A STUDY BY PASTOR TIM HARING REVELATION

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Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. Study compiled by Tim Haring. chestnutridgechurch.com

2 REVELATION STUDY

REVELATION 1. THE SEVEN CHURCHES REPRESENT THE CHURCH AGE (REVELATION 1-3) TITLE: Latin, meaning “an unveiling” or “Disclosure” 2. SIGNS WILL POINT TO THE END TIMES (NOW): AUTHOR: John A. FALSE TEACHERS AND MESSIAHS (MATTHEW 24:4-5,11; 1 TIMOTHY 4:1; 2 DATE: 95 AD, during Emperor Domitian’s reign THESSALONIANS 2:9)

LOCATION: Island of Patmos (50 miles off the coast of modern-day Turkey) B. WARS AND CONFLICTS (MATTHEW 24:6-7; REVELATION 6:3-4)

RECIPIENTS: Seven churches and written to and for us C. NATURAL DISASTERS (MATTHEW 7:24; REVELATION 6:5-6)

KEY VERSE: Revelation 1:19 D. WIDESPREAD DEATH (REVELATION 6:7-8) [Therefore write what you have seen, what is, and what will take place after this] E. UNRAVELING OF SOCIETAL FABRIC (MATTHEW 24:12-13; 2 TIMOTHY 3:1-5) THREE MAJOR APPROACHES TO THE BOOK: F. INCREASE IN KNOWLEDGE (DANIEL 12:4) • Historical G. THE GOSPEL WILL BE PREACHED ALL OVER THE WORLD (MATTHEW 24:14; REVELATION • Spiritual 6:9; REVELATION 11:3)

• Prophetic ALL THESE ARE THE BEGINNING OF BIRTH PAINS (MATTHEW 24:8; :3)

ESSENTIAL PASSAGES FOR A PROPER INTERPRETATION: 3. THE ANTI-CHRIST WILL SIGN A 7-YEAR AGREEMENT WITH ISRAEL (DANIEL 9:27; 2 THESSALONIANS 2:3-4; DANIEL 11:36 • DANIEL 2, 7 • MATTHEW 24-25 4. THE ANTI-CHRIST WILL BREAK HIS AGREEMENT WITH ISRAEL IN THE MIDDLE OF THE • 1 AND 2 THESSALONIANS SEVEN-YEAR PERIOD (MATTHEW 24:15-16; DANIEL 9:27; 2 THESSALONIANS 2:1-4)

5. PERSECUTION WILL BREAK OUT AGAINST GOD’S PEOPLE (MATTHEW 24:9-10, 21; DANIEL 7:21, 25; DANIEL 11:33; DANIEL 12:1; REVELATION 6:9)

6. A REMNANT OF JEWS WILL BE PROTECTED (MATTHEW 24:15-16; REVELATION 7:4; REVELATION 12:6)

7. THE RAPTURE WILL TAKE PLACE (MATTHEW 24:31; :16-17; 1 CORINTHIANS 15:50-52; DANIEL 12:1-2; REVELATION 7:9-10; REVELATION 18:4; 1 THESSALONIANS 5:9)

8. CHRIST WILL RETURN TO JUDGE THE WORLD (MATTHEW 24:29-30; REVELATION 6:12-14)

9. CHRIST WILL REIGN FOR 1,000 YEARS (REVELATION 11:15; DANIEL 7:13-14,22, 27; REVELATION 20:1-2, 4B)

10. ONE LAST BATTLE WILL TAKE PLACE (AFTER THE MILLENNIUM) – DANIEL 20:7-8; REVELATION 19:6-11; PSALM 2)

11. JUDGMENT DAY FOR UNBELIEVERS (DANIEL 7:9-10; REVELATION 20:12; MATTHEW 25:31-33,41, 46)

12. NEW HEAVEN AND A NEW EARTH (REVELATION 21:1; 2 PETER 3:10-11)

3 NOTES

REVELATION 1. THE SEVEN CHURCHES REPRESENT THE CHURCH AGE (REVELATION 1-3) TITLE: Latin, meaning “an unveiling” or “Disclosure” 2. SIGNS WILL POINT TO THE END TIMES (NOW): AUTHOR: John A. FALSE TEACHERS AND MESSIAHS (MATTHEW 24:4-5,11; 1 TIMOTHY 4:1; 2 DATE: 95 AD, during Emperor Domitian’s reign THESSALONIANS 2:9)

LOCATION: Island of Patmos (50 miles off the coast of modern-day Turkey) B. WARS AND CONFLICTS (MATTHEW 24:6-7; REVELATION 6:3-4)

RECIPIENTS: Seven churches and written to and for us C. NATURAL DISASTERS (MATTHEW 7:24; REVELATION 6:5-6)

KEY VERSE: Revelation 1:19 D. WIDESPREAD DEATH (REVELATION 6:7-8) [Therefore write what you have seen, what is, and what will take place after this] E. UNRAVELING OF SOCIETAL FABRIC (MATTHEW 24:12-13; 2 TIMOTHY 3:1-5) THREE MAJOR APPROACHES TO THE BOOK: F. INCREASE IN KNOWLEDGE (DANIEL 12:4) • Historical G. THE GOSPEL WILL BE PREACHED ALL OVER THE WORLD (MATTHEW 24:14; REVELATION • Spiritual 6:9; REVELATION 11:3)

• Prophetic ALL THESE ARE THE BEGINNING OF BIRTH PAINS (MATTHEW 24:8; 1 THESSALONIANS 5:3)

ESSENTIAL PASSAGES FOR A PROPER INTERPRETATION: 3. THE ANTI-CHRIST WILL SIGN A 7-YEAR AGREEMENT WITH ISRAEL (DANIEL 9:27; 2 THESSALONIANS 2:3-4; DANIEL 11:36 • DANIEL 2, 7 • MATTHEW 24-25 4. THE ANTI-CHRIST WILL BREAK HIS AGREEMENT WITH ISRAEL IN THE MIDDLE OF THE • 1 AND 2 THESSALONIANS SEVEN-YEAR PERIOD (MATTHEW 24:15-16; DANIEL 9:27; 2 THESSALONIANS 2:1-4)

5. PERSECUTION WILL BREAK OUT AGAINST GOD’S PEOPLE (MATTHEW 24:9-10, 21; DANIEL 7:21, 25; DANIEL 11:33; DANIEL 12:1; REVELATION 6:9)

6. A REMNANT OF JEWS WILL BE PROTECTED (MATTHEW 24:15-16; REVELATION 7:4; REVELATION 12:6)

7. THE RAPTURE WILL TAKE PLACE (MATTHEW 24:31; 1 THESSALONIANS 4:16-17; 1 CORINTHIANS 15:50-52; DANIEL 12:1-2; REVELATION 7:9-10; REVELATION 18:4; 1 THESSALONIANS 5:9)

8. CHRIST WILL RETURN TO JUDGE THE WORLD (MATTHEW 24:29-30; REVELATION 6:12-14)

9. CHRIST WILL REIGN FOR 1,000 YEARS (REVELATION 11:15; DANIEL 7:13-14,22, 27; REVELATION 20:1-2, 4B)

10. ONE LAST BATTLE WILL TAKE PLACE (AFTER THE MILLENNIUM) – DANIEL 20:7-8; REVELATION 19:6-11; PSALM 2)

11. JUDGMENT DAY FOR UNBELIEVERS (DANIEL 7:9-10; REVELATION 20:12; MATTHEW 25:31-33,41, 46)

12. NEW HEAVEN AND A NEW EARTH (REVELATION 21:1; 2 PETER 3:10-11)

4 END TIMES PROPHETIC TIMELINE

REVELATION 1. THE SEVEN CHURCHES REPRESENT THE CHURCH AGE (REVELATION 1-3) TITLE: Latin, meaning “an unveiling” or “Disclosure” 2. SIGNS WILL POINT TO THE END TIMES (NOW): AUTHOR: John A. FALSE TEACHERS AND MESSIAHS (MATTHEW 24:4-5,11; 1 TIMOTHY 4:1; 2 DATE: 95 AD, during Emperor Domitian’s reign THESSALONIANS 2:9)

LOCATION: Island of Patmos (50 miles off the coast of modern-day Turkey) B. WARS AND CONFLICTS (MATTHEW 24:6-7; REVELATION 6:3-4)

RECIPIENTS: Seven churches and written to and for us C. NATURAL DISASTERS (MATTHEW 7:24; REVELATION 6:5-6)

KEY VERSE: Revelation 1:19 D. WIDESPREAD DEATH (REVELATION 6:7-8) [Therefore write what you have seen, what is, and what will take place after this] E. UNRAVELING OF SOCIETAL FABRIC (MATTHEW 24:12-13; 2 TIMOTHY 3:1-5) THREE MAJOR APPROACHES TO THE BOOK: F. INCREASE IN KNOWLEDGE (DANIEL 12:4) • Historical G. THE GOSPEL WILL BE PREACHED ALL OVER THE WORLD (MATTHEW 24:14; REVELATION • Spiritual 6:9; REVELATION 11:3)

• Prophetic ALL THESE ARE THE BEGINNING OF BIRTH PAINS (MATTHEW 24:8; 1 THESSALONIANS 5:3)

ESSENTIAL PASSAGES FOR A PROPER INTERPRETATION: 3. THE ANTI-CHRIST WILL SIGN A 7-YEAR AGREEMENT WITH ISRAEL (DANIEL 9:27; 2 THESSALONIANS 2:3-4; DANIEL 11:36 • DANIEL 2, 7 • MATTHEW 24-25 4. THE ANTI-CHRIST WILL BREAK HIS AGREEMENT WITH ISRAEL IN THE MIDDLE OF THE • 1 AND 2 THESSALONIANS SEVEN-YEAR PERIOD (MATTHEW 24:15-16; DANIEL 9:27; 2 THESSALONIANS 2:1-4)

5. PERSECUTION WILL BREAK OUT AGAINST GOD’S PEOPLE (MATTHEW 24:9-10, 21; DANIEL 7:21, 25; DANIEL 11:33; DANIEL 12:1; REVELATION 6:9)

6. A REMNANT OF JEWS WILL BE PROTECTED (MATTHEW 24:15-16; REVELATION 7:4; REVELATION 12:6)

7. THE RAPTURE WILL TAKE PLACE (MATTHEW 24:31; 1 THESSALONIANS 4:16-17; 1 CORINTHIANS 15:50-52; DANIEL 12:1-2; REVELATION 7:9-10; REVELATION 18:4; 1 THESSALONIANS 5:9)

8. CHRIST WILL RETURN TO JUDGE THE WORLD (MATTHEW 24:29-30; REVELATION 6:12-14)

9. CHRIST WILL REIGN FOR 1,000 YEARS (REVELATION 11:15; DANIEL 7:13-14,22, 27; REVELATION 20:1-2, 4B)

10. ONE LAST BATTLE WILL TAKE PLACE (AFTER THE MILLENNIUM) – DANIEL 20:7-8; REVELATION 19:6-11; PSALM 2)

11. JUDGMENT DAY FOR UNBELIEVERS (DANIEL 7:9-10; REVELATION 20:12; MATTHEW 25:31-33,41, 46)

12. NEW HEAVEN AND A NEW EARTH (REVELATION 21:1; 2 PETER 3:10-11)

5 NOTES

6 7 7 7 destruction Revelation 8-9 Revelation with everlasting with Unbelievers punished Unbelievers SEVEN TRUMPETS SEVEN II Thessalonians 1:8-9 Thessalonians II Matthew 24:29, 24:37-39 24:29, Matthew THE DAY OF THE LORD THE OF THE DAY LORD THE OF THE DAY Wrath of God on unbelievers on God of Wrath Gathering the elect (Matt. 24:31) (Matt. elect the Gathering Gathered to Christ (II v 2:1) v (II Christ to Gathered Seventh Seal—scroll opened (Rev. 8:1-2) (Rev. opened Seal—scroll Seventh Sign of the Son of Man (Matt. 24:30) (Matt. Man of Son the of Sign Relief from Tribulation (II Thess. 1:7) Thess. (II Tribulation from Relief Salvation of great multitude (Rev. 7:9-14) (Rev. multitude great of Salvation Sign of the end of the age (Matt. 24:29) (Matt. age the of end the of Sign Christ revealed (II Thess. 1:7) Thess. (II revealed Christ Sixth Seal—signs in the heavens (Rev. 6:12-14) (Rev. heavens the in Seal—signs Sixth gospel FIFTH SEAL FIFTH TRIBULATION Matthew 24:9-25 Matthew Revelation 6:9-11 Revelation apostasy, death of death apostasy, Martyrdom of believers of Martyrdom believers, preaching the preaching believers, GREAT TRIBULATION GREAT GREAT TRIBULATION GREAT False christs, persecution, christs, False 2 2 2 / / / 1 1 1 3 3 3 Matthew 24:15 Matthew revealed Antichrist Revelation 12:9-17 Revelation II Thessalonians 2:3 Thessalonians II Devil hurled to the earththe to hurled Devil Abomination that causes desolation causes that Abomination Matthew 24:4-8 Matthew Revelation 6:1-8 Revelation TRIBULATION II Thessalonians 1:4-7 Thessalonians II FIRST FOUR SEALS FOUR FIRST BEGINNING BIRTH PAINS BIRTH BEGINNING Persecution, trials, suffering, distress suffering, trials, Persecution, False Christs, wars, famines, earthquakes famines, wars, Christs, False False christs, wars, famines, economic problems economic famines, wars, christs, False 0 0 0 HARMONIZING END TIMES WORD CONCERNING GOD’S

MATTHEW 24 MATTHEW 6-9, 12 REV. II THESS. 1-2 7 NOTES

8 SUMMARY OF REVELATION

CHAPTER(S) SUBJECT COMMENTS

1-11 • Church age • 7-year tribulation period • Rapture • comes to earth to reign

1-3 • The church age

4-5 • A “pause” in heaven to establish the authority of God and His Son to judge the world

st 1 6 • Seals 1-4 = 1 3 /2 year Corresponds to... “Tribulation” period Matthew 24:4-8 nd 1 • Seal 5 = 2 3 /2 year “Great ”Tribulation” period Matthew 24:9-28 • Seal 6 = Sign in the heavens that Jesus is coming Matthew 24:29-31

7 • “Sealing” of 144,000 witnesses Matthew 24:31 & • Rapture of the church I Thessalonians 4:13-18

8 • Seal 7 • Pause in heaven as “The Wrath” begins at end of “Great Tribulation” period • Trumpets 1-4 = Judgment on earth, sky, and water

9 • Trumpets 5-6 = Judgment on people

10 • Jesus comes to earth at end of “Great Tribulation”

11 • Preparation to build the temple • Death and resurrection of two witnesses • Trumpet 7 = Jesus comes to reign

1 12-22 • The final 3 /2 year “Great Tribulation” period • The reign of Christ • Judgment Day • Our eternal home

9 NOTES

10 MILLENNIUM MILLENNIUM MILLENNIUM MILLENNIUM christ’s & rapture reign begins second coming second coming God’s Wrath God’s & rapture second coming God’s Wrath God’s Great Tribulation Great Great Trib. Great rapture 70TH WEEK 70TH WEEK 70TH WEEK 70TH WEEK 70TH God’s Wrath God’s Tribulation Tribulation Tribulation rapture PRE-MILLENNIAL RAPTURE POSITIONS PRE-TRIBULATION MID-TRIBULATION POST-TRIBULATION PRE-WRATH

11 NOTES

12 FOREVER REV. 21-22 REV. ETERNITY ETERNITY REV. 11 REV. REV. 19-20 REV. 1000 YEARS 1000 RETURN + REIGN OF CHRIST OF REIGN + RETURN CHRIST OF REIGN + RETURN GOD’S WRATH (DAY OF THE LORD) (DAY WRATH GOD’S REV. 8-10 REV. REV. 15-18 REV. RAPTURE + SEALING OF 144,000 RAPTURE + SEALING REV. 7 REV. REV. 14 REV. YEARS 2 / 1 3 GREAT TRIBULATION GREAT REV. 6 REV. REV. 12-13 REV. ALIGNMENT OF KEY EVENTS IN REVELATION OF KEY EVENTS ALIGNMENT YEARS 2 / 1 3 TRIBULATION

REV. 1-5 REV. 13 CHURCH AGE NOTES

14 65:17-25 years] 1000 [ isaiah MILLENNIUM 12:11-12 raptured 15:21-54 & 75 DAYS 75 daniel 9:26 cor. 9:27 daniel 12:1-2, 1 years] 7 [ 1 WEEK 1 daniel messiah resurrected daniel saints resurrected saints CHURCH AGE [ACTS 2:17-21] [ACTS AGE CHURCH 9:26 32 ad daniel 1 ad messiah resurrected 70 WEEKS OF DANIEL [DANIEL 9:22-27] [DANIEL DANIEL 70 WEEKS OF 9:25 daniel 69 WEEKS [483 JEWISH YEARS] [483 JEWISH WEEKS 69 445 bc

15 NOTES

16 ETERNITY 20:11; 20-22 revelation PSALM 2 PSALM JEREMIAH 33:10-22 40-48 EZEKIEL ISAIAH 2:2-5 4:1-8 MICAH ZECHARIAH 14 1000 YEARS 1000 revelation 11:15-19; 19-20 rapture? 8-10; 14-18 THE LORD” THE THE LAMB”THE revelation revelation ISAIAH 34:2-4 38-39 EZEKIEL ZECHARIAH 12;14 “THE DAY OF DAY “THE “THE WRATH OF WRATH “THE 6:9-17; 7:11-14 revelation revelation YEARS “GREAT TRIBULATION” “GREAT YEARS 2 / REVELATION 6:9-11; MATTHEW 24:9-22 6:9-11; MATTHEW REVELATION 24:29 6:12-14; MATTHEW REVELATION 2:40-44 7; DANIEL REVELATION 7:7-8 7; DANIEL REVELATION 9:27 7; DANIEL REVELATION 2:1-7 2 THESSALONIANS EVENTS: 144, 000 SEALED— 7:1-8 REVELATION RAPTURE— 7:9-17; 14:14-16; 18:4 REVELATION 24:31 MATTHEW EVANGELISM— 11; 12:7-17 REVELATION REVEALED— LEADERS FALSE 2:3-12 3 REVELATION TIMELINE REVELATION 6:1-8 revelation revelation YEARS “TRIBULATION” YEARS 2 / 1 3 rapture? REVELATION 6:1-2; MATTHEW 24:4-5 6:1-2; MATTHEW REVELATION 24:6-7 6:3-4; MATTHEW REVELATION 24:7-8 6:5-6; MATTHEW REVELATION 24:8 6:7-8; MATTHEW REVELATION 4-5 revelation revelation PAUSE IN HEAVEN IN PAUSE 1-3 17 revelation revelation CHURCH AGE NOTES

18 REVELATION 1

PURPOSE IN GOING THROUGH REVELATION:

A. A MOTIVATION TO GODLY AND HOLY LIVING - 1 JOHN 3:3, ROMANS 13:11-14, 1 COR. 7:29-31

B. A MOTIVATION TO PRAYER - 2 THESSALONIANS 1:11-12, 1 PETER 4:7

C. A MOTIVATION TO EVANGELISM - 2 PETER 3:9-12

D. A MOTIVATION TO GROW IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF JESUS AS LORD - REVELATION 1:13-18

OVERVIEW OF REVELATION:

A. THE TESTING AND RAPTURE OF THE CHURCH

B. THE JUDGMENT OF THE WICKED

C. THE DEFEAT OF SATAN

D. THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD ON EARTH

E. THE COMING OF CHRIST

CHAPTER ONE

1. THE IMPORTANCE OF REVELATION [VSS. 1-3]

2. THE FIRST AND SECOND COMINGS (REVELATIONS) [VSS. 4-8]

3. THE WRITER OF REVELATION [VSS. 9-11, 19]

4. THE SEVEN ANGELS AND CHURCHES OF REVELATION [VSS. 12, 20]

5. THE CHRIST OF REVELATION [VSS. 13-18]

19 NOTES

20 REVELATION 2-3 THE CHURCHES OF REVELATION

PATTERN OF THE SEVEN LETTERS:

FIRST, JESUS DESCRIBES HIMSELF IN A WAY THAT IS RELEVANT TO THE CHURCH HE IS ADDRESSING.

SECOND, HE COMMENDS AND ENCOURAGES THEM (IF THERE IS A REASON TO COMMEND THEM).

THIRD, HE REBUKES THEM BY POINTING OUT THEIR SIN (IF THERE IS A REASON TO REBUKE THEM).

FOURTH, HE GIVES CORRECTION AND COUNSEL.

FIFTH, HE GIVES A PROMISE TO THE PEOPLE WHO ARE OVERCOMERS.

SIXTH, HE ENCOURAGES US TO LISTEN TO WHAT THE SPIRIT IS SAYING TO ALL THE CHURCHES.

REVELATION 2:1-7 — EPHESUS “THE LOVELESS CHURCH”

REVELATION 2:8-11 — SMYRNA “THE PERSECUTED CHURCH”

REVELATION 2:12-17 — PERGAMUM “THE COMPROMISING CHURCH”

REVELATION 2:18-29 — THYATIRA “THE TOLERANT CHURCH”

REVELATION 3:1-6 — SARDIS “THE DEAD CHURCH”

REVELATION 3:7-13 — PHILADELPHIA “THE OBEDIENT CHURCH”

REVELATION 3:14-22 — LAODICEA “THE WORLDLY CHURCH”

THE CHURCHES IN REVELATION:

• ACTUAL CHURCHES

• SEVEN TYPES OF CHURCHES

• SEVEN PERIODS OF CHURCH HISTORY

21 NOTES

22 Church” LAODICEA “TheWorldly REV. 3:14-22 REV. He is the faithful the is He true witness, and God’s of ruler the creation None worldly, are You (spiritually) and pitiful, wretched, naked & blind poor, gold (spiritual) Buy clothes white & Repent. salve. and & voice my Hear the door open with sit will You throne my on me Church” REV. 3:7-13 REV. “TheObedient PHILADELPHIA He is holy and true and holy is He key the holds and David of my kept have You not have and word name my denied None what to on Hold have you You Protection. in pillar a have will God. temple of the my have will You on written name you Church” SARDIS REV. 3:1-6 REV. “TheDead He holds the seven seven the holds He the and spirits stars seven None dead a are You of full church, hypocrisy what Strengthen Remem - remains. have you ber what and it obey heard; repent be will You in white dressed your have and in written name Life Book of the Church” THYATIRA REV. 2:18-29 REV. “TheTolerant He has eyes like like eyes has He and blazing fire burnished like feet bronze your deeds, Your your love, and faith serviceand perseverance tolerated have You and teachers false immorality what to on Hold I until have you come have will You the over authority will nations and the receive star morning Church” REV. 2:12-17 REV. PERGAMUM He has the sharp the has He double-edged sword remained You to true and faithful name my tolerated have You and teachers false immorality and Repent false the remove teachers receive will You and manna hidden stone white a “TheCompromising Church” SMYRNA REV. 2:8-11 REV. “ThePersecuted SEVEN CHURCHES OF REVELATION He is the First and First the is He who died Last, the life came to and again spiritually are You are and rich Christ for suffering None do and faithful Be afraid be not receive will You of life crown the be hurtwill not and the second by death Church” REV. 2:1-7 REV. EPHESUS “TheLoveless He holds the seven seven the holds He walks and stars the among lampstands hard deeds, Your - persever work, & sound ance doctrine forsaken have You first love your repent Remember, the things do and first did at you eat to right The life of tree the from “He who has an ear, let him hear what the spirit says to the churches.” the to says the spirit what hear him let ear, an who has “He “Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.” is time the heartbecause to it, in written is what take and it hear who those are blessed and prophecy, this of words the reads who one the is “Blessed

23 DESCRIPTION OF DESCRIPTION JESUS CHRIST & COMMENDATION ENCOURAGEMENT REBUKE CORRECTION & COUNSEL PROMISES TO OVERCOMERS REVELATION 2:7a — REVELATION 1:3 — REVELATION NOTES

24 SEVEN CHURCHES OF REVELATION

3. Message to Pergamos: “I have a few things against 2. Message to Symrna; you” (Rev. 2:14) “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Rev. 2:10) 4. Message to Thyatira: “Hold fast to what you have ASIA till I come” (Rev. 2:25) 5. Message to Sardis: “You have a name that you are PERGAMUM alive, but you are dead” (Rev. 3:1) THYATRIA 6. Message to Philadelphia: “I have set before you an open door” (Rev. 3:8) SMYRNA SARDIS PHILADELPHIA

EPHESUS AEGEAN LAODICEA SEA PATMOS

7. Message to Laodicea: “You are neither cold nor hot” (Rev. 3:15)

John received his vision and 1. Message to Ephesus: wrote the Revelation while in “You have left your first exile on this island in the love” (Rev. 2:4) Aegean Sea (Rev. 1:1, 9)

25 NOTES

26 REVELATION 4-5

27 NOTES

28 REVELATION 6

I. THE TRIBULATION (BEGINNING OF BIRTH PAINS)

A. FIRST SEAL: WHITE HORSE - FALSE RELIGION & FALSE CHRISTS (REV. 6:1-2, MATT 24:4-5)

B. SECOND SEAL: RED HORSE - WARS (REV. 6:3-4, MATTHEW 24:6-7A)

C. THIRD SEAL: BLACK HORSE - FAMINES (REV. 6:5-6, MATTHEW 24:7B)

D. FOURTH SEAL: PALE HORSE - WAR, FAMINE, AND THE ANTICHRIST (REV. 6:7-8, MATTHEW 24:8)

29 NOTES

30 REVELATION 6

II. THE GREAT TRIBULATION: FIFTH SEAL - MARTYRS (ENDING OF BIRTH PAINS) REVELATION 6:9-11, 12:13-17, MATTHEW 24.9-22, DANIEL 7:19-22, DANIEL 12:1-2)

III. THE DAY OF THE LORD SIGN: SIXTH SEAL - SIGNS IN THE HEAVENS AND ON EARTH REVELATION 6:12-14, MATTHEW 24.29, ACTS 2:19-20, ISAIAH 13:9-11)

IV. THE GREAT ESCAPE AND GREAT GLORY

A. RELIEVED FROM TRIBULATION (2 THESS. 1:6-7)

B. RESCUED FROM THE DAY OF THE LORD WRATH (1 THESS. 1:10, 5:9)

C. RESURRECTED FROM THE GRAVE (1 CORINTHIANS 15:42-44)

D. RAPTURED TO HEAVEN (1 THESS. 4:17, 1 CORINTHIANS 15:51-52)

E. GATHERED TO JESUS CHRIST (MATTHEW 24:31, REVELATION 7:14, 2 THESS. 2:1)

F. GLORIFIED FOREVER (PHILIPPIANS 3:21)

V. THE WRATH OF GOD BEGINS: SEVENTH SEAL - (REVELATION 6:17, 8:1-5)

31 NOTES

32 7 8:2-9 rev. rev. 7 DAY OF THE LORD OF DAY begin trumpets 24:30-31 12:1-2 6 signs in heavens rev. 7:9, 14 raptured daniel matthew matthew christ revealed 1 thess. 1:10, 4:15-17 saints resurrected & saints 6:9-11, 2:7-17 rev. rev. GREAT TRIBULATION GREAT 9:27 REVELATION 6-8:1 REVELATION 2 / 1 5 THE SEVEN SEALS matthew matthew 3 martyrs 9:27, 4 pale anti-christ revealed horse daniel 3 black horse 6:1-8 rev. rev. 2 BEGINNING OF BIRTH PAINS BIRTH OF BEGINNING red horse 1 0 white horse

33 NOTES

34 16 rev. rev. BOWLS the nations judgment of judgment 11:15 7 rev. christ reigning 1:7-9 8-9 rev. rev. thess. TRUMPETS 2 & judgment of the judgment DAY OF THE LORD OF DAY unbelievers: purification unbelievers: 2 thess. 1:7 glorified 2 thess. 1:10, 2:1 christ revealed saints gathered gathered saints 1:4-6 thess. 2 GREAT TRIBULATION GREAT 2:3 8:1 , judgment of the christians: purification 2 6 / 1 3 SEALS, TRUMPETS, AND BOWLS SEALS, TRUMPETS, rev. rev. thess. 2 anti-christ revealed SEALS BEGINNING OF BIRTH PAINS BIRTH OF BEGINNING

35 0 NOTES

36 REVELATION 7

I. 144,000 JEWS SEALED BY GOD ON EARTH (VSS. 1-8)

JUDAH - Glorious Praise REUBEN - Behold a Son GAD - Great Company ASHER - Joy NAPTHALI - Overcomers MANASSEH - Forgetting Sins SIMEON - God has heard LEVI - To be in union ISSACHAR - Servants ZEBULON - Dwelling Place JOSEPH - May God increase BENJAMIN - Son of my right hand

II. THE GREAT MULTITUDE OF SAINTS IN HEAVEN (VSS. 9-17)

A. SAVED (VSS. 9-10)

B. CELEBRATING (VSS. 11-12)

C. SERVING (VSS. 13-15)

D. SATISFIED (VSS. 16-17)

37 NOTES

38 REVELATION 8-9

I. INCENSE AND PRAYER: A RIGHTEOUS OFFERING TO GOD

II. THE FIRST FOUR TRUMPETS: JUDGMENT ON THE LAND, WATER AND SKY

A. FIRST TRUMPET: ONE THIRD OF THE EARTH BURNED UP

B.SECOND TRUMPET: ONE THIRD OF THE SEAS TURNED TO BLOOD

C. THIRD TRUMPET: ONE THIRD OF THE WATERS BECOME BITTER

D. FOURTH TRUMPET: ONE THIRD OF THE LIGHTS TURNED OUT

III. THE LAST THREE TRUMPETS: JUDGMENT ON THE INHABITANTS OF EARTH

A. FIFTH TRUMPET: DEMONIZED LOCUSTS TORTURE THE UNBELIEVERS

B. SIXTH TRUMPET: 200,000,000 TROOPS KILL ONE THIRD OF MANKIND

C. SEVENTH TRUMPET: 70TH WEEK FINISHED - CHRIST REIGNS ON EARTH. (REV. 11:15). SEVEN BOWLS BEGIN AND BRING TOTAL DESTRUCTION (REV. 16)

39 NOTES

40 REVELATION 10

I. THE MIGHTY ANGEL - JESUS CHRIST IS ON EARTH Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed A. THE LITTLE SCROLL - THE SEVEN BOWLS (REV. 16) when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This B. THE LION KING - GENESIS 49:9-10 most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great II. THE MYSTERY OF GOD IS ACCOMPLISHED nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the . Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this A. WHAT IS A MYSTERY? EPHESIANS 3:2-6, COLOSSIANS 1:25-27 church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.” B.THE MYSTERY OF THE JEW’S SALVATION - ROMANS 11:25-32 Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- C. AN OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY ABOUT THE JEWISH REVIVAL ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He 1. PSALM 45-47 appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.” 2. PSALM 67 3. PSALM 72 Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who 4. ISAIAH 40:1-11 were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will 5. ISAIAH 54-55 not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the 6. ISAIAH 60-63:6 rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for 7. ISAIAH 65:17-25 it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.” 8. JEREMIAH 31:31-34 (HEBREWS 8:8-12) Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the 9. EZEKIEL 37:21-28 valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the 10. DANIEL 2:34-35, 44-45 devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the 11. DANIEL 7:26-27 lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and 12. DANIEL 9:24 He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured 13. HOSEA 6:1-3 and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.” 14. MICAH 5:2-5 15. ZEPHANIAH 3:13-20 Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is 16. ZECHARIAH 13:8-9 the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.” III. THE WRATH OF GOD IS SWEET AND SOUR Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and 41

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the , we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. , Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.”

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…” NOTES

Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and 42

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.”

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…” REVELATION 11

I. GOD’S TEMPLE ON EARTH Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that II. TRAMPLING ON THE HOLY CITY - LUKE 21:24 God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

III. THE TWO WITNESSES - ZECHARIAH 4 Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. A. PROPHETS ON FIRE FOR GOD - MOSES AND ELIJAH Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will B. PROPHETS RAISED FROM THE DEAD not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured IV. THE SEVENTH TRUMPET and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

A. “THY KINGDOM COME” Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.” B. THE TIME HAS COME FOR JUDGING, REWARDING AND DESTROYING Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and 43

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.”

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…” NOTES

Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and 44

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.”

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…” KEY TERMS

Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and 45

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.”

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…” Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and

KEY TERMS

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.” 46

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…” Abomination of DesolationAbomination – This of Desolation is speaking – of This the is antichrist speaking taking of the his antichrist stand in taking the Jewish his stand temple in the in JewishJerusalem, temple displaying in Jerusalem, himself displaying as himself as God, thereby committingGod, thereby great committingblasphemy, greatand thereby blasphemy, desecrating and thereby the temple. desecrating In the the2nd temple. century In BC, the this 2nd event century was BC, foreshadowed this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes,when Antiochus king of Epiphanes, Syria, also king desecrated of Syria, the also Jewish desecrated temple. the This Jewish revealing temple. of theThis antichrist revealing for of whothe antichrist he really is,for as who the he really is, as the beast, the man of beast,lawlessness, the man is of still lawlessness, future, and iswill still occur future, at theand midpoint will occur of at Daniel’s the midpoint 70th week. of Daniel’s At this 70th time week. the antichrist At this time will thedesire antichrist to will desire to be worshiped by allbe the worshiped people in by the all world.the people But discerning in the world. Jews But and discerning Christians Jews will and know Christians with certainty will know that with this certainty is the antichrist. that this This is the antichrist. This most wicked manmost ever towicked exist manin this ever world to exist then inbegins this world great then tribulation begins against great tribulation both the Jewsagainst and both the theChristians. Jews and Matthew the Christians. 24:15, 2 Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8,Thessalonians Daniel 9:27 2:3-8, – “On Daniel a wing 9:27 of the – “Ontemple a wing he will of the set temple up an abomination he will set up that an abominationcauses desolation, that causes until the desolation, end that untilis the end that is decreed is poureddecreed out on him.” is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic CovenantAbrahamic – This isCovenant an extremely – This important is an extremely promise important that God promisemade to thatAbraham. God made This topromise, Abraham. this This covenant, promise, stipulated this covenant, that stipulated that God would greatlyGod bless would Abraham, greatly and bless use Abraham, him to be and a blessing use him to to the be world,a blessing that toHe the would world, make that Abraham’s He would descendantsmake Abraham’s into descendantsa great into a great nation, that he andnation, his descendants that he and wouldhis descendants inherit a large would area inherit of land, a large and thatarea he of wouldland, and have that a great he would multitude have aof great descendants, multitude both of descendants, both physical and spiritualphysical in nature. and spiritual This eternal in nature. and unconditional This eternal and covenant unconditional is repeated covenant many istimes repeated in the many Bible. times Some in aspects the Bible. of theseSome aspects of these promises have alreadypromises come have true, already but their come complete true, but fulfillment their complete is still infulfillment the future. is Thesestill in thepromises future. have These not promises been nullified have notduring been this nullified during this church age, only suspended.church age, Aonly clearly suspended. prophesied A clearly event prophesiedthat shows eventus that that God shows is still us planning that God on is fulfilling still planning this promise on fulfilling to Abraham this promise is to Abraham is that the Jews, overthat the the last Jews, century, over have the last been century, gathering have back been to gathering Israel. Genesis back to12:1-3, Israel. 13:14-17, Genesis 12:1-3,15:18-21, 13:14-17, 17:1-21; 15:18-21, Joshua 1:4-6;17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; EzekielPsalm 37:18,36-37; 29; Micah Ezekiel 2:12-13, 36-37; 4:1-5, Micah 5:2-5; 2:12-13, Luke 4:1-5, 1:54-55, 5:2-5; 1:70-75, Luke 1:54-55,21:20-24; 1:70-75, Psalm 105:8-921:20-24; – “HePsalm remembers 105:8-9 – His “He remembers His covenant forever, covenantthe word Heforever, commanded, the word for He acommanded, thousand generations, for a thousand the covenant generations, He made the covenant with Abraham.” He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of JesusAppearing Christ – ofThe Jesus word Christ “appearing” – The wordmeans “appearing” manifestation, means shining manifestation, forth, or becoming shining forth, evident. or becoming Jesus Christ evident. appeared Jesus on Christ appeared on earth about 2000 earthyears aboutago at 2000 which years time ago He diedat which for our time sins, He rosedied fromfor our the sins, dead, rose and from then the ascended dead, and into then heaven. ascended He will into appear heaven. again He will appear again at His second comingat His to second rapture coming the believers, to rapture to pour the believers,out His wrath to pour on thisout Hiswicked wrath world, on this and wicked to then world, begin and His to1000 then year begin rule His on 1000earth. year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; ColossiansPsalm 21:8-13; 3:4; 1 ColossiansTimothy 6:14; 3:4; 2 1Timothy Timothy 1:10, 6:14; 4:8; 2 Timothy Titus 2:13; 1:10, Hebrews 4:8; Titus 9:28; 2:13; 2 Timothy Hebrews 4:1-2 9:28; – 2 “In Timothy view of 4:1-2 His appear– “In view- of His appear- ing and His kingdom,ing andI give His you kingdom, this charge: I give Preach you this the charge: Word.” Preach 1 John the 2:28, Word.” 3:2 – 1 “Now John dear2:28, children, 3:2 – “Now continue dear children, in Him, so continue that when in Him, He so that when He appears, we may beappears, confident we mayand unashamedbe confident before and unashamed Him at His beforecoming.” Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This isApostasy referring – to This the isturning referring away to ofthe so-called turning away Christians of so-called and Jews Christians from the and true Jews faith from in the the end true times. faith Thesein the endpeople, times. who These people, who were never true believers,were never will true in many believers, cases will then in manyturn against cases thenthe true turn Christians against the and true Jews, Christians and turn and them Jews, into and the turn authorities. them into They the willauthorities. They will not worship Jesusnot Christ, worship but willJesus worship Christ, the but antichrist. will worship It is the during antichrist. Daniel’s It is70th during week Daniel’s that this 70th apostasy week that takes this place, apostasy before takes the place, before the rapture, and beforerapture, the Day and of beforethe Lord. the Matthew Day of the 24:9-10, Lord. Matthew 1 John 2:18-19, 24:9-10, 2 1 Thessalonians John 2:18-19, 2:32 Thessalonians – “Let no one 2:3in any – “Let way no deceive one in you,any forway deceive you, for it will not come unlessit will thenot apostasycome unless comes the first,apostasy and the comes man first, of lawlessness and the man is ofrevealed.” lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – ThisArmageddon major and –decisive This major battle and between decisive Jesus battle Christ between and theJesus antichrist Christ and will theoccur antichrist at the end will of occur the Day at the of endthe Lordof the in Day the of the Lord in the valley of Megiddovalley in Israel. of Megiddo This climactic in Israel. event This will climactic bring to event a close will God’s bring wrath to a close on earth, God’s resulting wrath on in earth,the destruction resulting in of the Babylon, destruction the of Babylon, the devil’s system thatdevil’s controls system the world.that controls After Christ’s the world. quick After and Christ’s decisive quick victory, and He decisive will cast victory, the antichrist He will cast and the the antichrist false prophet and theinto false the prophet into the lake of fire. Revelationlake of16:12-16, fire. Revelation 19:11-21 16:12-16, – “From 19:11-21 His mouth – “Fromcomes His a sharp mouth sword, comes so a that sharp with sword, it He somay that strike with down it He themay nations, strike down and the nations, and He will rule them withHe will a rod rule of them iron; with and aHe rod treads of iron; the and wine He press treads of the winefierce press wrath of of the God, fierce the wrathAlmighty… of God, But the the Almighty… beast was But captured the beast was captured and with him the falseand with prophet… him the The false two prophet… of them were The twothrown of them alive were into thethrown lake alive of fire.” into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This wordBabylon metaphorically – This word speaks metaphorically of the devil’s speaks system of the that devil’s has been system controlling that has the been world controlling during this the evilworld age. during First, this there evil is age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes,the mother which of prostitutes, refers to false which religions refers andto false philosophies religions andused philosophies by the devil toused deceive by the people devil to and deceive lead them people away and from lead them away from the true God and truethe true gospel. God It and is during true gospel. the 70th It is week during that the Satan, 70th havingweek that no moreSatan, need having of religion, no more will need destroy of religion, this mother will destroy of prosti this- mother of prosti- tutes, and then peopletutes, will and worship then people the antichrist, will worship Satan’s the antichrist, man on earth. Satan’s Second, man onthere earth. is the Second, great therecity, symbolizing is the great Satan’scity, symbolizing economic Satan’s economic system ruling oversystem the merchants ruling over of the merchantsearth, which of entices the earth, people which to enticesbe lovers people of the to world be lovers and lovers of the ofworld money. and Thislovers world of money. system This world system will quickly and completelywill quickly be and destroyed completely by God be destroyed at the battle by ofGod Armageddon. at the battle Revelation of Armageddon. 16, Revelation Revelation 17:1-6, 16, Revelation Revelation 17:1-6, 18:2 – Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon“Fallen, thefallen great! is Babylon She has the become great! aShe dwelling has become place of a demonsdwelling andplace a prisonof demons of every and uncleana prison spirit.”of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is theBeast evil antichrist– This is thewho evil rules antichrist over the who 8th rulesbeast over empire the (comprised8th beast empire of ten (comprised nations), and of theten entirenations), world and during the entire the last world during the last half of the 70th week.half ofHe the is also70th called week. theHe littleis also horn, called the the man little of lawlessnesshorn, the man and of thelawlessness son of destruction. and the son At ofthe destruction. midpoint of At the the 70th midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel heweek will be of revealed Daniel he to will the be world. revealed Empowered to the world. by Satan, Empowered he will possess by Satan, great he will wisdom, possess power great and wisdom, ability, power and as and an ability, and as an incredible speaker,incredible he will deceive speaker, billions he will of deceive people, billions with the of result people, that with the the unbelieving result that world the unbelieving will worship world and follow will worship him. This and Beast, follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, willthis greatly antichrist, oppose will Jesus greatly Christ, oppose exalting Jesus himself Christ, above exalting every himself so-called above god, every and so-called persecuting god, both and persecutingJews and Christians both Jews and Christians during the time periodduring called the time the greatperiod tribulation. called the Assistedgreat tribulation. by the false Assisted prophet, by thehe willfalse force prophet, people he to will worship force people his image to worship and take his his image and take his mark. But in the endmark. he willBut suddenlyin the end and he willsoundly suddenly be defeated and soundly and then be defeated cast into and the then lake castof fire. into Daniel the lake 7:8, of11, fire. 24-25; Daniel Daniel 7:8, 11,8:23-25; 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 MatthewThessalonians 24:15; 2:3-9;2 Thessalonians 1 John 2:18; 2:3-9; Revelation 1 John 13:4 2:18; – Revelation “He gave His 13:4 authority – “He gave to the His beast; authority and theyto the worshiped beast; and the they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Whobeast, is like saying, the beast, ‘Who and is like who the is beast,able to and wage who war is ableagainst to wage the beast?’” war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – TheseBeast Empiresare the kingdoms, – These are the the empires kingdoms, used theby theempires devil withused a by purpose the devil of withdestroying a purpose the ofWoman destroying (the Jews), the Woman and her (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians).offspring There (the Christians). are eight empires, There are with eight the empires,seven heads with referring the seven to heads the first referring seven empires,to the first which seven were empires, Egypt, which Assyria, were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia,Babylon, Greece, Medo-Persia, Rome, and Greece, either theRome, Ottoman and either Turks the or Ottoman Germany Turks (Hitler’s or Germany 3rd Reich). (Hitler’s The ten 3rd horns Reich). refer The to tenthe horns8th beast refer to the 8th beast empire, which is stillempire, yet to which come. is Thisstill yetlast to one, come. the Thisstrongest, last one, the the most strongest, wicked andthe mostruthless wicked empire and ever ruthless in history, empire will ever be comprisedin history, will of be comprised of 10 nations, and will10 be nations, the antichrist’s and will be power the antichrist’s base from whichpower hebase will from rule whichover the he world,will rule and over will the then world, persecute and will both then Jews persecute and both Jews and

KEY TERMS KEY TERMS

Heaven – This is theHeaven “holy – dwelling This is the place” “holy of dwelling God, where place” Jesus of God, Christ where sits atJesus the rightChrist hand sits ofat thethe Father,right hand where of thereside Father, a great where multitude reside a great multitude heavens and a greatheavens earthquake and a greaton earth, earthquake marking on the earth, end of marking this age. the Then end believersof this age. will Then be resurrected believers will and be raptured, resurrected and and gathered raptured, to and gathered to New Jerusalem –New This Jerusalem is the city of– Thisthe living is the God, city theof the city living of the God, Great the King, city ofMount the Great Zion, King, a literal Mount dwelling Zion, ofa literalGod, the dwelling tabernacle of God, of theGod, tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ.be with The Jesus 6th seal Christ. marks The the 6th end seal of thismarks age, the and end the of breakingthis age, ofand the the 7th breaking seal marks of the the 7th beginning seal marks of the the Day beginning of the of the Day of the of angels, and all ofthe angels, believers and who all the have believers ever lived who on have earth. ever We lived speak on of earth. “the heavens”We speak asof all“the the heavens” stars and as galaxies, all the stars but andthis galaxies,is different, but this is different, Christians. This eighthChristians. empire This will eighth be ruling empire during will Daniel’s be ruling 70th during week. Daniel’s Daniel 70th 7:7-8, week. 20; Revelation Daniel 7:7-8, 12:3, 20; 13-17; Revelation 17:3, 12:3,17:9-14; 13-17; Revelation 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “housefor thisof my is theGod.” “house It is a of holy my and God.” perfect It is a place, holy and a place perfect where place, God a isplace worshiped, where God where is worshiped, He receives where glory, He honor receives and glory, honor and Kingdom of God –Kingdom God is the of King,God – and God He is hasthe alwaysKing, and reigned, He has since always eternity reigned, past since and eternitythroughout past eternity and throughout future, thereby eternity establishing future, thereby establishing the holy place wherethe theholy Most place High where dwells. the Most Prepared High bydwells. Jesus Prepared Christ for by Himself Jesus Christ and His for bride, Himself the andtrue His believers, bride, the this true brand believers, new home this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast13:1 coming – “I saw up a outbeast of comingthe sea, uphaving out of ten the horns sea, andhaving seven ten heads,horns andand sevenon his heads, horns wereand on ten his diadems, horns were and tenon hisdiadems, head and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4,Lord. Matthew Galatians 13:39; 1:4, Matthew Matthew 28:19-20; 13:39; Matthew Luke 21:25-28; 28:19-20; 1 CorinthiansLuke 21:25-28; 1:8; 1 Matthew Corinthians 24:6, 1:8; 13, Matthew 14, 29, 31 24:6, – “What 13, 14, will 29, be 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom.His Heeternal reigns kingdom. over all HeHis reigns creation, over over all Histhe creation,heavens overand thethe earth,heavens and and all thingsthe earth, and and beings all things in His andcreation, beings visible in His and creation, visible and will be the most importantwill be the place most in important the New Heavensplace in theand New New Heavens Earth, for and it is New here Earth, that Jesusfor it is Christ here thatwill liveJesus with Christ His bride. will live This with holy His city, bride. This holy city, the sign of your comingthe sign and of ofyour the coming end of andthe age…of the the end one of thewho age… endures the oneto the who end endures will be tosaved.” the end will be saved.” praise. It is a placepraise. that is It always is a place characterized that is always by love,characterized joy, peace, by goodness, love, joy, peace,and kindness, goodness, where and the kindness, will of God where is continuallythe will of God and is continually and were blasphemouswere names.” blasphemous names.” completely carriedcompletely out. It is a carriedplace where out. It we is ahave place fellowship where we with have believers, fellowship where with we believers, will be withwhere loved we willones be we with knew loved on onesearth. we And knew in on earth. And in invisible. He purposesinvisible. and HeHe purposesplans, and and He specificallyHe plans, and and He completely specifically carries and completely out His plans, carries so thatout HisHe isplans, pleased so that and He is glorifiedis pleased and is glorified this very large city,this is invery the large shape city, of isa perfectin the shape cube, ofabout a perfect 1380 cube,miles abouton each 1380 side, miles and onit will each sit side, right and above, it will and sit connected right above, to andthe connected to the the future, at the endthe future,of the millennial at the end kingdom, of the millennial the heavenly kingdom, city, thethe heavenlyholy city, city,the new the holyJerusalem, city, the will new come Jerusalem, down out will of come heaven down and out of heaven and forever. All beingsforever. in this kingdomAll beings are in createdthis kingdom to fear are Him, created love Him, to fear and Him, serve love Him, Him, even and though serve Him, many even have though rebelled many and have will rebel rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5,earth. 48:1-3; Psalms John 46:4-5, 14:1-3; 48:1-3; Hebrews John 12:22-23;14:1-3; Hebrews Revelation 12:22-23; 21:2-4 Revelation – “I saw the 21:2-4 holy city,– “I sawthe new the holyJerusalem, city, the coming new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – TheseBirth are Pains major – events These thatare major are taking events place that now are taking(or will place soon nowstart) (or on will the soon earth start) in the on end the times, earth signalingin the end that times, Christ’s signaling that Christ’s End Times – ThisEnd is the Times time – period This isat the the time end ofperiod the church at the end age of right the beforechurch Christ’s age right return, before that Christ’s time when return, it isthat clear time that when God it isis clear that God is against Him and Hisagainst authority. Him and God His delegates authority. authority God delegates and responsibility authority and to His responsibility created beings to His but created He still beings remains but completely He still remains sover -completely sover- down out of heavendown from out God, of heaven made ready from asGod, a bridemade adorned ready as for a brideher husband… adorned forBehold, her husband… the tabernacle Behold, of theGod tabernacle is among men,of God and is Heamong men, and He actively and progressivelyactively and carrying progressively out His plan carrying for the out resurrection His plan for and the raptureresurrection of the and believers, rapture His of thewrath believers, on the earth,His wrath the redemption on the earth, the redemption join with the new joinearth. with “Now the thenew dwelling earth. “Now of God the is dwelling with men, of andGod He is withwill livemen, with and them.” He will This live a with most them.” amazing This truth a most that amazing our present truth that our present return is getting veryreturn close. is getting These verywill beclose. false These christs, will wars, be false famines, christs, earthquakes, wars, famines, plagues earthquakes, and economic plagues problems. and economic Matthew problems. makes it Matthew makes it hope will be finallyhope and willfully be realized, finally andthat fully God realized, will be with that us, God that will He be will with be us, our that God, He and will we be will our be God, His and children, we will and be weHis will children, live with and we will live with eign over them andeign therefore over them over and His therefore entire kingdom. over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them,will and dwell they with shall them, be andHis people,they shall and be God His Himself people, willand be God among Himself them.” will be among them.” clear that we will beclear hearing that we about will bethese hearing events, about and these that they events, will andbe taking that they place will in be various taking parts place of in the various world, parts which of means the world, that which they means that they of the Jews and Christ’sof the Jews reign and over Christ’s the world. reign The over re-gathering the world. ofThe the re-gathering Jews to Israel of the over Jews the pastto Israel 100 overyears the is pastthe particular 100 years prophesied is the particular prophesied event that most clearlyevent signifiesthat most that clearly we aresignifies now living that wein the are end now times. living Manyin the otherend times. events Many and signsother eventshave also and been signs taking have placealso been taking place Them forever andThem ever. Weforever will actuallyand ever. be We with will Jesus actually Christ, be with seeing Jesus His Christ,face and seeing hearing His Hisface voice, and hearing worshiping His voice,and serving worshiping Him, and serving Him, are not affecting everyare not sector, affecting every every population sector, centerevery population in the world. center Yet, theyin the will world. be devastating, Yet, they will and be willdevastating, be getting and people’s will be attention. getting people’s attention. reigning with Himreigning forever andwith ever. Him 2forever Chronicles and ever. 30:27; 2 ChroniclesPsalm 16:11, 30:27; Psalm Psalm 23:6, 16:11, Psalm Psalm 73:23-26, 23:6, PsalmPsalm 84;73:23-26, John 14:1-3; Psalm 284; Timothy John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom onGod’s earth kingdom can be divided on earth into can four be parts divided (1 Corinthiansinto four parts 15:22-28): (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age –Present We now Evil live Age in a – present We now evil live age, in a an present age that evil began age, an with age the that sin began of Adam with and the Eve. sin ofAt Adam that time and SatanEve. At took that control time Satan of took control of These calamitousThese events calamitous will be taking events place will in be increasing taking place frequency in increasing and intensity frequency (like and the intensitybirth pains (like of thea mother), birth pains leading of a up mother), to the leading up to the corroborating thatcorroborating we are now in that the we end are times. now Thein the next end specific times. Theprophesied next specific event prophesiedto occur will event be the to signingoccur will or confirmingbe the signing of the or confirming of the the world, but yet,the this world, evil age but and yet, Satan this evil himself, age and are Satan still and himself, continually are still under and continuallythe sovereign under rule the of God.sovereign During rule this of time God. God During has this time God has covenant of peacecovenant (“covenant of peaceof death”) (“covenant which takesof death”) place which at the takes beginning place of at Daniel’s the beginning 70th week. of Daniel’s Ezekiel 70th 36-37, week. Daniel Ezekiel 12:4, 36-37, 9 – “‘Go Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10,4:18; 16; Hebrews Revelation 11:10, 4-5, 16; Revelation Revelation 21, 4-5, Revelation Revelation 22:1-6; 21, Revelation Hebrews 12:12-2422:1-6; Hebrews – “You have12:12-24 come – to “You Mount have Zion, come to tothe Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ.coming The of Jesus first four Christ. seals The (Revelation first four seals6 is a (Revelationparallel passage 6 is a toparallel Matthew passage 24:4-8) to areMatthew also speaking 24:4-8) are of thesealso speaking birth of these birth heavenly Jerusalem,heavenly the city Jerusalem, of the living the God. city Youof the have living come God. to You thousands have come and to thousands thousands of and angels thousands in joyful of assembly, angels in to joyful the church assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, whenPart man 1 is (Adam past, when and Eve) man was (Adam perfect and andEve) ruled was perfectover a perfect and ruled earth. over (Genesis a perfect 1-2). earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked throughprimarily His worked people, through the Jews His andpeople, the thechurch. Jews The and most the church. significant The event most ofsignificant this age occurredevent of thisat Christ’s age occurred 1st coming, at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, thesepains. “birth Finally, pains” these are completely “birth pains” distinct are completely from and distinctare not afrom part and of the are Day not ofa partthe Lord,of the that Day is, of God’s the Lord, wrath. that Luke is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, foryour these way words Daniel, are for concealed these words and are sealed concealed until the and end sealed time.’” until 1 Peterthe end 1:5 time.’” speaks 1 ofPeter the 1:5“coming speaks of ofthe the salvation “coming that of the is salvation that is when He died for ourwhen sins He and died was for ourraised sins from and the was dead. raised This from evil the age dead. will endThis at evil Christ’s age will 2nd end coming, at Christ’s during 2nd which coming, time during He will which rapture time He will rapture ready to be revealedready in theto be last revealed time.” in the last time.” of the firstborn, whoseof the names firstborn, are whose written names in heaven. are written You have in heaven. come to You God, have the comejudge toof God,all men, the tojudge the spiritsof all men, of righteous to the spirits men ofmade righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation21:7-11, 6:1-8, MatthewRevelation 24:4-8 6:1-8, – Matthew “But you 24:4-8 will be – hearing “But you of willwars be and hearing rumors of warsof wars, and but rumors see to of it wars, that youbut aresee notto it alarmed. that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus,perfect, the andmediator to Jesus, of a thenew mediator covenant.” of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, thePart time 2 is frompresent, the thesin timeof Adam from and the Eve sin toof theAdam end and of thisEve topresent the end evil of age, this when present Satan, evil age,a wicked when and Satan, terribly a wicked imperfect and terribly imperfect the church, judge thethe church,world, save judge a remnantthe world, of save Jews, a remnantand defeat of Jews,the antichrist. and defeat Then the the antichrist. next age Then will begin, the next the age millennial will begin, kingdom the millennial age, kingdom age, Such things mustSuch happen things but mustthe end happen is still but to come.…Therethe end is still will to come.…Therebe famines and will earthquakes be famines inand various earthquakes places. in All various these areplaces. the All these are the angel rules over anangel imperfect rules over earth. an (Genesis imperfect 3 earth.– Revelation (Genesis 19). 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christwhen will personally,Jesus Christ powerfully will personally, and visibly powerfully reign over and thisvisibly world. reign 1 overCorinthians this world. 1:20; 1 CorinthiansEphesians 1:9-11, 1:20; Ephesians 19-21, 2:6-7; 1:9-11, 1 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – ThisFalse is Prophetthe second – This of two is the beasts, second and of is two the beasts, Antichrist’s and ispartner, the Antichrist’s the mastermind partner, of the the mastermind Antichrist’s of plan the for Antichrist’s world plan for world beginning of birthbeginning pains.” of birth pains.” Hope – This wordHope speaks – This of the word incredible speaks future of the that incredible God has future for every that God Christian. has for As every we live Christian. on this Asearth we welive can’t on this make earth it without we can’t make it without John 5:19; GalatiansJohn 1:3-4 5:19; – Galatians “Grace to 1:3-4you and – “Grace peace tofrom you God and our peace Father from and God the our Lord Father Jesus and Christ, the Lord who Jesus gave HimselfChrist, who for ourgave sins Himself so for our sins so domination in thedomination end times. Thisin the second end times. beast, This this second false prophet, beast, this exercises false prophet, all the authority exercises of all the the Antichrist, authority andof the performs Antichrist, great and performs great Part 3, the millennialPart kingdom 3, the millennial age, is future, kingdom when age, Jesus is future, Christ, when as God-man, Jesus Christ, will perfectlyas God-man, rule willover perfectly an imperfect rule over world. an (Revelation imperfect world. 20). (Revelation 20). that He might rescuethat usHe from might this rescue present us fromevil age.” this present evil age.” miraculous signs,miraculous and orders signs,the people and orders in the worldthe people to worship in the anworld image to worship of the beast an image (the Antichrist),of the beast and (the to Antichrist), take the mark and of to the take beast. the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope,hope. we We need need to behope, looking we need forward to be to looking the realization forward ofto thisthe realizationhope, of all of that this God hope, has of planned all that forGod us has after planned our earthly for us life after our earthly life Bowls – The bowlsBowls are speaking – The bowls of the are second speaking part of of the the second Day of partthe Lord,of the and Day is of the the rapid Lord, and and final is the outpouring rapid and of final God’s outpouring wrath upon of God’s the wrath upon the is over. This hopeis is over. true, Thisfor it hope is based is true, on thefor itpromises is based of on God. the promisesThis hope of is God.encouraging, This hope motivating is encouraging, us to live motivating all out for us God to live on allearth. out for God on earth. world in the end times.world (Thein the first end part times. of the (The Day first of partthe Lordof the is Day known of the as Lordthe trumpet is known judgments.) as the trumpet The sevenjudgments.) bowls consistThe seven of sevenbowls consist of seven At the end of the battleAt the of end Armageddon, of the battle this of Armageddon, second beast, this along second with beast,the first along beast, with is capturedthe first beast, by Jesus is captured Christ, and by Jesusis then Christ, thrown and into is then thrown into Part 4, the eternalPart kingdom 4, the age, eternal is future, kingdom when age, God, is future,with Jesus when Christ, God, with will Jesusrule over Christ, perfect will heavens rule over and perfect earth. heavens (Revelation and earth. 21-22) (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The OldProphets Testament – The prophets, Old Testament holy men prophets, of God, spokeholy men of a of holy God, and spoke just ofGod, a holy of One and to just be God,feared, of lovedOne to and be feared,obeyed. loved They and obeyed. They the lake of fire, wherethe lake they of will fire, forever where and they greatly will forever be punished. and greatly 2 Thessalonians be punished. 2:8-12,2 Thessalonians Revelation 2:8-12, 19:19-20, Revelation Revelation 19:19-20, 13:11-18 Revelation – 13:11-18 – This hope is great,This for ithope is no is small great, thing for it whatis no Godsmall will thing do forwhat us Godin the will future. do for This us in hope the future.is necessary, This hope for you is necessary, can only rightly for you and can only rightly and specific judgmentsspecific and events, judgments including and painfulevents, sores,including water painful turning sores, to blood, water scorchingturning to heat,blood, darkness, scorching nations heat, darkness, gathering nations for battle, gathering a for battle, a courageously livecourageously for God if you liveknow for you God have if you this know hope, you this have wonderful this hope, future. this wonderfulThis hope future.will be realizedThis hope soon, will forbe realizedwe know soon, that wefor we know that we spoke of sin, man’sspoke rebellion of sin, against man’s God.rebellion They against spoke ofGod. judgment They spoke and punishment,of judgment and thepunishment, need for people and the to need repent for of people their sinsto repent and of their sins and great earthquake greatand 100 earthquake pound hailstones. and 100 pound It begins hailstones. at the end It beginsof Daniel’s at the 70th end week of Daniel’s and lasts 70th for week 30 days, and laststhe battle for 30 of days, Armageddon, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another“Then beast I saw coming another up outbeast of comingthe earth; up and out heof hadthe earth; two horns and helike had a lamb, two horns and he like spoke a lamb, like anda dragon. he spoke He exerciseslike a dragon. all the He exercises all the God has always beenGod andhas always willbeen be and sovereign always overwill be everything. sovereign In over His everything.kingdom His In eternalHis kingdom purposes His andeternal plans purposes will be accomand plans- will be accom- turn back to God. turnThey back spoke to ofGod. salvation They spoke and mercy of salvation through and the mercy Messiah, through the Christ,the Messiah, and of thehope, Christ, the future and of God hope, has the for future all believers. God has for all believers. authority of the firstauthority beast.” of the first beast.” now live in the endnow times. live Therein the areend six times. specific There aspects are six of specific this hope: aspects 1) We of willthis be hope: with 1)Jesus We will Christ, be with the greatestJesus Christ, person the ever. greatest John person ever. John and the defeat of andthe antichristthe defeat being of the the antichrist last events being to thetake last place events during to takethis time.place Danielduring 12:11, this time. Revelation Daniel 12:11,15:5-7, Revelation Revelation 15:5-7, 19:17-21, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians17:24, 4:17,1 Thessalonians Titus 1:2. 2) 4:17, We will Titus be 1:2.with 2)our We loved will beones, with and our all loved the other ones, believers and all the from other all believerstime. 1 Thessalonians from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everythingplished. is moving Everything towards is that moving time towards when God’s that reigntime whenover His God’s kingdom reign over will beHis clearly kingdom visible will tobe all, clearly and Hevisible will torule all, perfectly and He will rule perfectly The message fromThe these message Old Testament from these prophets Old Testament was given prophets to the peoplewas given of their to the day people (from of850BC their –day 430BC), (from 850BCand some – 430BC), of their and some of their Revelation 16:1 –Revelation “Go and pour 16:1 out – “Goon the and earth pour the out seven on the bowls earth of the God’s seven wrath.” bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect worldover and a perfect over perfect world people. and over During perfect this people. part of During God’s thiskingdom, part of we God’s are to kingdom, pray, “Our we Father, are to pray,who art“Our in Father,heaven, who hallowed art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came propheciestrue during cameand right true after during their and lives right on after earth, their and lives others on earth,during and Christ’s others 1st during coming, Christ’s and yet 1st others coming, are and coming yet others true are coming true Glory of God – GodGlory is the of livingGod – God, God theis the eternal living and God, true the King, eternal the and all holy, true just,King, wise, the all loving, holy, powerful,just, wise, good, loving, immutable, powerful, good,omniscient, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 2:19-20, 3) We will 4:13-14. be in heaven, 3) We willin our be beautiful in heaven, new in ourhome. beautiful John 14:1-3,new home. Hebrews John 12:22-24.14:1-3, Hebrews 4) We will12:22-24. receive 4)a perfect,We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorifiedimmortal body. and 1 Corinthians glorified body. 15:42-44, 1 Corinthians Philippians 15:42-44, 3:21. 5)Philippians We will literally 3:21. 5)be We reigning will literally with Jesus be reigning Christ withon earth. Jesus Revela Christ- on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thybe Kingdom Thy name. come, Thy Thy Kingdom will be come,done, onThy earth will beas done,it is in on heaven.” earth as Matthew it is in heaven.” 6:9-10; PsalmMatthew 145:1, 6:9-10; 13; 1Psalm Corinthians 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come trueand in ourwill day,come the true end in times, our day, and the during end times,Christ’s and 2nd during coming. Christ’s The prophets2nd coming. were The speaking prophets to werethe Jews, speaking but also to the to Jews,us, but also to us, Church Age – ThisChurch period Age of time – This begins period on ofthe time day begins of Pentecost on the andday ofthe Pentecost outpouring and of thethe outpouringHoly Spirit, ofand the ends Holy with Spirit, the and sign ends of the with end the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect,omnipresent, sovereign, perfect, patient, sovereign, merciful and patient, faithful merciful One. Therefore,and faithful He One. deserves Therefore, all glory, He deserves all praise all and glory, honor, all praisefrom eternity and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians15:20-28; 1:10-11; Ephesians Daniel 4:34-35 1:10-11; – “God’sDaniel 4:34-35dominion – is“God’s an eternal dominion dominion; is an eternal His kingdom dominion; endures His kingdomfrom generation endures to from generation to the Christians livingthe in Christians these days. living We in are these then days. to learn We fromare then them, to andlearn discern from them, what andpassages discern are what specifically passages relevant are specifically to us at this relevant time to us at this time past to eternity future,past tofrom eternity every future, being andfrom every every thing being that and He every has thingever created. that He hasGod ever purposes created. and God plans purposes are continually and plans being are continuallycarried being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6.tion 6) 2:6, We 5:10,will have 20:6. an 6) eternal We will inheritance, have an eternal eternal inheritance, blessings, eternal joys and blessings, rewards. joys Psalm and 16:11, rewards. Ephesians Psalm 16:11,1:14. 1 Ephesians Peter 1:4, 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which ofconsists the age, of which cosmic consists disturbances of cosmic resulting disturbances in the world resulting going in dark. the worldDuring going this churchdark. During age the this gospel church is agebeing the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope13 fully– “Set on your the gracehope fullyto be on given the graceyou when to be Jesus given Christ you when is revealed.” Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. generation. in history. Throughin thehistory. New ThroughTestament, the we New see Testament, that God’s we working see that with God’s the Jewsworking in the with end the times Jews is in in the conjunction end times andis in in conjunction concert with and in concert with preached, disciplespreached, are being disciples made, and are Jesusbeing made,Christ isand building Jesus HisChrist spiritual is building kingdom His spiritual on earth. kingdom This age, on also earth. called This the age, last also days, called is the the last days, is the out so that He is glorified,out so that worshiped He is glorified, and exalted. worshiped God hasand alwaysexalted. been God glorified,has always during been the glorified, days of during Adam the and days Eve, ofduring Adam the and days Eve, of during the days of His working with theHis church.working The with end the times’ church. message The end for times’ the Jews message and thefor thechurch Jews is andonly the complete church andis only understandable, complete and as understandable, we study as we study last part of the presentlast part evil of age, the an present age that evil began age, an with age the that sin began of Adam with and the Eve. sin ofAt Adam the end and of Eve.this Atchurch the end age of Christ this church returns, age first Christ returns, first Noah, during the daysNoah, of during the Old the Testament days of the Jews, Old Testamentand now during Jews, this and church now during age. God this ischurch most glorifiedage. God in is the most salvation glorified of in souls, the salvation and in of souls, and in Mark of the BeastMark – This of isthe an Beast identifying – This symbol is an identifying of the antichrist, symbol and of the is thatantichrist, which andthe falseis that prophet which thewill falseforce prophetunbelievers will forceto take, unbelievers to take, the words of the prophetsthe words in of the the Old prophets Testament, in the and Old as Testament, we study the and words as we of study Jesus the in words the New of JesusTestament. in the Isaiah New Testament. 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, Isaiah 52, 2:1-5, 53, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worshiptheir and love,obedience worship of andHim. obedience And in the of end Him. times And He in thewill endcontinue times to He be will glorified, continue and to particularly be glorified, in and the particularly return of His in Son, the return of His Son, Image of the BeastImage – This of isthe a designationBeast – This or is picture a designation of the antichrist, or picture the of the wicked antichrist, one who the wants wicked to one and who will wantsbe worshiped to and willby thebe worshipedwhole by the whole resurrecting the believersresurrecting who the have believers physically who died, have and physically second, died,rapturing and second, the believers rapturing who the are believers still on earth, who gatheringare still on them earth, all gathering to them all to unbelieving worldunbelieving in the end times. world Eitherin the rightend times. before Either or soon right after before the midpointor soon after of Daniel’s the midpoint 70th week, of Daniel’s the false 70th prophet week, thewill falseset up prophet a will set up a either on their righteither hand on or their forehead. right hand This ormark, forehead. which Thiscould mark, be an which external could stamp be an or external impression, stamp or evenor impression, an embedded or even chip, an will embedded show chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah54, 31:31-37;60, 61; Jeremiah Ezekiel 31:31-37;36-39; Daniel Ezekiel 2, 7-12; 36-39; Zechariah Daniel 2, 9-14; 7-12; Acts Zechariah 2:29-33, 9-14; 3:19-26; Acts 2:29-33,Matthew 3:19-26; 24:3-27; Matthew Luke 21:10-28; 24:3-27; 1 Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21;Himself. Galatians Acts 2:17-21; 1:4, Matthew Galatians 24:3, 1:4, 24:14, Matthew 24:9, 28:19-20;24:3, 24:14, Luke 24:9, 21:12-19, 28:19-20; Romans Luke 21:12-19, 11:25; 1 ThessaloniansRomans 11:25; 1:10;1 Thessalonians 2 1:10; 2 in the resurrectionin and the raptureresurrection of the and saints, rapture His wrathof the onsaints, earth, His the wrath redemption on earth, of the the redemption Jews, and inof the the reign Jews, of and His in Son the Jesus reign ofChrist His Sonon Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’sand prove association the unbeliever’s with andassociation loyalty to with the andantichrist. loyalty Givento the to antichrist. people right Given after to peoplethe midpoint right after of Daniel’s the midpoint 70th week, of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “ConcerningPeter 1:10-12 this, – “Concerningthe prophets, this, who the spoke prophets, of the whograce spoke that wasof the to gracecome thatto you, was searched to come intentlyto you, searchedand with theintently greatest and with the greatest earth. In the comingearth. ages, In thein both coming millennial ages, inand both eternal millennial kingdoms, and eternal God will kingdoms, continue Godand willincreasingly continue so,and along increasingly with His so, Son, along be greatly with His Son, be greatly system by which peoplesystem all by over which the people world allwill over be able the worldto, and will will be in able fact to, be and forced will to, in worshipfact be forced the beast, to, worship the antichrist. the beast, This the image antichrist. may This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10;Thessalonians Revelation 1:5-10; 2-3, 7:9-14; Revelation Matthew 2-3, 28:19-207:9-14; Matthew – “Go therefore 28:19-20 and – “Go make therefore disciples and of make all the disciples nations, ofbaptizing all the nations, them baptizing them very well be a computervery well generated be a computer image, generatedand will have image, the abilityand will to have speak the and ability cause to thosespeak whoand causedo not thoseworship who this do image not worship of the beastthis image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’sthis is one of ways the antichrist’sby which he ways will control by which the he world will controlin the end the times, world forin theit will end be times, the only for meansit will be by the which only unbelievers means by which unbelievers care, trying to findcare, out thetrying time to andfind circumstancesout the time and to circumstanceswhich the Spirit to of which Christ the in themSpirit wasof Christ pointing in them when was He pointing predicted when the sufferingHe predicted of the suffering of in the name of thein Father the name and ofthe the Son Father and the and Holy the SonSpirit, and teaching the Holy them Spirit, to teachingobserve all them that to I commandedobserve all that you; I commandedand lo, I am with you; youand lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chroniclesglorified. 29:10-13, 1 Chronicles Psalm 145,29:10-13, Psalm Psalm 150, Isaiah 145, Psalm 42:8, Jeremiah 150, Isaiah 10:10, 42:8, 1 Jeremiah Corinthians 10:10, 10:31, 1 Corinthians Ephesians 10:31,3:20-21, Ephesians 1 Timothy 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy orcan sell. openly Those buy who or take sell. the Those mark who forfeit take their the chancemark forfeit to be their saved, chance to receive to be eternalsaved, tolife, receive and will eternal therefore life, andbe deservedly will therefore be deservedly Christ and the gloriesChrist that and would the glories follow. that It was would revealed follow. to It them was thatrevealed they towere them not that serving they themselveswere not serving but you.” themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21,1:17, Hebrews Jude 24-25, 13:20-21, 1 Peter Jude 4:11, 24-25, Revelation 1 Peter 4:11, 4:11, Revelation Revelation 5:12-13 4:11, Revelation – “Worthy 5:12-13 is the Lamb, – “Worthy who iswas the slain, Lamb, to whoreceive was slain, to receive to be persecuted andto be even persecuted killed. Revelation and even killed.14:9-11, Revelation 13:14-15 14:9-11, – “It was 13:14-15 given to – him “It wasto give given breath to him to the to give image breath of the to beast, the image so that of the beast, so that always, even to thealways, end of even the age.”to the end of the age.” the image of the beastthe image would of even the beast speak would and cause even asspeak many and as cause do not as worship many as the do image not worship of the beast the image to be of killed.” the beast to be killed.” damned and punisheddamned forever. and punishedRevelation forever. 14:9-11, Revelation Revelation 14:9-11, 13:16- Revelation 18 – “He causes13:16- all…18 – to “He be causesgiven a all…mark to on be their given right a mark hand on or their on right hand or on power and wealthpower and wisdom and wealth and strengthand wisdom and andhonor strength and glory and and honor praise… and glory To Him and who praise… sits on To the Him throne who sits and on to thethe throneLamb beand praise to the Lamb be praise their forehead, andtheir he providesforehead, that and no he one provides will be that able no to one buy will or tobe sell, able except to buy the or toone sell, who except has thethe mark,one who either has the the name mark, of either the beast the name of the beast Purpose of God –Purpose God has of His God purposes, – God has His His will, purposes, His desires, His and will, they His desires,are eternal, and comprehensive they are eternal, and comprehensive glorious. He hasand purposes glorious. Hefor hasthe purposes for the and honor and gloryand and honor power, and foreverglory and and power, ever!” forever and ever!” Covenant with DeathCovenant – The withantichrist Death makes – The orantichrist confirms makes a covenant or confirms (treaty) a covenantwith Israel (treaty) at the beginningwith Israel of at Daniel’s the beginning 70th week. of Daniel’s The 70th week. The Imminency – ThisImminency is a falsely – held This belief is a falselythat no held signs belief or Biblically that no signs prophesied or Biblically events prophesied need to occur events before need the to raptureoccur before of the theChristians rapture of the Christians or the number of hisor the name.” number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles,Jews forand the the church, Gentiles, for for the the saved church, and forthe the unsaved, saved andfor this the countryunsaved, and for every this country country, and for everyevery country,person who for every has ever person who has ever hope of the Jews hopeis that of this the treatyJews iswill that ensure this treatythem peacewill ensure and safety them peacein Israel. and But safety at the in midpointIsrael. But of at the the 70th midpoint week, ofthe the 3½ 70th year week, mark, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore,on proponentsearth. Therefore, of this proponents notion say ofthat this Christ’s notion return say that is imminent,Christ’s return that Heis imminent, can return that at any He cantime, return with noat anyadvance time, with no advance lived or whoever willlived live or onwhoever earth. Godwill live has on specific earth. plansGod has to bringspecific about plans these to bring purposes, about and these these purposes, plans will and be these perfectly plans and will sover be perfectly- and sover- the antichrist will thereveal antichrist his true will identity reveal and his break true identity this covenant. and break Then this the covenant. antichrist Then will thecause antichrist there to will be causegreat persecutionthere to be great upon persecution both upon both Gospel – The mainGospel message – The in mainthe Bible message is the ingospel, the Bible the isgood the newsgospel, that the through good news Jesus that Christ through we can Jesus be forgivenChrist we of can all ourbe forgiven sins, that of all our sins, that Millennium – ThisMillennium is a literal thousand– This is a year literal period thousand of time year beginning period of after time the beginning great day after of the the Lord, great during day of which the Lord, Jesus during Christ which the King Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out;eignly for no carried activity out; of the for devil,no activity and no of work the devil, of man and will no everwork counter of man orwill defeat ever counterthe plans or of defeat God. theGod plans knows of HisGod. “end God knows His “end we can receive eternalwe can life, receive and that eternal we can life, be and with that God we and can Jesus be with Christ God and allJesus the Christother believers and all the forever other andbelievers ever. Itforever was at and Christ’s ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever.notice This whatsoever.is a key position This of is pre-tribulationala key position of rapturists. pre-tribulational But it is rapturists. an erroneous But itview. is an The erroneous Bible makes view. itThe very Bible clear makes that it very clear that the Jews and Christians.the Jews Matthew and Christians. 24:15-28; Matthew Revelation 24:15-28; 12:12, Revelation13:7; Daniel 12:12, 9:27 –13:7; “He Daniel will make 9:27 a – firm “He covenant will make with a firm the covenant many for with one the many for one specific events needspecific to take events place need before to takeChrist’s place return. before For Christ’s example, return. Israel For needs example, to be Israel back needsin her land;to be theback Covenant in her land; of Peace the Covenant needs of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfullyis perfectly, and wonderfully powerfully ruling and wonderfully over the entire ruling earth. over He the will entire bring earth. world He peace. will bring At this world time peace. the world At this will time be greatly the world will be greatly game”, and knowsgame”, exactly and what knows He is exactly doing, whatexactly He what is doing, people exactly need what to do, people where need things to aredo, going,where howthings to arespecifically going, how make to specificallythings make things week.” Isaiah 28:15week.” – “We Isaiah have 28:15 entered – “Weinto havea covenant entered with into death.” a covenant with death.” first coming, whenfirst He coming,lived a perfect when Helife, lived and athen perfect suffered, life, and died then and suffered, rose again, died that and He rose made again, payment that He to made God for payment our sins, to soGod that for all our sins, so that all influenced by believinginfluenced Jews by who believing are worshiping Jews who Christ are worshiping and serving Christ Him onand this serving earth, Him as well on this as by earth, glorified as well Christians as by glorified who will Christians be who will be happen, and preciselyhappen, when and things precisely need when to take things place. need He chooses,to take place. He works, He chooses, and He Heprecisely works, bringsand He about precisely every brings single about one of every His single one of His those who repent thoseof their who sins repent and place of their their sins faith and in place Christ their alone faith can in be Christ redeemed, alone can forgiven, be redeemed, and given forgiven, eternal andlife. givenThe gospel eternal during life. The gospel during to be signed; birthto pains be signed; need to birth occur; pains the need temple to occur;needs theto be temple built; needsthe apostasy to be built; needs the to apostasy take place; needs the toantichrist take place; needs the to antichrist be needs to be revealed; and thererevealed; needs to and be theregreat needstribulation. to be Thesegreat tribulation. signs and eventsThese signsare given and to events us by are God given so that to us we by can God know so that the generalwe can knowtime of the general time of reigning with Christ.reigning Satan with will Christ.be locked Satan up duringwill be thislocked time, up and during therefore this time, completely and therefore out of completelythe picture, out having of the absolutely picture, having no influence absolutely no influence plans. These purposesplans. and These plans purposes of God andare carriedplans of out God by are Jesus carried Christ, out by by the Jesus Holy Christ, Spirit, by by the His Holy angels, Spirit, by theby His devil angels, and his by demons, the devil and his demons, Davidic CovenantDavidic – This isCovenant referring – to This the ispromise referring from to theGod promise to David from that Godone toof Davidhis descendants that one of wouldhis descendants be a great King,would with be aa greatgreat King, with a great this entire churchthis age, entire from thechurch 1st comingage, from to the the 1st 2nd coming coming, to is the our 2nd main coming, message. is our In main these message. end times, In asthese we getend closer times, to as Christ’s we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At theon end the ofearth. this At1000 the year end periodof this Satan1000 year will beperiod released Satan for will a shortbe released time and for willa short deceive time and and gather will deceive unbelievers, and gather but then unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church,by rulers, by byindividual the church, believers, by individual and by unbelievers.believers, and It byis by unbelievers. God’s character It is by and God’s Word character that these and purposes Word that are these carried purposes are carried return, and as we return,are persecuted and as we for are our persecuted faith, we are for to our continue faith, we to are joyfully to continue and boldly to joyfully proclaim and to boldly all people proclaim the good to all news people of theJesus good news of Jesus Christ’s return, butChrist’s we will return, never knowbut we the will specific never know time, the specificday or hour time, of the His day return. or hour Therefore, of His return.Christ’s Therefore, return to earthChrist’s and return the rapture to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and wouldKingdom, rule over and the would world rule forever. over theThis world descendant forever. isThis none descendant other than is Jesus none otherChrist. than The Jesus 1st century Christ. Jews The 1sthad century hoped Jews had hoped of the church is notof imminent.the church Luke is not 21:8-33, imminent. 2 Thessalonians Luke 21:8-33, 2:1-9,2 Thessalonians Revelation 6:1-7:14,2:1-9, Revelation Matthew 6:1-7:14, 24:4-41 Matthew– “What will24:4-41 be the – sign“What of will be the sign of be seized by Christbe and seized thrown by Christ into the and lake thrown of fire. into Hundreds the lake of Oldfire. Testament Hundreds ofverses Old Testament describe the verses character describe and the nature character of this and millen nature- of this millen- out – by His holiness,out – power, by His grace, holiness, knowledge, power, grace, omnipresence, knowledge, wisdom, omnipresence, sovereignty, wisdom, goodness, sovereignty, patience, goodness, mercy and patience, faithfulness. mercy God’sand faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfillJesus this promise would fulfill at His this 1st promise coming, at but His now 1st wecoming, know butthat now it will we be know fulfilled that at it Christ’swill be fulfilled 2nd coming, at Christ’s after 2nd the coming,resurrection after the resurrection Christ, and then theChrist, end ofand the then age the will end come, of the Christ age willwill return,come, Christand we will will return, be Him and forever. we will Matthew be Him 28:19-20,forever. Matthew Luke 21:12-19, 28:19-20, Acts Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here arenial some: period. Isaiah Here 2:1-5,are some: 4:2-6, Isaiah 11, 12, 2:1-5, 54, 60,4:2-6, 61, 11,65:17-25; 12, 54, Psalms60, 61, 65:17-25; 22, 45, 47, Psalms 48, 65, 22,67, 45,72, 47,102, 48, 117, 65, 132; 67, 72,Daniel 102, 7:27; 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the ChristianWord tells everything the Christian he needs everything to know he about needs God’s to know general about purposes God’s generalfor this purposesearth, and for for this the earth,specific and details for the in specifichis own details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 2:14-41,3:21-26, RomansJohn 3:16-21, 3:21-26, Ephesians John 3:16-21, 2:1-9, 1Ephesians Thessalonians 2:1-9, 1:2-10,1 Thessalonians Matthew 24:141:2-10, – Matthew“This gospel 24:14 of –the “This kingdom gospel will of bethe kingdom will be your coming and ofyour the coming end of andthe age?”of the Hebrews end of the 10:24-25 age?” Hebrews – “not forsaking 10:24-25 our – “not own forsaking assembling our together,…own assembling but encouraging together,… onebut encouraging one and rapture of theand believers, rapture and of the the believers, redemption and of the a remnant redemption of Jews. of a remnantThe Bible of in Jews. many The ways, Bible particularly in many ways, the Old particularly Testament, the vividly Old Testament, vividly another, and all theanother, more as and you all see the themore day as drawing you see near.” the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20;Zephaniah Haggai 2:6-9; 3:14-20; Zechariah Haggai 1:16-17,2:6-9; Zechariah 2:10-13, 1:16-17,8:20-23, 2:10-13,9:10, 14:9-11; 8:20-23, Micah 9:10, 3:12-13, 14:9-11; 4:1-5, Micah 5:4. 3:12-13, Revelation 4:1-5, 20:6 5:4. – Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days,life. at this In these time days,of History, at this God time too of has History, His purposes, God too has and His is bringingpurposes, this and church is bringing age to this an end.church In theage near to an future end. Inwe the will near future we will describes the characterdescribes and the nature character of Christ’s and naturefuture kingdomof Christ’s and future reign kingdom over this and world. reign Psalms over this 47, world. 67, 72, Psalms 89; Daniel 47, 67,7:13-14, 72, 89; 27; Daniel Micah 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the wholepreached world in as the a testimonywhole world to asall anations, testimony and to then all nations,the end shalland then come.” the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy“Blessed is the one and who holy has is athe part one in whothe first has resurrection;a part in the firstover resurrection; these the second over thesedeath thehas second no power, death but has they no will power, be priests but they will be priests see the rapture ofsee the thesaints, rapture the wrathof the ofsaints, God onthe the wrath unbelievers, of God on the the redemption unbelievers, of the the redemption Jews, and thenof the the Jews, reign and of Christthen the on reignthis earth. of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33;5:4; 2 Samuel Luke 1:31-33; 7:8-16 –2 “ISamuel will raise 7:8-16 up your – “I willdescendant raise up afteryour descendantyou, who will after come you, forth who from will you, come and forth I will from establish you, and His I will establish His of God and of Christof God and andwill reignof Christ with and Him will for reign a thousand with Him years.” for a thousand years.” All these things haveAll these been thingspredicted have and been planned predicted by God, and and planned will certainly by God, and willsoon certainly take place. and Thesoon fulfilling take place. and fulfillmentThe fulfilling of andGod’s fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation –Great The Tribulationword tribulation, – The from word the tribulation, Greek “thlipsis”, from the means Greek affliction,“thlipsis”, pressure,means affliction, trouble, pressure,persecution trouble, or distress. persecution In the or New distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “TheJesus Son Christ (of God) – “The is the Son radiance (of God) of isGod’s the radiance glory and of the God’s exact glory representation and the exact of representationHis being.” Hebrews of His 1:3.being.” Jesus Hebrews Christ is1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will buildkingdom. a house He willfor Mybuild name a house and forI will My establish name and the I thronewill establish of His kingdomthe throne forever.” of His kingdom Zechariah forever.” 14:9 – Zechariah“And the Lord 14:9 will – “And the Lord will both God and man,both and God is the and central man, andfigure, is thethe centralOne who figure, plays the the One primary who playsand most the primary important and role most in allimportant of human role history. in all of Jesus human Christ history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him greatplans and gives increasing Him great glory, and resultingincreasing in glory,Him being resulting recognized, in Him being honored, recognized, exalted andhonored, worshiped exalted now and and worshiped forevermore. now and forevermore. be King over all thebe earth; King overin that all daythe earth;the Lord in thatwill beday the the only Lord One.” will be the only One.” Testament it mostTestament commonly it refers most commonlyto the trouble refers and to persecution the trouble that and Christianspersecution experience. that Christians (John experience. 16:33, Acts (John14:22, 16:33, 2 Corinthians Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions:Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; ProverbsPsalm 33:9-12; 16:9, 19:21; Proverbs Isaiah 16:9, 25:1, 19:21; 46:8-11; Isaiah Jeremiah 25:1, 46:8-11; 1:12, 29:11-12; Jeremiah Romans 1:12, 29:11-12; 8:28-30, Romans9:14-19, 8:28-30,11; Ephesians 9:14-19, 1:9-12, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35).4:17, Throughout Romans 8:35). church Throughout history and church even today,history Christians and even aretoday, going Christians through are tribulation; going through and this tribulation; will continue and thisright will on continue right on is the Creator of theis the world, Creator the Sustainer of the world, of the the world, Sustainer the King of the of world,the world, the Kingthe Judge of the ofworld, the world, the Judge and theof the Savior world, of andthe world,the Savior particu of -the world, particu- larly for those wholarly repent for thoseof their who sins repent and trust of their in Him sins for and forgiveness trust in Him of for all forgivenesstheir sins. 2 ofCorinthians all their sins. 5:21 2 says,Corinthians “God made 5:21 Christsays, “God who made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-122:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – DayThis of phrase the Lord refers – This to various phrase times refers of to God’s various wrath, times His of righteousGod’s wrath, judgment His righteous and punishment judgment against and punishment man. It was against used man. It was used up to the return ofup Christ to the and return the raptureof Christ of and the thechurch. rapture The of Bible the church.speaks Theof a Bibletime periodspeaks call of agreat time tribulation, period call andgreat some tribulation, Christians and some Christians Amillennial – ThisAmillennial word refers – to This an wordincorrect refers allegorical to an incorrect system allegorical of interpretation system that of interpretation says there will that be saysno literal there 1000 will beyear no reign literal of 1000 year reign of mistakenly say thatmistakenly this is God’s say thatwrath. this But is greatGod’s tribulation wrath. But is great not God’stribulation wrath, is but not rather God’s Satan’swrath, but wrath. rather Great Satan’s tribulation wrath. is Great not tribulation is not knew no sin to beknew sin on no our sin behalf, to be sinthat on we our might behalf, become that we the might righteousness become the of Godrighteousness in Him.” Let of me God share in Him.” some Let important me share aspects some important of aspects of by some Old Testamentby some prophets Old Testament to speak prophets of God’s tojudgment speak of upon God’s man’s judgment sin in upon their man’sday (Amos sin in 5:18-20, their day Obadiah), (Amos 5:18-20, but there Obadiah), is a but there is a Jesus Christ’s roleJesus as it relatesChrist’s to role the as future. it relates Jesus to Christthe future. will purifyJesus His Christ church will purifybefore His His church return (Revelationbefore His return 2-3). Jesus(Revelation Christ 2-3). will beJesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth.Jesus Proponents Christ on earth. of this Proponents position correctly of this position say that correctlyChrist rules say over that aChrist spiritual rules kingdom over a spiritual in the hearts kingdom of believers in the hearts of believers Rapture – This wordRapture refers – to This the word gathering refers together to the gathering of the church together in the of endthe churchtime by in the the angels end time from by “the the fourangels winds, from from “the the four ends winds, of from the ends of specific referencespecific to it regarding reference God’s to it judgment regarding upon God’s man judgment in the end upon times. man Thisin the particular end times. cataclysmic This particular and devastatingcataclysmic judgment and devastating of judgment of speaking of God punishingspeaking ofunbelievers God punishing on earth, unbelievers but rather on it earth, is that but time rather when it isthe that antichrist time when is persecuting the antichrist both is persecutingJews and Christians. both Jews and Christians. between His first andbetween second His comings, first and secondand then comings, there is theand eternal then there kingdom is the age, eternal but kingdomincorrectly age, say but that incorrectly there is no say millennial that there kingdom is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesusthe Christ. earth” The to Jesus word raptureChrist. Theis from word the rapture Latin “rapere”is from themeaning Latin “rapere”rapid, and meaning from the rapid, Greek and “harpazo” from the meaning Greek “harpazo” to snatch meaning to snatch This great tribulationThis begins great tribulation at the midpoint begins of at the the 70th midpoint week, ofbut the is then70th cutweek, short but by is thenGod atcut some short unknown by God at time some during unknown the last time half during of the last half of revealed, and will revealed,appear at and His will2nd appear coming at (1 His John 2nd 2:28). coming Jesus (1 John Christ 2:28). will breakJesus the Christ seals, will initiating break the the seals, end timeinitiating events the (Revelation end time events (Revelation the earth is vividlythe described earth is invividly the book described of Revelation, in the book and of includes Revelation, both and the includestrumpet andboth bowl the trumpet judgments and (Revelation bowl judgments 8-9, 16). (Revelation It begins 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ5-6). will resurrectJesus Christ and willrapture resurrect the believers and rapture (1 Thessalonians the believers (14:14-17). Thessalonians Jesus Christ 4:14-17). will pourJesus out Christ His wrath will pour upon out the His earth wrath upon the earth in between. in between. or catch away by orforce. catch The away rapture by force. is the The initial rapture event is at the Christ’s initial 2nd event coming. at Christ’s The resurrection2nd coming. ofThe the resurrection believers who of the have believers fallen asleep who have fallen asleep at the breaking ofat the the 7th breaking seal, sometime of the 7th during seal, sometimethe last half during of Daniel’s the last 70th half week. of Daniel’s Great and70th ominous week. Great celestial and ominous signs will celestial wake up signs the will wake up the that seven year period,that seven evidenced year period, by the signevidenced of the byend the of signthe age,of the the end great of thecosmic age, disturbances.the great cosmic Believers disturbances. then are Believers given relief then from are given relief from (physically died) will(physically occur immediately died) will occur before immediately the rapture. before These the two rapture. events, These the resurrection two events, and the theresurrection rapture, are and preceded the rapture, by a are shout preceded by a shout this tribulation andthis are tribulation immediately and resurrected are immediately and raptured, resurrected and and are raptured,taken to Jesus and are Christ. taken Mark to Jesus 13:19; Christ. 2 Thessalonians Mark 13:19; 1:5-10;2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16).(Revelation Jesus Christ 8-9, 16).will saveJesus a Christgreat number will save of a Jews great at number the end of of Jews Daniel’s at the 70th end week. of Daniel’s (Romans 70th 11:26). week. Jesus(Romans Christ 11:26). will Jesus Christ will world to the fact ofworld the endto the of factthe age,of the and end that of the Dayage, ofand the that Lord the has Day come. of the But Lord immediately has come. after But immediately this heavenly after sign this is the heavenly rapture sign of is the rapture of defeat the antichristdefeat and the destroy antichrist all His and enemies destroy (Revelation all His enemies 19:20-21). (Revelation Jesus 19:20-21).Christ will reignJesus over Christ the will earth reign for over1000 the years earth (Revelation for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – ThisPremillennial word refers – to This the word correct refers belief to thatthe correct the millennium belief that is thea literal millennium 1000 years, is a literal and that 1000 the years, end ofand this that age, the the end resur of this- age, the resur- from the Lord, thefrom voice the of Lord,the archangel, the voice andof the the archangel, trumpet of and God. the We trumpet do not of know God. the We specific do not know time ofthe the specific rapture time but ofwe the do rapture know the but we do know the the believers into theheaven, believers and theyinto willheaven, be delivered and they from will bethe delivered Day of the from Lord, the God’s Day of wrath the Lord, on earth. God’s Isaiah wrath 24, on Zephaniah earth. Isaiah 1:1-3, 24, Zephaniah14-18, 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11,Revelation 7:14, 13:7; 6:9-11, Matthew 7:14, 24:9-10, 13:7; Matthew 21, 29 – 24:9-10,“Then they 21, will 29 deliver– “Then you they to willtribulation, deliver you and to will tribulation, kill you, and and you will will kill beyou, hated and you will be hated rection and rapturerection of the and saints, rapture and ofthe the Day saints, of the and Lord the all Day occur of thebefore Lord this all occur1000 year before period this begins.1000 year (Pre-tribulational, period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- Mid-tribula- general time, for God’sgeneral Word time, tell for us God’s that itWord takes tell place us that between it takes the place 6th and between 7th seals, the 6th after and the 7th great seals, tribulation after the is great cut short, tribulation before is God’scut short, before God’s by all nations becauseby all ofnations My name… because then of there My name… will be thena great there tribulation.” will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus11:15-17, Christ, 20).during Jesus His Christ,reign on during earth, His will reign be worshiped on earth, willby allbe people worshiped for every by all knee people will for bow, every and knee every will tongue bow, andwill every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, MatthewJoel 24:29,2:1-11, Acts Matthew 2:17-21, 24:29, 1 Thessalonians Acts 2:17-21, 5:1-9,1 Thessalonians 2 Peter 3:3-9, 5:1-9, Revelation 2 Peter 8:1,3:3-9, Isaiah Revelation 13:6-13 8:1, – “Behold,Isaiah 13:6-13 the day – of “Behold, the the day of the confess that He isconfess Lord (Philippians that He is Lord1:17). (Philippians Jesus Christ 1:17). will righteouslyJesus Christ judge will righteouslyall the unbelievers judge all at the the unbelievers end of the millennial at the end kingdom. of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulationaltional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture and Pre-wrath positions raptureare all Pre-millennial positions are allpositions.) Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured outwrath on earth, is poured and outsometime on earth, during and sometimethe last half during of Daniel’s the last 70th half week. of Daniel’s Matthew 70th 24:31; week. Mark Matthew 13:27; 24:31; Luke Mark21:28; 13:27; 1 Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruelLord and is coming, with fury cruel and andburning with anger,fury and to makeburning the anger, land ato desolation; make the land and aHe desolation; will exterminate and He its will sinners exterminate from it. its For sinners the from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9,Corinthians 15:50-54; Colossians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; 3:4; 1 ColossiansPeter 1:13; Revelation3:4; 1 Peter 7:9-14; 1:13; Revelation 1 Thessalonians 7:9-14; 4:15-171 Thessalonians – “Then we4:15-17 who are – “Then alive andwe who are alive and Great White ThroneGreat Judgment White Throne – This Judgmentgreat, global, – This most great, sobering global, and most final sobering judgment and occurs final judgmentat the conclusion occurs atof theJesus conclusion Christ’s of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus(Revelation Christ 20).will handJesus over Christ the will kingdom hand overto God the the kingdom Father toat Godthat thetime. Father (1 Corinthians at that time. 15:24-28). (1 Corinthians Jesus 15:24-28).Christ will Jesus Christ will stars of heaven andstars their of constellationsheaven and their will constellations not flash forth will their not light; flash the forth sun their will light;be dark the and sun the will moon be dark will and not theshed moon its light. will notThus shed I will its light. Thus I will forever be with Hisforever holy and be withheavenly His holy bride, and with heavenly all the bride,believers, with in all the the New believers, Jerusalem in the (Revelation New Jerusalem 21-22). (Revelation “I saw One 21-22). like the “I Sonsaw of One like the Son of Postmillennial – ThisPostmillennial word refers – to This the word incorrect refers belief to the that incorrect there will belief be anthat actual there period will be of an time actual that period will occur of time prior that to willChrist’s occur return, prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caughtremain up willtogether be caught with themup together in the clouds with them to meet in the the clouds Lord into the meet air.” the Lord in the air.” punish the world forpunish its evil the and world the for wicked its evil for and their the iniquity.” wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom.millennial At that time,kingdom. all unbelievers At that time, from all allunbelievers ages will fromstand all before ages Jesuswill stand Christ, before and Jesuswill be Christ, judged and according will be judgedto every according single to every single during which timeduring the Christians which time will the bring Christians in the kingdom will bring through in the kingdomthe spread through of the thegospel, spread and of the the world gospel, will and be getting the world spiritually will be getting and spiritually and one of their unrighteousone of theirdeeds, unrighteous deeds that deeds, are written deeds in that the “books.”are written These in the unbelievers “books.” These will be unbelievers righteously will condemned be righteously by Christ, condemned and by Christ, and Man, clothed in a Man,robe reachingclothed in to a His robe feet, reaching and girded to His across feet, and His girded chest withacross a golden His chest sash. with His a headgolden and sash. hair His were head white and like hair wool, were as white like wool, as white as snow, andwhite His eyesas snow, were and like His blazing eyes fire.were His like feet blazing were fire.like Hisbronze feet glowing were like in bronze a furnace, glowing and Hisin a voice furnace, was and like His the voice sound was of like the sound of morally better. Proponentsmorally better. of this Proponents position say of thatthis itposition is only sayafter that (post) it is the only gospel’s after (post) universal the gospel’s acceptance universal on earth acceptance that Jesus on Christearth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – ThisEnd ofrefers the Ageto the – Thisconclusion refers toof thethis conclusion present evil of age, this with present the churchevil age, age with as the part church of this age evil as age part also of thenthis evil ending age atalso then ending at then immediately thencast immediatelyinto the lake castof fire, into where the lake they of will fire, be where righteously they will punished be righteously forever. punishedDaniel 7:9-10; forever. John Daniel 5:26-30; 7:9-10; Acts John 17:31; 5:26-30; 2 Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit onwill His return throne. to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; RevelationTimothy 14:9-11, 4:1; Revelation 20:11-15 14:9-11, – “Then 20:11-15 I saw a great – “Then white I saw throne a great and Himwhite who throne sat andupon Him it, from who whosesat upon presence it, from earth whose and presence earth and rushing waters. Inrushing His right waters. hand HeIn Hisheld right seven hand stars, He andheld out seven of His stars, mouth and cameout of aHis sharp mouth double-edged came a sharp sword. double-edged His face was sword. like theHis face was like the this same time. Oncethis thesame gospel time. has Once been the preachedgospel has to beenthe entire preached world, to then the entirethis age world, will thenend. Itthis will age take will place end. sometime It will take during place sometimethe last during the last sun, shining in all sun,its brilliance.” shining in Revelationall its brilliance.” 1:13-18 Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70thhalf week, of Daniel’s but God 70th has week, not told but usGod the has exact not daytold orus hour. the exact At the day opening or hour. of Atthe the 6th opening seal there of thewill 6th be greatseal there signs will in thebe great signs in the heaven fled away…heaven and I sawfled theaway… dead, and the I saw great the and dead, the thesmall great before and the the throne… small before and the the dead throne… were and judged.” the dead were judged.” 47

Rapture Positions:Rapture Positions: Second Coming –Second This is Comingspeaking – of This the is presence speaking of of Jesus the presence Christ on of the Jesus earth Christ in the on end the times earth and in the thereafter. end times This and word, thereafter. “coming,” This the word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets,Trumpets spoken – The trumpets,of in Revelation spoken 8-9, of inrefer Revelation to God’s 8-9, judgment refer to on God’s the earthjudgment during on the the first earth part during of the the Day first of partthe Lord,of the Day of the Lord, most common wordmost referring common to Christ’sword referring return, tois Christ’sused 22 return,times inis theused New 22 Testament,times in the 18 New times Testament, in a prophetic 18 times way. in Ita isprophetic defined asway. It is defined as His deserved and Hisdevastating deserved wrath and devastating upon the earth wrath in uponthe end the times. earth Thisin the wrath end times.of God, This starting wrath exactly of God, 30 starting minutes exactly after the30 minutesrapture of after the rapture of Pre-tribulation RapturePre-tribulation – This erroneous Rapture –view This says erroneous that believers view says are thattaken believers to heaven are at taken the beginning to heaven of at the the 70th beginning week ofof Daniel.the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival andChrist’s continuing arrival presence. and continuing It is a singular presence. noun It is which a singular means noun there which is only means one secondthere is coming.only one The second rapture coming. of the The church rapture of the church the saints, sometimethe saints,during sometimethe 2nd half during of the the 70th 2nd week, half ofcontinues the 70th to week, the end continues of the 70thto the week. end ofThe the first 70th six week. trumpet The judgments first six trumpet result judgments result People who hold thisPeople view who believe hold thatthis theview rapture believe is that imminent, the rapture that theis imminent, entire 70th that week the isentire the tribulation 70th week period, is the tribulation and that this period, tribula and- that this tribula- then is not distinctthen and is separate not distinct from and Christ’s separate second from coming, Christ’s but second rather coming, is the initial but rather event is at the His initial coming, event at whichat His coming,time Christ at which gathers time Christ gathers in a third of the earthin a burningthird of theup, eartha third burning of the sea up, turninga third of to the blood, sea aturning third of to the blood, waters a third turning of the bitter, waters and turning a third bitter,of the andday anda third night of the day and night tion is God’s wrathtion on isearth. God’s But wrath the Bibleon earth. never But says the God’s Bible neverend time says wrath God’s is endtribulation. time wrath They is alsotribulation. say that They the rapturealso say is that separate the rapture from is separate from all believers from allall believerstime to be from with all Himself. time to The be with rapture Himself. is immediately The rapture followed is immediately by the Day followed of the Lord,by the the Day salvation of the Lord, of the the Jews, salvation and of the Jews, and turning dark. Thereturning will also dark. be Theretorturing will andalso demonized be torturing locusts; and demonized and finally locusts; one third and of finally mankind one willthird be of killed. mankind The willfinal be and killed. 7th trumpetThe final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ,the comingbut the raptureof Christ, is butin fact, the therapture initial is eventin fact, of the Christ’s initial coming. event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennialthen Christ’s kingdom millennial on earth. kingdom True Christians on earth. will True not Christians know the willspecific not know day or the hour specific of Christ’s day or coming, hour of but Christ’s they willcoming, know but they will know signals the end ofsignals the 70th the week, end ofthe the salvation 70th week, of a theremnant salvation of Jews, of a remnantand the soonof Jews, to come and thereign soon of Jesus to come Christ reign on of this Jesus earth. Christ 1 on this earth. 1 the general time ofthe His general coming, time occurring of His coming, sometime occurring during sometimethe second during half of the Daniel’s second 70th half week. of Daniel’s Matthew 70th 24:3, week. 27, Matthew 37; 1 Corinthians 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9;Thessalonians Revelation 5:1-9;11:15-17; Revelation Revelation 11:15-17; 8-9 – “AndRevelation I saw the8-9 seven– “And angels I saw whothe seven stand angels before whoGod, stand and to before them God,were andgiven to them were given Mid-tribulation RaptureMid-tribulation – This erroneous Rapture –view This says erroneous Christ will view rapture says Christ believers will atrapture the middle believers of the at 70ththe middle week. ofThose the 70th who week.hold this Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians15:24; 2:1-8;2 Thessalonians James 5:7; 2:1-8;1 John James 2:28; 25:7; Peter 1 John 3:4; 12:28; Thessalonians 2 Peter 3:4; 5:23,1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “For 5:23, this 4:15-17 we say – to “For you this by thewe sayword to you by the word seven trumpets.” seven trumpets.” position say that Christiansposition say go that through Christians the tribulation go through period, the tribulation which they period, believe which occurs they during believe the occurs first half during of the the 70th first week, half ofbut the do 70th not week, but do not of the Lord, that weof whothe Lord, are alive that andwe who remain are untilalive the and coming remain of until the the Lord, coming will not of precedethe Lord, those will not who precede fall asleep… those thenwho wefall whoasleep… are alivethen we who are alive go through the greatgo throughtribulation the period great tribulationwhich they period say occurs which during they say the occurs second during half of the the second 70th week. half ofThey the believe 70th week. the great They tribulationbelieve the great tribulation and remain will beand caught remain up willtogether be caught with theup togetherLord in the with air, the and Lord so wein theshall air, always and so be we with shall the always Lord.” be with the Lord.” Woman – This is Womana reference – This to the is a twelve reference tribes to ofthe Jacob, twelve to tribes the Jews. of Jacob, It is notto the a specific Jews. It reference is not a specific to Mary, reference the mother to Mary,of Jesus, the butmother a of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on isearth God’s at wraththat time on earthand is at directed that time towards and is unbelievers.directed towards unbelievers. general reference generalto the Jews, reference the people to the whoJews, brought the people forth who Jesus brought into the forth world. Jesus Revelation into the world.12:1-5 Revelation refers to the 12:1-5 Jews refers of the to Old the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week ofSeventieth Daniel – WeekThis is of a Danielseven –year This period is a seven of time, year still period future, of when time, manystill future, significant when endmany time significant prophetic end events time occur.prophetic It events occur. It Testament, and inTestament, particular, theand ancestral in particular, line theof Christ. ancestral The line woman, of Christ. the Jews, The woman, gave birth the to Jews, Jesus gave Christ, birth who to Jesus was taken Christ, to who heaven, was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation RapturePost-tribulation – This erroneous Rapture –view This of erroneous the rapture view says of believers the rapture are says taken believers to heaven are right taken at to or heaven near the right end at of or the near 70th the end of the 70th begins when the antichristbegins when makes the aantichrist covenant makes of peace a covenant with Israel. of peace At the withmidpoint Israel. of At this the week midpoint the antichrist of this week is revealed, the antichrist at which is revealed, time at which time awaiting that timeawaiting when He that will time rule whenall the He nations, will rule which all the takes nations, place which after thetakes defeat place of after the antichrist,the defeat the of the devil’s antichrist, man on the earth. devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Someweek proponents of Daniel. Some of this proponents view believe of thatthis theview great believe tribulation that the period great tribulationis God’s wrath, period but is others God’s wrath,believe but that others God’s believe wrath that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant,he breaks displaying this covenant, himself displaying as God in himselfthe temple. as God He inthen the begins temple. great He then and worldwidebegins great persecution and worldwide against persecution Jews and against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17Revelation refers to the12:6-17 woman refers as theto the faithful woman Jews as inthe the faithful end times Jews who in the will end flee times from who antichrist’s will flee wrath,from antichrist’s be protected wrath, during be protected during begins right at thebegins end of right the great at the tribulation end of the period, great tribulation and right before period, the and end right of beforethe 70th the week end ofof Daniel.the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshipedChristians, bybut unbelievers is worshiped in theby unbelievers world. Then, in sometime the world. during Then, sometimethe last half during of Daniel’s the last 70th half week, of Daniel’s at a time 70th unknown week, at to a time unknown to the Day of the Lord,the and Day then of the saved Lord, by and Christ then at saved the end by ofChrist the 70th at the week. end ofThe the rest 70th of week.the offspring The rest of of the the woman offspring (verse of the 17) woman refers to (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’sman, God great stops persecution, Satan’s great raptures persecution, the believers raptures into theheaven, believers and beginsinto heaven, what isand called begins the what Day ofis thecalled Lord, the His Day wrath of the Lord, His wrath Christians. DanielChristians. 9:24, 12:1- Daniel 3; Romans 9:24, 11:25-27;12:1- 3; Romans Revelation 11:25-27; 12:1-7 Revelation – “The woman 12:1-7 fled – “Theinto the woman desert fled to intoa place the prepareddesert to fora place her by prepared for her by Prewrath RapturePrewrath – This is Rapturethe correct – This view, is and the sayscorrect that view, Jesus and Christ says thatreturns Jesus to rapture Christ returns the Christians to rapture right the before Christians God’s right wrath before is God’s wrath is on earth. The 70thon week earth. ends The with 70th Christ week returning ends with to Christ earth, returning at which totime earth, He savesat which a great time remnantHe saves of a Jews,great remnantand “the ofkingdom Jews, and of the “the kingdom of the God, where she mightGod, bewhere taken she care might of for be 1260taken days.” care of for 1260 days.” poured out on thepoured earth, sometimeout on the during earth, sometimethe last half during of Daniel’s the last 70th half week. of Daniel’s Christians 70th willweek. be Christiansalive on earth will whenbe alive the on antichrist earth when is the antichrist is world has becomeworld the kingdom has become of our the Lord kingdom and of of His our Christ.” Lord and Shortly of His thereafter, Christ.” Shortly Christ beginsthereafter, His Christ1000 year begins reign His on 1000 earth. year Isaiah reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go throughrevealed, great will tribulationgo through and great persecution, tribulation butand then persecution, are given but relief then from are tribulation, given relief rescued from tribulation, from the rescuedwrath to fromcome, the and wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36,28:15, Matthew 2 Thessalonians 24:9-36, 2:1-9,2 Thessalonians Romans 11:26-27, 2:1-9, Romans Revelation 11:26-27, 11:15, Revelation 11:15,12:6-17, Revelation Daniel 9:24-27 12:6-17, – “HeDaniel will 9:24-27 make – “He will make raptured into heaven.raptured Matthew into heaven.24:31; Mark Matthew 13:27; 24:31; Luke Mark21:28; 13:27; Acts 14:22;Luke 21:28; 1 Thessalonians Acts 14:22; 1:9-10,1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 2 1:9-10, Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1:5-10,2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant witha firm the covenant many for with one theweek, many but forin the one middle week, ofbut the in weekthe middle he will of put the a week stop heto sacrificewill put a and stop grain to sacrifice offering, and and grain on the offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 2:1-2;6:17-19, Revelation 7:9-14, 8-9; 6:17-19, 1 Thessalonians 7:9-14, 8-9; 5:91 Thessalonians – “God has not 5:9 destined – “God ushas for not wrath destined but for us obtaining for wrath salvationbut for obtaining through salvation our through our wing of abominationswing willof abominations come one who will makes come desolate.” one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.”Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – SeventyThis is a Weeks period –of This 490 isyears a period that ofbegins 490 yearswith the that decree begins to with rebuild the Israeldecree in to 444BC rebuild and Israel ends in with444BC Jesus and Christ’s ends with return Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – ThisRedemption is the physical – This deliverance is the physical of the deliverance Christian from of the this Christian world and from from this his world mortal and body from at his the mortal time he body is raptured at the time at he is raptured at to earth at the endto of earth the 70th at the week. end ofThe the purpose 70th week. of this The time purpose is for ofIsrael this to time make is for atonement Israel to formake her atonement sin of rebellion for her against sin of Godrebellion and heragainst God and her Christ’s 2nd coming.Christ’s Vines 2nd Dictionary coming. definesVines Dictionary it this way defines – “Redemption it this way is –the “Redemption deliverance is of the the deliverance believer from of the presencebeliever from and thepower presence and power rejection of the Messiah.rejection Back of the in Messiah.the 1st century Back inat the the 1st end century of the 69th at the week, end ofafter the exactly 69th week, 483 years,after exactly Messiah, 483 Jesus years, Christ Messiah, was Jesuscut off, Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body,of sin, from and bondageof his body, to corruption,from bondage at the to corruption,coming of theat the Lord coming Jesus ofChrist.” the Lord This Jesus redemption Christ.” ofThis the redemption believer takes of the place believer takes place that is, He was crucified.that is, HeThen was the crucified. church age Then began, the church which agecomprises began, whicha long comprisesgap, an unknown a long gap,period an of unknown time, and period a suspension of time, and of a suspension of after the 6th seal, afterthe cosmic the 6th disturbances seal, the cosmic in the disturbances heavens, and in thebefore heavens, the 7th and seal, before which the initiates 7th seal, God’s which wrath initiates on earth. God’s Romans wrath on 8:23; earth. 1 Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for theGod’s Jews. plans But for theover Jews. 100 years But for now, over the 100 Jews years have now, been the regathering Jews have beenback regatheringto their homeland, back to signaling their homeland, to us that signaling we to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54;Corinthians Ephesians 15:50-54; 1:14, 4:30; Ephesians Luke 21:25-28 1:14, 4:30; – “ThereLuke 21:25-28 will be signs – “There in sun will and be moonsigns andin sun stars, and and moon on andthe earthstars, dismayand on the earth dismay are now in the endare times, now andin the that end the times, 70th andweek that will the soon 70th begin. week The will 1st soon event begin. of the The 70th 1st weekevent willof the be 70ththe antichrist’s week will be covenant the antichrist’s of covenant of © Steven J. Hogan© andSteven ChristsKingdom.org, J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. 2018. among nations, andamong perplexity nations, at theand roaring perplexity of the at thesea roaring and the of waves…but the sea and when the waves…butthese things when begin these to take things place, begin straighten to take upplace, and straighten lift up and lift death with the Jews,death and with the the last Jews, event and will thebe Christ’slast event return will beto earth,Christ’s and return the salvation to earth, andof the the Jews. salvation Luke of 21:24, the Jews. Revelation Luke 21:24,12, Daniel Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to SpecialSteven J.thanks Hogan to andSteven ChristsKingdom.org J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help for with providing outlines help and withcharts. outlines and charts. up your heads, becauseup your your heads, redemption because isyour drawing redemption near.” is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy9:24-27 weeks – have “Seventy been weeksdecreed have for yourbeen people decreed and for your your holy people city, and to finish your holythe transgression,city, to finish the to maketransgression, an end of to sin, make to an end of sin, to make atonement formake iniquity, atonement to bring for in iniquity, everlasting to bring righteousness, in everlasting to righteousness,seal up vision andto seal prophecy up vision and and to anoint prophecy the andmost to holy anoint place.” the most holy place.” Revealing of ChristRevealing – This is of the Christ unveiling, – This the is theuncovering unveiling, of the Jesus uncovering Christ, in of that Jesus He isChrist, suddenly, in that obviously He is suddenly, and clearly obviously seen by and the clearly seen by the believers at His 2ndbelievers coming. at At His Christ’s 2nd coming. 1st coming At Christ’s He was 1st obscure coming and He washidden, obscure quietly and born hidden, in Bethlehem, quietly born but inat Bethlehem, His 2nd coming but at He His 2nd coming He Sign of the ComingSign of Christof the –Coming This is of the Christ Shekinah – This glory is the of ShekinahJesus Christ, glory brightly of Jesus and Christ, brilliantly brightly lighting and brilliantlyup the skies, lighting occurring up the right skies, occurring right will be visibly andwill noticeably be visibly revealed, and noticeably “with the revealed, voice of “withthe archangel the voice and of the with archangel the trumpet and ofwith God”, the totrumpet the entire of God”, earth. to At the Christ’s entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of theafter end the of “sign the age”,of the the end darkening of the age”, of the the skies, darkening and right of the before skies, the and revelation right before and the coming revelation of Christ and tocoming gather of all Christ to gather all revealing or revelation,revealing the churchor revelation, is given the relief church from is tribulation, given relief rescued from tribulation, from the rescuedwrath to fromcome, the raptured wrath to into come, heaven, raptured and redeemedinto heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself.believers After this to Himself. global gathering After this of global believers, gathering the day of believers,of the Lord the begins, day of and the ChristLord begins, will then and righteously Christ will judge then righteouslyand punish judge and punish from the earth. Matthewfrom the 24:30-31; earth. Matthew Luke 17:30-36; 24:30-31; 1 ThessaloniansLuke 17:30-36; 4:15-17;1 Thessalonians 1 Peter 1:7, 4:15-17; 1:13, 4:13;1 Peter Revelation 1:7, 1:13, 1:7; 4:13; 1 CorinthiansRevelation 1:7; 1:7-9 1 Corinthians – 1:7-9 – the unbelievers stillthe living unbelievers on earth. still Matthew living on 24:3, earth. 27-31 Matthew – “The 24:3, sign 27-31 of the – Son “The of sign Man of will the appear Son of in Man the willsky…and appear they in thewill sky…andsee the Son they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly “awaitingthe revelation eagerly of our the Lord revelation Jesus of Christ, our Lord who Jesus will keep Christ, you who strong will to keep the youend, strong blameless to the on end, the blamelessday of our onLord the Jesus day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming onof the Man clouds coming of the on skythe cloudswith power of the and sky great with glory.” power and great glory.” Christ.” Christ.” Sign of the End ofSign the Ageof the – ThisEnd ofsign the takes Age –place This at sign the takes breaking place of at the the sixth breaking seal, signaling of the sixth the seal, end signalingof this present the end age. of Thethis sun,present moon age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael,Restrainer the archangel – Michael, stands the archangelguard over stands Israel whileguard she over is Israel on earth, while and she is is responsible on earth, and for isrestraining responsible the for activities restraining of the activities of and stars will be darkened,and stars andwill bea great darkened, earthquake and a greatwill occur earthquake on earth. will This occur “sign on ofearth. the end This of “sign the age”of the will end appear of the immediately age” will appear after immediately the after the Satan, thereby protectingSatan, thereby Israel fromprotecting him. At Israel the midpoint from him. of At the the 70th midpoint week, ofMichael the 70th defeats week, Satan Michael and defeats casts him Satan to theand earth. casts Michaelhim to the earth. Michael great tribulation isgreat cut short,tribulation and immediately is cut short, beforeand immediately the “sign of before the Son the of “sign Man”. of Afterthe Son these of Man”.two signs, After then these the two believers signs, then on earth the believers will on earth will then is taken out ofthen the is way taken in thatout ofhe the will way not inat thatthis hetime will restrain not at thisSatan. time It isrestrain at this Satan. time that It is the at thisantichrist time that will thebe revealedantichrist to will the be entire revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven,be raptured and theinto Day heaven, of the and Lord, the God’s Day of wrath the Lord, on earth, God’s will wrath commence. on earth, Isaiah will commence. 13:9-10, Luke Isaiah 21:24-28, 13:9-10, Acts Luke 2:19-20, 21:24-28, 1 Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bringworld, great and tribulation then bring to great both tribulation Jews and toChristians. both Jews Yes, and the Christians. antichrist Yes, will thehave antichrist more freedom will have to persecutemore freedom the Jews, to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9,Thessalonians Revelation 6:12-14,5:1-9, Revelation Matthew 6:12-14, 24:29 – Matthew“Immediately 24:29 after – “Immediately the tribulation after of thosethe tribulation days the ofsun those will bedays darkened, the sun andwill be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignlybut yet he is controlled still sovereignly by God. controlled Daniel 12:1-2, by God. Revelation Daniel 12:1-2, 12:7-12, Revelation 2 Thessalonians 12:7-12, 2:5-82 Thessalonians – “The mystery 2:5-8 of – lawlessness “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not thegive moon its light will and not thegive stars its light will andfall fromthe stars the sky, will andfall fromthe powers the sky, of and the theheaven powers will of be the shaken.” heaven will be shaken.” is already at work;is only already he who at work; now restrainsonly he who will now do so restrains until he will is taken do so out until of hethe is way. taken Then out thatof the lawless way. Then one willthat be lawless revealed one whom will be the revealed whom the Lord will slay withLord the breathwill slay of with His mouththe breath and ofbring His tomouth an end and by bring the appearance to an end by of the His appearance coming.” of His coming.” Ten Horns – This Tenrefers Horns to the – This8th beast refers empire, to the 8ththe beastlast and empire, worst the of Satanicallylast and worst and of demonically Satanically controlledand demonically kingdoms controlled on this kingdomsearth. It on this earth. It will be led by the antichristwill be led during by the theantichrist 70th week during of Daniel,the 70th and week used of byDaniel, him toand help used conquer, by him control to help and conquer, rule the control world. and This rule empire, the world. This empire, Salvation of the JewsSalvation – God of has the spiritually Jews – God saved has manyspiritually ethnic saved Jews many since ethnic the time Jews of Abraham,since the timebut at of the Abraham, end of Daniel’sbut at the 70th end week, of Daniel’s a 70th week, a comprised of ten comprisednations and of ten ten kings, nations is said and toten be kings, a mix is of said iron to and be clay,a mix meaning of iron and that clay, part meaning of his kingdom that part will of be his strong kingdom and will part be will strong and part will great number of ethnicgreat numberJews will of be ethnic saved, Jews fulfilling will be many saved, Old fulfilling Testament many promises Old Testament to the Jews. promises Shortly to theafter Jews. their Shortly salvation, after Jesus their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle.be Many weak suggest or brittle. that Many this suggestempire, said that tothis have empire, come said from to the have old come Roman from empire the old (6th Roman beast empire empire) (6th will beast be comprised empire) will of be comprised of Christ will begin HisChrist reign will over begin the His world, reign ruling over with the world,these Jews,ruling andwith also these with Jews, glorified and also believers. with glorified Genesis believers. 12:1-3; Psalm Genesis 98:1-3; 12:1-3; Isaiah Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day Europeanpresent and day Mideast European nations. and TimeMideast will nations. tell. This Time empire will will tell. come This empireto an end will when come Jesus to an Christ end when returns Jesus to earth Christ and returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21;45:17, Isaiah Daniel 53, 9:24;59:20-21; Zechariah Daniel 13:1; 9:24; Matthew Zechariah 23:37-39; 13:1; Matthew Luke 21:20-24; 23:37-39; Revelation Luke 21:20-24; 14:1-5; Revelation Romans 11:25-27 14:1-5; Romans – “a 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist.defeats Daniel the antichrist.2:40-43, Daniel Daniel 2:40-43, 2:40-43, Daniel Daniel 7:7-8, 2:40-43, 19-20, Daniel Revelation 7:7-8, 19-20, 17:11-17, Revelation 19:20-21, 17:11-17, Revelation 19:20-21, 13:1 – Revelation “Then I saw 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening partialhas happened hardening to Israelhas happened until the fullnessto Israel ofuntil the the Gentiles fullness has of come the Gentiles in; and hasso all come Israel in; will and be so saved; all Israel just will as itbe is saved; written, just as it is written, a beast coming upa outbeast of comingthe sea, uphaving out of ten the horns sea, andhaving seven ten heads,horns andand sevenon his heads, horns wereand on ten his diadems, horns were and tenon hisdiadems, heads andwere on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will ‘thecome Deliverer from Zion, will He come will fromremove Zion, ungodliness He will remove from ungodliness Jacob.’ This from is My Jacob.’ covenant This with is My them covenant when I withtake themaway whentheir sins.”I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”blasphemous names.”

Seals – These sevenSeals seals – These of a scroll, seven when seals broken of a scroll, by Jesus when Christ,broken will by Jesusinitiate Christ, a series will of initiate events a that series will of take events place that on willthe takeearth place in the on the earth in the Time of the GentilesTime – Duringof the Gentiles this time – period During no this divinely time period appointed no divinely Jewish appointed king rules Jewishover Israel, king butrules rather, over itIsrael, will be but Gentile rather, leaders it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1stend four times. seals The speak 1st offour false seals christs, speak wars, of false famines, christs, economic wars, famines, problems economic and death problems affecting and various death partsaffecting of the various earth. parts of the earth. who rule over them.who This rule period over them. started This in 586BC,period startednearly 2600 in 586BC, years nearly ago, and 2600 will years extend ago, to and the willend extendof the 70thto the week end ofof Daniel.the 70th Then week the of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refersThe to great5th seal persecution refers to great brought persecution on by the brought antichrist on and by the directed antichrist towards and Jewsdirected and towards Christians. Jews The and 6th Christians. seal refers The to 6th seal refers to time of the Gentilestime will of come the Gentiles to an end, will for come Jesus to anChrist end, will for saveJesus a Christlarge remnant will save of a Jews,large remnantand begin of His Jews, 1000 and year begin rule His over 1000 them year and rule over them and signs in the heavenssigns and in athe great heavens earthquake and a greaton earth, earthquake events which on earth, signal events the endwhich of thissignal age. the After end thatof this there age. will After be thethat sign there of will the beSon the sign of the Son over the entire world,over resulting the entire in world, a time resulting of great inpeace a time and of blessing. great peace Zechariah and blessing. 14:9; Romans Zechariah 11:25-27; 14:9; Romans Revelation 11:25-27; 11:1-2, Revelation 15-17; 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrectionof Man, and of the believers resurrection who have of believers died and who are have in heaven, died and and are the in rapture heaven, of and the thechurch rapture that of is the still church on earth. that Then is still the on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67;Psalm Luke 47, 21:24 Psalm – “They67; Luke will 21:24 fall by – the “They sword will andfall bywill the be swordtaken asand prisoners will be taken to all as the prisoners nations. toJerusalem all the nations. will be Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken,7th seal resulting will be inbroken, the trumpet resulting judgments, in the trumpet which judgments, when blown which bring when forth blownthe Day bring of the forth Lord, the God’s Day of devastating the Lord, God’s and devastating and trampled on by thetrampled Gentiles on until by the Gentilestimes of untilthe Gentiles the times are of fulfilled.” the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath ondeserved earth. A wrathparallel on and earth. significant A parallel passage and significant to Revelation passage 6 and to theRevelation seals is 6 Matthew and the seals24:4-9. is MarkMatthew 13:3-13; 24:4-9. Luke Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation21:8-11; 8:1, 6:1-8 Revelation – “I watched 8:1, 6:1-8 as the – “ILamb watched opened as thethe Lambfirst of opened seven seals…the first When of seven the Lambseals… broke When the the second Lamb brokeseal… theWhen second seal… When the Lamb broke thethe third Lamb seal…” broke the third seal…” Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and

KEY TERMS

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.” 48

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…” Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and

KEY TERMS

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.” 49

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…” Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and

KEY TERMS

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.” 50

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…” Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.”

KEY TERMS

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…” 51 Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.”

KEY TERMS

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…”

52 Abomination of Desolation – This is speaking of the antichrist taking his stand in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, displaying himself as God, thereby committing great blasphemy, and thereby desecrating the temple. In the 2nd century BC, this event was foreshadowed when Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria, also desecrated the Jewish temple. This revealing of the antichrist for who he really is, as the beast, the man of lawlessness, is still future, and will occur at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. At this time the antichrist will desire to be worshiped by all the people in the world. But discerning Jews and Christians will know with certainty that this is the antichrist. This most wicked man ever to exist in this world then begins great tribulation against both the Jews and the Christians. Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Daniel 9:27 – “On a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

Abrahamic Covenant – This is an extremely important promise that God made to Abraham. This promise, this covenant, stipulated that God would greatly bless Abraham, and use him to be a blessing to the world, that He would make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation, that he and his descendants would inherit a large area of land, and that he would have a great multitude of descendants, both physical and spiritual in nature. This eternal and unconditional covenant is repeated many times in the Bible. Some aspects of these promises have already come true, but their complete fulfillment is still in the future. These promises have not been nullified during this church age, only suspended. A clearly prophesied event that shows us that God is still planning on fulfilling this promise to Abraham is that the Jews, over the last century, have been gathering back to Israel. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 15:18-21, 17:1-21; Joshua 1:4-6; Psalm 37:18, 29; Ezekiel 36-37; Micah 2:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:2-5; Luke 1:54-55, 1:70-75, 21:20-24; Psalm 105:8-9 – “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham.”

Appearing of Jesus Christ – The word “appearing” means manifestation, shining forth, or becoming evident. Jesus Christ appeared on earth about 2000 years ago at which time He died for our sins, rose from the dead, and then ascended into heaven. He will appear again at His second coming to rapture the believers, to pour out His wrath on this wicked world, and to then begin His 1000 year rule on earth. Psalm 21:8-13; Colossians 3:4; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10, 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; 2 Timothy 4:1-2 – “In view of His appear- ing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word.” 1 John 2:28, 3:2 – “Now dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming.”

Apostasy – This is referring to the turning away of so-called Christians and Jews from the true faith in the end times. These people, who were never true believers, will in many cases then turn against the true Christians and Jews, and turn them into the authorities. They will not worship Jesus Christ, but will worship the antichrist. It is during Daniel’s 70th week that this apostasy takes place, before the rapture, and before the Day of the Lord. Matthew 24:9-10, 1 John 2:18-19, 2 Thessalonians 2:3 – “Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed.”

Armageddon – This major and decisive battle between Jesus Christ and the antichrist will occur at the end of the Day of the Lord in the valley of Megiddo in Israel. This climactic event will bring to a close God’s wrath on earth, resulting in the destruction of Babylon, the devil’s system that controls the world. After Christ’s quick and decisive victory, He will cast the antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire. Revelation 16:12-16, 19:11-21 – “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty… But the beast was captured and with him the false prophet… The two of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire.”

Babylon – This word metaphorically speaks of the devil’s system that has been controlling the world during this evil age. First, there is the mother of prostitutes, which refers to false religions and philosophies used by the devil to deceive people and lead them away from the true God and true gospel. It is during the 70th week that Satan, having no more need of religion, will destroy this mother of prosti- tutes, and then people will worship the antichrist, Satan’s man on earth. Second, there is the great city, symbolizing Satan’s economic system ruling over the merchants of the earth, which entices people to be lovers of the world and lovers of money. This world system will quickly and completely be destroyed by God at the battle of Armageddon. Revelation 16, Revelation 17:1-6, Revelation 18:2 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit.”

Beast – This is the evil antichrist who rules over the 8th beast empire (comprised of ten nations), and the entire world during the last half of the 70th week. He is also called the little horn, the man of lawlessness and the son of destruction. At the midpoint of the 70th week of Daniel he will be revealed to the world. Empowered by Satan, he will possess great wisdom, power and ability, and as an incredible speaker, he will deceive billions of people, with the result that the unbelieving world will worship and follow him. This Beast, this antichrist, will greatly oppose Jesus Christ, exalting himself above every so-called god, and persecuting both Jews and Christians during the time period called the great tribulation. Assisted by the false prophet, he will force people to worship his image and take his mark. But in the end he will suddenly and soundly be defeated and then cast into the lake of fire. Daniel 7:8, 11, 24-25; Daniel 8:23-25; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9; 1 John 2:18; Revelation 13:4 – “He gave His authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war against the beast?’”

Beast Empires – These are the kingdoms, the empires used by the devil with a purpose of destroying the Woman (the Jews), and her offspring (the Christians). There are eight empires, with the seven heads referring to the first seven empires, which were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and either the Ottoman Turks or Germany (Hitler’s 3rd Reich). The ten horns refer to the 8th beast empire, which is still yet to come. This last one, the strongest, the most wicked and ruthless empire ever in history, will be comprised of 10 nations, and will be the antichrist’s power base from which he will rule over the world, and will then persecute both Jews and

Heaven – This is the “holy dwelling place” of God, where Jesus Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, where reside a great multitude heavens and a great earthquake on earth, marking the end of this age. Then believers will be resurrected and raptured, and gathered to New Jerusalem – This is the city of the living God, the city of the Great King, Mount Zion, a literal dwelling of God, the tabernacle of God, be with Jesus Christ. The 6th seal marks the end of this age, and the breaking of the 7th seal marks the beginning of the Day of the of angels, and all the believers who have ever lived on earth. We speak of “the heavens” as all the stars and galaxies, but this is different, Christians. This eighth empire will be ruling during Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 7:7-8, 20; Revelation 12:3, 13-17; 17:3, 17:9-14; Revelation for this is the “house of my God.” It is a holy and perfect place, a place where God is worshiped, where He receives glory, honor and Kingdom of God – God is the King, and He has always reigned, since eternity past and throughout eternity future, thereby establishing the holy place where the Most High dwells. Prepared by Jesus Christ for Himself and His bride, the true believers, this brand new home 13:1 – “I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his head Lord. Galatians 1:4, Matthew 13:39; Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 21:25-28; 1 Corinthians 1:8; Matthew 24:6, 13, 14, 29, 31 – “What will be His eternal kingdom. He reigns over all His creation, over the heavens and the earth, and all things and beings in His creation, visible and will be the most important place in the New Heavens and New Earth, for it is here that Jesus Christ will live with His bride. This holy city, the sign of your coming and of the end of the age… the one who endures to the end will be saved.” praise. It is a place that is always characterized by love, joy, peace, goodness, and kindness, where the will of God is continually and were blasphemous names.” completely carried out. It is a place where we have fellowship with believers, where we will be with loved ones we knew on earth. And in invisible. He purposes and He plans, and He specifically and completely carries out His plans, so that He is pleased and is glorified this very large city, is in the shape of a perfect cube, about 1380 miles on each side, and it will sit right above, and connected to the the future, at the end of the millennial kingdom, the heavenly city, the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven and forever. All beings in this kingdom are created to fear Him, love Him, and serve Him, even though many have rebelled and will rebel earth. Psalms 46:4-5, 48:1-3; John 14:1-3; Hebrews 12:22-23; Revelation 21:2-4 – “I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming Birth Pains – These are major events that are taking place now (or will soon start) on the earth in the end times, signaling that Christ’s End Times – This is the time period at the end of the church age right before Christ’s return, that time when it is clear that God is against Him and His authority. God delegates authority and responsibility to His created beings but He still remains completely sover- down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband… Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He actively and progressively carrying out His plan for the resurrection and rapture of the believers, His wrath on the earth, the redemption join with the new earth. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.” This a most amazing truth that our present return is getting very close. These will be false christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues and economic problems. Matthew makes it hope will be finally and fully realized, that God will be with us, that He will be our God, and we will be His children, and we will live with eign over them and therefore over His entire kingdom. will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.” clear that we will be hearing about these events, and that they will be taking place in various parts of the world, which means that they of the Jews and Christ’s reign over the world. The re-gathering of the Jews to Israel over the past 100 years is the particular prophesied event that most clearly signifies that we are now living in the end times. Many other events and signs have also been taking place Them forever and ever. We will actually be with Jesus Christ, seeing His face and hearing His voice, worshiping and serving Him, are not affecting every sector, every population center in the world. Yet, they will be devastating, and will be getting people’s attention. reigning with Him forever and ever. 2 Chronicles 30:27; Psalm 16:11, Psalm 23:6, Psalm 73:23-26, Psalm 84; John 14:1-3; 2 Timothy God’s kingdom on earth can be divided into four parts (1 Corinthians 15:22-28): Present Evil Age – We now live in a present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At that time Satan took control of These calamitous events will be taking place in increasing frequency and intensity (like the birth pains of a mother), leading up to the corroborating that we are now in the end times. The next specific prophesied event to occur will be the signing or confirming of the the world, but yet, this evil age and Satan himself, are still and continually under the sovereign rule of God. During this time God has covenant of peace (“covenant of death”) which takes place at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, 9 – “‘Go 4:18; Hebrews 11:10, 16; Revelation 4-5, Revelation 21, Revelation 22:1-6; Hebrews 12:12-24 – “You have come to Mount Zion, to the coming of Jesus Christ. The first four seals (Revelation 6 is a parallel passage to Matthew 24:4-8) are also speaking of these birth heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands and thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church Part 1 is past, when man (Adam and Eve) was perfect and ruled over a perfect earth. (Genesis 1-2). primarily worked through His people, the Jews and the church. The most significant event of this age occurred at Christ’s 1st coming, pains. Finally, these “birth pains” are completely distinct from and are not a part of the Day of the Lord, that is, God’s wrath. Luke your way Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed until the end time.’” 1 Peter 1:5 speaks of the “coming of the salvation that is when He died for our sins and was raised from the dead. This evil age will end at Christ’s 2nd coming, during which time He will rapture ready to be revealed in the last time.” of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made 21:7-11, Revelation 6:1-8, Matthew 24:4-8 – “But you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” Part 2 is present, the time from the sin of Adam and Eve to the end of this present evil age, when Satan, a wicked and terribly imperfect the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and defeat the antichrist. Then the next age will begin, the millennial kingdom age, Such things must happen but the end is still to come.…There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the angel rules over an imperfect earth. (Genesis 3 – Revelation 19). when Jesus Christ will personally, powerfully and visibly reign over this world. 1 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 1:9-11, 19-21, 2:6-7; 1 False Prophet – This is the second of two beasts, and is the Antichrist’s partner, the mastermind of the Antichrist’s plan for world beginning of birth pains.” Hope – This word speaks of the incredible future that God has for every Christian. As we live on this earth we can’t make it without John 5:19; Galatians 1:3-4 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so domination in the end times. This second beast, this false prophet, exercises all the authority of the Antichrist, and performs great Part 3, the millennial kingdom age, is future, when Jesus Christ, as God-man, will perfectly rule over an imperfect world. (Revelation 20). that He might rescue us from this present evil age.” miraculous signs, and orders the people in the world to worship an image of the beast (the Antichrist), and to take the mark of the beast. hope. We need hope, we need to be looking forward to the realization of this hope, of all that God has planned for us after our earthly life Bowls – The bowls are speaking of the second part of the Day of the Lord, and is the rapid and final outpouring of God’s wrath upon the is over. This hope is true, for it is based on the promises of God. This hope is encouraging, motivating us to live all out for God on earth. world in the end times. (The first part of the Day of the Lord is known as the trumpet judgments.) The seven bowls consist of seven At the end of the battle of Armageddon, this second beast, along with the first beast, is captured by Jesus Christ, and is then thrown into Part 4, the eternal kingdom age, is future, when God, with Jesus Christ, will rule over perfect heavens and earth. (Revelation 21-22) Prophets – The Old Testament prophets, holy men of God, spoke of a holy and just God, of One to be feared, loved and obeyed. They the lake of fire, where they will forever and greatly be punished. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, Revelation 19:19-20, Revelation 13:11-18 – This hope is great, for it is no small thing what God will do for us in the future. This hope is necessary, for you can only rightly and specific judgments and events, including painful sores, water turning to blood, scorching heat, darkness, nations gathering for battle, a courageously live for God if you know you have this hope, this wonderful future. This hope will be realized soon, for we know that we spoke of sin, man’s rebellion against God. They spoke of judgment and punishment, and the need for people to repent of their sins and great earthquake and 100 pound hailstones. It begins at the end of Daniel’s 70th week and lasts for 30 days, the battle of Armageddon, “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. He exercises all the God has always been and always will be sovereign over everything. In His kingdom His eternal purposes and plans will be accom- turn back to God. They spoke of salvation and mercy through the Messiah, the Christ, and of hope, the future God has for all believers. authority of the first beast.” now live in the end times. There are six specific aspects of this hope: 1) We will be with Jesus Christ, the greatest person ever. John and the defeat of the antichrist being the last events to take place during this time. Daniel 12:11, Revelation 15:5-7, Revelation 19:17-21, 17:24, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Titus 1:2. 2) We will be with our loved ones, and all the other believers from all time. 1 Thessalonians plished. Everything is moving towards that time when God’s reign over His kingdom will be clearly visible to all, and He will rule perfectly The message from these Old Testament prophets was given to the people of their day (from 850BC – 430BC), and some of their Revelation 16:1 – “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of God’s wrath.” over a perfect world and over perfect people. During this part of God’s kingdom, we are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed prophecies came true during and right after their lives on earth, and others during Christ’s 1st coming, and yet others are coming true Glory of God – God is the living God, the eternal and true King, the all holy, just, wise, loving, powerful, good, immutable, omniscient, 2:19-20, 4:13-14. 3) We will be in heaven, in our beautiful new home. John 14:1-3, Hebrews 12:22-24. 4) We will receive a perfect, immortal and glorified body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, Philippians 3:21. 5) We will literally be reigning with Jesus Christ on earth. Revela- be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10; Psalm 145:1, 13; 1 Corinthians and will come true in our day, the end times, and during Christ’s 2nd coming. The prophets were speaking to the Jews, but also to us, Church Age – This period of time begins on the day of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and ends with the sign of the end omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, patient, merciful and faithful One. Therefore, He deserves all glory, all praise and honor, from eternity 15:20-28; Ephesians 1:10-11; Daniel 4:34-35 – “God’s dominion is an eternal dominion; His kingdom endures from generation to the Christians living in these days. We are then to learn from them, and discern what passages are specifically relevant to us at this time past to eternity future, from every being and every thing that He has ever created. God purposes and plans are continually being carried tion 2:6, 5:10, 20:6. 6) We will have an eternal inheritance, eternal blessings, joys and rewards. Psalm 16:11, Ephesians 1:14. 1 Peter 1:4, of the age, which consists of cosmic disturbances resulting in the world going dark. During this church age the gospel is being 13 – “Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” generation. in history. Through the New Testament, we see that God’s working with the Jews in the end times is in conjunction and in concert with preached, disciples are being made, and Jesus Christ is building His spiritual kingdom on earth. This age, also called the last days, is the out so that He is glorified, worshiped and exalted. God has always been glorified, during the days of Adam and Eve, during the days of His working with the church. The end times’ message for the Jews and the church is only complete and understandable, as we study last part of the present evil age, an age that began with the sin of Adam and Eve. At the end of this church age Christ returns, first Noah, during the days of the Old Testament Jews, and now during this church age. God is most glorified in the salvation of souls, and in Mark of the Beast – This is an identifying symbol of the antichrist, and is that which the false prophet will force unbelievers to take, the words of the prophets in the Old Testament, and as we study the words of Jesus in the New Testament. Isaiah 2:1-5, 4, 9:6-7, 52, 53, their love, worship and obedience of Him. And in the end times He will continue to be glorified, and particularly in the return of His Son, Image of the Beast – This is a designation or picture of the antichrist, the wicked one who wants to and will be worshiped by the whole resurrecting the believers who have physically died, and second, rapturing the believers who are still on earth, gathering them all to unbelieving world in the end times. Either right before or soon after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the false prophet will set up a either on their right hand or forehead. This mark, which could be an external stamp or impression, or even an embedded chip, will show 54, 60, 61; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Ezekiel 36-39; Daniel 2, 7-12; Zechariah 9-14; Acts 2:29-33, 3:19-26; Matthew 24:3-27; Luke 21:10-28; 1 Himself. Acts 2:17-21; Galatians 1:4, Matthew 24:3, 24:14, 24:9, 28:19-20; Luke 21:12-19, Romans 11:25; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 in the resurrection and rapture of the saints, His wrath on earth, the redemption of the Jews, and in the reign of His Son Jesus Christ on and prove the unbeliever’s association with and loyalty to the antichrist. Given to people right after the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, Peter 1:10-12 – “Concerning this, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest earth. In the coming ages, in both millennial and eternal kingdoms, God will continue and increasingly so, along with His Son, be greatly system by which people all over the world will be able to, and will in fact be forced to, worship the beast, the antichrist. This image may Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 2-3, 7:9-14; Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them very well be a computer generated image, and will have the ability to speak and cause those who do not worship this image of the beast this is one of the antichrist’s ways by which he will control the world in the end times, for it will be the only means by which unbelievers care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when He predicted the suffering of in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you glorified. 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, Psalm 145, Psalm 150, Isaiah 42:8, Jeremiah 10:10, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Ephesians 3:20-21, 1 Timothy can openly buy or sell. Those who take the mark forfeit their chance to be saved, to receive eternal life, and will therefore be deservedly Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you.” 1:17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Jude 24-25, 1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:12-13 – “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive to be persecuted and even killed. Revelation 14:9-11, 13:14-15 – “It was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that always, even to the end of the age.” the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” damned and punished forever. Revelation 14:9-11, Revelation 13:16- 18 – “He causes all… to be given a mark on their right hand or on power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise… To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise their forehead, and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast Purpose of God – God has His purposes, His will, His desires, and they are eternal, comprehensive and glorious. He has purposes for the and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!” Covenant with Death – The antichrist makes or confirms a covenant (treaty) with Israel at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. The Imminency – This is a falsely held belief that no signs or Biblically prophesied events need to occur before the rapture of the Christians or the number of his name.” Jews and the Gentiles, for the church, for the saved and the unsaved, for this country and every country, for every person who has ever hope of the Jews is that this treaty will ensure them peace and safety in Israel. But at the midpoint of the 70th week, the 3½ year mark, on earth. Therefore, proponents of this notion say that Christ’s return is imminent, that He can return at any time, with no advance lived or whoever will live on earth. God has specific plans to bring about these purposes, and these plans will be perfectly and sover- the antichrist will reveal his true identity and break this covenant. Then the antichrist will cause there to be great persecution upon both Gospel – The main message in the Bible is the gospel, the good news that through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven of all our sins, that Millennium – This is a literal thousand year period of time beginning after the great day of the Lord, during which Jesus Christ the King eignly carried out; for no activity of the devil, and no work of man will ever counter or defeat the plans of God. God knows His “end we can receive eternal life, and that we can be with God and Jesus Christ and all the other believers forever and ever. It was at Christ’s notice whatsoever. This is a key position of pre-tribulational rapturists. But it is an erroneous view. The Bible makes it very clear that the Jews and Christians. Matthew 24:15-28; Revelation 12:12, 13:7; Daniel 9:27 – “He will make a firm covenant with the many for one specific events need to take place before Christ’s return. For example, Israel needs to be back in her land; the Covenant of Peace needs is perfectly, powerfully and wonderfully ruling over the entire earth. He will bring world peace. At this time the world will be greatly game”, and knows exactly what He is doing, exactly what people need to do, where things are going, how to specifically make things week.” Isaiah 28:15 – “We have entered into a covenant with death.” first coming, when He lived a perfect life, and then suffered, died and rose again, that He made payment to God for our sins, so that all influenced by believing Jews who are worshiping Christ and serving Him on this earth, as well as by glorified Christians who will be happen, and precisely when things need to take place. He chooses, He works, and He precisely brings about every single one of His those who repent of their sins and place their faith in Christ alone can be redeemed, forgiven, and given eternal life. The gospel during to be signed; birth pains need to occur; the temple needs to be built; the apostasy needs to take place; the antichrist needs to be revealed; and there needs to be great tribulation. These signs and events are given to us by God so that we can know the general time of reigning with Christ. Satan will be locked up during this time, and therefore completely out of the picture, having absolutely no influence plans. These purposes and plans of God are carried out by Jesus Christ, by the Holy Spirit, by His angels, by the devil and his demons, Davidic Covenant – This is referring to the promise from God to David that one of his descendants would be a great King, with a great this entire church age, from the 1st coming to the 2nd coming, is our main message. In these end times, as we get closer to Christ’s on the earth. At the end of this 1000 year period Satan will be released for a short time and will deceive and gather unbelievers, but then by rulers, by the church, by individual believers, and by unbelievers. It is by God’s character and Word that these purposes are carried return, and as we are persecuted for our faith, we are to continue to joyfully and boldly proclaim to all people the good news of Jesus Christ’s return, but we will never know the specific time, the day or hour of His return. Therefore, Christ’s return to earth and the rapture Kingdom, and would rule over the world forever. This descendant is none other than Jesus Christ. The 1st century Jews had hoped of the church is not imminent. Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Revelation 6:1-7:14, Matthew 24:4-41 – “What will be the sign of be seized by Christ and thrown into the lake of fire. Hundreds of Old Testament verses describe the character and nature of this millen- out – by His holiness, power, grace, knowledge, omnipresence, wisdom, sovereignty, goodness, patience, mercy and faithfulness. God’s Jesus would fulfill this promise at His 1st coming, but now we know that it will be fulfilled at Christ’s 2nd coming, after the resurrection Christ, and then the end of the age will come, Christ will return, and we will be Him forever. Matthew 28:19-20, Luke 21:12-19, Acts nial period. Here are some: Isaiah 2:1-5, 4:2-6, 11, 12, 54, 60, 61, 65:17-25; Psalms 22, 45, 47, 48, 65, 67, 72, 102, 117, 132; Daniel 7:27; Word tells the Christian everything he needs to know about God’s general purposes for this earth, and for the specific details in his own 2:14-41, Romans 3:21-26, John 3:16-21, Ephesians 2:1-9, 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, Matthew 24:14 – “This gospel of the kingdom will be your coming and of the end of the age?” Hebrews 10:24-25 – “not forsaking our own assembling together,… but encouraging one and rapture of the believers, and the redemption of a remnant of Jews. The Bible in many ways, particularly the Old Testament, vividly another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Zephaniah 3:14-20; Haggai 2:6-9; Zechariah 1:16-17, 2:10-13, 8:20-23, 9:10, 14:9-11; Micah 3:12-13, 4:1-5, 5:4. Revelation 20:6 – life. In these days, at this time of History, God too has His purposes, and is bringing this church age to an end. In the near future we will describes the character and nature of Christ’s future kingdom and reign over this world. Psalms 47, 67, 72, 89; Daniel 7:13-14, 27; Micah preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end shall come.” “Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests see the rapture of the saints, the wrath of God on the unbelievers, the redemption of the Jews, and then the reign of Christ on this earth. 5:4; Luke 1:31-33; 2 Samuel 7:8-16 – “I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish His of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.” All these things have been predicted and planned by God, and will certainly and soon take place. The fulfilling and fulfillment of God’s Great Tribulation – The word tribulation, from the Greek “thlipsis”, means affliction, pressure, trouble, persecution or distress. In the New Jesus Christ – “The Son (of God) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being.” Hebrews 1:3. Jesus Christ is kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” Zechariah 14:9 – “And the Lord will both God and man, and is the central figure, the One who plays the primary and most important role in all of human history. Jesus Christ plans gives Him great and increasing glory, resulting in Him being recognized, honored, exalted and worshiped now and forevermore. be King over all the earth; in that day the Lord will be the only One.” Testament it most commonly refers to the trouble and persecution that Christians experience. (John 16:33, Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians Millennial Positions: Psalm 33:9-12; Proverbs 16:9, 19:21; Isaiah 25:1, 46:8-11; Jeremiah 1:12, 29:11-12; Romans 8:28-30, 9:14-19, 11; Ephesians 1:9-12, 4:17, Romans 8:35). Throughout church history and even today, Christians are going through tribulation; and this will continue right on is the Creator of the world, the Sustainer of the world, the King of the world, the Judge of the world, and the Savior of the world, particu- larly for those who repent of their sins and trust in Him for forgiveness of all their sins. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made Christ who 2:10; Philippians 2:11-12 Day of the Lord – This phrase refers to various times of God’s wrath, His righteous judgment and punishment against man. It was used up to the return of Christ and the rapture of the church. The Bible speaks of a time period call great tribulation, and some Christians Amillennial – This word refers to an incorrect allegorical system of interpretation that says there will be no literal 1000 year reign of mistakenly say that this is God’s wrath. But great tribulation is not God’s wrath, but rather Satan’s wrath. Great tribulation is not knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Let me share some important aspects of by some Old Testament prophets to speak of God’s judgment upon man’s sin in their day (Amos 5:18-20, Obadiah), but there is a Jesus Christ’s role as it relates to the future. Jesus Christ will purify His church before His return (Revelation 2-3). Jesus Christ will be Jesus Christ on earth. Proponents of this position correctly say that Christ rules over a spiritual kingdom in the hearts of believers Rapture – This word refers to the gathering together of the church in the end time by the angels from “the four winds, from the ends of specific reference to it regarding God’s judgment upon man in the end times. This particular cataclysmic and devastating judgment of speaking of God punishing unbelievers on earth, but rather it is that time when the antichrist is persecuting both Jews and Christians. between His first and second comings, and then there is the eternal kingdom age, but incorrectly say that there is no millennial kingdom the earth” to Jesus Christ. The word rapture is from the Latin “rapere” meaning rapid, and from the Greek “harpazo” meaning to snatch This great tribulation begins at the midpoint of the 70th week, but is then cut short by God at some unknown time during the last half of revealed, and will appear at His 2nd coming (1 John 2:28). Jesus Christ will break the seals, initiating the end time events (Revelation the earth is vividly described in the book of Revelation, and includes both the trumpet and bowl judgments (Revelation 8-9, 16). It begins 5-6). Jesus Christ will resurrect and rapture the believers (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). Jesus Christ will pour out His wrath upon the earth in between. or catch away by force. The rapture is the initial event at Christ’s 2nd coming. The resurrection of the believers who have fallen asleep at the breaking of the 7th seal, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Great and ominous celestial signs will wake up the that seven year period, evidenced by the sign of the end of the age, the great cosmic disturbances. Believers then are given relief from (physically died) will occur immediately before the rapture. These two events, the resurrection and the rapture, are preceded by a shout this tribulation and are immediately resurrected and raptured, and are taken to Jesus Christ. Mark 13:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; (Revelation 8-9, 16). Jesus Christ will save a great number of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. (Romans 11:26). Jesus Christ will world to the fact of the end of the age, and that the Day of the Lord has come. But immediately after this heavenly sign is the rapture of defeat the antichrist and destroy all His enemies (Revelation 19:20-21). Jesus Christ will reign over the earth for 1000 years (Revelation Premillennial – This word refers to the correct belief that the millennium is a literal 1000 years, and that the end of this age, the resur- from the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. We do not know the specific time of the rapture but we do know the the believers into heaven, and they will be delivered from the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth. Isaiah 24, Zephaniah 1:1-3, 14-18, Revelation 6:9-11, 7:14, 13:7; Matthew 24:9-10, 21, 29 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated rection and rapture of the saints, and the Day of the Lord all occur before this 1000 year period begins. (Pre-tribulational, Mid-tribula- general time, for God’s Word tell us that it takes place between the 6th and 7th seals, after the great tribulation is cut short, before God’s by all nations because of My name… then there will be a great tribulation.” 11:15-17, 20). Jesus Christ, during His reign on earth, will be worshiped by all people for every knee will bow, and every tongue will Joel 2:1-11, Matthew 24:29, Acts 2:17-21, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, 2 Peter 3:3-9, Revelation 8:1, Isaiah 13:6-13 – “Behold, the day of the confess that He is Lord (Philippians 1:17). Jesus Christ will righteously judge all the unbelievers at the end of the millennial kingdom. tional, Post-tribulational and Pre-wrath rapture positions are all Pre-millennial positions.) wrath is poured out on earth, and sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; 1 Lord is coming, cruel and with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. For the Corinthians 1:7-9, 15:50-54; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:13; Revelation 7:9-14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – “Then we who are alive and Great White Throne Judgment – This great, global, most sobering and final judgment occurs at the conclusion of Jesus Christ’s (Revelation 20). Jesus Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father at that time. (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). Jesus Christ will stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light; the sun will be dark and the moon will not shed its light. Thus I will forever be with His holy and heavenly bride, with all the believers, in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21-22). “I saw One like the Son of Postmillennial – This word refers to the incorrect belief that there will be an actual period of time that will occur prior to Christ’s return, remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity.” millennial kingdom. At that time, all unbelievers from all ages will stand before Jesus Christ, and will be judged according to every single during which time the Christians will bring in the kingdom through the spread of the gospel, and the world will be getting spiritually and one of their unrighteous deeds, deeds that are written in the “books.” These unbelievers will be righteously condemned by Christ, and Man, clothed in a robe reaching to His feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of morally better. Proponents of this position say that it is only after (post) the gospel’s universal acceptance on earth that Jesus Christ End of the Age – This refers to the conclusion of this present evil age, with the church age as part of this evil age also then ending at then immediately cast into the lake of fire, where they will be righteously punished forever. Daniel 7:9-10; John 5:26-30; Acts 17:31; 2 will return to sit on His throne. Timothy 4:1; Revelation 14:9-11, 20:11-15 – “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and rushing waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the this same time. Once the gospel has been preached to the entire world, then this age will end. It will take place sometime during the last sun, shining in all its brilliance.” Revelation 1:13-18 half of Daniel’s 70th week, but God has not told us the exact day or hour. At the opening of the 6th seal there will be great signs in the heaven fled away… and I saw the dead, the great and the small before the throne… and the dead were judged.”

KEY TERMS

Rapture Positions: Second Coming – This is speaking of the presence of Jesus Christ on the earth in the end times and thereafter. This word, “coming,” the Trumpets – The trumpets, spoken of in Revelation 8-9, refer to God’s judgment on the earth during the first part of the Day of the Lord, most common word referring to Christ’s return, is used 22 times in the New Testament, 18 times in a prophetic way. It is defined as His deserved and devastating wrath upon the earth in the end times. This wrath of God, starting exactly 30 minutes after the rapture of Pre-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says that believers are taken to heaven at the beginning of the 70th week of Daniel. Christ’s arrival and continuing presence. It is a singular noun which means there is only one second coming. The rapture of the church the saints, sometime during the 2nd half of the 70th week, continues to the end of the 70th week. The first six trumpet judgments result People who hold this view believe that the rapture is imminent, that the entire 70th week is the tribulation period, and that this tribula- then is not distinct and separate from Christ’s second coming, but rather is the initial event at His coming, at which time Christ gathers in a third of the earth burning up, a third of the sea turning to blood, a third of the waters turning bitter, and a third of the day and night tion is God’s wrath on earth. But the Bible never says God’s end time wrath is tribulation. They also say that the rapture is separate from all believers from all time to be with Himself. The rapture is immediately followed by the Day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and turning dark. There will also be torturing and demonized locusts; and finally one third of mankind will be killed. The final and 7th trumpet the coming of Christ, but the rapture is in fact, the initial event of Christ’s coming. then Christ’s millennial kingdom on earth. True Christians will not know the specific day or hour of Christ’s coming, but they will know signals the end of the 70th week, the salvation of a remnant of Jews, and the soon to come reign of Jesus Christ on this earth. 1 the general time of His coming, occurring sometime during the second half of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:3, 27, 37; 1 Corinthians Thessalonians 5:1-9; Revelation 11:15-17; Revelation 8-9 – “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given Mid-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view says Christ will rapture believers at the middle of the 70th week. Those who hold this 15:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8; James 5:7; 1 John 2:28; 2 Peter 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 4:15-17 – “For this we say to you by the word seven trumpets.” position say that Christians go through the tribulation period, which they believe occurs during the first half of the 70th week, but do not of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who fall asleep… then we who are alive go through the great tribulation period which they say occurs during the second half of the 70th week. They believe the great tribulation and remain will be caught up together with the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” Woman – This is a reference to the twelve tribes of Jacob, to the Jews. It is not a specific reference to Mary, the mother of Jesus, but a is God’s wrath on earth at that time and is directed towards unbelievers. general reference to the Jews, the people who brought forth Jesus into the world. Revelation 12:1-5 refers to the Jews of the Old Seventieth Week of Daniel – This is a seven year period of time, still future, when many significant end time prophetic events occur. It Testament, and in particular, the ancestral line of Christ. The woman, the Jews, gave birth to Jesus Christ, who was taken to heaven, Post-tribulation Rapture – This erroneous view of the rapture says believers are taken to heaven right at or near the end of the 70th begins when the antichrist makes a covenant of peace with Israel. At the midpoint of this week the antichrist is revealed, at which time awaiting that time when He will rule all the nations, which takes place after the defeat of the antichrist, the devil’s man on earth. week of Daniel. Some proponents of this view believe that the great tribulation period is God’s wrath, but others believe that God’s wrath he breaks this covenant, displaying himself as God in the temple. He then begins great and worldwide persecution against Jews and Revelation 12:6-17 refers to the woman as the faithful Jews in the end times who will flee from antichrist’s wrath, be protected during begins right at the end of the great tribulation period, and right before the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Christians, but is worshiped by unbelievers in the world. Then, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to the Day of the Lord, and then saved by Christ at the end of the 70th week. The rest of the offspring of the woman (verse 17) refers to man, God stops Satan’s great persecution, raptures the believers into heaven, and begins what is called the Day of the Lord, His wrath Christians. Daniel 9:24, 12:1- 3; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 12:1-7 – “The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by Prewrath Rapture – This is the correct view, and says that Jesus Christ returns to rapture the Christians right before God’s wrath is on earth. The 70th week ends with Christ returning to earth, at which time He saves a great remnant of Jews, and “the kingdom of the God, where she might be taken care of for 1260 days.” poured out on the earth, sometime during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. Christians will be alive on earth when the antichrist is world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Shortly thereafter, Christ begins His 1000 year reign on earth. Isaiah revealed, will go through great tribulation and persecution, but then are given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, and 28:15, Matthew 24:9-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9, Romans 11:26-27, Revelation 11:15, Revelation 12:6-17, Daniel 9:24-27 – “He will make raptured into heaven. Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:27; Luke 21:28; Acts 14:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering, and on the 2:1-2; Revelation 6:17-19, 7:9-14, 8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9 – “God has not destined us for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Lord Jesus Christ.” Seventy Weeks – This is a period of 490 years that begins with the decree to rebuild Israel in 444BC and ends with Jesus Christ’s return Redemption – This is the physical deliverance of the Christian from this world and from his mortal body at the time he is raptured at to earth at the end of the 70th week. The purpose of this time is for Israel to make atonement for her sin of rebellion against God and her Christ’s 2nd coming. Vines Dictionary defines it this way – “Redemption is the deliverance of the believer from the presence and power rejection of the Messiah. Back in the 1st century at the end of the 69th week, after exactly 483 years, Messiah, Jesus Christ was cut off, of sin, and of his body, from bondage to corruption, at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” This redemption of the believer takes place that is, He was crucified. Then the church age began, which comprises a long gap, an unknown period of time, and a suspension of after the 6th seal, the cosmic disturbances in the heavens, and before the 7th seal, which initiates God’s wrath on earth. Romans 8:23; 1 God’s plans for the Jews. But for over 100 years now, the Jews have been regathering back to their homeland, signaling to us that we Corinthians 15:50-54; Ephesians 1:14, 4:30; Luke 21:25-28 – “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay are now in the end times, and that the 70th week will soon begin. The 1st event of the 70th week will be the antichrist’s covenant of © Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org, 2018. among nations, and perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves…but when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift death with the Jews, and the last event will be Christ’s return to earth, and the salvation of the Jews. Luke 21:24, Revelation 12, Daniel Special thanks to Steven J. Hogan and ChristsKingdom.org for providing help with outlines and charts. up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 9:24-27 – “Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place.” Revealing of Christ – This is the unveiling, the uncovering of Jesus Christ, in that He is suddenly, obviously and clearly seen by the believers at His 2nd coming. At Christ’s 1st coming He was obscure and hidden, quietly born in Bethlehem, but at His 2nd coming He Sign of the Coming of Christ – This is the Shekinah glory of Jesus Christ, brightly and brilliantly lighting up the skies, occurring right will be visibly and noticeably revealed, “with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God”, to the entire earth. At Christ’s after the “sign of the end of the age”, the darkening of the skies, and right before the revelation and coming of Christ to gather all revealing or revelation, the church is given relief from tribulation, rescued from the wrath to come, raptured into heaven, and redeemed believers to Himself. After this global gathering of believers, the day of the Lord begins, and Christ will then righteously judge and punish from the earth. Matthew 24:30-31; Luke 17:30-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 1 Peter 1:7, 1:13, 4:13; Revelation 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7-9 – the unbelievers still living on earth. Matthew 24:3, 27-31 – “The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky…and they will see the Son “awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will keep you strong to the end, blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Christ.” Sign of the End of the Age – This sign takes place at the breaking of the sixth seal, signaling the end of this present age. The sun, moon Restrainer – Michael, the archangel stands guard over Israel while she is on earth, and is responsible for restraining the activities of and stars will be darkened, and a great earthquake will occur on earth. This “sign of the end of the age” will appear immediately after the Satan, thereby protecting Israel from him. At the midpoint of the 70th week, Michael defeats Satan and casts him to the earth. Michael great tribulation is cut short, and immediately before the “sign of the Son of Man”. After these two signs, then the believers on earth will then is taken out of the way in that he will not at this time restrain Satan. It is at this time that the antichrist will be revealed to the entire be raptured into heaven, and the Day of the Lord, God’s wrath on earth, will commence. Isaiah 13:9-10, Luke 21:24-28, Acts 2:19-20, 1 world, and then bring great tribulation to both Jews and Christians. Yes, the antichrist will have more freedom to persecute the Jews, Thessalonians 5:1-9, Revelation 6:12-14, Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and but yet he is still sovereignly controlled by God. Daniel 12:1-2, Revelation 12:7-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-8 – “The mystery of lawlessness the moon will not give its light and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heaven will be shaken.” is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming.” Ten Horns – This refers to the 8th beast empire, the last and worst of Satanically and demonically controlled kingdoms on this earth. It will be led by the antichrist during the 70th week of Daniel, and used by him to help conquer, control and rule the world. This empire, Salvation of the Jews – God has spiritually saved many ethnic Jews since the time of Abraham, but at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, a comprised of ten nations and ten kings, is said to be a mix of iron and clay, meaning that part of his kingdom will be strong and part will great number of ethnic Jews will be saved, fulfilling many Old Testament promises to the Jews. Shortly after their salvation, Jesus be weak or brittle. Many suggest that this empire, said to have come from the old Roman empire (6th beast empire) will be comprised of Christ will begin His reign over the world, ruling with these Jews, and also with glorified believers. Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 98:1-3; Isaiah present day European and Mideast nations. Time will tell. This empire will come to an end when Jesus Christ returns to earth and 45:17, Isaiah 53, 59:20-21; Daniel 9:24; Zechariah 13:1; Matthew 23:37-39; Luke 21:20-24; Revelation 14:1-5; Romans 11:25-27 – “a defeats the antichrist. Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 2:40-43, Daniel 7:7-8, 19-20, Revelation 17:11-17, 19:20-21, Revelation 13:1 – “Then I saw partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were ‘the Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove ungodliness from Jacob.’ This is My covenant with them when I take away their sins.” blasphemous names.”

Seals – These seven seals of a scroll, when broken by Jesus Christ, will initiate a series of events that will take place on the earth in the Time of the Gentiles – During this time period no divinely appointed Jewish king rules over Israel, but rather, it will be Gentile leaders end times. The 1st four seals speak of false christs, wars, famines, economic problems and death affecting various parts of the earth. who rule over them. This period started in 586BC, nearly 2600 years ago, and will extend to the end of the 70th week of Daniel. Then the The 5th seal refers to great persecution brought on by the antichrist and directed towards Jews and Christians. The 6th seal refers to time of the Gentiles will come to an end, for Jesus Christ will save a large remnant of Jews, and begin His 1000 year rule over them and signs in the heavens and a great earthquake on earth, events which signal the end of this age. After that there will be the sign of the Son over the entire world, resulting in a time of great peace and blessing. Zechariah 14:9; Romans 11:25-27; Revelation 11:1-2, 15-17; of Man, and the resurrection of believers who have died and are in heaven, and the rapture of the church that is still on earth. Then the Psalm 47, Psalm 67; Luke 21:24 – “They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be 7th seal will be broken, resulting in the trumpet judgments, which when blown bring forth the Day of the Lord, God’s devastating and trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” deserved wrath on earth. A parallel and significant passage to Revelation 6 and the seals is Matthew 24:4-9. Mark 13:3-13; Luke 21:8-11; Revelation 8:1, 6:1-8 – “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of seven seals… When the Lamb broke the second seal… When the Lamb broke the third seal…”

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