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CELEBRATING MAY 2018 30 Yeaɾs

I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. 22:13

THE REVELATION OF CHRIST

A devotional from TODAY WITH GREG THORNTON Interim President of Moody Global Ministries

Superheroes and the Supreme Hero When I was young, (Rev. 1:13–14). He has power over the many of my friends physical and spiritual world: “I looked would save their when He broke the sixth seal, and there allowance to buy was a great earthquake; and the sun comic books to read became black as sackcloth made of the latest adventures hair, and the whole moon became like of their favorite blood; and the stars of the sky fell to superheroes. Today, movies based on the earth” (6:12–13). comic-book characters attract millions of viewers and make billions of dollars. And Jesus has power over life and We long for someone to fight evil and death, at last be revealed for all to see. fix the problems of our world, even if “Do not be afraid; I am the first and the these caped crusaders are fictional. last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and Aren’t you thankful that we serve the I have the keys of death and of Hades” Supreme Hero, the only One who (1:18). In comic books, superheroes fight can resolve our world’s problems and the same villains over and over again. vanquish evil once and for all? In the But Jesus will be victorious once and , John is given a for all. He will reward the righteous glimpse of the end of this world’s story. and punish evil doers. Satan and his He looks to the future, when our Hero demons will never be freed again: reveals His identity to the entire world, “Hallelujah! For the our , wins the ultimate battle, and secures the Almighty, reigns” (19:6). our eternal destiny. By studying John’s revelation, we can understand our Only Jesus Christ can inaugurate a future and be filled with certain hope. perfect kingdom and secure our eternal future. Knowing this glorious ending Not even today’s movie-making should our hearts at ease: “God technology could capture the scenes in shall wipe away all tears from their Revelation. John writes that Jesus will eyes; and there shall be no more death, be “clothed in a robe reaching to the neither sorrow, nor crying, neither feet and girded across His chest with shall there be any more pain; for the a golden sash. His head and His hair former things are passed away” (21:14). were white like white wool, like snow; Certainly we serve the Supreme Hero and His eyes were like a flame of fire” worthy of our praise and devotion! n

œ800Ÿ 356¢6639 MATTERS by Dr. John Koessler

Ministering Spirits ngels play an important role demons and evil spirits. They can enter in the events that unfold in the into and control the behavior of people A book of Revelation, and their and animals (Luke 8:33). Fallen very name——reveals something are a spiritual source of many false about their function. The term was doctrines (1 Tim. 4:1) and the objects used in ancient Greek to refer to a of idolatrous (1 Cor. 10:20; messenger or ambassador. Mentioned Rev. 9:20). numerous times in both the Old and New Testaments, angels serve as God’s Though Scripture mentions angels agents, appearing at critical moments in frequently, there is much we do not the unfolding story of redemption. know. We know angels belong to different orders and that they exist in Angels are created by God differently some kind of hierarchy, but we don’t than us. Humanity was created “a know how it is arranged (Gen. 3:24; little lower than the angels” (Ps. 8:5). Isa. 6:1–6; Luke 1:19). Daniel and Reve- Yet at the Jesus took on a lation indicate that they influence human nature (Heb. 2:9). This dignifies human affairs, but we don’t know humankind, which was created in the precisely how. image of God and charged with the task of exercising dominion over creation What is clear from Scripture is that (Gen. 1:26, 28). The redeemed will Jesus is superior to all angels and more eventually judge the angels (1 Cor. 6:3). powerful than any demon (Heb. 1:4–14). For these , Hebrews 1:14 calls Jesus gave His disciples power to cast angels “ministering spirits sent to serve out demons (Mark 3:14–15). Angels those who will inherit .” Angels are not to be worshiped. They are sometimes appeared in human form our fellow messengers and servants (Acts 1:1), but the description of them (Rev. 19:10; 22:9). They serve us as as spirits implies that they do not have we serve God. n corporeal bodies like ours.

Angels were created holy, but Satan FOR FURTHER STUDY (who is also an angel) led some of them To learn more, read Angels: Elect into a sinful rebellion against God, an and Evil by C. Fred Dickason event prior to the creation of and (Moody Publishers). Eve (Rev. 12:4). Fallen angels are called

TODAYINTHEWORD.COM FROM THE EDITORS by Jamie Janosz

May Is Launch Month at Moody This year, approximately 590 students inner city where biblical counseling will graduate from Moody’s campuses is often unknown, misunderstood, or in Chicago, Ill.; Spokane, Wash.; and unaccepted. I am filled beyond words Plymouth, Mich. The Class of 2018 with gratitude for those who have includes men and women in Moody helped make a school like Moody Institute and Moody Theological possible for me.” Seminary as well as those pursuing studies through Moody Bible Institute Dylan writes, “I hope to serve Christ and Distance Learning. They are joined His church by translating the Scriptures by missionary pilots and mechanics into a language that does not yet graduating from Moody Aviation. have God’s Word. Bible translation is a specialized field that requires a lot of This outstanding group of men and training and preparation. Your gifts to women joins more than 45,000 living Moody have allowed me to attain that alumni across the globe. They have training without incurring debt, leaving studied the Bible and theology as well me free to go to the mission field. This as prepared for ministry in the fields of is a great blessing. Thank you!” communications, linguistics, counseling, teaching, pastoral ministry, education, When you visit Moody’s Chicago cross-cultural ministry, urban ministry, campus, you will see a Bible verse and many others. engraved on the archway leading to Crowell Hall: “Study to shew thyself Many of you have given generously approved unto God, a workman that to help support the costs of their needeth not to be ashamed, rightly education. This tremendous gift enables dividing the word of truth” (2 Tim. Moody’s students to graduate with no 2:15, ™š›). or minimal debt so they can more readily begin their ministry. We wanted to share We celebrate these students who have some of their heartfelt words studied the Word in order to serve God, of appreciation: and thank each of you who has given on their behalf. Congratulations to the Class ReNay writes, “Through my studies of 2018, and may you continue to pursue I know God is leading me to care for God and serve Him well as you leave the broken-hearted. I hope to bring Moody and bear His witness across counseling in a creative way to the the globe! n

ž800Ÿ 356£6639 VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 

MANAGING EDITOR Heather Moštt SENIOR EDITOR Elena Mafter CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Jamie Janosz The Revelation of Jesus Christ John Koessler John Koessler They waited for Him to come. From the ART DIRECTOR to the of the , they all Lynn Gabalec looked to the time when their Savior would restore all GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Larry Bohlin, Rachel Hutcheson things and establish His kingdom. They longed for the MARKETING & PRODUCTION revelation of Jesus Christ. Paul B. Currie

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES This month we invite you on a journey through the INTERIM PRESIDENT last book of the Bible, written by the apostle John and Greg Thornton dedicated to the revelation of Christ who is the center INTERIM PROVOST John Jelinek of the entire book (Rev. 1:1). As we study Revelation INTERIM CHIEF OPERATING with Today in the Word, we’ll read about the slain and OFFICER Mark Wagner the risen Lamb, the war in heaven, the New Jerusalem, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER and the arrival of the King of kings. We’ll be reminded Ken Heulitt of the priority of love and the poverty of riches. CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Samuel Choy We’ll marvel at the view of heaven and the death of death. Some symbols are explained; others remain VICE PRESIDENTS Tim Arens mysterious. But, as The Ryrie Study Bible points out, Larry Davidhizar “much of it is frighteningly clear.” Jim Elliott Bruce Everhart Collin G. Lambert The in ancient encouraged his people, Frank W. Leber Jr. Bryan O’Neal as well as us today: “Be strong, do not fear; your God Paul Santhouse James Spencer will come . . . he will come to save you” (Isa. 35:4). Janet Stiven The Apostle seems to respond in the last chapter of Anthony Turner Debbie Zelinski Revelation: “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:20). May this be our amid the hardships and TRUSTEES Christopher Denison uncertainties of life, and may we live in the light Orbelina Eguizabal of His coming! n T. Randall Fairfax (Chairman) Thomas S. Fortson Manuel Gutierrez Jerry B. Jenkins Paul Johnson (Emeritus) James Meeks Schipper Julianna Slattery Moody Global Ministries is the sole publisher of Today in the Word, copyright Mark Wagner © 2018 by Moody Global Ministries. All rights reserved. Please direct all Today Richard E. Warren in the Word inquiries to Donor Resource Management, 820 N. LaSalle Blvd., Chicago, IL 60610. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, Richard Yook NIV®, copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture taken from the New American Standard Bible®, copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Printed in the U.S.A. Today in the Word is published monthly. Printed on 30% recycled paper.

TODAYINTHEWORD.COM READ REVELATION 1:18

TUESDAY MAY I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me. 1 John 8:18

The Faithful Witness Today we are beginning a study of given to John the Apostle has what many consider to be the most Christ at the heart of all that it reveals. challenging book in the Bible: the Specifically, Revelation is about events book of Revelation. surrounding Christ’s Second Coming. was so puzzled by this book that he Here at the beginning of the book we questioned whether it should even be find a snapshot of how the whole story a part of Scripture. John Calvin never will end: “‘Look, he is coming with the wrote a commentary on Revelation. clouds,’ and ‘every eye will see him, But both and non-Christians even those who pierced him’ and all are curious about the mysteries and peoples on earth ‘will mourn because obscurities found in this book. One of him.’ So shall it be! Amen” (v. 7). for such widespread interest is the author’s opening statement that the In these opening verses, John repeats book’s aim is to show “what must soon several times that this revelation was take place” (v. 1). given to him by Christ. However strange the book may seem to some, its content Although the book deals with events is not made up of John’s own fancies. that will take place in the future, it is Revelation is the testimony of Jesus not really a history written in advance. Christ about Himself. Even when we John calls it “the revelation from do not completely understand all that Jesus Christ . . . and the testimony of we read, we can still rely upon its truth Jesus Christ” (vv. 1–2). This identifies because it is the testimony of the one both the book’s narrow focus and its who is “the faithful witness” (v. 5). source. Whatever its complexities, this

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US You might find it helpful to listen to an audio Thank you for lending your prayer version of the book to get a sense of its overall support to the leadership role flow of thought. You will be in good company— of our Trustees. May the Lord’s hand always guide them in all the original recipients of John’s book would not situations! Please refer to the have read it for themselves but rather listened as beginning of this issue if you want someone else read to them (v. 3). You can listen to to pray for them by name. an audio version for free at biblegateway.com.

6 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 1:920

WEDNESDAY And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with MAY the glory I had with you before the world began. John 17:5 2

The Glorified Christ In the television show Undercover His “humble glory.” Not only was this Boss, corporate executives disguise the glory of Jesus’ lowliness, it was the themselves and pretend to be ordinary glory of His holiness. employees. At the end of the show they meet with those with whom All of this changed with Christ’s they have worked side by side. The resurrection and ascension. The employees are often astonished by Jesus who appeared to John at the the transformation. beginning of the book of Revelation was the same person the Apostle had Jesus did not come in disguise, known before. But John had never pretending to be someone He was seen Jesus like this, not even on the not. But He did temporarily lay aside Mount of Transfiguration. John says the glory that was His due as God. that when he was confronted by Jesus According to John 1:1 and 14, prior in His glory, “I fell at his feet as though to taking a human nature to Himself dead” (v. 17). Jesus was both with God and was God. John saw Jesus glorified briefly when As if to reassure John that this was the He was transfigured on the mountain same Savior he had always known, (see Matt. 17:2; Mark 9:2). But during Jesus reassured His stricken His earthly ministry Jesus revealed a with a reassuring touch and words of different kind of glory. As John and comfort. Jesus interpreted the vision the other disciples lived day to day for John and assigned to him the task with the God who had become flesh, of recording what he had seen for they observed what New Testament seven churches in Asia Minor (now scholar Leon Morris has described as known as Turkey).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Have you become too comfortable with Jesus? Would you pray today for the Does your church’s worship do justice to His glory? Strategic Marketing team at Jesus’ words of assurance suggest that He does Moody Radio? Pray that God would give inspiration and not necessarily want us to worship Him with our perseverance in their mission faces in the dirt. But John’s experience does tell us to George Economos, Brittany that we have probably underestimated Him. Ask the Bernholdt, Hannah LaMaster, Savior to give you a fresh awareness of His glory. and Rhonda Carlson.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 7 READ REVELATION 2:17

THURSDAY MAY If you love me, keep my commands. 3 John 14:15

Priority of Love A wife once asked her husband, “What considered most important and best. do you think the Bible means when it When Israel was commanded to offer says that Ezekiel’s wife was ‘the desire the first fruits, they were required of his eyes’? Looking at her tenderly, he to bring God the best of what they answered, “I think it means that every had, not merely the first things they time he saw her, Ezekiel experienced harvested. The believers in Ephesus the same thrill he felt when he first saw obeyed Christ, but they were capable her on their wedding day!” of offering Him a better love.

Jesus also used the language of This rebuke also suggests that there love to speak of His relationship with was a weakness in their community life. the church of Ephesus. Only in this Just as their love for Christ had cooled, case, Jesus issued a reproof. Instead so perhaps had their love for one of holding on to their first love, the another. Is it possible that their devotion Ephesian church had begun to slip in to sound doctrine had blunted the its devotion (v. 4). They were a stable affection they once felt for one another? and hardworking church. They cared about the truth and maintained a high The solution Jesus offered was not an standard of doctrine (vv. 2–3). But either/or proposition. He did not ask something was missing. them to set aside doctrine in favor of love. He praised them because they When Jesus urged them to return to hated the practices of the Nicolaitans their first love, He wasn’t referring (v. 6). But in addition to uncompromising only to chronology. The word first truth, they needed love. also referred to priority—what they

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Memory is one strategy Jesus recommends for Today lift up in prayer Moody’s returning to our first love (v. 5). Do you remember education ministry and its when you were first devoted to Christ? Action leadership. Ask God to continue to direct and to bless professors, is the other ingredient in His prescription. Jesus students, and administrators, urges them to do the things they used to do. Is giving them wisdom and there anything you can do today to help you recall to follow the Word what your first love for Christ was like? of God without wavering.

8 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 2:811

FRIDAY You will be hated by everyone because of me, but MAY the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. Matthew 10:22 4

Faithful unto Death Savithri was a woman in India who Gentiles alike. These Christians suffered became a follower of Jesus. Because economically and sometimes physically her village was primarily Hindu, nobody for their devotion to Jesus Christ. They objected when her husband beat her were slandered and abused. to death after she refused to renounce her Christian faith. In order to encourage the suffering church in Smyrna, Jesus reminded Savithri’s strong faith did not shield them of three important truths. First, her from death. We should not be He was aware of their situation: “I surprised by this. Jesus warned His know your affliction and your poverty” disciples that standing for the gospel (v. 9). Second, things were not what can be dangerous. “Brother will betray they seemed. Although they may brother to death, and a father his child; have been poor by human standards, children will rebel against their parents these believers were rich in God’s and have them put to death. You will eyes. Third, their suffering was only be hated by everyone because of me, temporary (v. 10). In the scope of an but the one who stands firm to the end eternal perspective, it would be a will be saved” (Matt. 10:21–22). relatively brief period of time.

Smyrna was a wealthy seaport What does God expect from those city, containing both a center for in such an environment? In a word, emperor worship and a large Jewish faithfulness, not survival: “Be faithful, population. In this cultural environment even to the point of death, and I will the church was a religious minority give you life as your victor’s crown” whose message provoked Jews and (v. 10).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Your situation may not be as extreme as Savithri’s. Ken Heulitt, chief financial But no matter what opposition you face, God officer, thanks the Lord for knows your situation. He has set a time limit His faithfulness to Moody and invites you to pray for God’s on your suffering. By His power you too can be continued provision and our faithful to the end. Review the three truths in this good stewardship of resources passage to encourage your heart to love Jesus in the next fiscal year. and trust His faithfulness.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 9 READ REVELATION 2:1217

SATURDAY MAY But you are to hold fast to the LORD your God, as you have until now. 5 Joshua 23:8

The Art of Holding Fast The motto of Scotland’s Clan MacLeod participate in pagan festivals because is “Hold fast.” This could be the church’s free food was provided. Unfortunately, motto. To be faithful we must hold fast in addition to eating the food they to what we believe. More importantly, also engaged in pagan worship in order to be faithful we must hold fast and the sexual immorality that often to Jesus Christ. This can be hard to do accompanied it. when others around you compromise. Jesus offered the example of Antipas. In the church in Pergamum, some Church tradition says he was appointed claimed to be Christians but held to the bishop of the church by the apostle John teaching of Balaam, “who taught Balak and was eventually burned to death to entice the to so that on a pagan altar. Jesus also reminded they ate food sacrificed to idols and the church of His power, describing committed sexual immorality” (v. 14). Himself as the one “who has the sharp, In other words, they tried to fit in with double-edged sword” (v. 12). The one pagan culture. They ate food that had who judges pagans also disciplines His been sacrificed to idols and committed church, and Jesus threatened to turn sexual immorality, probably as a result this double-edged sword against all who of attending pagan worship services. followed the example of the Nicolaitans instead of Antipas (v. 16). Pagan worship was so entrenched in Pergamum that Jesus called it the place To those who overcame the temptation “where Satan has his throne” and the to compromise their faith for the sake city “where Satan lives” (v. 13). Poverty- of a meal, Jesus promised to give “the stricken Christians were tempted to hidden manna” (v. 17).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Have you been taking small steps away from Patrick Friedline in Career the path of faithfulness? Ask the to Development helps Moody reveal any of your rationalizations or excuses for students and alumni to find part- time and full-time employment, compromising your faith. Think of godly examples leading to lifelong careers in who can encourage you, and hold fast by God’s ministry. Would you uphold his grace. Choose to be fed by Jesus’ manna rather service in prayer today? than chastened by His sword.

10 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 2:1829

SUNDAY A little yeast works through MAY the whole batch of dough. Galatians 5:9 6

The Trouble with Tolerance In recent years debates have flared enticed God’s people to worship Baal up over the limits of free speech. (v. 20; see 1 Kings 19). Should anyone be given a platform, no matter his views? Can someone The nature of Jezebel’s teaching attempt to silence a person whom she was what Jesus had condemned in finds dangerous or threatening? Some Pergamum. She claimed to reveal observers condemn the students for secret truth, enticing her followers to eat their intellectual intolerance, while meat sacrificed to idols and to commit others argue that reprehensible ideas sexual immorality. God had “tolerated” should not be tolerated. her ministry for a time, but only in order to give her a chance to repent (v. 21). Are there limits to tolerance? The Now the time for patience was over. Bible’s answer is yes. When it comes to the church, some practices should Jesus promised to “cast her on a bed not be tolerated. The same is true for of suffering” and “strike her children doctrine. False teaching should not dead” (vv. 22–23). To a culture that be tolerated but must be rooted out. values tolerance, this response seems The church in Thyatira had permitted a harsh. But Jesus understood the false teacher who claimed to possess destructive nature of her teaching and the gift of to mislead others. the vulnerability of this church. The This had opened the door to both cultural environment in Thyatira was so sinful practices and false teaching. toxic that the only command Jesus gave Jesus nicknamed this false teacher to those who had not yet succumbed “Jezebel,” after the wicked queen who to Jezebel’s false teaching was to “hold killed the true prophets of Israel and on” until His return (v. 25).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US False teaching opens the door to immoral practice, Anthony Turner, VP and dean of and moral compromise is frequently justified by Student Enrollment Services, and modifying biblical doctrine. Consider what beliefs his executive assistant, Samuel Roller, will appreciate your prayer or practices you have been willing to tolerate support today as they advise that might lead you away from the truth. Take the prospective students, maintain opportunity from God that Jezebel refused: repent enrollment database, and from sin and hold on to Jesus. process applications.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 11 READ REVELATION 3:16

MONDAY MAY Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 7 1 Corinthians 16:13

Spiritual Sleepwalking A man walking home at 2 a.m. in Jesus commanded the church in Sardis Dulwich, England, happened to to wake up and remember what they notice a girl asleep at the top of an had “received and heard” (v. 3). This inactive crane. It turns out she was a is the language of biblical tradition sleepwalker and had climbed 130 feet (see 1 Cor. 11:2, 23; 15:2–3). The way up and 40 feet across to get there. to break out of spiritual lethargy is to Sleepwalking is more common than one recall the truth of Scripture, hold fast might think. According to one recent to it, and repent. study, 8.4 million Americans—nearly 4 percent of all adults—sleepwalk Jesus promised to come to this church each year. like a thief and catch those who were spiritually asleep (see Luke 12:39–40; The problem Jesus highlights in the 1 Thess. 5:2, 4; 2 Peter 3:10; Rev. 16:15). church at Sardis could be characterized Despite some similarity in language, as spiritual sleepwalking. Sardis had this warning likely does not refer to once rivaled Smyrna and Ephesus, but the Second Coming. It is a promise to its best days were now in the past. And discipline this church in a way that will the church in that city had a reputation be both certain and unexpected. for being alive, but was in fact dead (v. 1). It had the motions of a living church And those in Sardis who were spiritually but lacked the vitality of the Spirit. This alive need not be afraid. Jesus church had started well but had failed promised that they would be dressed to follow through. As a result, Jesus in white, and their names would never found its deeds “unfinished” (v. 2). be erased from the book of life (v. 5).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US This is a sober warning for the church. Do we As Moody’s undergraduate rely more on systems and structures than we do students finish their spring on God’s Spirit? Do you appreciate your church semester today, Timothy Arens, VP and dean of Student Life, because it has exciting programs or because people requests your for the are growing in the fruit of the Spirit (see Gal. 5:22– upcoming exams, for students to 23)? It is possible to appear to be a “successful” finish this academic year well, and church when we are really in spiritual decline. for the restful summer break.

12 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 3:713

Pray for us, too, that God may open a door TUESDAY for our message, so that we may proclaim the MAY mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Colossians 4:3 8

Open Doors and Secure Pillars Small magnitude earthquakes can Though rejected by some who claimed happen hundreds of times each day to have a relationship with God, a day around the world. Major earthquakes was coming when Christ would show take place about once a month. The their persecutors that the Philadelphian ancient city of Philadelphia was located believers were accepted by Him. about 28 miles southeast of Sardis, in a region where earthquakes often Jesus also promised to spare the took place. The city had nearly been church “from the hour of trial that is destroyed by a large quake in .†. 17. going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth” (v. The church too had been shaken by 10). The sweeping nature of this trial conflicts with those who opposed the makes it unlikely that it is a merely local gospel. Jesus characterized them as event. Some see this as a promise of weakened with “little strength,” but the church’s protection from the tribu- despite this they had not denied Him lation described in the later chapters. (v. 8). In contrast, Jesus described Whether or not it refers to the Great Himself in terms that emphasize Tribulation, this is a clear promise of authority and power. He is the one future security. who holds “the key of David” (v. 7). This allusion to 22:22 highlights Though weak now, the one who holds Christ’s ruling authority. When Christ on will be a “pillar” in God’s (v. opens a door, none can shut it. The 12). This image speaks of immovability. open door that He had placed before Although shaken by their present this church was the opportunity to bear troubles, the believer has a fixed and witness despite continued opposition. permanent place in God’s presence.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Are you feeling shaken by your circumstances Sound doctrine is foundational today? Do you feel the burden of opposition from for the life of every believer. Our those who should be supporting you? Hold on Theology department faculty— Kevin Zuber, Bryan Litfin, to Jesus Christ. He is the only secure rock, and David Rim, Gregg Quiggle, and He has guaranteed your future. No matter how McDuffee—build this insecure you may feel, you always have a place basis for our students’ ministry. and promise of protection with God. Please pray for them today.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 13 READ REVELATION 3:1422

WEDNESDAY MAY Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. 9 Romans 12:13

The Poverty of Wealth A recent study showed that people can complacency. The believers of tell whether you are rich or poor simply Laodicea were doing well financially by looking at your face. According but languishing spiritually. Like the city’s to psychologist Thora Bjornsdottir, water system, which was tepid and a PhD candidate at the University of tainted with lime deposits, Laodicea’s Toronto, even expressionless faces left a bad taste. Jesus give off hidden signals about social described their spiritual condition as class. According to today’s passage, it “neither hot or cold” (v. 16). is also possible to deceive yourself into thinking that you are better off than you In a world opposed to God, the gospel really are. True riches are not a matter cannot help but create sharp lines of of money. separation. “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth,” Jesus The city of Laodicea was located in the warned His disciples. “I did not come to Lycus Valley, ten miles west of the city bring peace, but a sword” (Matt. 10:34). of Colossae and forty miles south of The church in Laodicea seems to have the city of Philadelphia. It was a wealthy attempted neutrality. Reluctant to appear city, famous for eye medicine and wool, either for or against Jesus and unwilling and when devastated by the great to rock the boat, they curried favor with earthquake of .†. 17, they didn’t even the culture in a way that alienated them need government help to rebuild. from the Christ they claimed to serve. These were real Christians who were The church was also economically living false lives. Used to fending for prosperous, which had produced themselves, they failed to grasp their an attitude of self-sufficiency and own spiritual poverty (vv. 17–18).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US In a wealthy culture that preaches self-help and Continue to uphold in prayer the self-reliance, we can forget we need Jesus. More work of our Theology professors, than our savings accounts and retirement plans, John Clark, Johnson, Richard Weber, Sanjay Merchant, more than our friends and social networks, more and David Finkbeiner, as they than political power and economic security—we train students to “keep hold of need Jesus. Confess your complacency, and cling the deep truths of the faith with a to Jesus for His promise of true wealth and security. clear conscience” (1 Tim. 3:9).

14 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 4:111

THURSDAY I saw the LORD, high and exalted, seated on a MAY throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Isaiah 6:1 10

A View of Heaven In recent years many books claim to The throne was encircled by a rainbow describe a visit to heaven, usually the and surrounded by twenty-four other result of a near-death experience. thrones. This number suggests the Some skeptics view these accounts twelve Patriarchs of Israel and the as fiction, and others attribute them to twelve Apostles, though the text does chemical changes in the dying brain. In not specifically identify them. a few cases the authors have admitted they made it all up. Thunder and lightning emanated from the throne and seven blazing lamps Today’s passage is different. John stood before it to represent the fullness doesn’t describe a near-death of God’s Spirit. John also saw four “living experience but rather a vision of creatures” (v. 6) whose description the heavenly throne room that he resembled the cherubim of Ezekiel had while “in the Spirit” (v. 2). What 1:4–24 and whose cry echoed that of the John sees is similar to other visions seraphs of Isaiah 6:3. Whenever these recorded in Scripture by Isaiah, Ezekiel, beings gave glory to God, the twenty- and Daniel. The phrase “after this” in four elders lay their crowns before the verse 1 signals a shift in focus from throne and declared God’s worth. John’s present to things that will take place in the future (cf. Rev. 1:19). This is the first of several scenes of heavenly worship. The images may In his vision John saw a throne with seem strange, for they are intended to someone sitting on it. This unnamed describe a heavenly in earthly figure who is clearly divine “had the terms. But what is clear is that God is at appearance of jasper and ruby” (v. 3). the center of all heavenly worship.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Worship is not a mode of entertainment. It’s not Moody’s campus library provides merely our preferred musical style for church. It our students, faculty, and staff is a combination of experiencing God’s presence with a wealth of resources. We are grateful for the expertise and and praising His worth. The hymn “Crown Him with faithful service of the staff: April Many Crowns” by Matthew Bridges attempts to Nelson, Ashley Smith, Blake capture the essence of this scene from our passage Walter, and Christine Cherney. today. Why not find it in a hymnal and read or sing it? Will you pray for them today?

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 15 READ REVELATION 5:114

FRIDAY MAY Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. 11 Psalm 145:3

Worthy Is the Lamb Every Easter you can find lambs in the As the elders worship the Lamb, an shops—cute chocolate lambs or stuffed innumerable company of angels adds animals. They bear no resemblance their voices, and they are joined by whatsoever to the Lamb described in “every creature in heaven and on earth today’s chapter. The Lamb that John saw and under the earth and on the sea, was not cute but scarred. It looked as if and all that is in them” (v. 13). Worship it had been slain. It also had seven horns has a surprising trajectory. It moves and seven eyes. In the books of Daniel from heaven to earth, not the other way and Revelation, horns represent kingly around. This worship begins with God. power. The lamb’s seven eyes may be a His presence evokes it. This worship is symbol of omniscience. The fact that the also contagious. Its resonating quality Lamb is the only one worthy to open the enables others to join in. This heavenly seal and is worshiped by the twenty-four worship is Christ-centered. It focuses on elders makes it clear that this must be the Lamb who was slain. Jesus Christ. The worship described in these verses The elders worship Him while holding invites us. When we worship, we do harps and golden bowls full of incense. not imitate heavenly worship. We join Interestingly, verse 8 doesn’t say that worship already under way, adding our the incense represents the prayers voices to that of the living creatures, of the but rather that it is their elders, angels, and the rest of creation. prayers. What a beautiful picture of God receives our prayers like sweet how Christ must view our prayers— incense, and Jesus is glorified. not as whining or nagging but like a pleasing aroma.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Everyone struggles with worship at times. We may Please lift up in prayer the staff not like the music, or the sermon is boring. We of Moody’s library— Christopher might be distracted with other worries or concerns. Ullman, James Preston, Joel Warren, and Jonathan The next time you feel this way, remember what is McDaniel—as they explore new really going on. You have the opportunity to join areas in library science to help with heaven and earth in praising the Lord, and our students and staff find the God receives your prayers as a sweet offering. they need.

16 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 6:18

During the night I had a vision, and there SATURDAY before me was a man mounted on a red horse. . . . MAY Behind him were red, brown and white horses. Zechariah 1:8 12

The Four Horsemen of the Popular culture has widely appropriated who brings want (vv. 5–6). The fourth idea of the Four Horsemen of the horseman is the most terrifying: “I Apocalypse. It was the nickname of the looked, and there before me was a pale Notre Dame football team’s backfield horse! Its rider was named Death, and in 1924. Rock band Metallica used it as Hades was following close behind him. the title for a song. The Four Horsemen They were given power over a fourth made a brief appearance in the movie of the earth to kill by sword, famine Hellboy: The Fury and appear in more and plague, and by the wild beasts of than one Marvel comic story line. They the earth” (v. 8). And this is only the were even featured in an episode of overture. Three more seals will follow The Simpsons. All this may blunt the and from the seventh seal will come force of our encounter with them in another series of seven judgments. Revelation 6. We must remember that the Four The Four Horsemen issue forth from Horsemen are not merely a cultural the first four of the seven seals on trope. They point to real events that will the scroll mentioned in chapter 5. Each take place at the end of the age. These horseman represents a mode of divine events are not random disasters. Only judgment, which is progressive. The the Lamb can break the seals and set horseman who conquers is followed them in motion. They are an execution by the horseman who takes peace of divine judgment that will eventually from the earth (v. 4). He gives way to a culminate in God’s ultimate victory. black horse with scales in his hands

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The descriptions of the terror unleashed by the It’s Commencement on Moody’s Four Horsemen should sober us, but we should Chicago campus today! We invite not miss a key lesson here: God is in control. you to pray for Moody’s graduate and undergraduate students as The stage is being set for Christ’s return and the they receive their degrees. Let establishment of His kingdom. The same is true on us thank the Lord for His work in a smaller scale in our individual lives. Jesus is the their lives and send them off with gatekeeper of everything that enters our lives. a blessing.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 17 READ REVELATION 6:911

SUNDAY MAY Do not say, “I’ll pay you back for this wrong!” Wait for the LORD, and he will avenge you. 13 Proverbs 20:22

The Martyrs’ Cry A popular saying goes, “I don’t get mad; the wicked. When God works out His I get even.” The desire for payback is plan in the Last Days, some who follow understandable. In its righteous form, it the Lamb will suffer. When the martyrs reflects a longing for justice. When the die, the sinful world loses—not only fifth seal is broken, the martyrs cry from because God will call to account those under the altar: “How long, Sovereign who killed them but also the world Lord, holy and true, until you judge the loses the possibility of blessing from inhabitants of the earth and avenge our their presence. blood?” (v. 10). No one reproves them for this sentiment. Just the opposite— Psalm 116:15 says, “Precious in the sight each one is given a white robe and of the L•–— is the death of his faithful told to wait until the full number of their servants.” If this is true of death in companions have been killed. general, how much more true of those whose lives are taken because of their The appearance of the martyrs in testimony for Jesus Christ? God does heaven reminds us that God’s people not treat the death of the martyrs lightly. are often affected by the collateral In John’s vision they are accorded a damage of divine judgment. This was place of special honor. Their location certainly true in the Old Testament. under the altar signals the fact that God When a famine came because of regards their death as a kind of offering. Israel’s sin, the godly went hungry along Just as the blood of the sacrifice was with the ungodly. When Israel was taken poured out before God, so too was their into captivity by the Babylonians, the blood shed. righteous were carried off along with

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Are you struggling with an injustice done to you The lives of Moody students and because of your testimony for Christ? Maybe it was alumni reflect the love for God a slight or a ruptured relationship. Perhaps it was often instilled by their parents. On this Mother’s Day, join us in the loss of professional opportunities or a public prayer to honor all the mothers humiliation, or worse. Pray and put the matter in in the Moody family and ask God’s hands. He does not take the matter lightly. that God would encourage and He sees, He cares, and He will have the victory. strengthen them.

18 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 6:1217

MONDAY Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. MAY Colossians 3:6 14

Day of Wrath Giuseppe Verdi’s great work Messa da a strong wind” (v. 13). The heavens Requiem is a brooding memorial to a recede and every mountain and poet and writer whom Verdi admired. island is shaken. All creation is One of its most famous sections is coming undone. the “Dies Irae,” which means “Day of Wrath.” During this section trumpets Is this symbolic language or a surround the stage, signifying the description of real events? Some call to judgment, and the chorus try to link this description to natural almost shouts: “Day of wrath, that or human causes, perhaps a large day earth will be in ashes. . . .” The asteroid or a nuclear holocaust. The somber tone of Verdi’s work might text suggests that the events are real make contemporary churchgoers but that the cause is uncomfortable. In a culture in which the rather than natural. And those who try church tries hard to make people feel to find a place of refuge will say: “Fall comfortable, the notion of divine wrath on us and hide us from the face of seems out of place. him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great God’s wrath is the focus of the sixth day of their wrath has come, and who seal. As the Lamb breaks the seal, a can withstand it?” This is only the series of cataclysmic events unfold. beginning. The events that will soon A great earthquake rumbles. The sun follow will prove the truth of Hebrews turns black and the moon turns red. 10:31: “It is a dreadful thing to fall into Stars fall from the sky “as figs drop the hands of the living God.” from a fig tree when shaken by

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The day of wrath will be dreadful for those who Please include in your prayers have rejected God’s grace. But those who know James Hickman in Records Jesus as Savior can stand confidently when final Management. Ask for the Lord’s help as he carries out a wide judgment comes, because Christ bore God’s wrath range of responsibilities in for them. If you have never trusted in Jesus, repent Moody’s archives, safeguarding of your sin and accept His work on your behalf. Moody Bible Institute’s history. You can have the confidence of salvation in Him.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 19 QUESTION AND ANSWER by Eric C. Redmond, Assistant Professor of Bible

In Matthew 18:17, Jesus says person. A refusal to acknowledge to treat church members who offence allows one to stay in sin— Q are in sin in the same way as and both the offense and the lack of tax collectors, but a few verses later seeking reconciliation are . Once Jesus says to forgive people 77 times. the offender rejects the church body’s Are we supposed to forgive or shun appeal to be reconciled, the offender people in sin? is endangering the entire church body. That is, through his failure to admit fault In Matthew 18, Jesus tells the and seek forgiveness at the request Parable of the Unmerciful of the church, the offender is not A Servant to demonstrate what recognizing the holiness of the church forgiveness looks like: a complete body, the authority of its leadership, its releasing from a debt that does not operation through its members’ love and demand repayment for the wrong done. humility, or its witness in the world. The first servant experiences relief from debts owed to the king without losing The offending person who is unwilling his family or being imprisoned. Later, to reconcile is not behaving like a however, the king condemns him Christian and should be treated like for demanding payment from the a tax collector—that is, removed from second servant. the church body. Although any such action is painful to the full local body of But the of relationship believers, it is the righteous thing to do does require an acknowledgment of in obedience to our Lord. wrongdoing by the offending party. You can release someone from a debt, When a Christian dies, refusing to require repayment, and yet 2 Corinthians 5:8 says that refuse to restore the person to a status Q when we are “away from the of trusted friend. If a Christian (i.e., body” we are then “at home with the “brother,” v. 15) commits an act of offense Lord.” When an unbeliever dies, does toward another believer and refuses to he go directly to hell? admit fault, seek forgiveness, and make restitution, the church should enter the After a person dies, he faces conflict between the two parties. judgment (Heb. 9:27). Jesus A said, “Whoever in the The restorative process involving two Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects or three witnesses and the church body the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath seeks the holiness of the offending remains on them” (John 3:36). All verses

20 TODAY IN THE WORD Forgiveness from the heart is a complete releasing from a debt that does not demand repayment for the wrong done.

on the eternal, conscious punishment of redemption as both the recipients and of people in hell assume the person the mediators to the peoples of the earth who left this world continues in some (Gen. 12:3; 26:4; 28:14). form of existence in the age to come—a form that can feel torment eternally The Lord makes promises to Israel that (Mark. 9:48; Rev. 14:11). There is no He has sworn to uphold: “Theirs . . . are intermediary step between departure the promises . . . and from them is traced from this world as an unbeliever and the human ancestry of the Messiah” punishment in hell. The only hope is for (Rom. 9:4–5; see also Heb. 6:13–14). The an unbeliever to respond in faith to the Lord gave stewardship of His word of gospel in this present life. promise to Israel, and when the gospel is preached, the Lord demonstrates His If the Lord does not show faithfulness to keep His promises to partiality, why does the Israel by coming to them first. Q gospel go to the Jew first then to the Greek? If I had a plate of cookies on which all of the cookies were of equal quality and Scripture says that there is no taste, I could offer to share the plate with partiality with God (Psalm 82; my children. If I hold out the plate to the A Prov. 28:21; Luke 20:21; Acts youngest first, I am not demonstrating 10:34; Rom. 2:11). Therefore, we can partiality; I only am prioritizing her as conclude that the idea of the gospel the youngest child. Each child still has going to the descendants of Israel the offer of a cookie from the plate, and first cannot communicate the idea of each child has the offer of a cookie of partiality. Instead, the movement of the the same quality and taste. gospel from the Jews to the Gentiles should be understood as priority rather When one preaches the death and than partiality. resurrection of Christ to Gentiles, they receive the same gospel that Israel The Lord’s dealings with humanity to has been offered. As the Gospels and provide redemption from sin began in the book of Acts recount, the initial Genesis 3:15 and advanced in Genesis preaching of the gospel went to Jewish 12 through the line of and his people. The Lord is faithful to Israel and descendants. He narrows this line to His promises to them are true, and both Isaac over and Jacob over Esau. Jews and Gentiles have equal access The descendants of Jacob—Israel— to Christ through the gospel by faith become the stewards of the promise (Gal. 3:14; Rom. 3:30).

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 21 READ REVELATION 7:117

TUESDAY MAY God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his.” 15 2 Timothy 2:19

Sealed by God Important documents such as marriage the twelve tribes of Israel are on earth, licenses or certain contracts often this much larger multitude appears in have a seal on them. Some are fancy; heaven. “These are they who have others are plain. The important thing is come out of the great tribulation; they not what the seal looks like but what it have washed their robes and made does. A seal is an authenticating mark them white in the blood of the Lamb” that validates the document. (v. 14). This is the group of Gentiles who will be saved during the pouring out of At the end of Revelation 6, those who God’s wrath described in the chapters realized that the time of God’s wrath that follow. had begun asked, “Who can withstand it?” Today’s chapter provides the The promises of verses 16 and 17 answer: only those marked by God as probably allude to some of the His. This section is a pause or interlude sufferings they experienced during this that focuses on two important groups. period of tribulation, including hunger, One group is made up of 144,000 thirst, and scorching heat. The text does people drawn from the twelve tribes not say why they suddenly appear in of Israel (see Rom. 11:25–26). heaven at this point, but the fact that they came “out of” tribulation seems Another larger multitude is “from every to imply that they are another company nation, tribe, people and language, of martyrs. standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (v. 9). While the 144,000 from

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The 144,000 and this innumerable company from Janet Stiven, VP and general every nation, tribe, people, and language share counsel, requests your the same mark. It is the mark of one who was prayers for her team in Legal department: Ryan June, Emmy purchased for God by the blood of Jesus Christ. Koh, Cassandrea Blakely, and You too can have the mark of God’s ownership. It Amber Adames. We ask for God’s is yours as a free gift by faith. Pray now and ask guidance in their service dealing God to make you His through the blood of His Son. with legal matters.

22 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 8:113

May my prayer be set before you like incense; WEDNESDAY may the lifting up of my hands be like MAY the evening sacrifice. Psalm 141:2 16

Creation Groans The Renaissance painter and inventor The first four trumpet judgments are Leonardo da Vinci once observed, directed primarily at creation. They also “Nothing strengthens authority so echo the judgments on Egypt before much as silence.” Silence can be the Exodus. Hail and fire mixed with emphatic. A pause in a sentence blood destroy the earth’s vegetation concentrates our attention on what is (cf. Ex. 9:18–26). An object “like a huge said next. In the same way, the silence mountain, all ablaze” falls into the seas, that follows the opening of the seventh destroying a third of all life there (v. 8). seal is a signal that what is about to A great “star” falls from the sky and take place is especially significant. embitters a third of the planet’s water What comes next? Not thunder or supply (vv. 10–11). Sun, moon, and stars lightning, but “the prayers of all God’s are also affected so that their light is people” (v. 3). Our prayers may only be diminished (v. 12). whispers, but they have the potential to harness the power of heaven. Are these natural or supernatural events? It seems likely that they could The fact that the censer used to offer involve both. They are ecological the prayers of God’s people is the disasters in the sense that they have same one that initiates the judgments a devastating effect on the planet and of the seven trumpets implies a its inhabitants. But they are directed by connection. Could it be that these God and initiated by His agents. In this seven judgments are a response to way creation is both affected by the those prayers? These judgments follow consequences of humanity’s sin and those of the seven seals and increase participates in its judgment. Yet it all in intensity. begins with prayer.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Do you doubt the power of prayer? It is true that Please commit to prayer Moody’s we cannot manipulate God with our words. But in Media ministries—Moody Radio some mysterious way the answers to our prayers and Moody Publishers, headed by senior vice president Greg are woven into the outworking of God’s plan. Notice Thornton. Their work of sharing how many times the prayers of God’s people have the Christian message reaches already appeared in the narrative of Revelation. thousands of homes in the U.S. What do you need to pray about today? and across the world.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 23 READ REVELATION 9:121

THURSDAY The thief comes only to steal and kill MAY and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. 17 John 10:10

The Destroyer and His Army “There are two equal and opposite feed on crops, these creatures will errors into which our race can fall about attack humans and torment them the devils,” C. S. Lewis wrote. “One is to for five months. They are directed disbelieve in their existence. The other by or Apollyon, whose is to believe, and to feel an excessive name means “Destroyer.” In the Old and unhealthy interest in them. They Testament, Abaddon was the place themselves are equally pleased by of the dead. The devil uses the fear both errors and hail a materialist or a of death to enslave us (Heb. 2:14), but magician with the same delight.” Jesus has broken this power by His own death. The judgments of the fifth trumpet confirm the existence of fallen angels. At the sixth trumpet, a voice coming An angel figuratively described as a star from the four horns of the golden falls to earth and releases a demonic altar calls for the release of “the four host from the Abyss. Who gave him the angels who are bound at the great river key? Since the Abyss seems to be a Euphrates” (v. 14). The fact that they are prison, we can assume that his authority “bound” suggests that they are fallen to release them comes from God. angels who bring with them a mounted When Jesus cast the demon out of the army whose purpose is to kill a third of man who lived among the tombs, they mankind (v. 18). Surprisingly those who begged Him not to send them into the survive are not fazed by any of this. Abyss (see Luke 8:31). They refuse to repent from their sin.

The power of satanic forces is on display. Unlike ordinary locusts that

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Satan has only one ambition: to destroy. But Keeping Moody’s media ministries his power is limited. He is not God’s equal, and in our prayers, please add Moody he is subject to God’s greater plan. In the end Radio’s administration to your list—Doug Hastings, Elsa Mazón, he is fighting a losing battle. If you doubt that, Lucrecia Lopez, Maureen Ber, and skip ahead and see how the story ends! If you Tinakka Johnson—a dedicated are suffering from his attacks of doubt or fear, team headed by Collin Lambert, remember that Jesus will win the victory. VP of Moody Radio.

24 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 10:111

We declare God’s wisdom, a mystery FRIDAY that has been hidden and that God destined MAY for our glory before time began. 1 Corinthians 2:7 18

The Wait Is Over Sometimes it feels as if we spend most the establishment of Christ’s kingdom, of our lives waiting. Couples engaged the final judgment, and the creation of to be married mark the months until a new heavens and earth. the wedding. Workers wait for the weekend. Schoolchildren long for Notice that even though the angel summer vacation—and once it has declares that there will be no more begun, parents tick off the days until delay, things must still take place they can send them back to school. before the mystery of God is finally accomplished. The angel is not Heaven experiences the same sense being contradictory. His declaration of expectation. Prior to the sounding is both an indication that the seventh of the seventh trumpet a mighty trumpet is the beginning of the end angel announces, “There will be no and a reflection of the certainty of the more delay! But in the days when the outcome. It is similar to the victory seventh angel is about to sound his cry that Jesus uttered from the cross trumpet, the mystery of God will be when He declared, “It is finished” accomplished, just as he announced (John 19:30). to his servants the prophets” (vv. 6–7). The term mystery does not refer to a We find the same perspective in Reve- puzzle but rather to something that lation 13:8, which describes Jesus as had been hidden and is now revealed. “the Lamb slain from the creation of the The seventh trumpet portends the world.” From God’s perspective, the fulfillment of all that God promised. victory is already complete. We are just It will usher in the final events of the catching up in time to what God has tribulation period, which culminate in already accomplished in purpose.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Are you tired of waiting for God? Understandably, Would you include in your those bound by time would be anxious to see prayers Moody Radio’s WGNB God’s purpose unfold. We often say, “How long, station? It is managed and operated from studios in O Lord?” Follow the example of the psalmist and Zeeland, Mich., by a local Moody ask. God is neither surprised nor put off by our Radio team of professional struggle to wait. He welcomes our hurting hearts broadcasters: Scott Curtis, Jack and offers comfort while we wait on Him. Haveman, and Perry La Haie.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 25 READ REVELATION 11:119

SATURDAY The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven MAY against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness. 19 Romans 1:18

The Power of an Unrepentant Heart After terror attacks on September 11, approach is to take the text at face value. church attendance spiked. “People These two unnamed prophets bear thought this type of crisis of national witness in Jerusalem, perform , significance would lead people to be and are killed by the beast who comes more religious, and it did,” Mark Chaves, up from the abyss. Their martyrdom a professor of sociology at Duke sparks a celebration; people gloat over University, observed. “But it was very their deaths and send one another short-lived. There was a blip in church presents. The subsequent resurrection attendance and then it went back to of these two prophets after three-and-a- normal.” A single event doesn’t usually half days will be accompanied by a great affect a society’s religious practice, earthquake that will destroy a tenth of and today’s passage is evidence the city and kill seven thousand people. that multiple events may not make a Those who survive will “give glory to the difference, either. God of heaven” (v. 13).

The temple in our passage today most The stage is set for the final act of likely refers to a reconstructed temple. this redemptive drama. It begins The act of measuring the temple is with the sounding of the seventh clearly symbolic and seems to indicate trumpet, announcing the arrival of something about the nature of God’s the Messiah’s kingdom (v. 18). In an unfolding plan. Clearly events are antiphonal response, the temple in following a divinely set timetable. heaven opens to display the Ark of the Covenant, along with flashes of Scholars are divided about the identity of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, the two witnesses. The most reasonable an earthquake, and a severe hailstorm.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Scripture says that one day every knee will bow Natoshia Portis in Catering will be before the Lord (Phil. 2:10). Will you bow out of grateful for your prayers today. love and praise, or will it take the power of God’s Ask for God’s favor and help for Natoshia and her student helpers judgment to force your knee to bend? Accept His in their gracious and appreciated invitation to follow Him, and receive the blessing service in the hospitality ministry of His promise to be with you until the end of the on Moody’s Chicago campus. age (Matt. 28:20).

26 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 12:117

SUNDAY He replied, MAY “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.” Luke 10:18 20

War in Heaven After the August 1945 surrender of 12, attempts to destroy the child but is Japan, which ended World War II, a thwarted. The child is “snatched up to number of Japanese soldiers refused God and to his throne” and the woman to stop fighting. Some did not believe is given a place of protection (vv. 5–6). that the news of the surrender was accurate. Others simply refused to The battle depicts Satan’s last-ditch accept it. The last known holdout did attempt to take heaven by force not surrender until 1974. (vv. 7–9). His defeat at the hands of Michael and his angels illustrates his In the same way, the announcement of weakness. Satan knows what this the kingdom in the previous chapter defeat means (v. 12). Victory is beyond does not end hostilities. The struggle reach, and his doom is imminent. He continues as a great sign appears and will attempt to vent his anger upon a battle ensues. Israel. When his efforts to do so are thwarted, he will turn his attention to The “woman clothed with the sun, “the rest of her offspring—those who with the moon under her feet and a keep God’s commands and hold fast crown of twelve stars on her head” their testimony about Jesus” (v. 17). (v. 1) is likely a sign of Israel, and the child would be Jesus—Israel’s These three descriptions use symbolic promised Messiah. The woman is language to link historical events with followed by “an enormous red dragon those that are yet to come. But the with seven heads and ten horns and verdict is already in—and Satan himself seven crowns on its heads” (v. 3). The knows it. dragon, identified as the devil in verse

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US God’s faithfulness in the past tells us what to expect Moody’s Customer Service from Him in the future. If you keep a spiritual journal representatives answer or prayer record, review past entries to see how hundreds of people who call us every day. We thank God today God has answered prayer and provided for you. in prayer for their service that When you face trials and uncertainties, hold on to demonstrates God’s love and the truth that God has worked in your past and He Christlike attitude. will be faithful in your future.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 27 READ REVELATION 13:118

MONDAY As you have heard that the antichrist is coming, MAY even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour. 21 1 John 2:18

Satan’s Menagerie Many people know some Bible facts. by Satan in a vain attempt to thwart His For instance, nearly everyone knows final victory. This beast will act as a false that Jesus said, “Judge not” (Matt. 7:1). Christ. He will attempt to establish his Many have heard of the Antichrist and own kingdom and will be worshiped by know that his number is 666—although “all whose names have not been written they probably didn’t learn this from in the Lamb’s book of life” (v. 8). He will the Bible but got it from a movie. even experience a kind of resurrection They might be surprised to learn that by bearing the marks of a fatal wound the Antichrist appears in the book of that has been healed (vv. 3, 12). Revelation as a beast. Another beast comes “out of the earth” Revelation 13 describes two beasts. (v. 11). The first beast is a false Christ, The first comes out of the sea with ten and this beast is a false lamb. He looks horns, seven heads, and ten crowns like a lamb but speaks like a dragon. on its horns. Each of its heads bears The second beast will exercise authority a blasphemous name (v. 1). It seems on behalf of the first beast, perform unlikely that this is a literal, physical miracles, and will set up an image of description. John’s depiction of the the first beast to be worshiped. He will beast hearkens back to the vision of demand that all the inhabitants of the Daniel 7:3–8 where this kind of imagery earth receive a mark on their forehead is used to speak of rulers. or hands.

If Jesus is the King of kings, the first beast is the enemy of enemies used

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The pattern of these two beasts reflects Satan’s Pastors’ Conference starts today familiar strategy. He is a counterfeiter by nature. on our campus in Chicago. Our In place of God’s promises, he substitutes . In prayer is that the Holy Spirit would touch the heart of every place of God’s blessings, he offers empty boasts participant, would comfort and (see Gen. 3:4; Matt. 4:9). Follow the example of strengthen them, and build up Jesus and immerse yourself in the truth of God’s their faith. Word (see Matt. 4:1–11).

28 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 14:120

TUESDAY I have installed my king on Zion, MAY my holy mountain. Psalm 2:6 22

The Lamb’s Victory Before software, newspapers set their had “remained virgins” has puzzled type manually, reserving the largest many (v. 4). It could mean that they type for momentous events such as the deliberately refrained from marriage outbreak of war. This style was called (see 1 Cor. 7:25–40). But the language the “Second Coming” typeface. of defilement makes this unlikely. Instead, this description seems to The momentous event depicted in emphasize that they are wholly today’s passage makes all others pale devoted to the Lamb. in comparison. Christ is standing on Mount Zion with the 144,000 who had Three angel figures appear, each with been sealed in Revelation 7. The aim an important announcement. The first of this vision is not to describe the announces a message called “the manner of Christ’s return but rather to eternal gospel” (vv. 6–7): the good emphasize its certainty. His appearance news that the hour of judgment has with the 144,000 seems rather like an come. The second angel brings a invasion. Commentator John Walvoord terse declaration of Babylon’s fall (v. explains, “It is preferable to see this as a 8). Babylon is the capital of all who prophetic vision of the ultimate triumph oppose God and the antithesis of God’s of the Lamb following His second holy city, Jerusalem. The third angel coming, when He joins the 144,000 announces the impending doom of all on Mount Zion at the beginning of His who worship the beast. They will be millennial reign.” subjected to eternal, conscious torment, forced to “drink the wine of God’s fury, The statement that the 144,000 had not which has been poured full strength into “defiled themselves with women” and the cup of his wrath” (v. 10).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US A note of grace and comfort appears in this Today, we invite you to pray for sobering passage: “Blessed are the dead who die Bryon Poirier, George Brown, and in the Lord from now on” (v. 13). For those who Jamin Baxter from Sponsorship and Underwriting, as they assist belong to Christ, the worst that can happen is our community partners who want also transformed by God into a blessing. Do not to sponsor Moody’s ministries. be afraid. Not even death can separate you from We thank God for these important God’s love and salvation (see Rom. 8:38–39). partnerships.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 29 READ REVELATION 15:116:21

WEDNESDAY MAY God is a righteous judge, a God who displays his wrath every day. 23 Psalm 7:11

The Measure of God’s Wrath Many churches today want to give over the beast by following the Lamb to people a good experience. They want the point of death to break into song. visitors to feel at home. The music is Notice that those who are protected by catchy and the sermon upbeat. This is the blood of Christ are not horrified at understandable—we want visitors to the thought that God’s wrath is about to return and members to stay involved. be completed. But if this is all we care about, we will rarely talk about God’s wrath. The plagues contained in the seven bowls are more extensive versions of Today’s text offers a glimpse of the those from the seven trumpets. (They measure of God’s wrath. Seven angels also echo the plagues visited on Egypt appear with the last seven plagues that in the Exodus.) The beast counters precede the coming of Christ. This is with warfare led by three demonic the judgment of the seventh trumpet spirits who perform signs to persuade and the culmination of the seventh seal. the kings of the earth to take up arms It may help to think of the relationship against the Messiah. between the seventh seal, the seven trumpets, and the seven plagues as When they gather together at Armaged- nested. Like Russian dolls, the seventh don, the stage is set for the final war seal contains the seven trumpets, against the Lamb. It will not last long: it and the seventh trumpet contains the involves a shout, an earthquake, and a angels with the seven bowls of wrath. plague of 100-pound hailstones (vv. 17– 21). Instead of repenting, those afflicted The appearance of the seven angels by this last judgment will curse God. prompts those who have gained victory

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The Bible makes no apologies for God’s wrath (see Please mention while you pray 16:7). It is the just and holy response to those who Donor Resource Management oppose His outpouring of grace and mercy and staff who process donations from Moody’s friends. Today we invite choose instead to follow the lies of Satan. Notice you to encourage Kyella Gilliam, how the angels and martyrs praise God even in the David Kocourek, Amelia Mendez, midst of His judgment, for He remains holy, just, and Patricia Fletcher in prayer. and true (16:5–7).

30 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 17:118

THURSDAY She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, MAY sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark. 1 Peter 5:13 24

New Babylon Filmmakers don’t tell stories with Babylon was also a nickname that words, though dialogue and narration some believers in the New Testament are often included. Film is a visual era used to refer to the city of Rome medium, and one common visual (cf. 1 Peter 5:13). device used by cinematographers is the zoom shot, which offers the viewer Some scholars conclude that Babylon a different perspective. the Great will be both a worldwide religious system and a political empire The chapters we will study today and similar to that of Rome. As a religious tomorrow give us a zoom shot that system, Babylon the Great will blend sheds more light on the judgment spiritual adultery with worldly power. It described in the previous chapter. In will persecute those who follow Christ today’s chapter, John’s camera zooms and put them to death. The chapters out to help us grasp the wickedness we have already studied show that all of those who opposed the Lamb, this will be carried out with the help describing Babylon the Great as a of satanic miracles. For this reason spiritual enemy. Tomorrow’s chapter we can link the Babylon of Revelation examines Babylon as a cultural enemy. 17 to all the false teaching and false that preceded it. It will be the The reference to Babylon is probably culmination of Satan’s enduring effort symbolic rather than geographic. to deceive humanity and destroy Babylon had long opposed God’s God’s people. Many antichrists have people. In 586 Š.‹., the Babylonians already come, indicating the ongoing conquered Judah, sacked Jerusalem, opposition to the Lord (1 John 2:18). In and carried its inhabitants into captivity. the same way, Babylon is already here.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The war against the Lamb is already in . Again, remember before the It has been ever since Eden, where we got our Lord Moody’s Donor Resource first glimpse of the nature of the struggle and its Management employees. Pray that God would give strength eventual outcome. The Lord warned Satan: “I will and joy in the workplace to put enmity between you and the woman, and Ruth Velaer-Wheeler, Samuel between your offspring and hers; he will crush Slennett, Sean Wiedenfeld, your head, and you will strike his heel” (Gen. 3:15). and Sharon Cluff.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 31 READ REVELATION 18:124

FRIDAY MAY Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great! 25 Revelation 18:2

The Great Fall Sociologist Edward T. Hall has called The cultural threat of Babylon is culture “the silent language” that outlined in verses 9 through 20. In controls our lives in unsuspected ways. addition to the spiritual appeal of its Because we are embedded in culture, false teaching, Babylon seduced its we intuit the rules but rarely give adherents through sensuality, pride, them conscious thought. Hall warns, and greed. The cultural tone of Babylon “Culture hides more than it reveals, was glory, luxury, and ease (v. 7). She and strangely enough what it hides, promised to enrich all those who it hides most effectively from its own trafficked with her (vv. 11–14). These participants.” trappings of outward success masked the rottenness at the core of Babylonian One reason Babylon is an appropriate worship and values. Only in her fall will name for the great city in Revelation the true nature of Babylonian religion is because it is a place where God’s and culture become evident to all (v. 2). people live as aliens. Because they are embedded in a culture whose practices The call to “come out” of Babylon are shaped by values opposed to God, is God’s longstanding appeal to His they don’t always see the danger. people. It was issued to Israel and Therefore, they are warned to “come to the church alike (see Isa. 48:20; out of her” (v. 4). This call is directed Jer. 50:8; 51:6–45; 2 Cor. 6:17). In this not only to those who reside there at respect we are always living in Babylon! the time of its fall but also to all the We are always in danger of letting those generations that have come before. values that are opposed to God’s truth press us into their mold.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US We are often too complacent and uncritical about James Spencer, VP and dean of the values of our culture. They should always be Moody Bible Institute, requests tested by the measure of God’s Word. We must your prayers for the students of Moody Aviation who have their pray for wisdom, discernment, and the courage to Commissioning Celebration today. come out from the ungodly worship of greed, self, We praise God for these people and success. Join with others to pray together for whom He has called to His service God’s perspective to be sharpened in your lives. in missionary aviation.

32 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 19:110

I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. SATURDAY I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that MAY I might present you as a pure virgin to him. 2 Corinthians 11:2 26

Invitation to a Wedding Most of us still get so-called snail mail, invited to the wedding supper of the but we probably get a lot less than we Lamb!” (v. 9). Clearly these words are used to. In the last decade the volume addressed to all who read the book of mail delivered by the U.S. Postal of Revelation. In a sense, it is an Service declined by 36 percent. It is invitation from the future that has been presently at a 29-year low. A few things sent to those of us who have not yet are still mailed—including Today in arrived there. the Word! Many people also still send wedding invitations the old-fashioned The multitude says that the bride has way, although this too may be slowly “made herself ready” by arraying changing. herself in “fine linen, bright and clean” (vv. 7–8). “Fine linen” represents the In today’s text, invitations to the Lamb’s righteous acts of God’s holy people, wedding are not sent by the postal and a subtle implication in these words service or Evite. First, the invitation is hints at the relationship between issued audibly by “what sounded like a grace and righteous behavior. On great multitude, like the roar of rushing the one hand, the bride puts on what waters and like loud peals of thunder” has been given to her. On the other (v. 6). The invitation is part of a larger hand, she makes herself ready. The ovation that celebrates the destruction righteousness of the bride is not her of “the great prostitute” Babylon (v. 2). own but is the righteousness of Christ, which comes as a gift and is reflected Next, the Lamb’s wedding invitation in her practice. is put in writing. The angel tells John to write, “Blessed are those who are

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US John falls at the angel’s feet (probably because Today is Commencement on of the message), but the angel is only a “fellow Moody’s Spokane, Wash., campus. servant” and is not worthy of worship (v. 10). In Please pray for students receiving their degrees and certificates, as an age of celebrity preachers and writers, make well as all those in attendance sure to never confuse the messenger with the who will greet Moody’s new message. Don’t ascribe the glory that belongs to graduates—ready to serve Christ God alone to those who merely speak for Him. around the world.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 33 READ REVELATION 19:1121

SUNDAY The lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord MAY Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming. 27 2 Thessalonians 2:8

The Arrival of the King of Kings Many people gather at Christmas or Once Jesus appears, an angel issues Easter to hear a performance of the an invitation to a different kind of oratorio Messiah by George Frideric wedding feast. This one is addressed Handel. A highlight of the piece is the to the birds, pictured like carrion circling “Hallelujah” chorus, which acclaims above the battlefield expecting to feast Jesus as “King of Kings and Lord of on the corpses below: “Come, gather .” Anyone who has heard the work together for the great supper of God, cannot read today’s verses without so that you may eat the flesh of kings, hearing Handel’s resounding music. generals, and the mighty, of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all Now that the invitation has been issued, people, free and slave, great and the bridegroom appears. But He does small” (vv. 17–18). not come to take the hand of His bride but rather to make war on the beast. Like the invitation to the wedding of the He will overthrow him with “the breath Lamb, this invitation is issued before of his mouth” and destroy him “by the final blow falls. Indeed everything the splendor of his coming” (2 Thess. we have read in the past few chapters 2:8). Jesus does not come alone: “The has been prelude to this announcement armies of heaven were following him, of Christ’s victory, the celebration over riding on white horses and dressed Babylon’s fall, and the invitation to the in fine linen, white and clean” (v. 14). Lamb’s wedding. In other words, the Their clothing identifies them as the victory dance is done before the battle redeemed. Did you notice that when has even been fought. Jesus finally comes, His bride is already with Him?

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The enemies of God gather against Christ to no avail. We’d like to extend our prayers The beast and the are thrown into the to the Stewardship department, fiery lake of burning sulfur and their followers are headed by vice president Jim Elliott. Today, we pray for Crystal killed. Notice that no details of the battle are given. Davis-Landrum, Eric Beckman, That is because there were none. Jesus defeats Kirsten Miller, and Lysa Ellis. May them with glory of His presence and His word. What Christ’s love always guide their an honor to be part of His redeemed people! outreach to our donors!

34 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 20:110

When the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, MONDAY you who have followed me will also sit on twelve MAY thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Matthew 19:28 28

The Reign of Christ Musical compositions sometimes have measure intended to keep Satan from a coda, a passage that brings the piece deceiving the nations until the thousand to an end like the final paragraph in years have ended (vv. 2–3). an essay or a story. A musical coda can be short, lasting for only a few Next the first of two major resurrections measures, or it can be much longer. takes place. One is for “those who Some composers, including Beethoven, had been beheaded because of their occasionally employ a “false” coda, a testimony about Jesus and because of passage that seems about to draw to a the word of God” (v. 4). They are given close but then resumes. a resurrection body and will reign with Christ for the thousand years. This is After reading Revelation 20, yester- the fulfillment of God’s promise to day’s text may feel a bit like a false restore the kingdom to Israel through coda. Isn’t the war over? Hasn’t Jesus the reign of the Messiah (Matt. 19:28; been declared the victor? Today’s cf. Acts 1:6–7). passage gives us more details and describes several things that happen After the thousand years, Satan after the victory. reappears to deceive the nations. This is not a setback or accident. Satan will First, Jesus dispatches His primary not escape; he will be released (v. 7). It enemy and the chief instigator of is all part of God’s plan. But this time his all opposition against God. Satan is effort to thwart God’s plan is short-lived. bound in the Abyss for a thousand Satan is thrown into the lake of burning years. As we will soon see, this is not sulfur with the beast and the false Satan’s ultimate doom. It is a temporary prophet. His long rebellion is over.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Even Satan is subject to God’s ultimate plan. When As we continue to pray for all things are against us, God is still working “for Stewardship, please add to your our good” (Rom. 8:28). This text does not deny the list Field Representatives who maintain personal connection with real challenge and difficulties that we encounter, our donors all over the country. and we need not pretend that we do not suffer or Ask the Lord for safety and struggle. But we can still have confidence in God’s protection in their travels and for unshakable plan. encouragement in their work.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 35 READ REVELATION 20:1115

TUESDAY MAY The last enemy to be destroyed is death. 29 1 Corinthians 15:26

The Death of Death Theologian Helmut Thielicke said that It proves how far we have fallen short of death, although common, is unnatural. the righteousness of God (see Rom. 3:23). “This is what the Bible teaches us with The other book is called “the book of life” uncompromising firmness: the death of or “the Lamb’s book of life” (Rev. 21:27). man points to an ultimate disorder; it This is God’s record of acquittal. All those should not be, the dark boundary posts whose names are written in the Lamb’s should not stand between us and the book of life belong to the Lamb. Their sins eternal life of God.” have been covered by His blood.

In today’s passage we read about the In other words, we will either be judged impending death of death itself. Once according to the standard of what we Satan is consigned to the lake of burning have done and be declared guilty, or our sulfur, a second resurrection takes place, judgment will be based on what Christ and with it a judgment. These are the has done for us and we will be acquitted. remaining dead who were not included Only those who are willing to let Christ in the first resurrection, which only stand in their place will escape the included believers. condemnation of the final judgment.

The text uses curious language to After this final judgment, death’s reign describe the basis upon which judgment will be ended. Death was introduced will be made when it speaks of different into the human race when Satan books. First, “The dead were judged tempted Eve, and Adam disobeyed. according to what they had done as With Satan’s consignment to the Lake recorded in the books” (v. 12). Scripture of Fire, death’s reign of terror is ended. warns that this is a condemning record.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Can your name be found in the book of life? It is Today, we focus our prayers if you have trusted in Jesus Christ as your Savior. on Moody’s Health Service You are covered by His blood and will be free from staff: Ann Meyer and Kevin Thomas. We are grateful for the power of Satan and death. If you have trusted their medical expertise, wisdom, Jesus, call out to Him for His grace today. Only and compassion when helping those who are relying on Him for eternal life can Moody’s students and employees. hope to avoid the lake of burning sulfur.

36 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 21:127

WEDNESDAY He who was seated on the throne said, MAY “I am making everything new!” Revelation 21:5 30

A Whole New World In Captain Stormfield’s Visit to Heaven, clichéd, such as a jeweled city whose wrote, “Singing hymns great street is made of gold that shines and waving palm branches through all like transparent glass (v. 21). is pretty when you hear about it in the pulpit, but it’s as poor a way to The problem is not with John’s descrip- put in valuable time as a body could tion but with our imagination. This city contrive.” Twain was wrong on two is real. We will dwell on a solid earth. counts. First, he was wrong about what Yet John is also expressing heavenly occupies those who are in heaven. in earthly terms. He must use Second, he was mistaken about the the imagery of what we already know believer’s location in eternity. to speak of that which we have not yet experienced. Today’s passage describes a whole new creation of a new heavens and Whatever this new heaven and earth a new earth. The world as we know it is, it cannot be less than all that John now will pass away. This might puzzle describes and we can be sure that it is us, and some of the things John says much more. We’re reminded of Paul’s about this new creation are hard to words: “‘What no eye has seen, what fathom. Indeed, it seems to be missing no ear has heard, and what no human some of the aspects of the world that mind has conceived’—the things God many consider beautiful: no sea (v. 1), has prepared for those who love him— no need for the sun or moon (v. 23), these are the things God has revealed and no night (22:5). Other qualities to us by his Spirit” (1 Cor. 2:9–10). seem mythical and maybe even

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Do you sometimes feel unmoved by biblical Please bring before the Lord, descriptions of the life to come? We can view it as you pray, the staff of Moody now only through the darkened glass of our own Publishers headed by Paul Santhouse, VP of Publications. earthly experiences. The reality is far better than Praise God for this ministry that we can know. We can trust that God is preparing spreads faith, hope, and love and a place for us that will meet our every need and edifies the church through the allow us to fellowship with Him (see John 14:1–4). printed word.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 37 READ REVELATION 22:121

THURSDAY I have told you these things, so that in me you MAY may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. 31 John 16:33

Paradise Regained Some people like to skip ahead when new world will be better than Eden, for reading a mystery in order to read God will not merely walk in the garden the rest of the story with the end in “in the cool of the day” (Gen. 3:8). God’s mind. Others like to watch the game dwelling will be with humanity. He will after it is over to anticipate the victory. live with us. We will see His face and Perhaps that is the point of the book His name will be on our foreheads of Revelation. It is not really “history (v. 4; cf. Rev. 21:3). written in advance.” It paints its picture of the end of all things in broad strokes, This book does not promise “pie in but clearly enough for us to know the sky by and by.” The goal of John’s who wins! Revelation is to help God’s people here and now. The book concludes John’s final vision in this book is one with several promises and warnings of Eden restored. But this isn’t the old from Jesus Himself. First is a word of Eden. There is no forbidden tree and no assurance that these things will come serpent. All the ills that plagued us to pass soon (v. 12). Next is a promise in the old world are healed. All that and a warning: “Blessed are those who once divided heaven and earth has wash their robes, that they may have been removed. the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city” (v. 14). This involves more than seeing God’s They can be washed only in the blood will done on earth as it is in heaven. It is of the Lamb. also more than heaven on earth. This

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Revelation closes with a warning not to tamper with As we come to the end of this the words of this book. We may not understand month’s study, let’s thank the Lord them, but we dare not dismiss them. All that is for His Word that reveals to us deep things and awesome events written here will come to pass. We can only respond not only from the past but also as John does—with worship and a longing to see from the future. From all of us at our Savior. “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” Rejoice Today in the Word—thank you for today in God’s promise for your future. praying and studying with us!

38 TODAY IN THE WORD Questions and Answers from Today in the Word

Celebrate 30 years of Today in the Word with this compilation from the popular “Question and Answer” column. Get biblical answers and sound advice from trusted Today in the Word contributors.

Request Your Give a gift of any amount to Today in the Word using the reply card in this issue. Request your copy of Do Angels Copy Today! Really Have Wings? Thank you for your ministry partnership! Where do you turn when you have questions about God and you’re searching for a deeper understanding of the Bible or the Christian life? Dr. Michael Rydelnik provides answers straight from Scripture and brings additional historical context from his and pastoral experience.

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