A New Hope

June 8, 2020 (Monday)

 

                If I were writing a commentary on Revelation 11, I would call it “A New Hope.” Let’s look at the circumstances of these events. It is written from the perspective of earth (many of the events are written from the perspective of heaven). The holy city is trampled for 42 months (3.5 years). There is war against God’s witnesses (implication against the truth). Death and destruction continue. Where’s the hope? I am so glad you asked!

                The Sanctuary in heaven stands, undefiled. In the Greek the word typically translated “temple” means “sanctuary.” It is a sacred place, set apart by God. It represents God’s presence (and “name”). It is a place of refuge. Or as it says in Psalm 91:1 – 2: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” [NIV]

                Shelter means safety, calm, and peace. Shelter implies need… (Such as a storm or threat). It is the place God appointed as a meeting place. Even though we understand God is everywhere present and we can meet with God anywhere. However, the precedent for “sanctuary” is for a special place for special occasions. It is a place set aside for time with God.

                The “holy city” is trampled. That sounds bad, but understand there is a LIMITED time God has set. Defilement is everywhere EXCEPT for the temple. Regardless how bad it gets (or seems to get) God has an “open door.”

                God’s work continues undeterred (two witnesses). What is the identity of these witnesses? They have the ability of Moses and Elijah. It has been suggested they are Enoch and Elijah because they did not die. Some have thought they are symbolic of the Old Testament and New Testament. Others have proposed they are symbolic of Jesus and the church (or John the Baptist = “Elijah”). The reality: we do not know.

                In the midst of darkness God still speaks. Yet people still reject God’s love. The witnesses dress in sackcloth (display of grief). The enemy (Satan) wages war (only successful when God allows it). Regardless of how bad it gets (or seems to get) God does not give up control. God does not give up on us.  God’s mercy and grace never run out.

                The enemy’s “victory” is an illusion. Never be surprised when the enemy attacks. There is not one attacks that God does not already know about. (God is not surprised; we should not      be surprised). Not one attack happens that God does not allow. (Job = Satan has to get permission). No attack happens that allows the enemy to win. Period. If it’s happening, then something good is about to happen.

                The reality: While the beast can “ascend” to the earth (verse 7). God’s servants can “ascend” to heaven (verse 12). The best Satan and him minions can hope for is earth. The worst God and His servants will have to endure is earth. Regardless of how bad it gets (or seems to get) God still wins!

                Wesley is quoted as saying, “Preach to bring change or preach to make them mad.”  Where God is at work, humans will be confronted with a choice. What will it take to bring us to the point of decision? For people to “Come to their senses?” In the story of the “Prodigal Son,” the rich, privileged son ends up feeding pigs and hungry. Jesus turns the story on one simple phrase, “came to his senses.”

                In chapter 11 people in Jerusalem “gave glory to the God of heaven (verse 13). Regardless of our circumstances, God brings us to a point of decision. Those who humble themselves before God will give praise and enjoy victory.

                The praise of God is unstoppable. Awesome things begin to happen.“Then, in heaven, the Temple of God was opened and the Ark of his covenant could be seen inside the Temple. Lightning flashed, thunder crashed and roared, and there was an earthquake and a terrible hailstorm.” [Revelation 11:19 NLT] The Ark of the Covenant is revealed. It is inside the temple in the presence of God. The Ark was where atonement for sin was mad on the Day of Atonement, where God’s people found acceptance from God.

                The victory! God owns the nations, He reigns (whether they like it or not). There will be judgment for “sinners.” (Those separated from God.) There will be reward for “saints.” (Those in right relationship with God.) Regardless how bad it gets (or seems to get), there is NEVER a doubt about the outcome.

                So, what is your response? You NEED to be in the presence of God. Or as the Westminster catechism said; “Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” Or as Jesus said, “And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’” [Mark 12:30 NLT] Someday ask me about what Jesus added to the command in Deuteronomy.