.
Worship of – Revelation 13:4, Revelation 13:8 and Revelation 13:12 all speak of this first Beast, the Antichrist, receiving worship. Think about this for one moment: can you picture yourself bowing down and actually worshipping this being? It may seem farfetched but it won’t be during the Tribulation. Everyone will worship this Beast, except for the Tribulation saints. Their payment for denying to worship him will be death.

As you can see, the first Beast will be a furious and evil one. Don’t let the distractions of this world sidetrack you, reader. There is a judgment coming and you do not want to be a part of it. Settle this matter once and for all. Don’t delay as the Rapture can happen at any moment. (Matthew 24:36-42) It is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Revelation at a Glance – Day 29

By Kate Plourde

On June 24, 2022

In Devotionals, Revelation at a Glance

Rev 12:1-17 And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: (2) And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered. (3) And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. (4) And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born. (5) And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne. (6) And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days. (7) And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, (8) And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. (9) And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. (10) And 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. (11) And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. (12) Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time. (13) And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child. (14) And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent. (15) And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood. (16) And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth. (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.

Good morning, dear reader! I pray that this series is blessing you. I would love to hear from you to let me know what you are gaining from it. My prayer is that it stirs the Christian heart to tell others about these days before it’s too late for them. My prayer also is that those who do not know Christ as their Saviour would come to a saving knowledge of Him and to grow in His grace!

What we will see in these next three chapters is a pause between the trumpet judgments and the plague judgments. Chapter 12 explains God’s redemptive plan through a woman and a child. Chapter 13 covers the opposition to that plan by the dragon, the beast out of the sea, and the beast out of the earth. Chapter 14 is a proclamation of that plan by three angels and is a wonderful chapter for redemption!

Today, we will look at three main figures: a woman, a dragon and a male child. Let’s take a look at these verses and see what’s in store for those who will be going through the Tribulation. We’ll look at the woman first. The Roman Catholic Church believes this woman is Mary. However, there’s a problem with that. Revelation 12:1 says it’s not a literal woman but a “great wonder.” The next verse refers to a woman giving birth. Any time a woman is mentioned in Revelation, it refers to the Church; she is the Bride of Christ, not a woman giving birth. God gave birth to the Church, not the other way around. We must let Scripture define itself. This woman is symbolic and reveals that she is clothed with the sun, the moon under her feet and wears a crown of twelve stars. Does this sound a tad familiar to you? It did to me. (Genesis 37:3-11) In these verses we see that Joseph had a dream. The product of that dream was that the sun referenced Jacob, the moon referenced Rachel, and the stars referenced his eleven brothers. Altogether we see a wonderful representation of Israel. Israel is also referred to as a woman, as we see in Isaiah 54:6, Jeremiah 3:1, Ezekiel 16:30, Hosea 2:2.

Next we see the dragon in Revelation 12:3. He is depicted as a great red dragon. Who is this red dragon? As I said earlier, let the Scriptures define Scripture. We see in Revelation 12:9, that this red dragon is indeed Satan. I find the description “red” interesting; it is symbolic of sinfulness (Isaiah 1:18) which leads to death (Romans 6:23). This is and always has been Satan’s ambition. He hates God and all of His creation, but especially mankind (1Peter 5:8). Not only does he hate you, but he hates your family! So now we come upon who and where Satan’s power and hatred will be cast upon. This serpent has seven heads (world powers), ten horns and seven crowns (world kingdoms) (Revelation 12:3). Satan has been and is behind all the evil world powers and world kingdoms. Do you see how his tail swept one third of the stars? This may be referring to the angels who rebelled along with him as we will see in Revelation 12:7-17.

Did you know that there hasn’t been a world empire since the Roman empire? But that is about to come to an end. The “powers that be” are hard at work attempting to lead the world into a one world government. We see here that Satan will have authority over all the governments. He is bound and determined to win. His pride never ceases to amaze me, and not in a good way. Revelation 12:7-12 give us a good description of that evil devil, Satan:

Old serpent: This deceiver has been around a long time
The devil: Diabolos in the Greek – he is our accuser
Satan: He’s the adversary and enemy (1Peter 5:8 – he hunts for us)
He deceives the whole world (2Corinthians 4:4 – blinds people so they don’t get saved)
The accuser of our brethren (verse 10) – he’s relentless; he loves to accuse me to me so that I don’t “feel” forgiven. He hates you because you look like, and are related to, and loved by your Father in Heaven. He hates your life; he hates your children; he hates everything about you!

John wants us to get the full picture about him by going back to when he was actually thrown out of Heaven and cast to earth by Michael the Archangel and his angels! In fact, Ezekiel 28:12-19 describes Satan as well. (also Luke 10:18) From that point, there was no place found in Heaven for them and earth became their playground in the unseen realm. Satan and his minions influence people and bring evil into their hearts. (Ephesians 6:11-13)

Revelation, for the most part, is sequential. But this chapter us a background of events that happened even before Adam and Eve were created. As we discussed on Day 11, the Eastern way of thinking is circular, not sequential like Westerners. It’s difficult for Westerners to understand the Eastern mind and how they view events. So don’t be confused when we leave the sequence of the Trumpet Judgments and go back in time. Think of it as a term paper where you insert footnotes: you jump from the main text to the footnote and read what that footnote says, then you jump back to the main story, LOL! 😁

Now let’s look at the reference for the man child in Revelation 12:5. This is referencing Jesus Christ’s future birth on earth to redeem mankind with His death, burial and resurrection. Furthermore, we are able to see His millennial Kingdom! All will bow down to him. This child will:

Rule with a rod of iron (or scepter): Rulers possess this scepter (Psalm 2:8-9). This Messianic verse can also be found in Revelation 19:15.
Child will be caught up unto God and to his throne: Jesus’ Ascension, where He is currently and waiting to come again to rule in the Millennial Kingdom.

God’s redemptive plan was always for both the Jews and Gentiles. Abraham was called out of a Gentile nation, Iraq, to be the father of all nations. Jesus would come from Abraham’s lineage, which began as a Gentile, and became the birth of Israel. Jesus Christ was born from that same lineage, reader! Doesn’t that excite you? Jesus’ precious blood was shed for all, Jews and Gentiles alike! Praise Him!!! Satan has always stood in opposition to God’s redemptive plan. We see that in verse 4! He was waiting to devour this child as soon as He was born. He worked through Haman (in Esther 3), Herod the Great, Hitler, and radical Islam, to name a few. All of these attempted to eliminate the Jews so they could thwart God’s redemptive work. But Satan’s attempts can’t outweigh God’s power, amen?

When one looks at the whole picture, it’s easy to see the devil in the midst of it all. One can see his role and his influence over mankind. We are seeing it today; those who are not raptured, will most certainly see it more than ever before during the Tribulation. Please, dear reader, if you do not know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you will go to Heaven when you die, I beg you to please get saved now! 2Corinthians 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Don’t delay! You do not know if you will ever be given another opportunity to be saved. It is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Revelation at a Glance – Day 28

By Kate Plourde

On June 22, 2022

In Devotionals, Revelation at a Glance

Rev 11:15-19 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. (16) And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God, (17) Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned. (18) And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth. (19) And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.

Good morning, Reader! The deeper we dive into the Book of Revelation, the more grieved my heart becomes. I can’t imagine mankind being so stubborn that they reject the Lord Jesus Christ in order to continue living in sin despite the judgments that have occurred till now! It shows the lack of conscience. It makes me think of (Isa 5:21) Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! (See also Judges 17:6, Proverbs 3:7, Proverbs 16:2, Proverbs 30:12) These attitudes speak loudly today and will be much more prevalent during the Tribulation. The disturbing thing for me is that they remain that way despite the judgments thus far! There is no conscience at all! (Isaiah 56:11)

Today, we’ll be covering that Seventh Trumpet. Notice that John writes about a pause where an announcement is to be made. This trumpet announces that God is about to take over the earth as its Judge and King! It’s exciting for the believer to read this but not so much for those who have not given their lives over to Jesus Christ. Take note that the 24 elders come into John’s view once again. The elders that were sitting before God fall on their faces and worship Him. We know that the 24 elders are symbolic of the Church in Heaven. This is mentioned six times in Scripture and only in the Book of Revelation (Rev 4:4, Rev 4:10, Rev 5:8, Rev 5:14, Rev 11:16 and Rev 19:4).

I love that the church is sitting with the Lord (as a Bride never leaves the proximity of her Spouse: 1 Thess 4:16-17). She is clothed in white, which is the righteousness of the saints as we see in Rev 7:9 and Rev 19:8; just as a typical bride gives her dowry to her spouse, this Bride casts the crowns of gold (given to her by the Lord for the work she has done for Him here on earth) at the feet of her Spouse!!! (1Cor 9:25, Phil 4:1, 1Thess 2:19, 2Tim 4:8, James 1:12, 1Pet 5:4, Rev 4:4, Rev 4:10) After all that Jesus went through to provide us salvation through Him, the least we should want to do is to give something back to Him. Although we can never possiby repay the Lord for His horrible death for our sin, we can give Him the crowns He promised us for our work for the Kingdom’s cause. My heart is overwhelmed when I think about this event, dear friend! Truly there is nothing I can give Him that would even come close to paying Him back… but the one thing that Jesus wants the most is my heart. Just as in the Christmas hymn titled, “A Christmas Carol” by Christina Rossetti: … what can I give Him, give him my heart.” (Romans 10:8-10) Amen and amen!

While all of this is happening in Heaven, those dwelling on earth are not happy at all. Revelation 11:18-19 tells us that the nations are angry. If they are angry at this point, just think of how they will react at the upcoming judgments! But before all that, God is going to give us a history lesson on just how the “god of this world” came into power. (2Cor 4:3-4) I truly believe that the Lord put this in His Word at this very spot so that we could see just what kind of evil force Satan truly is.

If you are not born again, reader, please don’t let another day go by without Christ! (2Cor 6:2) He is the only way to Heaven. No religion on earth will get you to Heaven, no matter what you’ve been taught in your current “church.” (Joh 14:6) Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Friend, if your religion doesn’t preach salvation through Jesus Christ, you are being misled. You cannot do enough good things to get on God’s good side. No amount of donations or philanthropic deeds will gain you entrance. Eph 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: (9) Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Use this pause to reflect on your eternal soul. It will live in one of two places: Heaven or Hell. Both are very real. Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Revelation at a Glance – Day 27

By Kate Plourde

On June 20, 2022

In Devotionals, Revelation at a Glance

Rev 11:1-14 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. (2) But 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. (3) And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. (4) These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth. (5) 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. (6) These 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. (7) And 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. (8) And 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. (9) And 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. (10) And 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. (11) And 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. (12) And 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. (13) And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand: and the remnant were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven. (14) The second woe is past; and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly.

How has your day been going so far, Reader? Are you excited about what is to come? I have found the Book of Revelation to be more of a blessing in my life than it has ever been in my 42 years of salvation! I don’t know if it’s because I don’t have anything to worry about as far as where I will spend eternity or if it’s due to the fact that we are actually witnessing and living in the end times. We are literally seeing Bible prophecy unfold and come to light. (2Timothy 3:1-7 and 2Peter 3:3-7) Either way, it excites me to know that I won’t be here to experience the most horrific events this earth has ever experienced! It also presses on my heart that Christians do not have much time left to lead the lost to Jesus Christ and His salvation. (John 14:6) Can you imagine not sharing something of this magnitude with someone who is on his way to Hell?

Today’s topic sounds like something right out of a science fiction movie. It revolves around two men who will have such an effect on the world that the world will absolutely hate them. They won’t be despised because of their political party – nor will they be despised because they are murderers. They will be despised for their testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Messiah, and preaching repentance to a lost, sinful and dying world. Can you imagine hating someone so much that you rejoice and have a party when they die? Stay tuned, and buckle up! We are about to witness such things in this chapter!

Just who are these two men and what is their purpose? They are referred to as the “Two Witnesses” who will be preaching in the streets of Jerusalem, where the Temple is located (Revelation 11:1) and where their Lord was crucified (Revelation 11:8). Since the Temple is mentioned here, it stands to reason that the Jewish Temple will be rebuilt in Jerusalem at some point prior to this. It was destroyed in 70 AD and at some point between now and the Tribulation, it will be rebuilt. We haven’t seen that yet, but when God’s Word says it will happen, that means it will happen and you can take that to the bank. (Ezekiel 12:25)

The Two Witnesses’ main purpose is to preach repentance (Revelation 11:3). We know this to be so because they wore sackcloth. Why is sackcloth linked to repentance? Jesus said in Matthew 11:21 that sackcloth and ashes were a part of repentance. Sackcloth was often made of camel’s hair as we see in Matthew 3:4 in John the Baptist’s clothing. As John the Baptist preached for a period of time on the topic of repentance and the coming of Messiah, these two witnesses will preach the same topics for 1,260 days, or three and a half years. That’s a long time for two people to preach in the streets of Jerusalem! Some believe this will occur during the first three and a half years of the Tribulation while others believe it will be during the second half. I believe they come in the first half because Revelation 11:7 says that once they have “finished their testimony,” the beast makes war against them. As you will see below, the Two Witnesses’ powers have the same outcome as in the eighth chapter during the Trumpet Judgments. Chapter 12 reveals how this beast will come to power so it stands to reason, for me at least, that they will be preaching during the first half of the Tribulation. Either way, people will not want to hear what they have to say because their hearts are evil.

Here’s where the Two Witnesses’ power comes into play. They will be protected by the Lord Himself and will be kept from any harm as we see in Revelation 11:5. Can you just imagine what people will think when they see that these men have fire proceeding out of their mouths when enemies attack them?? Wow! Fire is symbolic of judgment and damnation. I can just imagine what those who witness such events will think! Take note of the powers that are given to these two:

Verse 6 – the power to shut heaven so it does not rain. Who else did this? Elijah did in 1Kings 17:1, 1Kings 18:22-39, James 5:17-18
Verse 6 – the power to turn water into blood. Who else did this? Moses did this in Exodus 7:19

So it could be possible that the two witnesses are Elijah and Moses but that’s not 100% certain. Both appeared with Jesus at the Mount of Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-38). Because of their Old Testament miracles being repeated here, I believe that they will be Elijah and Moses. Some believe that it is Elijah (2Kings 2:11) and Enoch (Genesis 5:24) because neither one died, but were taken up to Heaven. The Bible says in Hebrews 9:27 that it is appointed unto men once to die, but after death is the judgment. Since neither died, their death could be a fulfillment here. Either view, these two witnesses will preach repentance to its fullest; so much so, their message will make people angry, much like Stephen’s message angered the people of his day to the point of martyrdom (Acts 7:54-60).

In Revelation 11:7-10, we read that our Two Witnesses will be assassinated by the Beast (the Antichrist) for their testimony. Although the Word says there’s nothing new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9), the death of these two men will be like none other! The hatred for these two is so great that the people will leave their bodies in the streets for all the world to see. How cold must a heart be to rejoice, not only for their deaths but to watch the celebration as their bodies lay dead on the streets of Jerusalem!!!

Why is it important for us to know where these things will happen? Remember, the whole purpose of the Tribulation is for Israel to return to their God and Messiah. We know it’s Jerusalem because this verse specifies that our Lord was crucified there (Revelation 11:8). Also, did you notice the symbolic names John gives for Jerusalem? He calls Jerusalem, “Sodom and Egypt.” Why do you think the Lord chose those two specific words? The Bible says that Sodom’s destruction was due to the sin of sodomy (homosexuality) running rampant. As well, it is common knowledge that Egypt is a “type” of the world (Exodus 13:14); the world and its bondage to sin entraps us and we must “come out of the world (Egypt)” of sin into salvation through Jesus Christ. So I believe that worldliness and all its sins, especially homosexuality (for which Sodom was destroyed), will dominate Jerusalem (and the world for that matter) during the Tribulation. When I was first saved in 1980, this particular sin was not spoken of so openly as it is now. Today, however, “gay pride” is everywhere and the television is promoting it in any way they can! Once must realize that the first sin ever committed was the sin of pride committed by Lucifer when he wanted to be as God. For this reason, he was cast out of Heaven! The sin of pride is not only committed by homosexuals, it is revealed in the hearts of earth’s inhabitants as they take selfies and record their every movement in social media for all the world to see. 😡 Can you imagine how much worse it will be during the Tribulation??

Due to Internet, cell phones and social media, people all over the world will be able to see the dead bodies of our Two Witnesses lying in the street. Modern-day technology has allowed the fulfillment of these prophecies. If some people on earth do not have these technologies, they at least know someone who does. You can be sure if the Bible says all will see, then you can believe that all will see. There will be a global celebration of their deaths and they will even give gifts to one other for this horrifying event, much like Christmas! They are so sick and tired of hearing the preaching of repentance from these Two Witnesses for a solid three and a half years that they celebrate their deaths! The Scriptures say they were tormenting all that dwell on the earth so no wonder a celebration ensues! Wow! What cold, unrepentant and wicked hearts are within them!

I absolutely love what happens next though! Just as Jesus arose from the dead after three days, the Two Witnesses will as well! The Holy Spirit breathes them life into them again and they stand up! I don’t know about you, but if I were to witness this event, I would fall to my knees in fear and repent! The verse states that fear overcomes those who witness this event and as they are watching, a voice from Heaven calls out for the Two Witnesses to “Come up hither” and up they ascend in a cloud!! To top it all, everyone on earth will see this happening (Revelation 11:12). In the next verse we see that at that very hour, a great earthquake occurs and a tenth of Jerusalem falls and 7,000 men die as a result! As with the feeding of the 5,000, we know that Scripture only accounts for just the men. But there were women and children there during that miracle as well. So the 7,000 men could double or even triple when you add women and children. It also tells us that the survivors gave glory to God in Heaven! What a contribution and impact the Two Witnesses had, amen?!

Revelation at a Glance – Day 26

By Kate Plourde

On June 17, 2022

In Devotionals, Revelation at a Glance

Rev 10:1-11 And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a rainbow was upon his head, and his face was as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire: (2) And he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot upon the sea, and his left foot on the earth, (3) And cried with a loud voice, as when a lion roareth: and when he had cried, seven thunders uttered their voices. (4) And when the seven thunders had uttered their voices, I was about to write: and I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered, and write them not. (5) And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, (6) And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer: (7) But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets. (8) And the voice which I heard from heaven spake unto me again, and said, Go and take the little book which is open in the hand of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth. (9) And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey. (10) And I took the little book out of the angel’s hand, and ate it up; and it was in my mouth sweet as honey: and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter. (11) And he said unto me, Thou must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, and tongues, and kings.

it’s a new day, Reader, and despite the horrible things going on around the world, I am excited to live each day because I know I am one day closer to seeing my Saviour face-to-face. I do not fear what is about to happen because I won’t be here; and neither will you, if you are born again. 😀 But if you’re not, there is no joy to look forward to for you. Granted, you may have a nice day here and there, but in the deepest parts of your heart, you will not have joy. There is a difference between happiness and joy. Happiness is attached to people and things in your life. But joy is in the deepest part of the heart. Every human being has a “God-shaped” hole in his heart that can only be filled by your Creator and God. Until that hole is filled with Him, joy cannot live there. (John 15:11)

As we continue our series on the Tribulation, we find that half of the world’s population is gone at this point. What are people thinking? Will they be afraid? Will they repent? This post is written in 2022 and we are already wondering what in the world is going on! Abortions are legal, gay marriages are allowed, television has drag queens (even drag queens reading stories to children!!!), just to name a few. Just think of how much worse it will be during the Tribulation!

The vision in today’s Scriptures is considered an interlude between judgments and is John’s longest vision through Revelation 13:1. Between the sixth and seventh trumpets, there is a long pause. It’s as though God is asking, “Have you had enough yet”? By the end of chapter 9, we see that the world still does not repent! Well, that can’t be good!!! This will only result in even more intense judgments.

We now read that John sees a mighty angel but he is not “like” the other angels we’ve seen thus far. We know this is an angel because the Greek word for angel is “aggelos,” which is translated angel. Some believe this is Michael the Archangel, which makes sense because John says he sees a “mighty angel.” This angel is mightier than the other angels – he’s in a different class than they are. This particular angel has the following characteristics:

clothed with a cloud – similar to the coming of Jesus in Revelation 1:7
has a rainbow on his head – similar to the one around the throne of God in Revelation 4:3
his face is like the sun – similar to the countenance of Jesus in Revelation 1:16
feet like pillars of fire – similar to description of Jesus with feet like bronze “as if they burned in a furnace.” Revelation 1:15

Some scholars claim that this is Jesus, but I don’t believe that. Throughout the Book of Revelation, angels are used by the Lord to mete out the judgments; the judgments are not cast out by Jesus Himself. As well, Jesus is not called an angel in the entire book of Revelation. I, too, believe it may be Michael the Archangel (Jude 1:9). Furthermore, the definition for Michael is “who is like God.” We see in the above characteristics that he represents the power of God. In Revelation 10:6, this angel takes an oath by the Lord Jesus that “there should be time no longer.” Why would Jesus take an oath to Himself?

We also see that this mighty angel is given complete authority over land and sea. The moment he cries out, seven thunders are heard. We know that the number seven represents God’s completeness and perfection. So this may be God’s voice (also see Psalm 29:3) indicating God’s perfect divine wrath to follow. He will order John not to write these things down at this point (Revelation 10:4). Wow! I wonder what the seven thunders uttered!?? Since John could not write it down, we will have to wait to find out.

God’s plan for the ages will be unfolded. Psalm 119:103 reveals to us that the Bible is sweet to our souls. But we find that the reality of judgment is not sweet but holy and bitter as well. The same results occurred when John is told to take the little book and eat it. It was sweet to the taste but bitter in his stomach! As we read God’s Word, we find its content sweet and enlightening. But when there is sin in the believer’s heart, God’s Word judges that sin and makes it bitter in our heart of hearts so we confess and forsake it. (Hebrews 4:12)

Friend, there is coming a day of reckoning for all those who do not believe. God’s Word leads to salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ and Him only. (John 14:6) Where does the bitterness lead? It is bitter to anyone who does not accept God’s Word. People who do not want to repent get angry when someone tries to tell them about salvation. They get puffed up in their hearts and call you judgmental. Don’t fret when this happens. They are not rejecting you, they are rejecting God Almighty. If you reject salvation, your bitter end is eternity in Hell. John is told to prophesy again to all possible and he surely did that through Revelation.

Friend, don’t wait for the day of reckoning! Take care of your salvation before it is too late. It is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!