Luke 2:21-40 – Jesus, Simeon and Anna

The first Christmas when Christ came was a far cry from the Christmas we celebrate every year. It was not filled with lights and toys and gift and mistletoes. Unlike us who celebrate it only once a year, Joseph and Mary had to live their entire lives in the unfolding mystery of the God Incarnate. Luke now brings us to the eighth day of Jesus’ earthly life when He was circumcised. This was commanded in Genesis 17 for all male under Abraham’s household. In circumcision, He identified with the covenant people of God. And more importantly, here He was officially named Jesus, as the angel had instructed. And He shall save His people from their sin for the meaning of this name is ‘Jehovah is salvation’.  

After the circumcision, and about a month later when the period of Mary’s purification was over, His earthly parents brought Him to Jerusalem to present Jesus to the Lord. Every first born male, according to the Law, must be consecrated to the Lord. The sacrifice was either a yearling lamb as a burnt offering or a pair of turtledoves or young pigeons. Here their sacrifice tells us that they were poor folks. Though poor, their life of obedience to the instruction of the Lord made them rich. We must remember never to allow the illusive sense of personal spiritual adequacy or sufficiency to rob us of the richness of depending on the Lord. It is when we are weak that we are strong and where our strength is made perfect in Him.       

In the Temple in Jerusalem, Mary and Joseph met Simeon and Anna, two Israelites whose lives demonstrated godliness and faith. Simeon was said to be righteous and devout and waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. Anna was a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was widowed after seven years of marriage and remained a widow till age 84. She never left the Temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Both these godly and devout aged people were a prophet and a prophetess. They both were filled with trusting expectancy. They persisted in faith, trusting and looking forward for the coming of the Messiah when most were languishing in faith and patience. They set an example for us today. Lives like theirs were rare.

In his patient waiting, Simeon was privileged to know, through the Holy Spirit that he would not die till he had seen the Lord Christ. We don’t know how long he had waited but it was not in vain. Just imagine his deep assurance as he came to the Temple daily, looking with expectation to meet the Savior. And then, that great day arrived. The Holy Spirit moved in him. He came to the Temple when Jesus’ earthly parents came to present Him to the Lord. He took the baby Jesus in his arms and started praising God. His song revealed the purpose of the Messiah and his own sense of satisfaction. He could now depart in peace. Why? For his eye had seen the Salvation of the Lord. Jesus is God’s salvation. He is all we need. Jesus is God’s salvation not only to the Jews but also to the Gentiles. Simeon’s heart was filled with joy at the coming of the Redeemer. And the thought of the personal promise fulfilled that day lifted him beyond his song.  Joseph and Mary marveled at Simeon’s words about Jesus, but Mary held every word close to her heart.  

In his closing words, Simeon said to Mary, “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of  many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed and a sword will pierce even your own soul—to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” Christ’s coming was the signal that the Kingdom of Light would now confront the Kingdom of the world. And many coming to Christ would have first to bow in humility and poverty of spirit, before they could rise to the hope of a glorious new life. As it happened, Mary would experience apprehension and feel her soul crushed. She would watch her son being rejected by the very people He came to rescue.

When the ceremony was over, the family returned to Galilee, to Nazareth and there Christ grew in strength and wisdom, with the grace of God upon Him. Simeon was described as righteous and devout, and Anna kept coming to the Temple serving night and day with fasting and prayers. What about us? Like them let’s allow the reality of Christ to fill our daily life. Let’s make Him a part of our daily life!

Luke 2:1-20 – The birth of Jesus

The account of the birth of Jesus given by Luke, begins with the indication of the time and circumstance surrounding His birth. He was born during the reign of Augustus Caesar and when Quirinius was the governor of Syria. It was at that time that a census for tax purposes was ordered by the emperor. As prophesied by Micah 5:2, Jesus’ birth would take place in Bethlehem. This census made it necessary for Joseph to take Mary and journeyed from Galilee, a town in Nazareth to Judea.     

Though Mary was heavily pregnant, they made the long and arduous journey, arriving at Bethlehem known as the city of David. In biblical time, the inn was an open concept, it was just an open sleeping area for everybody. The inn was full and there was no more room for Joseph and Mary. So they had to go to what seems to have been a stable referred to here as a ‘manger.’ This was possibly constructed from a natural cave. And in the privacy of the cave, Jesus was born to Mary. It may appear strange to us that not even the inn had room to accommodate the Savior’s birth. The angel had spoken of Christ’s glorious coming into humanity, yet there was no place to which He could be born. So in the unhygienic environment of the manger, Jesus was born, but the parents made sure He was safe by wrapping Him in cloths. And there in that manger, the Lord Jesus laid His sweet head.  

Although we read of the magi’s visit from Matthew 2:1-12, we are told that they saw the Savior in a house. So it was likely that Joseph, Mary and Jesus moved into a house shortly after Christ’s birth. Luke tells us that it was a group of shepherds that were first told of the birth. For they were out in the field nearby watching their flocks, when an angel of the Lord appeared and stood before them. Then a flood of glorious light shone around. And they were startled and frightened. But the angel then told them of the great news of the Savior’s birth in the city of David. The angel said in no uncertain term that He is the Savior, Christ the Lord. They were told where the Baby Jesus was, wrapped in cloths in a manger. Immediately a heavenly host appeared, saying “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” The shepherds left the field immediately, went and found Joseph, Mary and Jesus in the manger. They made known the statement of the angels and those who heard it wondered. But Mary kept pondering those words in her heart. 

The point cannot be missed. This account is included to enforce the truth that the real Savior of the world was not Augustus Caesar. Neither will it be any great world leader. Christ Jesus the Lord is the real Savior. He is the Son of God who came into this world in human flesh. He came through Mary’s womb, and lived and died as human flesh and had resurrected in that flesh and now seated at God’s right hand. Christ’s incarnation is real. Because of what He went through, we now have a High Priest who can fully understand our plight. He knows exactly what we feel in our experiences because He had completely identified with us in every way. Let’s us draw near to Him confidently and know that He knows exactly what we are going through. He understands and He will see us through!

Luke 1:67-80 – The Benedictus

The announcements of the birth of John and of the Lord Jesus, the miraculous conceptions of Elizabeth’s and Mary’s, and the latter’s Magnificat and now Zacharias prophetic exclamation, all like rays of light from the sun, signal the passing of the night. The sun of righteousness would soon be shining from the distance horizon. Yes, a new day has dawned! The birth of John made the faint glow of that light more perceptible. John was circumcised. Verse 66 shows the question everyone wanted to know was, “What then is this child going to be?”

Zacharias who was speechless for nine months because of unbelief, now responded in faith and obedience and named his son John, as instructed by the angel. Immediately, his tongue loosened, and he gave the final prophetic song. Verse 67 tells us that he was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied. In other words, his words were God’s words. Just as Mary’s outburst of praise, his song was also filled with Scriptures. In all his priestly life, Zacharias had been nourishing himself with the Holy Scriptures, so now out of the rich store of his inner resource came this prophecy. This tells us that, like him, we should nourish ourselves with the Word of God.   

Traditionally Zacharias’ song is known as the Benedictus. This title indicates that this is a song of benediction in praise of God for the coming of the Messiah. From the start to end, this song is a series of praise to God. Firstly in verses 69-72a, Zacharias praised God for keeping His promise to David and fulfilling the Davidic Covenant. Secondly, from verses 72b-75, he praised God for keeping His promise to Abraham and fulfilling the Abrahamic Covenant. Thirdly, verses 76-77, he praised God for keeping His promise to him, in giving him John the Baptist as the Messiah’s forerunner. And finally in verses 78 to 79, he praised God for the coming sunrise of the sun of righteousness.

This outburst of praise from Zacharias is full of rich theology, and when we reflect on them, it will definitely draw our soul upward with adoration and praise to our wonderful God. Through this song we can see God’s merciful hand and provision for His people. We can also see the responsibility expected from being the recipients of God’s blessed people. As we live each day, let’s keep in mind the words of verses 74-75, that … being rescued from the hand of our enemies, (we) might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all our days. 

Luke 1:51-55 – The Magnificat (2)

In this second half of Mary’s song of praise, she shifted her attention from her personal reasons on why God deserved all the praises to what God would do for his people. In verses 51–54, the actions of God are all put in the past perfect tenses. “He has done mighty deeds … He has scattered … He has brought down … has lifted up … He has filled … but has sent … He has helped.” If we look at the Old Testament, all these were in fact foretold by the prophets of old. And they were things that God had already done for Israel in the past.

Like Elizabeth, Mary too had a dream and it’s in fact the ancient dream of Israel. Her desire was for all that the prophets had proclaimed and prophesied to come to pass. In this second part of her incantation, she expressed that desire more explicitly. Her dream that one day the God of Israel would fulfill all that He had said to His people: that the nations on earth will be blessed through the family of Abraham.  God would at last break the power that had kept the world in slavery and bondage. So that people who are hungry, poor and enslaved and miserable could share the promised blessing of God. With her thoughts riveted on all that God had done for Israel in the past, Mary now projects those thoughts into the future, to the work of the Son who would soon be born to her.

This song is Mary’s passionate praise for God. She knew that for her to be where she was right then was a God given privilege and honor. And as she looked across history to all that God had done, she felt led to let out a prophetic word. So she proclaimed in this Magnificat, the freedom that God’s Son, whom she had the privilege to bear, would bring to the world. At the heart of this song is a call to celebrate God - the holy, merciful and faithful God. Let Him be the reason why we celebrate life! 

Luke 1:46-50 – The Magnificat (1)

The hymn that Mary sang on hearing Elizabeth’s greetings is known as the “Magnificat.” It derives its meaning from the first line of the incantation. It simply means “My soul magnifies the Lord.” It’s Mary’s expression of faith and response to all that God was doing in her life. All these tell us why God would choose her to be the vessel to bear the Lord Jesus. The Magnificat reveals that Mary was full of Old Testament Scriptures. On examination, we will see that her profound expression is truly a carefully structured poem, a tapestry so well woven with Scriptures and theological statements.   

Mary’s focus was not to herself but the blessings she had been granted. How beautiful and God-honoring were her opening words: ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior ….” She merely wanted God to have all the honor and praise. By acknowledging that the baby she bore was none other than the Savior, she had in fact conceited that she was not sinless. Through her song Mary introduces us to the saving work of the Lord Jesus, who have regarded the poor, the humble and the unknown.

Here Mary uses two words soul and spirit to express her deep feeling. These words refer to her inner self, the real “I” of a person. Here she is powerfully and emotionally revealing how she truly feels at the root of her very being. She is saying that her total being and everything that she is, she magnifies and amplifies the Lord. Magnifying the Lord, making the Lord great with our entire spirit and soul is God’s desire for our lives today. Know it or not, this is also God’s desires whenever we, the redeemed of the Lord, gather in worship. He wants us to magnify Him.

In verse 48, Mary went on to give personal reasons for her exuberant adoration and praise for the Lord. For God did not despise her low and humble estate but had instead considered her worthy to be the instrument to bear the deliverer of the world. Here Mary echoes what the Lord said in the Beatitudes. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.” Continuing to give her reason for the exuberant praise, Mary said, “…henceforth, all generation will call me blessed.” This is not suggesting that she would be worshipped but rather that she would be remembered. Every time anyone experiences Christ they will know that His earthly mother was indeed none other than the humble Mary.

In verses 49 and 50, Mary looked away from herself to God and profoundly states the other reason why God deserves to be praised and magnified. She pointed to God’s power, holiness and eternal mercy. “For the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.” God had allowed Mary to participate in His perfect program. What a privilege!

What do we make out of all these? Like Mary, all of us must magnify God who has also considered us worthy to know and experience Jesus, His Son. He has invited us to participate in His power, holiness and mercy, not because we are great but because He is great and compassionate. So in response, let’s consider how blessed and privileged we are to be enlisted into His occupational force here on earth. We must witness to the truth that God through Christ Jesus is reconciling the world to Himself.   

Luke 1:39 -45 – Mary visits Elizabeth

Luke tells us that after the encounter, Mary arose and hastily traveled some three to four days journey down south to the city of Judah where Zacharias lived, to visit her cousin, Elizabeth. It was estimated that she must have traveled some seventy to eighty miles. At her tender age, Mary was a marvel. Young as she was then, she had such a tender heart and unusual spiritual capacity. We can see that she understood the deep theological implication of her experience. And this was later attested to by her outburst in the song of praise known as the “Magnificat.” We are greatly amazed by her obedience at that young age. So here’s a word for parents, let’s not make the mistake of disparaging or denigrating our young children. We must take our children seriously and invest time in their spiritual development, and seek to nurture and disciple them. They are potentially God’s great instrument.

Though both ladies were pregnant miraculously, we must acknowledge the vast difference between them. Mary was a virgin whereas the barren Elizabeth was not. The child they each bore came through divine intervention, but the child that Elizabeth bore was still Zechariah’s. However, there was a strong human joy in the meeting of these two expectant mothers. There was a meeting of souls as both were drawn into the divine plot to save the lost. Both had something in common that few other human beings could ever share. Through their pain, sweat, and blood of their experience as mothers, we are greatly blessed.

Why did Elizabeth’s baby leap for joy? Firstly, it’s because this was no unusual baby. This was God’s prophet making his first attempt at his prophetic calling. Look at it this way, John the Baptist began his ministry three months before his birth. Secondly, it’s because he was overtaken by joy. This fetus, yet to see the light of the world, experienced the emotion of joyous delight. He was so overcome by joy that he leaped for joy, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, as his mother Elizabeth affirmed Mary’s wonderful secret and blessed her greatly. All at once she knew that Mary’s child was the Messiah and so she prophetically exclaimed, “And how has it happened to me that the mother of my Lord would come to me?” 

Mary’s visit to Elizabeth has a point. It’s about the importance of being a participating member of a community of people of likeminded faith. As Mary who sought out Zechariah and Elizabeth, so also must we seek people of mutual faith for encouragement and support. Mary’s conception as a virgin meant she would be exposed to all kinds of speculation concerning her personal integrity. And great as her faith may be, she would need the strength and support of others. Similarly, in our faith journey, we will need the strength and support of likeminded people of mutual faith and love for God. All of us need to be an active participant in a God-loving, Christ-honoring, Word-centered community!       

Luke 1:26-38 - The announcement of the birth the Lord Jesus

Having announced the birth of John the Baptist, Luke in verses 26-38 introduces us to Mary, the cousin of Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. The angel Gabriel who visited Zacharias earlier now appears to Mary, a godly young virgin betrothed to Joseph, a carpenter. Her encounter with this archangel had forever changed both her life and destiny dramatically. We need to know that in biblical times, a betrothal was an engagement that’s as good as a marriage, though the couple had not stayed together. To break a betrothal would be as good as a divorce.

From Matthew 1 and Luke 3, we will see that both Mary and Joseph were descendants of King David, who ruled Israel approximately 950 years earlier. His throne was usurped by the Herods, thus ending the Davidic succession centuries before. However, God had promised David that his throne would never cease. The coming of Jesus was a fulfilment of that promise. Hence the vessels that would be instrument for the coming of Jesus the Messiah, the God incarnate, must be from the line of David. Here’s why Jesus was acknowledged many times in the Gospel as the descendent of King David. One such example is found in Luke 18:38, where the blind man addressed Jesus as the Son of David. Jesus, we know, is the lawful heir to the throne of Israel, for He is the King of kings and the Lord of lords. .

Bear in mind that some six months had passed since Elizabeth had conceived. Now Gabriel was sent to Mary. His opening words to Mary was that God had favored her highly and she was indeed blessed among women. Mary was perplexed and wondered what kind of greeting that was. Gabriel then assured and told her she was indeed God’s favored one, for she was chosen by God as the instrument to bear Jesus, His Son. From here the archangel’s message focused on Jesus, who would soon be conceived. In verses 31-33, Gabriel described Jesus’ greatness and glory. In verse 33, he went on to make known that Jesus is the Son of the Most High and He shall sit on the throne of David, and His Kingdom will never end. This tells us that He is infinitely greater than King David. In verse 35, we are told the immense power involved in bringing about this birth of the Son of the Most High. The Holy Spirit shall overshadow Mary and bring about the supernatural conception. This conception would be without human involvement. And Gabriel’s parting words to Mary were, “With God nothing is impossible,” as he also told Mary of Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy.

Though perplexed, Mary did not question God’s choice or power. Her simple response was, “Behold, the bond-slave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” The response of Mary to the whole encounter leaves us with many lessons. It is not possible to exhaust all the lessons we can learn. Here are a few: if we are to be true disciples of Jesus, the heart of Mary must be our model. We must cultivate a humble heart that’s receptive to God and His Word. We must also intentionally nurture a reflective heart that would continually meditate on the Word of God. And like Mary, we must maintain a believing heart that will trust God absolutely. And finally we must cultivate a submissive heart that dares to respond to God, asking that everything in our life be done according to His Word!  

Luke 1:5-25 –The birth of John the Baptist announced

Luke began with the announcement of the birth of John the Baptist. He took us way before the conception of John and introduced us to his parents, a devout couple, Zacharias and Elizabeth. They were childless because the wife was described as barren. Her barrenness could have caused the couple tremendous grief secretly. Their pressure must have heightened, because in their time the community placed great emphasis on child-bearing.

The Temple was very central to the life of the nation. Zacharias was a priest who served in the Temple. Covering some 35 acres, the Temple was built by Herod the Great at an exorbitant cost. It was truly a remarkable building. At this point it was Zacharias’ turn to conduct the public worship of God as well as to pray for the nation. We are told that as he was offering incense before God, the Lord answered the couples’ prayers of many years. His wife would conceive and have a son.

Gabriel, an archangel of God, appeared to Zacharias where he was serving and told him the news that he would soon have a child and he was to be named, John. That name means ‘Jehovah has been gracious’. This was indeed a miracle of God’s grace for this devout couple. However, John was to live the life of a Nazirite, meaning he was to be wholly consecrated to God. A Nazirite is an Israelite especially consecrated to God. Like Samson of old, he was forbidden to drink wine or strong grape juice. This would ensure that the source of his strength and joy would be known as coming from God alone and not from consuming alcohol. For continuity, verse 17 links John’s ministry to Malachi 4:5-6, the last two verses of the Old Testament. He was born to fulfil God’s promise to His people described in the Hebrew Scripture.  

Zacharias’ question shows us that he was unsure and entertained doubts in what Gabriel, who stood as God’s representative, had said. It may seem that his doubt was natural, since both he and his wife were advanced in years. It would take a gigantic miracle for the conception to take place. But what this revealed is that at the very root of it all, he didn’t believe God. He didn’t believe that God could answer his prayers and that He has the ability to do the impossible. So in verse 20, the angel Gabriel told him that he would be stricken dumb until after John’s birth. This is because he did not believe the word of God sent through Gabriel. Here we are reminded of the importance to trust God at His word. It is important to acknowledge that He has the power and can do the impossible. Like it or not, doubt always put a stain on a person’s character. Questioning God’s word and ability is not just a weakness, it is skirting at the border of sin.

What we see following the announcement took place exactly as Gabriel had said to Zacharias. He was unable to speak after performing his service. And the people surmised that he must have seen a vision. And the conception of John the Baptist took place as foretold, although Elizabeth was long past the capacity to bear a child. So as she was expecting her firstborn, she lived in seclusion from the world. Her seclusion was just the right prelude for the life of John the Baptist himself. For one day, John himself would live in seclusion in the wilderness, far from the maddening crow. He would attend to the voice of God in the deep silence of the surrounding desert.

What the experiences of Zacharias and Elizabeth tell us is this: we must seek to walk in righteousness and in obedience to God’s instruction. And as devout as we may seem to be, it is imperative that we take God at His word. We must trust that God will say what He means and means what He says. The onus is on us, to take Him at His word. So just trust and obey!  

Luke 1:1-4 – Prologue

The Gospel of Luke was written by Luke, a physician who was Paul’s traveling companion. The Apostle mentioned him specifically by name in Colossians 4:14, Philemon 24, and Timothy 4:11. Although his name did not appear in this Gospel, early the church already accepted him as the author of both this Gospel as well as the Acts of the Apostles. Both these books were addressed to a certain Theophilus, whose name means God’s lover. He was probably a high-ranking Roman official, who had acknowledged Jesus as His Lord and Savior. From his name, we surmise that Luke was also inviting all God’s lovers to read and be confident of all that they had been taught concerning Jesus Christ.

Bear in mind that there were many oral traditions circulating in Luke’s day concerning Jesus’ life and works. How was a person supposed to know whether what he heard was genuine or not? So here Luke opens this account of the life and works of Jesus Christ with a long and formal statement. He wants to establish right at the onset that this is a trustworthy account. Why so? It was because he had personally researched, and carefully and thoroughly examined the facts that were circulating concerning Jesus. What he was dealing with was facts and information passed down by people who saw and witnessed them. Besides, these facts came from people who were servants of the word. Having researched and ascertained all, he now compiled his research and had them written down systematically and consecutively. The reason he did so was so that Theophilus and people like us, who are the “lovers of God”, will know the truth and live confidently concerning our encounter with Jesus, the God incarnate. Here Luke invites us into what he had written and then to interact and respond to the truth. Let’s open our hearts and spirit to what God wants to instruct us through Luke’s Gospel!  

Revelation 22:12-21 – I am coming soon!

While Jesus promises to come quickly, yet no one knows when the exact day will be. However, the focus for us, the followers of the Lamb, should be on doing and acting rightly in the duration leading up to His coming. Are we seizing the opportunity to be His witness and to bear His testimony in the way we conduct our life? All opportunities will run out by the time of our death or the moment He comes. John tells us that when He comes, He will render to everyman according to what he or she has done. However, it is obvious that our salvation is dependent on the grace of God and not the works we do or have done. Verse 14 makes it explicitly clear that our robes must be washed in the blood of the Lamb. While we are justified by the death of Jesus, our works must find its place in the program of God. It is therefore important for us to realize that time is indeed short, so do and act right. Each day Christ delays in His coming means a day nearer to our physical death or a day nearer to His coming. The promise of rewards is guaranteed because Christ is the sum of our existence. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.  

In verse 15, the Lord warns those who will not be found within the new city. Hence, it’s imperative that we make the right choice concerning where we want to be in eternity. The company we have inside the city and outside is quite telling. Outside we find “dogs”, people who violates the revealed will of God and His eternal principles. There will also be those that indulge in occult powers. Others are those who would not worship the true God but would rather worship idols, made out of things and people. Besides there will also be the malicious liars.

The whole book of Revelation is a testimony of Jesus. John was the human messenger whom the angel gave the message, to be delivered to the churches. Without a shadow of doubt, Jesus is God’s Messiah. To affirm that, John used several messianic terms such as the Root of Jesse, the offspring of David and the Bright and Morning Star. When Jesus gives His testimony through John’s writings, His intention is to invite others to share the benefits of the message as well. The Holy Spirit and the bride represented by the church, the community of His redeemed, affirm the invitation of Jesus, calling on all to come. Those who have heard the message should also affirm and echo their agreement. The invitation to come is also made to those outside the community of the redeemed and who desire to drink of the water of life. Let everyone who thirst for the living water come to Jesus and drink freely of the salvation only He can provide. The implication here is that everyone should come to Him. Come while there’s time. The opportunity would end the moment He returns.

Verses 18-21 serve as a warning to everyone who will not take the message of this book seriously. Everyone who denies, disbelieves or perverts the intended teaching of the inspired author will have to bear the consequence. Jesus closes the message with the promise to come soon, and like John, we the redeemed of the Lord must also urge Him to come quickly. We thank God for His saving, sustaining and sanctifying grace showered upon us. Yes and Amen! “Maranatha, Come, Lord Jesus!”

Revelation 22:8-11 - Take Heed!

Having had the privilege to see so much, John felt the urgency to exhort all to uphold all the truths. He was calling believers to pay attention to what really matter. Like we saw in Revelation 19:10, here he again fell at the feet of an angel to worship him, although he was told earlier not to do so. This only tells us that he must have been so overawed by all that he had seen, while at the same time warning believers of the danger of misdirecting our veneration to the wrong object. Like the previous time, the angel also told him not to worship him.

Like John and all the prophets, the angel is only a servant and here to serve the purpose of God. As we think deeper, John’s intention becomes clearer. He essentially wants us to know that when we become overawed by our experiences, it’s possible for us to direct our worship to the wrong object. However, there are two things stated at the end of verse 9 that all believers must positively do. They are to keep worshiping God, and to keep the words of this book. The exhortation here is to keep the words of the prophecy. We are not merely to hear it but to keep it. What does it mean to keep the word of the prophecy? Simply explained, it means that as believers of Christ, we must endure tribulation, while at the same time stay faithful to Him in the trials, pressure and persecution. This is a call to follow the Lamb to the very end.

Here John receives the instruction to leave the scroll of this book ready for use. He must keep it unsealed. The scroll must be read and evaluated before coming to conclusions. Once understood, the truth must be applied to one’s daily life to keep one prepared for the coming of the Lord.

Why do John say, “Let the one who does wrong, still do wrong; and the one who is filthy, still be filthy; and let the one who is righteous, still practice righteousness; and the one who is holy, still keep himself holy.” He must have realized the urgency of the time. This is a hyperbole, warning that the time and events are fast approaching. And when they dawn on us, it may be too late for one to seek repentance. Hence it’s better to stay true to Christ and continue in one’s practise of righteous and holy living.

The importance of right living can never be over emphasized. They are just echoes of what Christ had called believers to do while he was on earth. We must keep at the forefront of our mind to seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness. Let’s collaborate with the Holy Spirit as we make sure the right and needful things of life are practised to bring the glory of God upon earth!  

Revelation 21:22-22:7 – God, the Lamb and the new city

It is understandable why John saw no temple in this new Jerusalem. For it has already been revealed to him earlier that the whole city is the sanctuary. It’s like the Holy of Holies of Solomon’s temple. John saw it as a perfect cube, and adorned with the precious stones of the high priest’s breastplate. Here we are also told that the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are her temple. God’s immediate presence now saturates the whole city and make it into one great holy and sacred place. The two great light of the first creation are no longer needed. No longer do the city has need for the light of the sun or the moon. Why? It’s because the city is illuminated by the dazzling light of God’s glory. The whole place is literally lite up by His presence. The Lamb also reflects the divine radiance from the throne. This is what John meat when he says “…its lamp is the Lamb.” The light the Lamb provides is far better than any other lamp and this is the only light that’s needed in the new Jerusalem. In verses 24–26, John used the words of Isaiah 60 verses 3, 5 and 11. He said that the nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it. In the daytime (for there will be no night there) its gates will never be closed; and they will bring the glory and the honour of the nations into it. Night that speaks of death, sin, or sorrow will no longer be part of the experience in that city for they are banished forever. Besides the gates will never be shut, each and every person that belongs to God’s renewed earth will have access to the city. All the glory of these nations will be brought to God, where it belongs. Any priceless treasures of man will be returned to God. However, one thing is sure “Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” In Revelation 22:1-5, we get a glimpse of the heart of the city. Everything that flows from the city finds its source from the throne of God and the Lamb. In reality this is the paradise restored. Here we have life without end. There is no limitation to one’s health. In this place God’s true servants will serve Him. Eternity is one long day, the light comes from the throne of God and the Lamb. And forevermore God’s servants who bears His name on their foreheads will experience Him, and reign with Him forever. What John has described is no exaggeration. What he has said are faithful and true. And they will certainly come to pass. God’s words are “trustworthy and true.” The worth of Revelation is the truth of its message and it’s a certainty that every prophecy of God will be fulfilled and will come true. God who is faithful will be faithful to the end and beyond. The victory of God will be the ultimate culmination of all things and He will share that victory with us, His people. We all know from the experiences of the church that many things Christ had spoken had come true. The onus is now on us to trust Him absolutely, and take Him at His word. And know without a shadow of a doubt that we cannot afford to live a life without the Word of God. It is the source of true life!

Revelation 21:15-21 – New Jerusalem (2)

Obviously John got his source from the writing of the Prophet Ezekiel. Reading this chapter of Revelation shows a close resemblance to Ezekiel’s writing. Whether we are aware of it or not, we will see much of the footprint of Ezekiel in the measurement of the New Jerusalem. So as John says, the angel has a gold measuring reed to measure the holy city, the gates and the wall. We will recall that in Revelation 11:1–2, John was instructed to measure the sanctuary of God with a measuring reed. But for now the task is too mammoth for him and he cannot fulfil that role here. To measure this great new city will require an angel to do it. Besides the angel will need to do it with an appropriate measuring reed made of gold.

The result of the work of the angel further affirms the impression we already have that this city is beautiful, orderly and perfect in proportion. This is of course a great contrast from the chaotic and disordered life in Babylon. The city we are told is a perfect cube, equal in length, breath and height of 150 miles. This essentially made the city of the bride into a temple because according to 1 Kings 6:20, the inner sanctuary of Solomon’s Temple was a cube covered in pure gold.

The New Jerusalem is made of pure gold like clear glass. This is to say that it is so dazzling in appearance so as to allow the glory of God to shine through. Even as we imagine what had been described literally, we get the idea that the city is sheer enormous. We need to take note that this number in the book of Revelation is to be taken symbolically, and it is intended to speak of the complete and perfect dimension of this city.

Next we are told that the wall of this city is made of jasper to allow God’s glory to shine through. Even this wall is measured and we are told it is 72 yards in thickness. Again this number is a symbol of completeness. And we are told that the measurement for the thickness of the wall are the same for both human and angelic measurement. The emphasis of the thickness is to tell us it is impenetrable to invaders. Its thickness will ensure the difficulty for anyone to break through. 

Finally in verses 19-21 John describes the foundation stones of the city’s wall. These twelve foundation stones are decorated with every kind of precious stone, one precious stone for each of the foundations. All these remind us of the Aaronic priestly garment. Perhaps it is about the redeemed community as a priestly community with appropriate adornment to serve the Lord. Verse 21 tells us something of the twelve gates of the city, inscribed with the names of the tribes. On them are twelve pearls. The gates are not dressed with pearl like the foundation stones are with precious stones; rather, each one is made from a single pearl. Finally, John emphasizes again that the city is made of pure gold, like luminous glass with which the city is constructed, adding to her dazzling effect.

This is just the second instalment of the great new city. What we will see next would be the most glorious, unparalleled part of that city. Meanwhile, let’s hear what David Morris says in his song:

We’re a city n0t forsaken,

A city that can’t be shaken.

Raised up high, high above,

Guarded and protected by God’s own love.

A city sought after

A city that’s filled with laughter.

A holy people redeemed of the Lord,

Standing together in one accord.

Hallelujah!!

Revelation 21:9-14 – New Jerusalem (1)

One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls and had earlier showed him Babylon the great, now speaks to John and shows him the bride, the wife of the Lamb. Here John was shown the bride who was briefly introduced in Revelation 19:6–8. This bride of course is a symbol of God’s faithful people. We have established earlier that they were given the wedding dress because of their good deeds. This is to say that while her salvation is secured through the blood of the Lamb, her good works matters. For we are all saved for good works that God has prepared beforehand for us to walk in them, 

The renewed city is about to be shown to John. So he was carried away in the Spirit and there he sees the New Jerusalem. Unlike the wilderness where Babylon was seen, here what John sees is a huge and high mountain. And before his eyes is Jerusalem, the holy and yet glorious city, bearing the glory of God. It comes down out of heaven. Bear in mind that John is now up on this huge and high mountain, a supernaturally elevated mountain. In the Bible, mountains have frequently been used as places where God had encounters with His servants. We need to know that in the time of John, Jerusalem was a mountain city built on Mount Zion which also connected Mount Moriah and the Temple mount.

However, this New Jerusalem is far more superior in comparison to the earthly one, which is only an imperfect copy. What John is so greatly impressed about is the dazzle of God’s overwhelming glory. This visual impact of the New Jerusalem with all its splendor and brilliance is simply beyond description. So John has to use metaphors to describe, what he is at a loss for words, to give the details exactly.

The appearance is both brilliant and luminous, thus deflecting more impressively the glory within. John describes it as a precious stone, as a crystal-clear jasper. In the tour of the city we read from verses 12 -14, John shares about the holy city as he sees it. Reflecting the mountain on which she rests, the new Jerusalem has a huge, high wall with twelve gates. In ancient cities, walls were crucial structures to ensure the security of the people within. So the wall speaks of divine protection for God’s people. Besides referring to the twelve tribes of Israel, the number twelve also highlights the completeness and inclusiveness of God’s new people. The people of God are no longer confined to the historic twelve tribes but also people coming from every nation.

Besides we are told that there were twelve angels at the gates, presumably stationed there to protect the city and ensure that no-one unworthy enters in. These angels function much like the cherubim who guard the entrance to the Garden of Eden. The gates also have inscriptions of the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel on them. These are perfectly divided around the four sides of the city wall. Three gates are located on each side, looking outwards to east, north, south and west. Opening out to the four cardinal points of north, south, east and west, this city will invite the new enlarged people of God to enter into her.  

The perfectly proportioned city, John learns, have twelve foundation stones on her wall. Together, they form the foundation of the city. And just as the names of the twelve ancient tribes on the gates, the foundation stones bear the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. This tells us that this new Jerusalem that God has prepared is intimately related to the renewed community gathered in Christ’s name.

Praise God we are all members of the redeemed community of God. Awaiting us is the New Jerusalem, where we will forever enjoy the divine presence of God. However, even now, we can start to enjoy God’s presence. All we need is to take the time and draw near to Him, He promises to draw near to us as we do so. Why don’t we start today?

Revelation 21:1-8 - New heaven and new earth

Here John introduces us to the renewed heaven and earth after the final judgement.  At this point we see a fresh start to everything. The first heaven and the first earth are no more. Unlike death and hades described as destroyed in the previous chapter, John merely says here that they passed away. The sea is no more is probably an expression to say that chaos, darkness and the deep no longer exist. Disorder gave way to peace, death to life and chaos to orderliness. This is a sheer miracle of God and not because of human ingenuity or cleverness. It has nothing to do with modern science and technology.

Then we see the heavenly city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from heaven. Briefly introduced, we know that this is a gift from God. The full description will be given later. Jerusalem is an accepted symbol of the people of God. For a long while it has been spoken of as the Jew’s faith and hope. The New Jerusalem then is an image of God’s new people and God will seal a new covenant with this new people of His.

John then heard a voice declaring that God’s dwelling place is now with men. God will live among His people. And they shall be His new covenant people. There will also be no tear anymore because God Himself will wipe away all tears. Death will no longer have a part. And there will be no sorrow, no crying, not even pain because the former had passed away.  This is certainly the description of eternity and not of time.  

And John said that He who sat on the throne said, “Behold I am making all things new.” Then He proceeded to instruct him to write everything down for what He said is faithful and true. The reason John is told to write the faithful and true word because they come from the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. And to the new creation God promises to quench all thirst without cost. The living water He will use to quench come from the spring of life. This is an image of granting salvation to the new creation.

He then addresses the overcomers, bringing us back to Christ’s messages to the seven churches. Those who overcome are people who remain faithful in suffering and affliction, and stay true to the testimony of Jesus. They will receive as their inheritance all of God’s promises. They will participate in God’s new world. He will be their God and they will be His true children. In view of the wonderful promise made, verse 8 becomes an indirect appeal for people not to forfeit the promise. Through carelessness and disobedience, the promises could be forfeited. Here John gave a catalogue of vices that could preclude a person from the promises made. Not only that, they could find themselves ending up in the lake of fire and brimstone which is the second death. The list of vices include cowards, the unbelieving and abominable, murderers, immoral persons, sorcerers, idolaters and all liars. Could John be speaking to those who become weak, weary and cave in to the persecution and participate in those vices? Here is his effort to challenge the believers to stay true to receive the inheritance God has promised. There is great danger for being disobedient and faithless to Jesus. Whoever gives in does not belong to those whose names are written in the book of Life. Hence they are fundamentally like God’s enemies, and judgment awaits them.

As we read all these, we get a sense of the whole new world opening up before us. Let’s not be discouraged by the disorderliness of this present world, for out there a new world awaits us! Let’s also be challenged to stay faithful and obedient! Let’s live life with a renewed anticipation of the beckoning of the new world! 

Revelation 20:11 -15 - Death is abolished

This is a scene of judgment which John saw where everyone is present. He saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it. Around this throne are …the dead, the great and the small…, all standing before Him who sat on it. The throne of God presented in Revelation, as we have seen, has been a continuing motif. It represents the source of true power and authority in the world as opposed to all the false claims to the throne by the dragon and the beast. It is from the great white throne that judgment ensues, in this world and in the end-time vision. Bear in mind that John’s audience are believers from the churches he is writing this great apocalyptic letter to. They are believers who probably had to face the Roman courts, where they would be judged and condemned for their faithful stand and confession as believers of the Lamb. In John’s vision he sees this final judgement as one that is delivered impartially. And everyone, without exception, is present to receive his or her impartial verdict.  John did not identify the figure seated on the throne. In Jewish tradition, the last judge is of course God. Do know that in certain later apocalyptic traditions, the heavenly “Son of Man” has also been seen to be authorized by God to judge as his representative. John did not specify the figure on the throne. He didn’t say it was God or Christ. Both God and Christ have so often been together in this book. We either see the Lamb-as-representative-of-God or God-who-defines-himself-by-Christ. Here John did not clearly specify or describe the One who sat on the throne. Judgment is based on the books that are opened in this heavenly courtroom. The books have records of human deeds, and everyone stands in judgement for what they have done. This picture tells us that God did not dictate on human freedom. It suggests that each human being is given the responsibility for his or her own action. Every dead person, none was excluded, is summoned to this judgement where the deeds they have done is weighed. Hence we must conclude that what we do matters not only for now but also ultimately. We are told that death and hades are also folded up and thrown into the lake of fire. This is to say that death and hades are abolished. John explained that this lake of fire is also called the second death. Then we see in this scene, another opened book. This is the book of grace, the Lamb’s book of life. Names are written in it. Those whose names are not found in this book will also be thrown into the lake of fire or to face the second death. It’s clear that those who were saved from the second death are not based on their deeds but whether their names are in the book of life.  Remember that making the decision to acknowledge the Lamb and His rescuing death, is a matter of personal responsibility. This will determine whether one’s name will appear in the book of life. Knowing Christ as Lord and Savior guarantees our names will be written in the book of life. Having been saved, we must also consider the fact that our deed matters to God. For we are all created in Christ Jesus for the good works God had beforehand prepared for us, so that we can walk in it. And this we must seek to do for His glory!

Revelation 20:7-10 - Satan’s final ditch to deceive

The question we ask today as we come to these verses is the same question we asked in the previous paragraph. The question is: “Why must Satan be released again?” We must realize that John had already shown the final defeat of Satan. Here he brought Satan in to incorporate it to the defeat of Gog and Magog. On his release after the 1,000 years, the devil will go about deceiving the nations all over the four corners of the earth as well as God and Magog to go out against the saints and the beloved city. John’s source is quite obviously Ezekiel 39-40. Who are Gog and Magog? John sees Gog and Magog operating under the influence of the ultimate power of evil, symbolized by Satan. Here’s what accounts for why Satan had to be released. He is released so that he can deceive the nations into teaming up with Gog and Magog for the closing battle.

Ezekiel 38–39 tell us that “Gog, prince of Magog,” is the one God will raise up in the last days. He is the final symbol of evil that God will destroy to assert His own sovereignty and glory. During John’s day, the “Gog of Magog” had developed into “Gog and Magog.” And instead of one, we see two forces representing the ultimate enemies of God’s people and would be destroyed in the end-time battle. But we would be making a mistake to see John’s presentation of Gog and Magog as nations that are the ultimate enemies of God’s people. Here John is merely putting it into graphically to help us see the ultimate destruction of evil. Before evil can be annihilated, it must be brought into full bloom and then be forever destroyed. Hence the devil must be released to engage in his proven mischief of “deceiving the nations” into one last ditch war against the saints and the beloved city, Jerusalem. In this battle, fire came down from heaven and licked all of them. Here we see Satan finally thrown into the fiery lake of burning Sulphur and brimstone where the beast and the false prophets were thrown in earlier.

We all know that the devil’s end is drawing closer and closer. Meanwhile he is still alive. Peter tells us that he prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. There are people who claim that he can only roar but has no teeth to devour. This is a sadly mistaken misconception. While he awaits his ultimate defeat, he is still seeking to devour believers. How can he be said to have no teeth when he can devour. It behooves us to be alert to his roaring petrifying roars, so that we will not be like the prey of a lion, too frightened to draw close to God. We can move nearer to God moment by moment because He is our guarantee to victory. Let us hide under the shadow of the Almighty so that we will not be devoured!

Revelation 20:1-6 - A thousand years reign

This passage’s six verses present us with some puzzling realities that need answers. Why God did not just finish Satan off together with the beast and the false prophet by throwing him together with them into the lake of fire? Why did He had Satan bound for only a thousand years and be released again to create havoc? What is the meaning of the two resurrections?

We must acknowledge that the evil of every fallen man is real and no matter what, it will always show its ugly features. That account for why the death of the Lamb is necessary to take away their sin. Now the binding of the dragon, that ancient serpent, the devil or Satan, in the abyss for a thousand years duration will prove this reality. Even in his absence, man will continue to show his fallen features. And then Satan’s release is to allow him to do his worst and exhaust his whole repertoire of accusations. And when he is finally dealt with, it would be said that none of his trickeries was left undealt with. Every accusation and deception that he ever used and could use was totally dealt with by God.

What about the two resurrections? The first resurrection of the martyrs and those who did not worship the beast or bear the mark of the beast on their foreheads or hands were given thrones to sit and judge with Christ. Although it is specified as 1,000 years, it is probably just a symbol not to be taken literally. Perhaps this is by way of saying that the martyrs are already reigning because Christ is already reigning. Bear in mind what Paul said in the book of Ephesians, that Christians are already seated in heavenly places with Christ Jesus. He also reminds us there, that Christ who descended is also He who has ascended, and He had led captive a host of captives. These are the blessed ones who are reigning with Him on high. They will no longer die again because death has no power over them and they are the priests who serve God and are already reigning with Christ. John tells us that after that period there will be another resurrection for the remaining of the dead.       

Let’s just be aware that no matter how we interpret all these, no one can say it with absolute finality. One thing we must say with absolute finality is this: the victory of the Lamb is secured. And we are invited to share His victory through faith and patience. Besides, we must leave God to do what only He can do. The victory is secured and the victory belongs to the Creator God. Death will be abolished and a glorious way will be opened up for the saints to enjoy God’s renewed creation. Hallelujah, the Almighty God reigns! 

Revelation 19:17-21 - The enemy’s defeat

Now, in these closing scenes, an angel is heard inviting all the birds, the vultures, and eagles in midair, to join in God’s great supper. The occasion is in deep contrast to the jubilant wedding celebration in Heaven. In the earlier verses of Revelation 19, we saw how the multitudes sang their praises at the marriage of the Lamb and His bride. Right here, the birds are being summoned to an entirely different type of feast. It is for the invited birds to clear away the total devastation of rebellious men who gathered to attack the forces of God.

In verse 19, John saw another scene. This time the beast and all the kings of the earth form a great coalition to fight against the Lord and His army dressed in white. It was a great conflict although John did not really describe it. However, we are told of the outcome. The beast is seized together with his false prophet, who performed signs in his presence and deceived people into accepting the mark of the beast and worshiped his image. Both of them are thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning Sulphur. All of the rest, the faceless, unidentified “kings of the earth” and “their armies” and mighty men and all kinds of people, free and slave, small and great, who are not thrown into the lake of fiery Sulphur, are destroyed by the sword that comes out of the mouth of the rider on the horse.

Notice that the hosts of Heaven who followed Jesus did not even need to lift a finger. The Word from the mouth of Jesus determines the conclusion of the conflict. We see the vultures go about busily filling themselves with the flesh of those who are deluded by the beast, worshiped him, and received his mark but are not thrown into the lake of fiery Sulphur. What a great devastation!

Many today are still oppressed and troubled and being lured by the evil forces still operating on the behest of the evil one. Lies and deceit are still spreading in our day. Until they are vanquished, we need to be on guard. There must be no compromise if we are to stand and be named among the faithful, true and righteous. Let’s give our very best, with the help of the Spirit of the Living God! 

Revelation 19:11-16 - Jesus, our victorious King

From the vision that started in the little island of Patmos, John has increasingly saw richer visions with much implication for the church and believers. And now in Revelation 19:11, he sees the whole heaven standing open and a white horse with the Faithful and True one sitting on it. Here the majority of interpreters of Revelation concur that it is none other than the Lord Jesus Christ. How else could He be called, except One who is both Faithful and True? He had proven that He is worthy of this title, both in life and in His death, and of course resurrection. We are told that it is with righteousness that He judges and operates.

Here Jesus, our Lord and King, is strikingly described. His eyes are a flame of fire, again tells of His penetrating gaze that is capable of seeing every part of a person’s heart and life. On His head are many crowns. In Revelation 12:3 we saw the dragon, a figure of Satan had seven crowns. Then in Revelation 13:1, we saw the beast out of the sea with ten crowns on his ten horns. But what we see of Jesus, the rider on the white horse having many crowns, is speaking of His kingship over all kingdoms. On Him is written a personal and secret name known to Himself. Perhaps this tells us that there is much about Jesus still to be discovered by us. This secret name also tells us that that are much more about our Lord that our finite mind cannot fully plumb and fully comprehend. In verse 13, John tells us that His robe is dipped in blood from treading the wine press of God’s wrath.

Furthermore, His other name is the Word of God, the faithful and true word of God.  This is the revelation of God Himself in all wisdom. He is the divine Word. Following behind Him are the armies of heaven also riding in white horses. These heavenly hosts are also dressed in white, emphasizing both righteousness and victory. Some have suggested that these are not heavenly angels but the redeemed. But the context of a war against evil better suit that of a heavenly force than the redeemed.  

The sharp sword that came out of His mouth is again a figure of speech, depicting of His penetrating word that is sharp and able to divide between bones and marrow, soul and spirit and is the discerner of the intention of man’s heart. He shall also rule the nation with an iron sceptre signifying His character. He is dauntless, confident, just and wise in His judgement and rule decisively.

The blood in Jesus’ robe is not dipped by the blood of his enemies. It is His own blood. It’s the blood that stained His garment as He tread the winepress of God’s wrath. It is the same blood in which the martyrs have washed their robes and made them not red, but white. Also on His robe and thigh are written “King of kings and Lord of lords”. He has the ultimate power and is about to wield it.

What a marvelous Lord is Jesus! When we understand who we are serving and following and understand His victory, we know who the ultimate victory belongs to. Kingdoms can come and go, regimes can come and go, but the One forever on the throne is God and the Lord Jesus Christ! We serve the King who is faithful and true so we must also stay faithful and true as He has!