Understanding the Book of Revelation for This Generation: Revealing the Purpose, Plan, and Timing for the Soon Coming “Day of the Lord”

By Earl B. Schrock

Attempting to understand and interpret Bible prophecy has been the goal of Bible students from every generation since the prophecies were first written, read, and made public. Each succeeding generation interpreted Bible prophecy with the knowledge and mindset they possessed. Each generation, from the time the book of Revelation became available to the public, attempted to make each prophecy personal, applying it to themselves for the day in which they lived and experienced, believing it applied to them “living in the last days”.

We all have absorbed, accepted, and have believed what we have been taught from those living in the generation before us. Many people today are satisfied with the past interpretations and understandings of Bible prophecy which they learned from others and have no interest in seeking a possible better conclusion or prophetic interpretation. But what about this generation? Should we be content abiding beneath the understanding of the people which lived generations before us? Unless a person sets aside preconceived ideas of Bible prophecy, then what they have been taught, by those who were taught by others, will continue to believe and teach the same truth and errors to future generations. We need to study the Bible for ourselves to be sure what we believe is the truth as per the Bible, as it applies to our generation. The timely day in which we live does not allow us to just accept the past opinion of others.

“Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, O Jacob. Selah.” Psalm 24:3-6 KJV

BIBLE PROPHECY: IT’S ALL ABOUT WORSHIP


Earl B. Schrock

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Oct 27, 2022
• ISBN: 9781669852728

Earl B. Schrock

Earl Schrock is a 1979 theology major graduate of Southern Missionary College. He has enjoyed writing, studying, teaching, and learning about the Bible, especially Bible prophecy for many years.

Book preview

Copyright © 2022 by Earl B. Schrock.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

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Rev. date: 10/27/2022

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AVAILABLE IN SPANISH: DISPONIBLE EN ESPAÑOL

Entendiendo el Libro de Apocalipsis para esta Generación

Please take the time to pray

for God’s guidance as you seek His truth as revealed in the

Holy Bible.

KJV English Scripture references are taken from the King James

Version of the Bible. The King James Version is in public domain.

RVR Spanish Scripture references are from the Reina Valera 1960.

The Reina-Valera is in the public domain.

Las referencias de las Escrituras en español de RVR son de la

Reina Valera 1960. La Reina-Valera es de dominio público.

Special recognition is given to the website https://www.biblestudytools.com/

Bible Study Tools for the access they provide to the Reina-Valera 1960 Bible.

Se otorga un reconocimiento especial al sitio web https://

www.biblestudytools.com/ herramientas de Estudio bíblico

por el acceso que brindan a la Biblia Reina-Valera 1960

The Spanish rendering of this little book is a direct translation of

the English using the free Google online translation application.

La versión en español de este librito es una traducción directa del inglés

utilizando la aplicación gratuita de traducción en línea de Google.

Special mention and gratitude to http://referencebible.org/

for their Biblos.com Bible search and information website

in assisting me greatly with searching the Scriptures.

And also

The Strongest Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible

Copyright 2001 by Zondervan

Check out Prophecy Presentation YouTube videos by Earl Schrock:

1. Chapter by chapter discussion on the book of Daniel

2. The Book of Revelation Explained (abridged)

Contact Information

Earl B. Schrock, P.O. Box 2302, Thomasville, NC 27361

[e-mail]

Suggested on line Bible Study site

http://studies.itiswritten.com/discover/

Earl Benjamin Schrock is a 1969 graduate

of Pioneer Valley Academy

and a 1979 Theology Major graduate of

Southern Missionary College (SAU)

Since prophecy interpretation is an art and not a science the

author retains the right to change or amend any and all ideas of

his Bible interpretations as directed by the Holy Spirit of God.

The information, opinion, interpretation and ideas in this booklet are independently that of the author. None of this little book in intended to reflect the teachings of any particular denomination, faith, or religious organization. Future adjustments, if any, are reserved by the Author as the Holy Spirit leads.

La información, opinión, interpretación e ideas contenidas en este folleto son independientemente del autor. Ninguno de este pequeño libro tiene la intención de reflejar las enseñanzas de ninguna denominación, fe u organización religiosa en particular. Los ajustes futuros, si los hay, están reservados por el Autor según lo dirija el Espíritu Santo.

Reading this little book through one time will not cement the information you need to understand and to teach the material being discussed. Please take your time absorbing the content of this little book, taking notes, and return to read it as often as desired to understand and teach the prophetic concepts revealed within as they apply to this generation.

Leer este pequeño libro una sola vez no consolidará la información que necesita para comprender y enseñar el material que se está discutiendo. Tómese su tiempo para absorber el contenido de este pequeño libro, tomar notas y volver a leerlo con la frecuencia que desee, para comprender y enseñar los conceptos proféticos revelados en el interior según se apliquen a esta generación.

THESIS SENTENCE:

THE ENTIRE BOOK OF REVELATION IS A SINGLE LETTER WRITTEN IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER TO AND FOR THE WORLD’S LAST GENERATION TO PREPARE THEM FOR THE END TIME EVENTS LEADING UP TO AND BEYOND THE SEVEN-YEAR TRIBULATION JUDGMENT AND THE SECOND COMING OF JESUS.

The following picture is of the book:

"Understanding the Book of Daniel for This Generation"

It is the companion book to

this book.

It can be purchased from multiple online book vendors.

Book%20of%20Daniel-1.jpg

To understand the book of Revelation a person must first be

familiar with the messages and the intent of the Book of Daniel.

CONTENTS

Introduction

Is a seven-year tribulation revealed in scripture?

Understanding Dual Application

Revelation Chapter One

Revelation Chapter Two

Revelation Chapter Three

Revelation Chapter Four

Revelation Chapter Five

Revelation Chapter Six

Revelation Chapter Seven

Revelation Chapter Eight

Revelation Chapter Nine

Revelation Chapter Ten

Revelation Chapter Eleven

Revelation Chapter Twelve

Revelation Chapter Thirteen

Revelation Chapter Fourteen

Revelation Chapter Fifteen

Revelation Chapter Sixteen

Revelation Chapter Seventeen

Revelation Chapter Eighteen

Revelation Chapter Nineteen

Revelation Chapter Twenty

Revelation Chapter Twenty-One

Revelation Chapter Twenty-Two

Revelation’s Story

An End Time Admonition from the Apostle Peter

Seven Seals, Trumpets, Angels, Laments and Thunders

Revelation’s time periods

The Feast Days of Leviticus Twenty-Three

The Vinegar at the Cross of Calvary

Bible doctrines prerequisite to understanding the book of Revelation

Conclusion to the Book

INTRODUCTION

BIBLE PROPHECY: IT’S ALL ABOUT WORSHIP

Attempting to understand and interpret Bible prophecy, including the Book of Revelation, has been the goal of Bible students from every generation since the prophecies were first written, read, and made public. Each succeeding generation interpreted Bible prophecy with the knowledge and mindset they possessed. Each generation, from the time the book of Revelation became available to the public, attempted to make each prophecy personal, applying it to themselves for the day in which they lived and experienced, believing it applied to them living in the last days.

We all have absorbed, accepted, and have believed what we have been taught from those living in the generation before us. Many people today are satisfied with the past interpretations and understandings of Bible prophecy which they learned from others and have no interest in seeking a possible better conclusion or prophetic interpretation. But what about this generation? Should we be content abiding beneath the understanding of the people which lived generations before us? Unless a person sets aside preconceived ideas of Bible prophecy, then what they have been taught, by those who were taught by others, will continue to believe and teach the same truth and errors to future generations. We need to study the Bible for ourselves to be sure what we believe is the truth as per the Bible, as it applies to our generation. The timely day in which we live does not allow us to just accept the past opinion of others.

"Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, O Jacob. Selah." Psalm 24:3-6

Each of us are the product of our environment. We only know what we have been taught or gleaned for ourselves from others and from the influences around us. We are influenced by the leaders in our lives; like parents, teachers, pastors, and other people. We are influenced by the books we read, the television and movies we watch, the internet we visit, the radio stations we listen to, as well as magazines we read, video games, etc. We are influenced by our friends and sometimes by our enemies, whether by direct or indirect communication or casual conversation. But to properly study and understand the Bible, we must set aside all we know and understand, to approach the Bible with an open mind, under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. We must understand the Bible is the only source of truth we can rely on. Sola Scriptura: The Bible only. We must be able to defend the Bible by the Bible and no other extra-biblical material.

We must interpret the Bible for ourselves as we are led by the indwelling Holy Spirit which will lead us into all truth:

"I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you." John 15:12-15.

"Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come." John 16:13

To be a vessel of God, an open mind and receptive heart is necessary, as we are molded like clay in His hands through His Word. Avoiding new information or improved guidance is called being hard-headed. Being hard headed promotes hard heartedness.

"But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand." Isaiah 64:8.

Sometimes we must challenge ourselves and our Bible understanding. We can challenge our own ideas of Bible prophecy interpretation by considering an optional view. Once an optional view of Bible prophecy interpretation has been considered, then each person has the choice to continue with their original interpretation or amend their way of understanding Bible prophecy, in light of the current time in which they live.

Please do not close this little book at any point because it does not flow with your own preconceived ideas. Test your concepts with this little book and with the Word of God. Let it be said of you that was said concerning the Berean’s in Paul’s day in Acts 17:11:

These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

All scripture in this little book is quoted from the King James Version of the Bible because the author believes it’s the most accurate translation when it comes to Bible prophecy, with the least amount of human preconceived ideas mixed in. It’s advised and prudent for you to also read the book of Revelation from the Bible of your choice for each chapter being represented as you read through this little book.

As a preamble to appreciating the book of Revelation, the book of Daniel must be correctly understood first. It’s almost impossible to rightly and correctly fathom the book of Revelation without first understanding the book of Daniel.

Please read the book, Understanding the Book of Daniel for this Generation by Earl Schrock, available online, to get a better foundation for reading this book on Revelation.

BIBLE PROPHECY IS ALL ABOUT WORSHIP

Each generation which have read and studied the books of Daniel and Revelation have been blessed in one way or another, as they applied the life lessons gleaned from their study, and made practical application with them. But in reality, the books of Daniel and Revelation are actually more important and more applicable to the last generation of this world’s history than to any other generation. It’s with the last generation that both the books of Daniel and Revelation will have their complete and final fulfillment.

The book of Daniel reveals how worship to the true God of heaven has been diluted and polluted by pagan influences from the days of Daniel to our day. The book of Revelation reveals the ultimate result of that pollution as revealed in the actions of human beings during the end times when sin reveals its ultimate destructive power as the pure kingdom of God is destroyed and trampled under the feet of organized religion.

The great controversy on this planet from week one, when God created this world and all that it contains, was to answer the question of who deserves the right of mankind’s worship and praise. God clearly claims the right to be worshipped as our Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. Yet Satan says God is unfair and if people were to worship him, instead of the Creator, he would make a better leader with a better life for all those which follow him (Isaiah 14:12-14). Of course history, since the fall of Adam and Eve, has proven over and over again that Satan is a liar and a murderer (John 8:44), and that our Creator God is worthy (Revelation 4:11) of all the worship we can muster.

"How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High." Isaiah 14:12-14.

"Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it." John 8:44.

Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things; by Your will they exist and came to be. Revelation 4:11.

In His Holy Bible God clearly reveals His character and the worship which He requires from the people which accept Him as Lord and Master of their lives. Satan’s goal is to steal that worship from God and have it directed toward himself by infiltrating the true Bible worship of God and mixing it with false information and pagan practices. God’s last day servants will want to know Him and will search the scriptures daily to meet that goal and to learn the proper way of worshipping their Creator. The goals of God’s end time servants are to correctly interpret and understand Bible prophecy, which will directly affect every living human being during the time of the end, and to seek to understand the Creator God and His ways of worship.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13.

The entire book of Revelation is written in figurative or symbolic language, except for a few literal factual parts, listed in the introduction and the conclusion. In the introduction in chapter one, John is actually a real literal person and he is actually on the Island of Patmos, which is very close to the seven literal communities listed in verse eleven. The literal sections of the conclusion are that Jesus is who He says He is and He is literally coming back to this planet in two future advents which are separated by a literal 1000 years of literal time.

QUESTION: Why is the book of Revelation written in figurative or symbolic language?

ANSWER: Though the book of Revelation is a revealing of information, that disclosed information can only be fully realized at the "appointed time" of the last days, for a number of reasons. (1) The information in Revelation is directed at the end time saints or servants of God (Revelation 1:1; 22:6) for them to realize, understand, and teach. (2) God did not want the enemy to be aware of all that is coming. Satan is an expert at counterfeit. If he were aware of everything God has planned, he would do his best to subvert or counter God’s plans. Symbolism helps to prevent that. (3) End time events are hidden from the generations of God’s people which the information in the Book of Revelation does not affect. God doesn’t do anything to discourage His people. He told the disciples, there are some things he can’t tell them because they would not be able to receive it (John 16:12). (4) God reveals His mysteries, at His time, in His way, for His reasons (Amos 3:7).

"The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John." Revelation 1:1.

"And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done." Revelation 22:6.

I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.

John 16:12.

Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets. Amos 3:7.

The symbolic language of the Bible can only be interpreted or understood from the Bible and the Bible only. History books, newspapers, magazines, internet, or any other extra Biblical source cannot reveal the mysteries of God’s symbolic language in prophecy.

"We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost."

2 Peter 1:19-21.

This little book, UNDERSTANDING THE BOOK OF REVELATION FOR THIS GENERATION does not reveal everything there is to understand and know in the Bible concerning the Book of Revelation and its relationship to this generation. There are many things this author does not know and/or is unaware of, which others can explain in their own way, from what they know or have garnered in their personal walk with God. It’s the author’s hope that this little book will open up all the avenues possible to further explain the intent of the book of Revelation and the eternal love of God.

With that understanding, it’s the author’s desire, in presenting this little book, that the items mentioned within will open the floodgates of knowledge, reasoning, and enlightenment of other Bible students from around the world. There are many better educated and more qualified men and women in this world, from many nations, tongues, and people which can Biblically add to what is being revealed herein. The request is that other more skilled individuals will take the time to reveal that deeper and broader information, found in the 66 book Holy Bible, and share that information, in any and every way possible, to a world hungering and thirsting after righteousness.

"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." Matthew 5:6.

It’s virtually impossible to correctly understand all the information in the book of Revelation without first understanding the book of Daniel. Every building built on a strong foundation can weather the storm, and every building built on a weak foundation will eventually crumble (Matthew 7:24-27). It is absolutely necessary to build the book of Revelation on the groundwork established by the book of Daniel.

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. Matthew 7:24-27.

I encourage you to first read the book Understanding the Book of Daniel for this Generation by Earl Schrock, before reading this little book on Revelation.

As stated above, It’s impossible to understand everything the book of Revelation contains without being familiar with the messages from the book of Daniel. But there is more. Keeping an eye on the total plan of salvation, from beginning to end, also helps the Bible student of prophecy stay on track with the understanding and reasoning of prophecy, in preparing a people ready to meet the Lord when He comes in the clouds of glory.

And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. Luke 1:16,17

The fall of mankind and God’s plan of salvation

God had originally created a perfect universe filled with perfect created beings. One of those perfect beings, with the freedom of choice, was "a cherub which covered" referring to the angel which was positioned to stand by the Fathers throne and represent Him to the rest of the created world. That being, called Lucifer in Isaiah 14:12, became proud and he desired the praise God received. He wanted God’s position. In the process of time, this proud angel rebelled against God (Isaiah 14:12-15).

"How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell (sheol), to the sides of the pit. Isaiah 14:12-15.

(The word hell does not belong in the Bible. It’s a corruption of the Word of God. The word sheol, Strong’s number 7585, simply means a place for the dead, like the grave.)

When Satan rebelled God had three choices. (1) He could destroy the rebellious angel. (2) He could put him in a prison cell and secure him, far away from the other created beings. Or (3) he could let him have controlled free reign to reveal to the rest of creation the results of disobedience and rebellion.

God chose number (3) three. If God chose number one (1) and destroyed Lucifer, the angels and all creation would no longer serve God out of love, but out of fear. God did not want that. (2) A God of love and compassion could not abandon him to some distant isolated cell to pass eternal ages in solitude; that would be cruel and totally contrary to the love of our Creator God. (3) But God could let him have the time and space to truly reveal his selfish and cruel character.

God created this world, this earth, and this universe to allow Lucifer free reign in order for the rest of creation to realize and understand that the Creator God is a God of love and truth and that rebellion against Him only cause’s pain, suffering, and death.

During the past 6,000 years Lucifer, also known as the devil and Satan (Revelation 12:9), has done just as God knew he would. He has only brought pain, misery, and death to this planet. Early on, for the first part of his reign of terror, he was permitted to join the meeting of the heavenly beings as is revealed in the Job 1:6,7, but after he had Jesus murdered on the cruel cross, he was no longer allowed to leave this planet, as Jesus prophesied in Luke 10:18. Once Satan had gone so far as to kill the precious Son of God, the entire universe no longer had any doubt about the character of God or that of the devil.

And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. Revelation 12:9

Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them. And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. Job 1:6,7.

"And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven." Luke 10:18.

But God still could not bring sin to an end at the very time of Jesus’ death. (1) Mankind needed time to learn about the plan of salvation and how the death of His Son provided redemption for all people. (2) God knew that sin had not yet revealed itself completely in the lives of mankind. If God prematurely brought sin to a close on this planet, then it could revive again in the earth made new, and God could not allow that to happen. (3) Sin must be allowed to reign in the hearts of mankind so that its terror and hideousness would be so revolting to all creation, that sin would never again raise its ugly head throughout all eternity. For these, and other good reasons, we are still on this sinful planet, as a theater to the universe, to participate and spectate, the final acts of Satan, as this planet wears out like an old garment.

And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail. Hebrews 1:10-12.

There are two things that must happen before God can bring sin to an end and totally annihilate sin and sinners from this stained universe. (1) Sin must mature to its most hideous and ugly self and (2) a people must come forth which completely represents the Father in all truth and righteousness via the indwelling Holy Spirit. We all have a part to play in both of the above.

When considering the ugliness of sin, our part is to recognize it and avoid it as advised in Philippians 4:8,9:

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you."

In order to represent the Father in all truth, our part to play is (1) to allow Him to fill our lives with His Spirit by spending time in His Word, the Holy Bible, every single day. (2) We need to speak often to God in prayer, especially before opening His Word, asking for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. (3) We need to allow Him time to speak to us as we fill our hearts and minds with the golden treasures found only in the living Word of God. (4) And we need to share the information we have with others in words and actions.

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15.

As far as representing the Father and righteousness, our part is simply to surrender our all to Him, place ourselves completely in His hands, as we are guided by the indwelling Holy Spirit, and live our lives as Jesus did, totally dependent on the Father. There is nothing we can do to earn righteousness or salvation. We can never be good enough or perform any acts that will make us righteous. Our righteousness is only found in Christ Jesus. His character is the wedding garment which all his people must put on to be able to abide in the presence of the Father and participate in the soon coming marriage supper of the Lamb.

"But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away." Isaiah 64:6.

"But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus." Romans 3:21-26.

"And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God." Revelation 19:9.

Distraction! That is Satan’s best and strongest tool which prevents us from accomplishing the goals which God has established for His last day saints. We each must search our lives and our time to be aware of and avoid the distractions which separate us from living a righteous life in Christ and from spending daily time with Him in His Word.

You can be ready for the coming end time events in the power of God the Father. You can be ready for the coming end time events by surrendering your all to Him today, right now. If you haven’t already, won’t you give your all to God and let Him lead you by His Holy Spirit, and make you into person He wants you to be, in representing Him, to a dying world? Be blessed.

IS A SEVEN-YEAR TRIBULATION

REVEALED IN SCRIPTURE?

IS THERE A FUTURE SEVEN-YEAR TRIBULATION AS SOME PEOPLE CLAIM?

IF THERE IS A SEVEN-YEAR TRIBULATION TAUGHT IN THE BIBLE? IF SO, HOW MANY TIMES DOES THE BIBLE NEED TO POINT IT OUT BEFORE WE BELIEVE IT?

There has been an ongoing conversation for many years concerning the timing of the second coming of Jesus in connection with a seven-year tribulation. For those believing in a future coming seven-year tribulation the conversations have normally centered around the timing for the future second coming of Jesus in relationship to that time period. Some people believe the rapture, or second coming, takes place before the seven-year tribulation, taking His people off this planet, protecting them from having to suffer the privations of that terrible time. This belief is often referred to as PRE-TRIB.

Another group of people quote scripture to teach that the secret rapture takes place in the middle of the tribulation period. This belief is often referred to as MID-TRIB.

The third group of people quote supporting scripture teaching the rapture takes place at the end of the seven-year tribulation. This belief is often referred to as POST-TRIB.

But the main question to ask is: IS THERE REALLY A SEVEN YEAR TRIBULATION?

The text most often quoted to support this theory by the rapturists is found in Daniel 9:27 saying:

And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week.

Many people believe the 70-week prophecy of Daniel 9:24 is not complete and they have accepted a 2000-year gap between the 69th and 70th weeks, saying the 70th week takes place at the time of the end. Many believing in the Rapture Theory, teach the 70th week is the final seven-years of human history, when applying the day for a year principle, as Jesus prophesied in Matthew 24:21,22 calling that period of time the great tribulation.

For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened. Matthew 24:21,22.

IN reality, the one week mentioned in Daniel 9:27 has dual application and is very well explained in the book, Understanding the Book of Daniel for this Generation by Earl Schrock. Daniel 9:27 does apply to the seventieth week, of seven years, but it also applies to the end times.

QUESTION: Besides Daniel 9:27, are there are other scriptures which support a future seven-year tribulation?

ANSWER: Yes. Let’s first consider the text of Matthew 24:21,22.

For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened. Matthew 24:21,22.

IN the conversation with Jesus, in the beginning of Matthew 24, the disciples clearly asked,

"Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?" Matthew 24:3

Matthew 24 has dual application. Not only does it apply to the disciples in their day, it also applies to us in our day. In Matthew twenty-four, the dual application refers (1) to the future for the disciples, but (2) for us, it refers to our past, present, and future. Jesus revealed to the disciples some of the events surrounding 70 AD, which was their future. Yet 70 AD is now our past. He also mentions the things which (1) are happening today in our age, and (2) He referred to the things that are yet to come, our future. Notice the next chart revealing dual application of scripture from the book of Matthew:

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The above chart reveals the dual application of scripture in Matthew 24. Some of the texts in Matthew 24 apply to the time before 70 AD. Some of the texts apply to 70 AD. Some of the texts apply to the day in which we live and some of the verses refer to our future. And many of the texts apply to more than one time period. Notice the following chart revealing the dual application of scripture in Matthew 24.

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QUESTION: How else does Matthew 24 apply to our near future?

ANSWER: Notice the change in timed events between Matthew 24:8 and Matthew 24:9:

"5For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake."

Pay special attention to verses 8 and 9 above. Verses 5 thru 8 are referring to our day, today. But verse 9 is referring to our near future.

QUESTION: What happens between verse 8 and verse 9 of Matthew 24? How can it go from having a little time of trouble in verse eight, to the point where people are actually attempting to kill God’s people in verse nine?

ANSWER: There must be a time period between verses eight and nine in Matthew 24. There must be a period of time from when people are tolerant of each other until the point they want to kill one another. What happens during the time period between verse eight and verse nine of Matthew 24?

QUESTION: Does Jesus say anything in Matthew 24 about a time period?

ANSWER: Yes. Consider the following found in Matthew 24:36-39:

But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

Here Jesus is referring to time. He lets us know that no man can tell the exact time when the end of the world will come. But Jesus does give us a clue to watch for as it nears. Notice what He says in Matthew 24:42-44:

"Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh."

And in Matthew 16:1-4 Jesus says:

"The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?"

In His wisdom, God has not revealed in the scriptures the exact day or hour He would return for His second coming, but He did provide sufficient information for us to understand the season in which He will come. God’s desire is for us to be ready for His return every single minute of every single day because none of us know when our individual last day will be.

Since Jesus first revealed He was coming back again, numberless people have fallen asleep in death which had the hope of His second coming. They had that hope because they did not know the exact day and hour of the second advent. If they knew He would not return for a couple thousand years, they could have easily been discouraged. We also need to maintain that hope by not knowing what the future holds in relation to the exact time Jesus will come back for His second coming. But its more than that. No one is guaranteed tomorrow. We must be constantly ready for Jesus return because we don’t know at what moment we will die. It’s better to fall asleep in Christ, with hope in our hearts, than to fall asleep in death without that hope. Even though we don’t know the exact day and hour of the second advent, Jesus did not leave us clueless to the season of time for His return.

Notice again Matthew 24:36-39:

But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

Notice how many times Jesus uses the word day in the above text. Look at it again, as displayed below, with the day references highlighted:

"But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be."

QUESTION: How many times is the word day used in the above text?

ANSWER: The word day or days is used four (4) times in Matthew 24:36-39.

QUESTION: What does it mean when God repeats Himself in the Bible?

ANSWER: When God repeats Himself in the Bible it’s a very important clue for us to perk up and listen very carefully to what He is saying, because what is being said will happen. Notice Genesis 41:32 when Joseph was speaking to Pharaoh about his dreams being repeated. Joseph said to the King of Egypt:

"And for that the dream was doubled unto Pharaoh twice; it is because the thing is established by God, and God will shortly bring it to pass."

QUESTION: What do the "days" of Noah, in Matthew 24, have to do with us today?

ANSWER: Consider Genesis 7:1,4,5,10:

1And the LORD said unto Noah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation. 4For yet seven days, and I will cause it to rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights; and every living substance that I have made will I destroy from off the face of the earth. 5And Noah did according unto all that the LORD commanded him. 10And it came to pass after seven days, that the waters of the flood were upon the earth."

Noah was in the Ark for seven days, before the flood waters came which destroyed all the living things outside the ark of God’s protection.

Notice again Matthew 24:36-39 and note the highlighted sections:

"But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be."

IN Matthew 24, Jesus is saying the same thing as Genesis chapter seven is saying. From the time Noah ENTERED the Ark, UNTIL the flood waters came, there were seven days. Noah and his family were in the Ark of safety for seven days, under God’s protection and care, before the flood waters were poured out for the destruction of all mankind.

QUESTION: Isn’t seven days too short of a time for God’s end time people to be concerned with?

ANSWER: Yes. As far as I know, there is no literal seven-day time prophecy in the Bible applicable to the appointed time of the end. There are other longer periods of time we are warned of including the coming 42 months or 1,260 days of Revelation eleven.

"And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein. But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months. And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth."

Revelation 11:1-3.

QUESTION: In the above discussion, is it possible to apply the day for a year principle to the seven days Noah was in the ark in consideration of the coming days Jesus mentions in Matthew 24, applying it to our day and time?

ANSWER: Yes. The day-for-a-year principle is applicable. There is no scripture in the Bible that would prevent using the day-for-a-year principle in the case of comparing Matthew 24 with Genesis 7.

QUESTION: What is the day-for-a-year principle?

ANSWER: As was pointed out in the book, UNDERSTANDING THE BOOK OF DANIEL FOR THIS GENERATION, when discussing Daniel chapter nine, the day-for-a-year principle is very important when revealing the fulfillment of the 70-week prophecy. The 70-week prophecy is 490 days which converts to 490 years, pinpointing the exact time of the Messiah’s anointing and His death along with the conclusion of the seventy-week prophecy in 34 AD. That mathematic solution to the mystery of the seventy-week prophecy of Daniel 9:24-27 is accomplished by applying the day-for-a-year principle.

QUESTION: Where does the Bible explain the day-for-a-year principle?

ANSWER: God told the Israelites, fresh out of the land of Egypt, to go into Canaan, and He would be with them and fight for them. They refused to trust Him. After forty days of spying out the land, ten of the twelve spies doubted and they caused the entire community to doubt God (Numbers 13). Because of this doubt, for every day they were in the land as spies, God made them serve one year in the wilderness: a day for a year as per Numbers 14:34:

"After the number of the days in which ye searched the land, even forty days, each day for a year, shall ye bear your iniquities, even forty years, and ye shall know my breach of promise."

Notice also Ezekiel 4:4-6 for another example of a day-for-a-year principle:

"Lie thou also upon thy left side, and lay the iniquity of the house of Israel upon it: according to the number of the days that thou shalt lie upon it thou shalt bear their iniquity. For I have laid upon thee the years of their iniquity, according to the number of the days, three hundred and ninety days: so shalt thou bear the iniquity of the house of Israel. And when thou hast accomplished them, lie again on thy right side, and thou shalt bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: I have appointed thee each day for a year."

If we apply the day-for-a-year principle to the seven days of Noah, as Jesus points out to us in Matthew 24, then that would be the second proof from within the Bible of a seven-year tribulation at the end of the age. The first proof is found in Daniel 9:27 and the second proof is here in the above conversation.

QUESTION: Besides (1) Daniel 9:27 and (2) Matthew 24 compared to Genesis 7, is there any other Bible reference which can substantiate a seven-year tribulation before the second coming of Jesus?

ANSWER: Yes. Revelation’s chapter eleven’s prophetic time periods add up to a seven-year time of tribulation. Notice the following:

1And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein. 2But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months. 3And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. 4These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth. 5And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed. 6These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.

7And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. 8And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. 9And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves. 10And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.

11And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them. 12And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them. 13And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand: and the remnant were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven.

Though this text will be better discussed in detail when revealing the meaning of Revelation eleven, here is an abridged explanation at this time.

The Bible, composed of the Old and New Testaments, is represented by the reed like a rod in verse one, the two olive trees and lampstands of verse four, and also as the two witnesses, or the two testaments, of verses 3,7,9,10,11,12. This eleventh chapter in the book of Revelation lets us know that for the first 1,260 literal days (verse 3), that the Bible will be allowed to be preached for the first half of the seven-year tribulation. But verse two mentions a period of time of 42 months, pointing to the last half of the seven-year tribulation, when "the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months".

Verse seven says that after they have finished their testimony or witness, they will be killed, which means the Bible will not be allowed to be shared any more. Daniel 11:27-36 describes the doing away with the holy covenant, the Bible, at the appointed time of the end. Then Revelation 11:9,11 lets us know the teaching of the Bible will be outlawed for the next 3 ½ days. In Bible prophecy one year is 360 days. One month is 30 days. Thus three and a half days converts to 3 ½ years when the day-for-a-year principle is used. Three and a half (3 ½) days of years is actually 1,260 days or an additional 42 months.

So doing the math: 1,260 days plus 3 ½ days of years (1,260 days or 42 months) equals 2,520 days. 2,520 literal days divided by 360 literal days, equals seven (7) years.

So far, from our conversation above, the following has been realized:

(1) Daniel 9:27 reveals a one week of seven years for the appointed time of the end.

(2) Matthew 24 along with Genesis 7 reveals a seven year time period of great tribulation for the appointed time of the end (Daniel 8:19).

(3) Revelation 11:1-13 reveals a seven-year period of time, or 2,520 days. When the 2,520 days are divided in half they reveal or show 1,260 days on one side and 1,260 days on the other side of a seven-year timeline, such as revealed below:

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Notice the seven-year time chart below in consideration of Revelation chapter eleven.

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QUESTION: Besides (1) Daniel 9:27, (2) Matthew 24 with Genesis 7, and (3) Revelation 11; is there any other Bible reference which can substantiate a seven-year tribulation at the appointed time of the end before the second coming of Jesus?

ANSWER: Yes. Notice the following discovery in Daniel 9:24:

Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.

Seventy weeks is 70 times 7 or 490 days, converting to 490 years (day/year principle).

In Bible prophecy one year equals 360 days.

490 years, times 360 days per year, equals 176,400 days.

176,400 days divided by 70 equals 2,520 literal days.

2,520 literal days divided by 360 days per year, equals seven (7) years.

(70 x 7 = 490 days/years x 360 days = 176,400 days ÷ 70 = 2,520 days or seven years)

Actually the seventy weeks’ prophecy of Daniel 9:24-27 is aimed more at those living in the time of the end, the last generation, than to any people living between the days of Daniel until now (538 BC to 2023 AD). We now realize, since only the past couple hundred years, that the seventy (70) weeks of 490 years, began in 457 BC and ended in 34 AD as the following chart reveals:

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Without the knowledge of BC and AD, it is impossible to accurately understand and figure the timing of this prophecy before Christ was born or even in the days of the Apostles. According to Wikipedia online, the BC and AD method of telling time was created by a monk named Dionysius Exiguus in the year 525 AD. Since there were about 565 years between the Daniel nine dream to the anointing of Christ in 27 AD, no one would have had the tools necessary to accurately understand this prophecy before or at the time when He was born.

QUESTION: How is it the seventy-week prophecy of Daniel nine can apply to both the four hundred years before Jesus was born and to our last day generation as well?

ANSWER: The seventy-week prophecy applies to both places in time due to dual application of scripture. Our God is super intelligent. For Him to devise dual applications of scripture is a small feat for Him, but an awe striking realization for us.

Understanding the application of the seventy-week prophecy to take place from 457 BC to 34 AD is a process of reflection. When the date of Christ’s death is known, and realizing He died in the middle of the week, the process of math makes this discovery happen. So… 31 AD plus 3 ½ years equals 34 AD. 34 AD minus 490 years comes to 457 BC.

But the discovery that the seventy-week prophecy also takes place in our near future is to understand Bible prophecy. God has given the last generation seven years to (1) reveal His wrath against disobedience, (2) to shake His people out of a lackadaisical attitude toward their salvation, (3) to purify His church, and (4) to develop a people which will reflect His character by performing the seven goals mentioned in Daniel 9:24.

QUESTION: Why seventy weeks of time to fulfill the above?

ANSWER: God warned us in Leviticus 26:18,21,27,28 that if we did not obey Him, He would reveal His wrath seven times more than He did the people taken into Babylonian captivity. The rebellious informed Israelites, under the banner of the tribe of Judah, were promised seventy years of tribulation due to their disobedience. That seventy-year period went from 605 BC to 535 BC.

This generation is also a rebellious informed people, God’s modern day Israelites. Under the banner of Christianity. We know the Bible and God’s requirements more than any other people which ever lived, because we have something they did not have. We have the complete 66 book Bible in every home possible, yet we still rebel in disobedience. For that disobedience God has promised to take the seventy years of the Old Testament church and multiply it by seven for the New Testament church: His bride. Thus God will fulfill His promise in the coming seven-year tribulation upon the last generation which refuse to surrender to His will and obey His commands.

"And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins. And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass: And your strength shall be spent in vain: for your land shall not yield her increase, neither shall the trees of the land yield their fruits. And if ye walk contrary unto me, and will not hearken unto me; I will bring seven times more plagues upon you according to your sins."

Leviticus 26:18-21.

"And if ye will not for all this hearken unto me, but walk contrary unto me; Then I will walk contrary unto you also in fury; and I, even I, will chastise you seven times for your sins." Leviticus 26:27,28.

This generation, living at this time, has all the tools necessary to understand the seventy week prophecy. For that purpose, the prophecy of Daniel 9:24-27 applies more to this generation than any other generation that has ever existed since the days of Daniel.

So far, from our conversation above, the following has been realized:

(1) Daniel 9:27 reveals a one week of seven years for the appointed time of the end.

(2) Matthew 24 along with Genesis 7 reveals a seven year time period of great tribulation for the appointed time of the end (Daniel 8:19).

(3) Revelation 11:1-13 reveals a seven-year period of end time or 2,520 days.

(4) Daniel 9:24 reveals a coming period of time of 2,520 days or seven years.

QUESTION: Besides (1) Daniel 9:27, (2) Matthew 24 with Genesis 7, (3) Revelation 11 and (4) the Daniel 9:24 mathematical calculation; is there any other Bible reference which can substantiate a seven-year tribulation at the appointed time of the end before the second coming of Jesus?

ANSWER: Yes. When considering the chronology of events revealed in Daniel 9:26,27 we can discover the dual application of this text, with the seventh week, and with our near future.

CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS WITH DANIEL 9:26,27

The prophecy of Daniel 9:24-27 does not end with the stoning of Stephen in 34 AD. Notice all of verses 26 and 27:

"And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut