{"id":65,"date":"2026-08-23T09:55:05","date_gmt":"2026-08-23T09:55:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wealthandwellnessdirect.com\/?page_id=65"},"modified":"2026-08-23T09:55:15","modified_gmt":"2026-08-23T09:55:15","slug":"book-of-revelation-study-guide","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/wealthandwellnessdirect.com\/?page_id=65","title":{"rendered":"BOOK OF REVELATION STUDY GUIDE"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Study, Understand, and Interpret the Book of Revelation, Biblical Prophecy, Its Symbols, and Its Message<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ABOUT THE AUTHOR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Carl Timothy Wray<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carl Timothy Wray is a Christian author and Bible teacher whose ministry represents more than four decades of studying, teaching, and writing the Word of God. His work extends far beyond a single book or platform and reflects a lifetime devoted to biblical teaching and making those teachings accessible to readers and students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His ministry and publishing work include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>40+ years devoted to studying and teaching the Word of God<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Author of 600+ books and biblical teaching works<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>15+ years teaching students through Facebook and online ministry<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>More than 2 million views on his YouTube teaching channel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>200+ books and teachings achieving #1 search positioning on Google, Bing, and Yahoo<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Founder of The Finished Work of Christ<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Founder of Zion University<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Founder of The Finished Work of Christ TV<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Creator of The Finished Work of Christ App<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An extensive multi-platform teaching ministry spanning books, television, video, web, apps, and social media<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carl Timothy Wray&#8217;s extensive library addresses major biblical themes including the Grace of God, the Finished Work of Christ, the Kingdom of God, the Book of Revelation, spiritual maturity, the sons of God, and God&#8217;s eternal purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His purpose remains straightforward: to search the Scriptures, teach what he sees, and make a substantial body of biblical teaching available to those who desire to go deeper in the Word of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TABLE OF CONTENTS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Introduction \u2014 Preparing to Understand the Book of Revelation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chapter 1 \u2014 The Revelation of Jesus Christ<\/strong><br><em>Know Who the Book Is About<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chapter 2 \u2014 He Sent and Signified It<\/strong><br><em>Understanding How the Book of Revelation Is Written<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chapter 3 \u2014 I Was in the Spirit<\/strong><br><em>The Spiritual State in Which Revelation Is Received<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chapter 4 \u2014 The Natural Mind Versus the Spiritual Mind<\/strong><br><em>Spiritual Things Must Be Spiritually Discerned<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chapter 5 \u2014 The Lord Opens the Eye and Builds the Ear<\/strong><br><em>God Creates the Capacity to See and Hear<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chapter 6 \u2014 He That Hath an Ear, Let Him Hear<\/strong><br><em>Learning to Hear What the Spirit Is Saying<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chapter 7 \u2014 To Him That Overcometh<\/strong><br><em>Revelation Must Become Experience<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chapter 8 \u2014 Come Up Hither<\/strong><br><em>Where You Stand Determines What You See<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chapter 9 \u2014 A Throne Was Set in Heaven<\/strong><br><em>Understanding the Book From the Realm of Divine Government<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Chapter 10 \u2014 The Lamb Has Prevailed<\/strong><br><em>Understanding Revelation From the Victory of Jesus Christ<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Conclusion \u2014 Let Us Go On Unto Maturity<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">INTRODUCTION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARING TO UNDERSTAND THE BOOK OF REVELATION<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Book of Revelation is one of the most read, discussed, debated, and misunderstood books in the Bible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For generations, people have approached Revelation attempting to identify its beasts, calculate its numbers, determine the meaning of its judgments, establish prophetic timelines, identify its personalities, and predict when its events will occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet before we attempt to understand any of those things, we must begin where the Book of Revelation itself begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe Revelation of Jesus Christ\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those opening words establish the foundation for everything that follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Book of Revelation is first and foremost <strong>the revelation of Jesus Christ<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before it reveals a beast, it reveals Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before it shows us Babylon, it reveals Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the seals are opened, before the trumpets sound, before the vials are poured out, before the dragon appears, and before New Jerusalem descends, the Holy Spirit establishes the One around whom the entire revelation revolves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Jesus Christ is the center of the book.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we lose sight of Him while studying Revelation, we can become fascinated with its signs while missing the One whom those signs ultimately serve to reveal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But knowing the subject of Revelation is only the beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The opening chapter also tells us something extremely important about <strong>how this book was communicated<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:1 declares that God:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation was <strong>signified<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It comes to us through signs, symbols, visions, numbers, prophetic pictures, heavenly scenes, beasts, women, cities, mountains, waters, stars, lamps, horns, crowns, garments, and many other forms of symbolic language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, before we can properly interpret what John saw, we must learn something about <strong>the language in which the Revelation was given<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A sign points beyond itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When Scripture gives us a sign, our responsibility is not merely to stare at the sign. We must seek to understand the spiritual reality to which the sign is pointing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That immediately establishes another important principle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Scripture must interpret Scripture.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We should not approach every symbol in Revelation with our imagination, our newspaper, our political opinions, or the latest theory about world events. We must search the Scriptures and allow the Word of God to establish its own language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But there is still another foundation that must be laid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John tells us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was in the Spirit on the Lord&#8217;s day\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:10<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John was <strong>in the Spirit<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That statement is tremendously important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the Revelation was received in the Spirit, then spiritual understanding is necessary for properly receiving what was revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul established this principle plainly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 2:14<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He continues by explaining why:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026because they are spiritually discerned.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means that our greatest problem in understanding Revelation may not initially be the difficulty of the symbols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first issue may be <strong>the condition of the one attempting to understand them<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we spend our time asking what the beast means, what the 144,000 represent, who the two witnesses are, what Babylon signifies, or what is taking place when the trumpets sound, we need to ask a more fundamental question:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do we have eyes to see and ears to hear what the Spirit is saying?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throughout Scripture, God deals with the spiritual capacity of His people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord opens the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord opens the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord gives understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord awakens the inner man to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus repeatedly declared:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath ears to hear, let him hear.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And when we enter Revelation chapters 2 and 3, that principle becomes even more specific:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a difference between possessing a natural ear and possessing the spiritual capacity to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a difference between looking and seeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a difference between reading words and receiving revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And there is a difference between gathering biblical information and having truth formed within us by the Spirit of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That distinction will become one of the major foundations of this study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BUILDING THE CAPACITY TO RECEIVE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus spoke of new wine and wineskins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are truths for which capacity must be developed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This principle can be understood naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A student does not ordinarily walk into an advanced physics course without first establishing foundations in mathematics and science. The advanced course assumes that certain elementary principles have already been learned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The deeper things of God should not cause us to despise foundational truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The foundation is what gives us somewhere to build.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The writer of Hebrews declares:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTherefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Hebrews 6:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Going onward does not mean the foundation was unnecessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It means the foundation has accomplished its purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There comes a time when the foundation has been sufficiently established that God can begin building upon it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the purpose of this book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are laying foundation stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are preparing the reader to approach the Book of Revelation from the spiritual principles contained within Scripture itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are going to learn:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Who is being revealed.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How the Revelation is written.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How John received it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why spiritual things must be spiritually discerned.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How God develops eyes to see and ears to hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to hear what the Spirit says to the churches.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why revelation calls us to overcome.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why John was told to \u201ccome up hither.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why the throne must govern our understanding of everything that follows.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And finally, <strong>why the victory of the Lamb must be established in our understanding before the first seal is ever opened.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice what we are deliberately <strong>not<\/strong> attempting to do yet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not beginning with the man-child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not beginning with the 144,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not beginning with the two witnesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not beginning with Mystery Babylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not beginning with the seven last plagues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those subjects have their place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are tremendous depths within the Book of Revelation, and there is much territory to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But first we must prepare the vessel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First we must establish the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First we must develop the wineskin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME AND SEE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is an invitation running through the Book of Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Come and see.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But seeing requires more than natural eyesight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing requires more than natural ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding requires more than natural intelligence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need the Spirit of God to illuminate the Word of God within the people of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, this study begins not by asking:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWho is the beast?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We begin with a far greater question:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHO IS BEING REVEALED?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And Revelation answers immediately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JESUS CHRIST.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is our first foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And that is where our study begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHAPTER ONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">KNOW WHO THE BOOK IS ABOUT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we attempt to understand the Book of Revelation, we must allow the book to tell us what it is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Holy Spirit does not leave us guessing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first five words establish the foundation upon which everything else must be built:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is where we begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not with the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not with the dragon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not with Babylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not with the mark of the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not with Armageddon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not with the seven seals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not with the seven trumpets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not with the seven last plagues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not even with the question of when all these things take place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We begin with <strong>Jesus Christ<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we begin somewhere else, there is a danger that everything we build afterward will rest upon the wrong foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Book of Revelation was never intended to make the beast greater in our consciousness than Jesus Christ. It was never intended to cause God&#8217;s people to become more conscious of the dragon than of the Lamb. It was never intended to make Babylon appear greater than New Jerusalem or the kingdoms of men appear greater than the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This book begins with Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It progresses through Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And ultimately, everything within it must be understood in relationship to Christ and God&#8217;s purpose in Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is our first foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION MEANS AN UNVEILING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The word translated <strong>Revelation<\/strong> comes from the Greek word <em>apokalypsis<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It carries the thought of an <strong>unveiling, uncovering, disclosure, or revealing<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think about a curtain covering something that is already present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the curtain is pulled away, the thing behind the curtain does not suddenly come into existence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It was already there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What changed?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>It became visible.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the nature of revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation does not create Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation <strong>unveils Christ<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This distinction is important because many people approach the Book of Revelation primarily as though God were attempting to conceal something from them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the very name of the book tells us the opposite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is an <strong>unveiling<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something is being made known.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something is being disclosed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Someone is being revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the One being revealed is <strong>Jesus Christ<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This immediately changes the spirit in which we approach the book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not entering Revelation as frightened people wandering through a dark prophetic maze hoping we can somehow escape what is coming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are entering an unveiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are coming to see <strong>Jesus Christ<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE CENTER MUST REMAIN THE CENTER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the great dangers in studying Revelation is allowing one of its secondary subjects to become the center of the book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can study Revelation and become consumed with the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another can become consumed with the mark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another can become consumed with dates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another can become consumed with wars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another can become consumed with political systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another can become consumed with economic systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another can become consumed with trying to identify a particular individual as the Antichrist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another can spend years trying to determine precisely when certain events will occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is possible to know hundreds of theories concerning Revelation and still miss the central revelation of the book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The opening verse protects us from that error.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Revelation of Jesus Christ.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That must govern us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whenever our interpretation makes something else greater than Christ, we need to return to the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whenever fear becomes greater than faith, return to the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whenever the beast becomes greater than the Lamb, return to the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whenever Babylon becomes greater than God&#8217;s city, return to the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whenever the activity of evil appears greater than the government of God, return to the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Revelation of Jesus Christ.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the stone upon which we build.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD GAVE THE REVELATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:1 continues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026which God gave unto him\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation originates in God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John did not invent it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John did not sit on Patmos developing a theological system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He did not create the visions through human imagination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God gave the Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This establishes another important principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">True revelation originates with God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Man may study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Man may search.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Man may compare Scripture with Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Man may meditate upon the Word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All of these things have their proper place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But spiritual revelation ultimately depends upon God making something known.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus established this principle long before John stood on Patmos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When Peter declared:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Matthew 16:16<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus answered:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBlessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Matthew 16:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Peter saw something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Jesus immediately identified the source of Peter&#8217;s seeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Father revealed it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the realm we are entering when we approach Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is knowledge that flesh and blood can communicate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And there is understanding that God must unveil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We will develop this much more deeply later when we study the natural mind and the spiritual mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For now, establish the principle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION COMES FROM GOD<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That should produce humility in every student of Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not approach Revelation declaring that our natural intelligence is sufficient to master it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We approach asking God to give us eyes to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JESUS CHRIST IS ALREADY VICTORIOUS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As Revelation 1 continues, the Christ being unveiled begins to appear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John writes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look carefully at how Jesus is introduced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The faithful witness.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The first begotten of the dead.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The prince of the kings of the earth.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not the introduction of a defeated Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not a Christ desperately trying to recover control of creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not a Christ wondering whether the dragon will defeat Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not a Christ hoping that someday He might become King.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John introduces Him in government and victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE PRINCE OF THE KINGS OF THE EARTH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That foundation matters because of everything we are eventually going to encounter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later we will see kingdoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later we will see beasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later we will see authorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later we will see warfare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later we will see Babylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But before any of that, Revelation tells us who Jesus Christ is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader must never forget what was established in Chapter 1 merely because frightening imagery appears in a later chapter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Christ has already been introduced.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HIM THAT LOVED US<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then Revelation makes the unveiling intensely personal:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cUnto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One being revealed is the One <strong>who loved us<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we encounter the judgments of Revelation, establish that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we encounter fire, establish that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we encounter wrath, establish that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we encounter the fall of Babylon, establish that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>He loved us.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And His love is not presented merely as an emotion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It acted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026washed us from our sins in his own blood.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation of Jesus Christ cannot be separated from redemption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb who appears throughout this book is connected to sacrifice, blood, redemption, victory, and God&#8217;s purpose for a people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why we must establish Christ before attempting to interpret judgment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we begin with judgment and never establish the Lamb, we can develop a distorted picture of the book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation does not permit us to do that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before John takes us into the great visions, he establishes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Jesus Christ.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>His love.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>His blood.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>His redemption.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And then something remarkable follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE HAS MADE US KINGS AND PRIESTS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:6 declares:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hath made us.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Already, in the opening chapter, Revelation begins moving from the revelation of Christ toward what His work produces in a people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Book of Revelation is not merely about something happening <strong>around<\/strong> God&#8217;s people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is something God is producing <strong>within<\/strong> a people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is transformation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is priesthood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is participation in what God is doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not going to exhaust <strong>kings and priests<\/strong> in this foundation book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is much more to say about that subject.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But we need to see the seed planted in the opening chapter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later, when we go deeper into Revelation, we will return to it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For now, remember:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Christ&#8217;s victory produces a people.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That principle will become increasingly important as our Revelation studies deepen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BEHOLD, HE COMETH WITH CLOUDS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John continues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBehold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:7<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, notice the center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>He.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The focus remains Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation will contain many things to behold, but the great command at the beginning is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BEHOLD HIM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a principle we need to carry throughout the entire book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we eventually encounter symbols that seem overwhelming, we must remember whom we were first commanded to behold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we see the dragon, behold Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we see the beast, behold Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we see Babylon, behold Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we see judgment, behold Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we see New Jerusalem, behold Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation does not move us away from Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Properly understood, it continually unveils Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ALPHA AND OMEGA<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:8 declares:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is another enormous foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Beginning and ending.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation is held within Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The purpose begins in God and reaches its fulfillment in God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means we cannot properly interpret the middle of the story while ignoring its beginning and ending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes people enter Revelation somewhere in the middle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They begin with Revelation 13.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They begin with the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They begin with 666.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And because they begin in the middle, the conflict becomes larger than the purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation begins by declaring:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I AM ALPHA AND OMEGA<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we study what happens between Alpha and Omega, we need to know <strong>who holds both the beginning and the ending<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The conflict does not determine the ending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beast does not determine the ending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Babylon does not determine the ending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Death does not determine the ending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>God declares the ending from the beginning because the purpose is His.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN TURNED TO SEE THE VOICE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then something happens that prepares us for later chapters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd I turned to see the voice that spake with me.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:12<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider that language:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>I turned to see.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John hears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then John turns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then John sees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are beginning to encounter the spiritual vocabulary that will govern this book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Turn.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those words will become increasingly important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation is filled with seeing and hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John hears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John is shown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John is told.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John beholds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But before we can understand what John sees, we must begin understanding the spiritual capacity by which these things are perceived.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We will deal with that in the chapters ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For now, look at what John sees when he turns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ONE LIKE UNTO THE SON OF MAN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:13 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There He is again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation begins with Him, and John&#8217;s first great vision centers upon Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John describes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His garment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His golden girdle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His head and hair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His right hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sharp sword proceeding from His mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His countenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything about the picture communicates glory, authority, purity, judgment, and divine government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not Jesus standing before Pilate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not Jesus carrying the cross toward Golgotha.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not Jesus lying in Joseph&#8217;s tomb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the <strong>glorified Christ<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One who was crucified lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I AM HE THAT LIVETH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When John sees Him, John falls at His feet as dead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then Christ lays His right hand upon him and says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cFear not; I am the first and the last:\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:18<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is the Gospel inside the Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>I was dead.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>I am alive.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And not merely alive temporarily:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ALIVE FOR EVERMORE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the Christ through whom we must interpret Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Death has already encountered Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The grave has already encountered Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And He stands declaring:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>I AM ALIVE FOR EVERMORE.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How can we interpret the rest of Revelation as though death ultimately wins when the One being revealed announces in the opening chapter that He has already passed through death and stands alive forevermore?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then He adds:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026and have the keys of hell and of death.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice who possesses the keys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book has barely begun, and already the reader has been told enough to prevent a fear-centered interpretation\u2014if he will hold onto what has been revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DO NOT LET THE BEAST STEAL THE FIRST CHAPTER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the most important lessons a beginning student of Revelation can learn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read Chapter 13 and forget Chapter 1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read Chapter 17 and forget Chapter 1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read about the dragon and forget Chapter 1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read about Babylon and forget Chapter 1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read about death and forget the One who declares:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I HAVE THE KEYS OF HELL AND OF DEATH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation establishes Christ first for a reason.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The foundation must be laid before the conflict is unveiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we know who Christ is before we encounter the beast, the beast cannot become the center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we know who Christ is before we encounter Babylon, Babylon cannot become the center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we know who Christ is before we encounter judgment, judgment cannot become disconnected from the purpose of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The first chapter teaches us how to approach every chapter that follows.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE MYSTERY OF THE SEVEN STARS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the end of Revelation 1, something else occurs that prepares us perfectly for Chapter 2 of this study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:20<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then He explains the symbols:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There it is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation itself gives us an interpretive principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees <strong>stars<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the stars signify something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees <strong>candlesticks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the candlesticks signify something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit does not leave the reader to assume that everything John sees must be understood merely according to its natural appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book begins teaching us its language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is exactly where our next foundation stone begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have now established <strong>WHO<\/strong> the Revelation is about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next we must establish <strong>HOW<\/strong> the Revelation is written.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE FIRST FOUNDATION STONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before moving forward, settle this truth within your heart:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THIS IS THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you open Revelation, look for Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you encounter a symbol, look for Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you encounter judgment, look for Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you encounter conflict, look for Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you encounter victory, look for Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you encounter the throne, look for Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you encounter the Lamb, look for Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you encounter New Jerusalem, look for Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not allow the frightening images of the middle of the book to cause you to forget the declaration at its beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One being unveiled is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The faithful witness.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The first begotten of the dead.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Prince of the kings of the earth.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The One who loved us.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The One who washed us in His blood.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Alpha and Omega.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The First and the Last.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The One who was dead.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The One who is alive forevermore.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The One who possesses the keys of hell and death.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the Christ of Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And until that foundation is established, we are not ready to build anything else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION PRINCIPLE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Never begin the interpretation of the Book of Revelation with something the Book of Revelation itself did not begin with.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It begins with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JESUS CHRIST.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And so must we.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARING FOR CHAPTER TWO<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now that we know <strong>WHO<\/strong> is being revealed, our next question is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How did God communicate this Revelation?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:1 has already given us the answer:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026he sent and signified it\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That single word\u2014<strong>signified<\/strong>\u2014will become one of the most important keys we possess for understanding the entire book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we attempt to interpret the signs, <strong>we must first understand that we are looking at signs.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is our next foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHAPTER TWO<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">UNDERSTANDING HOW THE BOOK OF REVELATION IS WRITTEN<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe 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.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have established our first foundation stone:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Book of Revelation is the Revelation of Jesus Christ.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we must establish the second.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we begin interpreting what John saw, we need to understand <strong>how God communicated what John saw<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:1 tells us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That word <strong>signified<\/strong> is enormously important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God communicated this Revelation to John through <strong>signs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John is going to see things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is going to hear things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is going to behold heavenly scenes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will see beasts, horns, stars, candlesticks, women, cities, mountains, waters, horses, crowns, a dragon, a Lamb, a great red dragon, a woman clothed with the sun, a beast rising from the sea, another beast coming out of the earth, bowls, trumpets, seals, angels, a river, a tree, and a city descending from God out of heaven.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we do not understand from the beginning that the book has been <strong>signified<\/strong>, we can make a tremendous interpretive mistake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can look at the sign and never see what the sign signifies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why God tells us how the book is written before He takes us very far into the book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHAT IS A SIGN?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A sign points beyond itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are traveling down a highway and see a sign announcing a city fifty miles ahead, you do not stop your automobile, get out, embrace the sign, and announce that you have arrived at the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because <strong>the sign is not the city<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sign points to something beyond itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a simple natural illustration, but it establishes an important principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When God gives us a sign, our responsibility is to ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What does this signify?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What spiritual reality is God communicating?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What truth is being unveiled?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What does Scripture itself tell us about this sign?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is entirely different from assuming that the natural image John sees must always be the final meaning of the vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION TEACHES US HOW TO READ REVELATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not have to leave the first chapter to prove this principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the end of Revelation 1, Jesus tells John:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:20<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John saw <strong>seven stars<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John saw <strong>seven golden candlesticks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we approached the vision with nothing but natural reasoning, we might begin asking questions about literal stars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What kind of stars?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Where are these stars located?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How could seven stars fit into someone&#8217;s hand?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are they planets?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are they astronomical bodies?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Jesus immediately tells us what the sign signifies:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is our lesson.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>John saw one thing.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The thing he saw signified another reality.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seven stars were seen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the stars signified the angels of the seven churches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seven candlesticks were seen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the candlesticks signified the seven churches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation has already begun teaching us how Revelation works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SIGN AND THE REALITY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need to learn to distinguish between these two things:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>THE SIGN<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>THE REALITY THE SIGN REVEALS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This principle runs throughout Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God has always used visible things to communicate invisible realities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He uses natural pictures to reveal spiritual truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He uses types.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He uses shadows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He uses parables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He uses prophetic actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He uses dreams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He uses visions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He uses symbols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He uses earthly language to communicate heavenly realities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem begins when we stop at the natural picture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural picture may be the doorway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the spiritual reality is what God wants us to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JESUS TAUGHT WITH NATURAL PICTURES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus constantly used things His hearers could see to reveal things they could not see naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He spoke about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Seed.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Soil.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Wheat.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tares.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Sheep.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Goats.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Vines.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Branches.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Bread.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Water.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Light.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Darkness.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Doors.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pearls.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Treasure.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Fishing nets.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Jesus was not primarily teaching agriculture, animal husbandry, horticulture, baking, fishing, or architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He used natural realities to unveil spiritual realities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI am the door\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 10:9<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nobody who understands His words begins looking for hinges attached to Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because we understand the language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Door<\/strong> communicates access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI am the true vine\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 15:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not imagine that Jesus has become a literal grapevine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural image communicates a spiritual reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then He tells His disciples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cYe are the branches.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 15:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, the language is spiritual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ is revealing relationship, life, union, dependence, fruitfulness, and the source from which life flows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once we understand this principle throughout Scripture, the symbolic language of Revelation should not surprise us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE PROPHETS SPOKE THIS LANGUAGE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John did not suddenly invent prophetic symbolism on Patmos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The prophets had been speaking this language for generations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Daniel saw beasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ezekiel saw living creatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Zechariah saw horses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Joseph dreamed about the sun, moon, and stars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pharaoh dreamed about cows and ears of corn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nebuchadnezzar dreamed about a great image.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Daniel saw horns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prophets spoke of mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They spoke of cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They spoke of women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They spoke of trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They spoke of rivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They spoke of heavens being shaken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They spoke in language filled with prophetic pictures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, when we arrive at Revelation, we are not entering an entirely new biblical vocabulary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are entering the culmination of a prophetic language God has already been using throughout Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SCRIPTURE MUST INTERPRET SCRIPTURE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This gives us one of the safest principles for studying Revelation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LET SCRIPTURE INTERPRET SCRIPTURE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When John sees a symbol, our first question should not be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWhat does the latest prophecy teacher say this means?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our first question should not be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWhat modern political figure looks like this?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our first question should not be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWhat current technology could this possibly describe?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our first question should be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHERE HAVE I SEEN THIS LANGUAGE IN SCRIPTURE BEFORE?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John sees a beast, search the Scriptures for beasts used prophetically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John sees horns, search the Scriptures for horns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John sees waters, search the Scriptures for waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John sees a woman, search the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John sees a city, search the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John sees a mountain, search the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John sees stars, search the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John sees a throne, search the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John sees a Lamb, search the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Bible has a vocabulary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The prophets have a vocabulary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus has a vocabulary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The apostles have a vocabulary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And Revelation does not exist independently from the rest of the Word of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE WATERS ARE INTERPRETED FOR US<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation itself repeatedly demonstrates this method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Revelation 17, John sees a woman sitting upon many waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we immediately insist that the waters must only mean literal oceans, rivers, or lakes, we have ignored the interpretation the book itself supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The angel tells John:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 17:15<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There it is again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SIGN:<\/strong> Waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SIGNIFIED REALITY:<\/strong> Peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Holy Spirit is teaching us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sign is not meaningless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Neither is the sign necessarily the final reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It points to something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE HORNS ARE INTERPRETED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation does the same thing with horns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 17:12 declares:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SIGN:<\/strong> Ten horns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SIGNIFIED REALITY:<\/strong> Ten kings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose someone insisted that because John literally saw horns in the vision, the prophecy must ultimately concern ten enormous physical horns appearing somewhere upon the earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book itself would correct that interpretation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The horns <strong>signify<\/strong> kings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once we see this pattern, our approach to the whole book begins to change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE WOMAN IS INTERPRETED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The same chapter tells us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd the woman which thou sawest is that great city\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 17:18<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>John sees a woman.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The angel identifies what the woman signifies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">She is connected with <strong>a great city<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we are learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Stars signify.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Candlesticks signify.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Waters signify.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Horns signify.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A woman signifies.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This does not mean that every symbol means the same thing every time it appears in Scripture. Context matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But it does mean that we cannot approach Revelation as though the prophetic image must always be interpreted merely according to its natural appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIGNS REQUIRE SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we begin seeing why the order of our foundation matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chapter One established:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHO IS BEING REVEALED?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chapter Two establishes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HOW IS THE REVELATION COMMUNICATED?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is signified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And where does that naturally take us next?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If God communicates spiritual realities through signs, then <strong>what kind of perception is necessary to understand those signs?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That question will take us directly toward John&#8217;s statement:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was in the Spirit\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But before we move there, we need to make this second foundation stone firm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DO NOT MAKE EVERYTHING NATURAL<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the easiest mistakes a beginning student can make is to take every image in Revelation and immediately search for a natural fulfillment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees something strange, and we immediately ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What modern weapon could that be?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What nation could that be?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What politician could that be?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What computer system could that be?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What machine could that be?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What modern invention could that be?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But that approach can cause us to overlook the language God Himself chose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The question is not first:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What does this resemble in today&#8217;s world?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The question is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHAT DOES THIS SIGNIFY IN THE LANGUAGE OF SCRIPTURE?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That one change in approach can transform the way we study Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DO NOT MAKE EVERYTHING MEAN ANYTHING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But there is another ditch on the opposite side of the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once people discover that Revelation uses symbols, they can begin making symbols mean whatever they want.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is equally dangerous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Symbolic interpretation does <strong>not<\/strong> mean uncontrolled imagination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We cannot simply declare:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThis means whatever I feel it means.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sign must remain governed by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Scripture.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Context.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The prophetic vocabulary of the Bible.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The interpretation supplied within Revelation itself.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The testimony of Jesus Christ.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And, as we will see in the next chapters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>the Spirit of God.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The answer to excessive literalism is not uncontrolled symbolism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The answer is <strong>spiritual interpretation governed by Scripture<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB IS A SIGN WE ALREADY UNDERSTAND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider one of the greatest pictures in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026a Lamb as it had been slain\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:6<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who is the Lamb?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We don&#8217;t have to guess.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The entire biblical testimony has prepared us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John the Baptist saw Jesus and declared:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBehold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 1:29<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now when we arrive at Revelation and see the Lamb, Scripture has already built our understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb is not a strange prophetic invention appearing without context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb reaches backward through Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can see Passover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can see sacrifice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can see blood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can see redemption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can hear John the Baptist:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBehold the Lamb of God.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then Revelation takes that established biblical language and carries it into its fullness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is how Scripture interprets Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE DRAGON IS INTERPRETED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 12 gives us another clear example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026a great red dragon\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 12:3<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation does not leave us staring at the creature wondering what species of animal John saw.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 12:9 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, the book interprets its own imagery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SIGN:<\/strong> Dragon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SIGNIFIED REALITY:<\/strong> That old serpent, called the Devil and Satan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And notice another connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation reaches backward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThat old serpent.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Where have we encountered the serpent before?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Genesis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The last book of the Bible reaches back toward the first book of the Bible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is not accidental.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Bible is connected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Its language develops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Its symbols develop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Its patterns develop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And Revelation gathers enormous portions of that biblical language together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FROM GENESIS TO REVELATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why a person who wants to understand Revelation must eventually become a student of the whole Bible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation contains echoes of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Genesis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Exodus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The tabernacle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The priesthood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The feasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Psalms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Isaiah.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jeremiah.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ezekiel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Daniel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Zechariah.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The words of Jesus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The apostolic writings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation is not an isolated island at the end of our Bible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is deeply connected to everything that came before it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The more of Scripture we understand, the more vocabulary we possess for approaching Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SAME SYMBOL CAN REQUIRE CONTEXT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We also need wisdom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A symbol is not a mathematical equation in which one image must mean precisely the same thing in every passage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A lion, for example, can be used in different contexts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus Christ is called:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cthe Lion of the tribe of Juda\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet Peter warns that the adversary walks about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026as a roaring lion\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Peter 5:8<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So we cannot simply build a dictionary saying:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Lion always equals one particular thing.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Context matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who is speaking?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What is being shown?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What does the surrounding passage say?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How does the rest of Scripture use the image?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What interpretation does the passage itself provide?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are the questions of a mature student.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LEARN TO ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you encounter a sign in Revelation, begin developing this habit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. WHAT DID JOHN ACTUALLY SEE?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not change the vision before studying it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. DOES REVELATION INTERPRET THE SIGN FOR ME?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes it does explicitly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. WHERE ELSE DOES THIS IMAGE APPEAR IN SCRIPTURE?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Search the biblical vocabulary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. WHAT DID THE SYMBOL MEAN IN THOSE PASSAGES?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Study the pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. WHAT IS THE CONTEXT OF THIS PARTICULAR VISION?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Never remove the symbol from its setting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>6. WHAT SPIRITUAL REALITY IS BEING COMMUNICATED?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Move from the sign toward what is signified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>7. HOW DOES THIS RELATE TO THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Never abandon Chapter One.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those questions will protect us from many careless interpretations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE BOOK IS NOT TRYING TO CONFUSE YOU<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is another misconception we need to remove.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Symbolic language does not mean God deliberately designed Revelation so nobody could understand it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember what the book is called:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An unveiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And remember what Revelation 1:3 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBlessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why pronounce a blessing upon reading and hearing a book that God never intended anyone to receive?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The issue is not that God refuses to reveal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The issue is that revelation must be received according to the realm from which it comes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That brings us closer to our next foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A NATURAL PICTURE CAN CARRY A SPIRITUAL REALITY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose John sees a mountain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A beginning student may immediately search a map.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Scripture may use a mountain to communicate kingdom, government, elevation, or another prophetic reality depending upon context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose John sees a city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beginner may immediately look for geographical coordinates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation itself identifies a woman with a city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose John sees waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beginner looks for an ocean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation says waters can signify peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose John sees horns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beginner thinks of an animal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation identifies horns with kings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We must learn the language before attempting to translate the message.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THIS IS WHY FOUNDATION MATTERS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imagine trying to teach advanced mathematics to someone who has never learned basic arithmetic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem is not necessarily that the advanced mathematics is impossible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The student simply lacks the foundation necessary to work with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The same principle applies here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we attempt to take a reader into the deepest mysteries of Revelation, we need to build the foundational capacity required to understand the language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why this book is deliberately moving slowly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are laying stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chapter One:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHO IS BEING REVEALED?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Jesus Christ.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chapter Two:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HOW IS THE REVELATION COMMUNICATED?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>It is signified.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not ready yet to interpret every sign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That comes later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Right now we are learning that <strong>there are signs to interpret<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That distinction alone can change the reader&#8217;s entire approach to Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LETTER AND THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul gives us a principle that will become increasingly important:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Corinthians 3:6<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a difference between possessing the words and perceiving the spiritual reality communicated through them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can read:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>seven stars<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and know the words.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation says the stars signify something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can read:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>seven candlesticks<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and pronounce every syllable correctly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation says the candlesticks signify something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The words are the doorway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need the Spirit to bring us into the reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And that brings us to the next great question.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHAT KIND OF MAN CAN RECEIVE A SPIRITUAL REVELATION?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the book is signified\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">if spiritual realities are communicated through prophetic signs\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">if Scripture must interpret Scripture\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">if we need more than natural observation\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">then what was John&#8217;s condition when this Revelation came to him?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John answers us himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was in the Spirit on the Lord&#8217;s day\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:10<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is our next foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION PRINCIPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not confuse the sign with the spiritual reality the sign was given to reveal.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God <strong>signified<\/strong> the Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See the sign.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Search the Scripture.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Respect the context.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Discover the biblical pattern.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Seek the reality being revealed.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And never forget the first foundation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SIGNS SERVE THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They are not given to lead us away from Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Properly understood, they participate in His unveiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARING FOR CHAPTER THREE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We now have two stones firmly laid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE ONE:<\/strong><br>The book is <strong>THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE TWO:<\/strong><br>The Revelation was <strong>SENT AND SIGNIFIED<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we must ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What state was John in when he received these signs and visions?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His answer is simple:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI WAS IN THE SPIRIT.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That will be our third foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHAPTER THREE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRITUAL STATE IN WHICH REVELATION IS RECEIVED<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was in the Spirit on the Lord&#8217;s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:10<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have laid two foundation stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first established <strong>who<\/strong> the Book of Revelation is about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The second established <strong>how<\/strong> the book was communicated:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we come to the man who received it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before John begins describing the tremendous things he sees, he tells us something about himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He tells us <strong>where he was<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He tells us <strong>the state in which he was receiving<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John declares:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those words are not incidental.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They belong to the foundation of the entire book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we are going to understand what John saw, we need to understand the realm from which John saw it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we are going to understand what John heard, we need to understand the realm from which John heard it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John did not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was reasoning.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He did not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was analyzing world politics.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He did not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was studying the Roman Empire.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He did not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was calculating dates.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That statement tells us something about the nature of the Revelation before we ever enter its depths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation of Jesus Christ is <strong>spiritual revelation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And spiritual revelation requires spiritual perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN WAS ON PATMOS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John tells us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:9<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Naturally, John was on Patmos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritually, John was <strong>in the Spirit<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need to see both.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There was a geographical location:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Patmos.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But there was also a spiritual state:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In the Spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John&#8217;s physical surroundings did not determine the limits of what he could perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His body could be confined to an island while the Spirit opened before him the tremendous realities recorded in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a powerful principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural circumstances do not determine the boundaries of spiritual revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A man can be restricted naturally and still see spiritually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A man can be isolated naturally and still hear spiritually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A man can be surrounded by limitation in the visible realm while God opens an entirely different realm before him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Patmos could contain John&#8217;s body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Patmos could not contain the Revelation of Jesus Christ.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THERE IS MORE THAN ONE REALM OF PERCEPTION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the first things a beginning student of Revelation must understand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Human beings naturally perceive through natural faculties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We see with natural eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We hear with natural ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We touch physical things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We experience the visible creation around us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is nothing wrong with those faculties. God gave them to us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Scripture repeatedly reveals that there are spiritual realities that cannot be perceived merely through the natural senses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul wrote:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWhile we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Corinthians 4:18<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice that language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He speaks about looking at things <strong>which are not seen<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To the natural mind that sounds contradictory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How do you look at something that cannot be seen naturally?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul is distinguishing realms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are things that are seen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are things that are unseen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And spiritual perception reaches beyond what natural eyesight alone can perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This becomes tremendously important when we enter Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John will see things that communicate realities beyond the visible image.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have already established that the book is <strong>signified<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we establish that John receives those signs <strong>in the Spirit<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The two foundation stones belong together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SIGNIFIED BOOK WAS RECEIVED IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think about our progression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:1 tells us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026he sent and signified it\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:10 tells us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was in the Spirit\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those statements help us understand each other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book communicates spiritual realities through signs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The man receiving those signs is in the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, we should immediately be cautious about approaching the entire book as though natural reasoning alone will unlock it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need the Holy Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need spiritual understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need spiritual perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need God to cause us to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This does not mean we abandon careful Bible study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It means careful Bible study must remain dependent upon the Spirit who inspired the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION IS MORE THAN INFORMATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a difference between <strong>information<\/strong> and <strong>revelation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Information can tell us facts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Information can give us names.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Information can give us dates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Information can teach us history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Information can tell us what a Greek or Hebrew word means.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Information can tell us where Patmos is located.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Information can tell us about the Roman Empire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All of those things can be useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But information alone cannot produce spiritual sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can know facts about Jesus Christ without seeing Him by revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul knew the Hebrew Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He was educated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He understood religious tradition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He possessed tremendous information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet there came a moment when something happened that information alone had never accomplished.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ was revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul later wrote:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother&#8217;s womb, and called me by his grace, to reveal his Son in me\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Galatians 1:15\u201316<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice his language:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TO REVEAL HIS SON IN ME<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is more than accumulating information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something is unveiled within the person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something that was hidden becomes seen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something that was previously known only outwardly becomes inwardly perceived.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the realm of revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRIT SEARCHES THE DEEP THINGS OF GOD<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul gives us one of the greatest passages in Scripture concerning spiritual revelation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 2:10<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the source:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD HATH REVEALED THEM UNTO US BY HIS SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That principle should govern the way we approach Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who knows the things of God?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who reveals the things of God?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who searches the deep things of God?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, when we approach the depths of Revelation, we should not begin with confidence in our natural ability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We begin with dependence upon the Holy Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EYES CAN BE OPEN AND STILL NOT SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scripture repeatedly distinguishes natural sight from spiritual perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus told His disciples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHaving eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not?\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Mark 8:18<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They obviously possessed natural eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They obviously possessed natural ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus was not questioning whether their physical organs functioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He was dealing with <strong>perception<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can look and not see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can hear and not understand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can read and not perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That principle becomes crucial in Revelation because Revelation repeatedly calls upon the reader to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Behold.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Understand.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something deeper than natural sensory ability is involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ELISHA&#8217;S SERVANT NEEDED HIS EYES OPENED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a beautiful example in 2 Kings 6.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Elisha&#8217;s servant saw the Syrian army surrounding the city and became afraid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Naturally, what he saw was correct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There really was an army there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Elisha did not deny the visible circumstance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Elisha perceived something his servant did not perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Elisha said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cFear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Kings 6:16<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From the servant&#8217;s natural perspective, that statement made no sense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then Elisha prayed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cLORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Kings 6:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think about that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The servant&#8217;s eyes were already physically open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He could see Elisha.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He could see the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He could see the enemy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet the prophet prayed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LORD, OPEN HIS EYES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because there was another reality present that the servant had not yet perceived.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nothing had to be created at that moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual reality was already present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What changed?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE MAN&#8217;S CAPACITY TO SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord opened his eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And when his eyes were opened, he perceived what had been present all along.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD MUST BUILD THE CAPACITY TO SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where we begin understanding what God does within His people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem is not always that God has hidden Himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes the problem is that we do not yet possess the capacity to perceive what He is revealing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why spiritual growth matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why maturity matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why foundation matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God develops something within His people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He develops spiritual sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He develops spiritual hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He develops discernment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He enlarges capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He prepares the vessel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 16:12<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice carefully what Jesus did <strong>not<\/strong> say.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He did not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI have nothing more to tell you.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI have yet many things to say unto you.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The limitation was not in the amount of truth available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The limitation was in their present capacity:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026ye cannot bear them now.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That one statement gives us an enormous principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There can be truth available that we are not yet prepared to carry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There can be revelation God desires to bring us into, while He is still developing the capacity within us to receive it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE WINESKIN MUST BE PREPARED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus spoke about wine and wineskins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cNeither do men put new wine into old bottles\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Matthew 9:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The principle is simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The vessel must be capable of containing what is poured into it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is part of what foundation teaching accomplishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not laying foundations because foundations are the fullness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We lay foundations because <strong>the fullness needs somewhere to rest<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not developing the wineskin because the wineskin is the wine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The wineskin is being prepared because <strong>something must eventually be poured into it<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is what we are doing in this book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are preparing the reader.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN WAS PREPARED TO RECEIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When John says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was in the Spirit,\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we should not rush past it to get to the exciting visions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need to stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John is telling us something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There was a spiritual condition associated with what followed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then he says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>IN THE SPIRIT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HEARD.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Soon:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SAW.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That pattern will repeat throughout Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John will hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John will see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John will behold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John will be shown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John will be carried.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John will be called higher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation unfolds through spiritual perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I TURNED TO SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:12 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd I turned to see the voice that spake with me.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John heard something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then he turned to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is beautiful spiritual language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes revelation requires a turning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are looking in one direction, and the voice of the Spirit causes us to turn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our attention changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our perspective changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our focus changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And when John turns, what does he see?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026seven golden candlesticks.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026one like unto the Son of man\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He turns and sees Christ in the midst of the candlesticks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit brings his perception toward Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, everything returns to our first foundation stone:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN WAS IN THE SPIRIT AGAIN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This phrase does not disappear after Revelation 1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When John reaches Revelation 4, he hears:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cCome up hither\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then Revelation 4:2 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There it is again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And what does he see?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later, Revelation 17:3 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cSo he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then Revelation 21:10 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do you see the pattern?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation itself keeps telling us about the <strong>spiritual position of the seer<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In the Spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In the Spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Carried away in the Spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Carried away in the Spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And different spiritual scenes unfold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That cannot be accidental.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book is teaching us something about the realm of revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHERE YOU STAND AFFECTS WHAT YOU SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This principle will become much more important when we reach:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But we need to plant the seed now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Where you stand affects what you see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The servant of Elisha stood in one perception and saw an overwhelming enemy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Elisha perceived another realm and saw the mountain full of heavenly resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural circumstance had not changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The perception was different.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why two people can read the same passage of Scripture and one sees only words while another begins perceiving a spiritual pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The difference is not necessarily intelligence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The difference can be <strong>spiritual sight<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THIS DOES NOT MEAN WE THROW AWAY THE MIND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need balance here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we say Revelation must be spiritually discerned, we are not teaching people to stop thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not teaching people to become careless with Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not teaching that every impression in someone&#8217;s imagination came from God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not teaching people to ignore context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not teaching people to ignore language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not teaching people to ignore the rest of the Bible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Quite the opposite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit who inspired Scripture will never lead us to despise Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual revelation does not eliminate biblical study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>It illuminates it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The mind becomes a servant rather than the source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We search.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We compare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We meditate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We examine context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But through it all, we depend upon the Spirit of God to give understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OPEN THOU MINE EYES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The psalmist prayed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cOpen thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Psalm 119:18<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the posture of a person prepared to receive revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He has the Scriptures before him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But he still prays:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OPEN MY EYES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because possessing the written Word and perceiving its spiritual reality are not always the same thing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The letter can be before our eyes while the understanding remains unopened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, the prayer is not:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cLord, give me another Bible.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The prayer is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cOpen my eyes to behold what is already here.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the spirit in which we approach Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE DISCIPLES&#8217; UNDERSTANDING WAS OPENED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Luke records:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThen opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Luke 24:45<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They already had the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They had heard the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They had walked with Jesus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet something still had to be <strong>opened<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Their understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God can open the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God can open the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God can open the understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God can reveal His Son.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God can cause things previously hidden to become visible within us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why we must never reduce Revelation to an intellectual puzzle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION IS NOT A CONTEST OF INTELLIGENCE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Book of Revelation was not given so the smartest natural mind could defeat everybody else in a prophetic argument.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not a theological crossword puzzle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not a competition to see who can make the most impressive chart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And John received it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, humility belongs at the doorway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We come acknowledging:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Lord, I need You to open my eyes.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Lord, I need You to open my understanding.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Lord, teach me to hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Lord, reveal Christ.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That posture prepares the vessel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRIT DOES NOT MERELY SHOW THINGS \u2014 HE CHANGES US<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is another dimension we must begin seeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual revelation is not merely about seeing something outside ourselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God&#8217;s purpose involves an inward work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul prayed for believers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThat the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ephesians 1:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe eyes of your understanding being enlightened\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ephesians 1:18<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul was writing to believers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet he prayed for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Wisdom.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Revelation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Enlightened understanding.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because there was more for them to perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There was more capacity to be developed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There was more of God&#8217;s purpose to understand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit was building something within them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE INNER MAN MUST DEVELOP<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul also prayed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThat he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ephesians 3:16<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is an <strong>inner man<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And that inner man can be strengthened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That matters enormously for what we are building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not merely filling notebooks with prophetic information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are concerned with what God develops <strong>inside the hearer<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A stronger inner man can carry greater spiritual weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A seeing eye can perceive what was previously hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A hearing ear can receive what was previously unheard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A renewed mind can begin discerning spiritual patterns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Capacity grows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The wineskin develops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THERE ARE DEPTHS AHEAD<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later in our study of Revelation, we will encounter subjects that require this foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We will encounter:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The seals.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The trumpets.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The woman clothed with the sun.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The man-child.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The dragon.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The two witnesses.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The 144,000.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The beast.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mystery Babylon.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Kings and priests.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The seven last plagues.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>New Jerusalem.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are tremendous depths ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But we are not going there yet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because we are still building the student.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are still preparing the hearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are still opening the elementary principles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we pour out the deeper wine, we are building the wineskin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN SHOWS US THE ORDER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John gives us the pattern:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FIRST \u2014 THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Know who is being revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SECOND \u2014 HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understand how the Revelation is communicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>THIRD \u2014 I WAS IN THE SPIRIT.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understand the realm in which Revelation is received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That progression is not complicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But it is foundational.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And foundations do not need to be complicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They need to be <strong>strong<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YOU CANNOT RECEIVE SPIRITUAL THINGS ONLY NATURALLY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are now approaching the next foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John received the Revelation <strong>in the Spirit<\/strong>, what happens when the natural mind attempts to receive spiritual things without spiritual discernment?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul answers that question directly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 2:14<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That brings us to one of the most important distinctions we will make in this entire foundation study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and there is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Until we understand the difference, we will continually be tempted to drag spiritual realities down into purely natural interpretations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But before entering that chapter, establish this stone firmly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He was not merely looking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>He was seeing.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He was not merely listening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>He was hearing.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He was not merely gathering information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>He was receiving revelation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION PRINCIPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Spiritual revelation requires spiritual perception.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Book of Revelation was signified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John received it in the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, we must never imagine that natural reasoning by itself is sufficient to unlock the spiritual realities contained within it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We search.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We compare Scripture with Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We test what we understand by the Word of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But through all of it, our dependence remains upon the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because ultimately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IT IS GOD WHO OPENS THE EYE.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IT IS GOD WHO OPENS THE UNDERSTANDING.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IT IS GOD WHO REVEALS HIS SON.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARING FOR CHAPTER FOUR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Three foundation stones are now in place:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE ONE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/strong> \u2014 Know who is being revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE TWO:<\/strong><br><strong>HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/strong> \u2014 Understand how the book communicates spiritual realities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE THREE:<\/strong><br><strong>I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/strong> \u2014 Understand the realm in which John received the Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we are ready for the question that naturally follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What is the difference between trying to understand spiritual things with the natural mind and discerning them by the Spirit?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul gives us the answer:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026they are spiritually discerned.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is our next foundation stone:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHAPTER FOUR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SPIRITUAL THINGS MUST BE SPIRITUALLY DISCERNED<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 2:14<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have now laid three foundation stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established <strong>who<\/strong> the book is about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Second:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established <strong>how<\/strong> the book is written.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Third:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established <strong>the state in which John received it<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we come to one of the most important principles of the entire foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the Book of Revelation is spiritual revelation\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">if it was signified\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">if John received it in the Spirit\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">then what happens when the natural mind tries to interpret spiritual things?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul answers plainly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is not a minor statement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a dividing line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a difference between:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NATURAL UNDERSTANDING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we do not learn that distinction, we will continually try to drag spiritual realities down into the realm of natural reasoning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MAN HAS LIMITATIONS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul does not say the natural man is unintelligent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He does not say the natural man cannot read.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He does not say the natural man cannot study history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He does not say the natural man cannot learn languages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He does not say the natural man cannot become highly educated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He says something much more specific:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem is not intelligence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem is <strong>realm<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural ability is designed to work within the natural realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual revelation belongs to another realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why Paul says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He does not merely say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe does not know them.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE CANNOT KNOW THEM THAT WAY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because the thing being perceived requires another kind of discernment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SPIRITUALLY DISCERNED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That phrase belongs at the center of our Revelation study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not merely trying to become smarter readers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are learning to become <strong>spiritual hearers<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EYE HAS NOT SEEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul begins this passage with tremendous language:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 2:9<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then immediately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 2:10<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the contrast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural eye:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>has not seen.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural ear:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>has not heard.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural human reasoning:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>has not entered into it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD HATH REVEALED THEM UNTO US BY HIS SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the movement from natural limitation into spiritual perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is exactly the kind of foundation a person needs before entering deeply into Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because Revelation is filled with things the natural eye cannot interpret merely by natural appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND LOOKS AT THE SIGN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established in Chapter Two that Revelation is <strong>signified<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we can see the danger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind looks at:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>a beast<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and stops at the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>a woman<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and stops at the woman.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>waters<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and stops at water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>stars<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and stops at astronomy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>a mountain<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and stops at geography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>a city<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and stops at architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>a dragon<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and begins trying to imagine a literal creature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the spiritual mind asks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHAT DOES THIS SIGNIFY?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a different kind of seeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind is occupied with appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual mind seeks the reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND CAN READ THE WORDS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This distinction needs to be made carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A natural mind can read Revelation 1:20.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can read:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>seven stars.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can read:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>seven candlesticks.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can pronounce the words correctly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can memorize them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Jesus says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual reality is not discovered merely by staring at the natural image.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The meaning must be unveiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is spiritual understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">KNOWLEDGE IS NOT THE SAME AS REVELATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need to distinguish between knowing <strong>about<\/strong> something and seeing it by revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can know historical facts about Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He can know where Jesus was born.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He can know the names of the disciples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He can know the geography of Israel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He can know the chronology of the Gospels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He can know the Greek language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He can know church history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All of that is knowledge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But when Peter said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus answered:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cFlesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Matthew 16:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Peter had crossed from information into revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the distinction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural man can gather data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals the reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE MIND OF THE FLESH AND THE MIND OF THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul gives us another contrast in Romans 8:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cFor they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Romans 8:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cFor to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Romans 8:6<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, we see two realms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The things of the flesh.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The things of the Spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And two ways of minding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Carnally minded.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Spiritually minded.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This matters enormously in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The question is not merely:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What are you looking at?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The question is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FROM WHAT MIND ARE YOU LOOKING?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A spiritual reality viewed through a natural framework can be completely misunderstood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THAT WHICH IS BORN OF FLESH IS FLESH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus told Nicodemus:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThat which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 3:6<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That principle is simple and powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Flesh does not produce Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural reasoning does not produce spiritual revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Human intellect can analyze the text.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But only Spirit gives birth to spiritual understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why Jesus said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cExcept a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 3:3<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CANNOT SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, seeing is connected to spiritual condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nicodemus immediately responded naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He began thinking about physical birth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus was speaking spiritually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There was the problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus spoke from one realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nicodemus heard from another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That same problem can happen every time we open Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NICODEMUS IS A PICTURE OF NATURAL INTERPRETATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>born again.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nicodemus thought:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>natural womb.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus spoke:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nicodemus interpreted:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>flesh.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus was revealing one reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nicodemus was translating it into another realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is exactly what we must learn not to do with Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the Spirit speaks symbolically, naturally, prophetically, and spiritually, we cannot automatically drag every word downward into the visible realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We must ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What is the Spirit saying?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LETTER AND THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul writes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Corinthians 3:6<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This does not mean the written Scriptures are unimportant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It means that the letter alone, disconnected from the life of the Spirit, does not produce spiritual understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The letter can tell us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>waters.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>peoples, multitudes, nations, tongues.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The letter can tell us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>horns.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The interpretation reveals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>kings.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The letter can tell us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>candlesticks.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>churches.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is always a movement from the outward sign toward the inward reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRITUAL MAN JUDGETH ALL THINGS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul continues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut he that is spiritual judgeth all things\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 2:15<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual man possesses another kind of discernment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is not ruled only by outward appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He learns to compare spiritual things with spiritual things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026comparing spiritual things with spiritual.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 2:13<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is one of the great keys to studying Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>comparing spiritual things with newspaper headlines.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>comparing spiritual things with political fear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>comparing spiritual things with imagination.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COMPARING SPIRITUAL THINGS WITH SPIRITUAL<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means Scripture with Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prophet with prophet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Symbol with biblical pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation with Genesis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation with Daniel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation with Ezekiel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation with Zechariah.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation with the teachings of Jesus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation with the apostolic writings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Bible begins interpreting itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul concludes this section with a staggering statement:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut we have the mind of Christ.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 2:16<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is not the natural mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is not the carnal mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the mind of Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we begin seeing what God is doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is not merely giving us more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is developing within us a new capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new way of perceiving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new ability to see spiritual realities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why foundation teaching matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD IS BUILDING A NEW MAN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul repeatedly speaks about inward renewal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd be renewed in the spirit of your mind.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ephesians 4:23<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ephesians 4:24<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a new man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a renewed mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is an inner man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is spiritual perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is developing a people capable of receiving more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the wineskin being built.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YOU CANNOT POUR ADVANCED TRUTH INTO AN UNPREPARED MIND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why we are not rushing into the deepest things of Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We could begin talking about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>the man-child.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>the 144,000.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>the two witnesses.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>the woman clothed with the sun.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>kings and priests.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>the angel standing in the sun.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But if the reader has never learned the difference between natural and spiritual understanding, what will he do?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will attempt to interpret everything naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will see:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>144,000<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and immediately reduce it to arithmetic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will see:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>man-child<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and immediately reduce it to a natural male child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will see:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>woman<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and immediately reduce it to a natural woman.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will see:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>mountain<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and immediately search for a geographical location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will see:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>sun<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and think only of the physical star in the heavens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The deeper the revelation becomes, the more important the foundation becomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION IS CAPACITY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think again about education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A student cannot enter advanced physics merely because he is excited about physics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He must have mathematical capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He needs principles already formed within him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He needs a language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He needs a framework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He needs the ability to work with what the advanced class will demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The same principle applies spiritually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the deeper Revelation books come, we are teaching the reader:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>how to see.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>how to hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>how to compare spiritual things.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>how to discern signs.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>how to recognize biblical patterns.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are building capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THIS IS WHAT A PILLAR BOOK DOES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A pillar carries weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is what these foundation teachings are designed to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later teaching will rest upon them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the pillar is weak, the deeper teaching becomes unstable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So in this book, we deliberately slow down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We lay one stone after another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Christ.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>signified language.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>in the Spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>natural versus spiritual understanding.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are building a reader who can eventually carry more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND IS CONTROLLED BY APPEARANCE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind wants everything reduced to what can be seen, touched, measured, and externally identified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation continuously challenges that way of thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees a Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Christ is not literally a farm animal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees stars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But they are interpreted as angels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees candlesticks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But they signify churches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But they signify peoples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees horns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But they signify kings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees a woman.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But she signifies something beyond merely a natural female body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So the very structure of Revelation demands something beyond natural perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DO NOT DESPISE THE NATURAL MIND \u2014 PUT IT IN ITS PLACE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We need to be clear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God gave us minds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We should think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We should study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We should reason.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We should examine Scripture carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The error is not using the mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The error is making the natural mind <strong>lord over revelation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind must become servant to the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reason must bow before what God reveals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Study must remain open to illumination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The mind is useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But it is not the source of spiritual truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRIT REVEALS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus said of the Holy Spirit:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 16:14<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE SHALL SHOW IT UNTO YOU<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That brings us back to the first chapter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation is of Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit is the One who unveils Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, a truly spiritual interpretation of Revelation will ultimately glorify Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If an interpretation makes the beast greater than Christ, something is wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If an interpretation produces nothing but fear, something is wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If an interpretation magnifies darkness while diminishing the Lamb, something is wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit glorifies Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MAN CALLS SPIRITUAL THINGS FOOLISHNESS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul tells us plainly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026they are foolishness unto him\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes spiritual truth appears foolish to natural reasoning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind asks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How can a Lamb rule?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How can a slain Lamb stand?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How can a city be a woman?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How can waters be nations?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How can stars be angels?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How can a church be a candlestick?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But once the spiritual language is understood, the picture becomes clear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The issue is not whether the sign looks natural.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The issue is whether the Spirit gives understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE VEIL MUST BE REMOVED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul speaks in 2 Corinthians 3 about a veil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cNevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Corinthians 3:16<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cNow the Lord is that Spirit\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Corinthians 3:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a veil that prevents perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And there is an unveiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The veil is removed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reality becomes visible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, we are not creating truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are receiving sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION REQUIRES A TURNING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember John:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd I turned to see the voice\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:12<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turning matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind must be willing to turn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turn from assumption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turn from tradition when Scripture contradicts it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turn from fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turn from preconceived systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turn from trying to force the book into a natural pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turn toward Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turn toward the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turn toward Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRITUAL MIND SEES PATTERNS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As spiritual understanding develops, the reader begins seeing connections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Genesis begins appearing in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Daniel begins appearing in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ezekiel begins appearing in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Zechariah begins appearing in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The words of Jesus begin appearing in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The tabernacle appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The priesthood appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The feasts appear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The kingdom appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The seed appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The woman appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The serpent appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The city appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What once looked like disconnected strange images begins becoming a coherent biblical language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is spiritual pattern recognition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE BIBLE BECOMES ONE BOOK<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind can fragment Scripture into isolated verses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual mind begins seeing one purpose unfolding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One eternal purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One redemptive movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One kingdom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One great unveiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where Revelation begins opening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not because we invented a secret code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because Scripture begins interpreting Scripture within a renewed mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION PRINCIPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can now state our fourth foundation stone:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SPIRITUAL THINGS MUST BE SPIRITUALLY DISCERNED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind is not sufficient to interpret spiritual revelation by itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not stop at appearance.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not confuse information with revelation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not force spiritual signs into merely natural meanings.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Compare spiritual things with spiritual.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Let Scripture interpret Scripture.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Depend upon the Spirit to illuminate the Word.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And remember:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut we have the mind of Christ.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is not merely giving us a better interpretation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD IS BUILDING WITHIN US THE CAPACITY TO PERCEIVE.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARING FOR CHAPTER FIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We now have four foundation stones:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE ONE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/strong> \u2014 Know who is being revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE TWO:<\/strong><br><strong>HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/strong> \u2014 Understand the language of signs and symbols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE THREE:<\/strong><br><strong>I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/strong> \u2014 Understand the realm in which John received the Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FOUR:<\/strong><br><strong>THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/strong> \u2014 Spiritual things must be spiritually discerned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now another question arises.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If spiritual things require spiritual perception\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHERE DOES THAT CAPACITY COME FROM?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Can man manufacture a seeing eye?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Can man create a hearing ear?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Can man force himself into revelation?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The prophets give us the answer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LORD OPENS THE EYE.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LORD OPENS THE EAR.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LORD BUILDS THE CAPACITY TO SEE AND HEAR.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is our next foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHAPTER FIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LORD OPENS THE EYE AND BUILDS THE EAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD CREATES THE CAPACITY TO SEE AND HEAR<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe Lord GOD hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Isaiah 50:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have now laid four foundation stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established <strong>who<\/strong> the book is about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Second:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established <strong>how<\/strong> the Revelation is communicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Third:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established <strong>the state in which John received it<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fourth:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established that spiritual things must be spiritually discerned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we come to a crucial question:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHERE DOES THE CAPACITY TO SEE AND HEAR COME FROM?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If spiritual things cannot be received merely by the natural mind, then man cannot simply educate himself into spiritual perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something must happen within him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The prophets understood this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They spoke about <strong>God opening the eye<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They spoke about <strong>God opening the ear<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They understood that spiritual perception is not merely a human achievement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is something the Lord works within a person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LORD OPENS THE EAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Isaiah says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe Lord GOD hath opened mine ear\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Isaiah 50:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That statement is powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Isaiah did not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI opened my own ear.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He did not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI became intelligent enough to hear.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LORD GOD HATH OPENED MINE EAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the work of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A spiritual ear is something God opens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And once we understand that, the repeated command in Revelation becomes much more significant:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The issue is not merely whether a person has two physical ears on the sides of his head.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The issue is whether the inward capacity to hear has been opened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NATURAL EARS CAN HEAR WORDS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A natural ear can hear sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can hear preaching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can hear Scripture read aloud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can hear someone teach Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But spiritual hearing is something deeper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can hear the words and still miss what the Spirit is saying through the words.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus dealt with this repeatedly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath ears to hear, let him hear.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why say that to people who already had physical ears?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because He was speaking about another kind of hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural hearing receives sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual hearing receives meaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural hearing receives the sentence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual hearing receives the revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD WAKENS THE EAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Isaiah says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Isaiah 50:4<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look at that language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>He wakeneth mine ear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, God is active.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is developing something in the hearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is preparing capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is training the inward man to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not merely about receiving one sudden revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It speaks of a process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Morning by morning.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ear is being awakened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The capacity to hear is being built.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The inner man is being trained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is exactly the kind of work we are talking about when we speak of the wineskin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD BUILDS CAPACITY OVER TIME<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person may receive a truth today that he could not have received ten years earlier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The truth may not have changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The person changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His capacity changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His hearing developed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His understanding matured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His inward framework expanded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why spiritual growth matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why foundation matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why we are not rushing past the elementary principles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God may desire to take a person deeper, but the vessel must first be prepared to carry the weight of what is being revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MINE EARS HAST THOU OPENED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The psalmist says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cSacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Psalm 40:6<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MINE EARS HAST THOU OPENED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This language appears again and again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the Lord who opens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the Lord who awakens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the Lord who gives perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And this immediately humbles the student.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual understanding is not something we boast in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we see, it is because God gave light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we hear, it is because God opened the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we understand, it is because God opened the understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LORD, OPEN HIS EYES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We saw in the previous chapter the account of Elisha&#8217;s servant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The servant could already see naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He saw the Syrian army.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He saw danger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He saw threat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He saw limitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Elisha prayed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cLORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Kings 6:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The man&#8217;s physical eyes were open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So what needed to be opened?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SPIRITUAL PERCEPTION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then the Lord opened his eyes, and he saw the mountain filled with horses and chariots of fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The invisible realm had been there before the servant perceived it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The servant&#8217;s problem was not that God had failed to provide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The servant&#8217;s problem was that he could not yet see what was present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a tremendous spiritual principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD DOES NOT MERELY CHANGE THE SCENE \u2014 HE CHANGES THE SEER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes we want God to change everything around us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But there are times when God changes the one who is looking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He opens the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He opens the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He opens the understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And once perception changes, the whole scene looks different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is exactly what must happen if we are going to understand Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The great visions may remain the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The symbols may remain the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Scriptures may remain the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But if God develops spiritual perception within us, we begin to see what we could not see before.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE EYES OF YOUR UNDERSTANDING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul prayed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe eyes of your understanding being enlightened\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ephesians 1:18<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That phrase is powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The eyes of your understanding.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul is not speaking about natural eyesight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is speaking about inward illumination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is an eye within the understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a capacity to perceive truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is something God enlightens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And Paul connects that enlightenment with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>hope.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>inheritance.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>power.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>purpose.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This shows us that spiritual seeing is connected to spiritual maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GIVE UNTO YOU THE SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND REVELATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul prays:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThat the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ephesians 1:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, notice the source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MAY GIVE UNTO YOU<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God gives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God enlightens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God reveals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God develops the hearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The student of Revelation must never forget this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not trying to force open a mystery through human effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are asking God to make us capable of receiving what He is revealing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THEN OPENED HE THEIR UNDERSTANDING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Luke says concerning Jesus and His disciples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThen opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Luke 24:45<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They already had the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They had heard Moses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They had heard the prophets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They had walked with Jesus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet Jesus still had to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OPEN THEIR UNDERSTANDING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is one of the greatest foundation principles we can establish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Possessing Scripture is not identical to understanding Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reading Scripture is not identical to perceiving Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing Scripture is not identical to receiving revelation from Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord must open the understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD GIVES EYES TO SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Moses told Israel:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cYet the LORD hath not given you an heart to perceive, and eyes to see, and ears to hear, unto this day.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Deuteronomy 29:4<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the language:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A heart to perceive.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Eyes to see.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Ears to hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And Moses connects those capacities with what:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LORD HATH GIVEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, spiritual perception is connected to divine operation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This does not remove human responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But it establishes the source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We seek.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We ask.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We listen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We search the Scriptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the capacity comes from God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A HEART TO PERCEIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now another element appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Moses does not only mention eyes and ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He mentions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A HEART TO PERCEIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual perception involves the inner man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why Revelation cannot merely be an academic exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God deals with the heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God deals with the mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God deals with the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God deals with the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is preparing the whole inward man to receive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NEW MAN HAS NEW CAPACITY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ephesians 4:24<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This new man is not merely the old man with more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is something new being formed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A renewed mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A strengthened inner man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new capacity to perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new way of hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new way of seeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why deeper revelation belongs to spiritual growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE INNER MAN IS STRENGTHENED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul prayed:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThat he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ephesians 3:16<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The inner man can be strengthened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means spiritual capacity can increase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A weak vessel can become stronger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A limited understanding can become enlarged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An immature hearer can become mature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the work of God within a people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE WINESKIN IS BEING BUILT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we can state the wineskin principle more clearly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cNeither do men put new wine into old bottles\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Matthew 9:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The wine and the wineskin must correspond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The vessel must be able to carry what is poured into it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why foundation books matter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The foundation book is not the fullness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But it builds the capacity for fullness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader begins with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Who is Christ?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How is Revelation written?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What does it mean to be in the Spirit?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What is the difference between natural and spiritual understanding?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HOW DOES GOD BUILD SPIRITUAL CAPACITY?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He opens the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He builds the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He enlightens the understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He strengthens the inner man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He gives a heart to perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The wineskin expands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD PREPARES BEFORE HE POURS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This principle runs throughout Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before God gave Moses the law, He prepared Moses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before Samuel heard the word of the Lord clearly, he learned to recognize the voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the prophets carried great revelation, they were formed through encounters with God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the disciples carried the gospel to nations, Jesus spent years forming them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before Paul became a great apostolic teacher, God worked deeply within him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Preparation comes before weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Foundation comes before structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Capacity comes before fullness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JESUS SAID THEY COULD NOT BEAR IT YET<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus told His disciples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 16:12<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the clearest statements of spiritual capacity in Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem was not that Jesus lacked truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He had:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MANY THINGS TO SAY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem was:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YE CANNOT BEAR THEM NOW<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They were not yet able to carry the weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What did Jesus say would happen next?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHowbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 16:13<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is the connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Capacity grows through the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit guides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit develops the hearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD BUILDS THE EAR BEFORE THE DEEP WORD<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This explains why we are laying foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not trying to impress the beginner with mysteries he cannot yet carry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are building the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are preparing the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are renewing the mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are strengthening the inner man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then, when the deeper Revelation comes, the reader has somewhere to receive it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE THAT HATH AN EAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This prepares us for the next chapter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus says repeatedly in Revelation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That command assumes something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a spiritual ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is something to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a Spirit speaking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And there is responsibility upon the hearer to respond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But we needed this chapter first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before telling the reader:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HEAR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we needed to establish:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD BUILDS THE EAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SAME GOD WHO SPEAKS BUILDS THE CAPACITY TO HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is beautiful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God does not stand far away shouting truth at people who have no capacity to receive it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God works within the hearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He opens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He awakens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He enlightens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He strengthens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He prepares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He gives spiritual capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then He says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION AND TRANSFORMATION BELONG TOGETHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When God opens the eye, the person changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When God opens the ear, the person changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When God enlightens understanding, the person changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual revelation is not merely adding information to an unchanged person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is part of the transformation of the inner man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why Paul says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Corinthians 3:18<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beholding and becoming are connected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What we truly see in the Spirit begins working within us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD IS CREATING A PEOPLE WHO CAN PERCEIVE HIM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the larger principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is not merely giving His people a prophetic chart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is forming a people capable of perceiving the unseen realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A people who can hear His voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A people who can discern spiritual realities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A people who can recognize His purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A people who can receive deeper truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A people whose inner man has been developed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE EYE, THE EAR, AND THE HEART<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can summarize the prophetic pattern:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>THE EYE<\/strong> \u2014 to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>THE EAR<\/strong> \u2014 to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>THE HEART<\/strong> \u2014 to perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are not merely natural organs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They describe spiritual capacities within the inner man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And God works in all three.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE DANGER OF HAVING EYES BUT NOT SEEING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus repeatedly warned of people who had eyes but did not see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a frightening possibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can be surrounded by Scripture and remain blind to its meaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can hear sermons for years and remain deaf to what the Spirit is saying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can own dozens of Bibles and still lack spiritual perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, the right prayer is not merely:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cLord, give me more information.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LORD, OPEN MY EYES.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LORD, OPEN MY EAR.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LORD, GIVE ME A HEART TO PERCEIVE.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD DOES NOT FORCE MATURITY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is also human response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Isaiah said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe Lord GOD hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice what follows the opening of the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I WAS NOT REBELLIOUS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing brings responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When God opens the ear, what will we do with what we hear?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will we receive?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will we obey?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will we overcome?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will we continue?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will we turn back?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual capacity is not merely for curiosity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It carries responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE FOUNDATION IS GETTING STRONGER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We now have five stones:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/strong><br>Know who is being revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/strong><br>Understand the prophetic language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/strong><br>Understand the realm of reception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/strong><br>Understand the need for spiritual discernment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. THE LORD OPENS THE EYE AND BUILDS THE EAR<\/strong><br>Understand where spiritual capacity comes from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now the reader is beginning to be prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not merely teaching Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WE ARE BUILDING THE HEARER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is what a pillar book is supposed to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION PRINCIPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can now state our fifth foundation stone:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD CREATES THE CAPACITY TO RECEIVE WHAT HE REVEALS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord opens the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord awakens the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord enlightens understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord gives a heart to perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord strengthens the inner man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord builds the wineskin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, spiritual growth is not merely gaining more facts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IT IS GOD FORMING WITHIN US THE CAPACITY TO SEE, HEAR, PERCEIVE, AND CARRY MORE OF HIM.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARING FOR CHAPTER SIX<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Five foundation stones are now in place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHO is being revealed.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HOW the Revelation is written.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHERE John was when he received it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHY spiritual things require spiritual discernment.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>WHO builds within us the capacity to see and hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we are prepared for one of the most repeated statements in the opening chapters of Revelation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now the responsibility comes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LET HIM HEAR.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is our next foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHAPTER SIX<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LEARNING TO HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT IS SAYING<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 2:7<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have now laid five foundation stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established <strong>who<\/strong> the book is about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Second:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established <strong>how<\/strong> the Revelation is communicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Third:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established <strong>the state in which John received it<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fourth:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established that spiritual things must be spiritually discerned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fifth:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LORD OPENS THE EYE AND BUILDS THE EAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established that God creates within us the capacity to see, hear, and perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we come to the next step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then He says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LET HIM HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the responsibility of the hearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD SPEAKS TO THE CHURCHES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation chapters 2 and 3 contain messages to the seven churches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But after each message, the same principle appears again and again:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That repetition is not accidental.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is emphasizing something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The churches may have different conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The corrections may differ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The promises may differ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The challenges may differ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But one requirement remains:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT IS SAYING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can read the message and still fail to hear the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can know the words and still miss the voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can study the church historically and still miss what the Spirit is saying presently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why the command is not merely:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read what was written.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT SAITH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THERE IS A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WORDS AND VOICE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Words can be recorded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Voice carries spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two people can read the same passage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One sees information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The other hears God speaking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What makes the difference?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ear has been opened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The inner man has been prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit gives understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why we spent time establishing the previous chapter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before Revelation says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Let him hear<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we needed to understand:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Lord opens the ear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRIT IS SPEAKING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the tense of the statement:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWhat the Spirit saith unto the churches.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit is not merely someone who spoke once.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit speaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Word of God is living.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The message written to the churches becomes a vehicle through which the Spirit continues to address His people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This does not mean we invent meanings that are not in Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It means the Spirit takes the written Word and makes it alive within the hearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JESUS CONSTANTLY CALLED FOR HEARING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This principle was not new in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus repeatedly said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath ears to hear, let him hear.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because natural hearing is not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus spoke parables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many people heard the sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Few perceived the mystery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Matthew records:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTherefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Matthew 13:13<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There it is again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Seeing without seeing.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hearing without hearing.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem was not the absence of words.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem was the absence of spiritual perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEARING IS A SPIRITUAL ACT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Scripture, hearing is often connected to obedience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To hear God is not merely to receive sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is to receive what He says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is to allow the word to enter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is to respond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why Isaiah says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe Lord GOD hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Isaiah 50:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The opened ear produced response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing and obedience belong together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SEVEN CHURCHES REVEAL CONDITIONS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each church in Revelation 2 and 3 presents a spiritual condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some are commended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some are corrected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some are warned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some are promised reward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But every church must hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This teaches us something powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual hearing is necessary regardless of where a person is in his journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The strong must hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The weak must hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The faithful must hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The compromised must hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The suffering must hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The lukewarm must hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The church in every condition needs the voice of the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRIT DOES NOT SPEAK ONLY TO INFORM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the Spirit speaks to the churches, He is not giving trivia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is revealing condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is exposing what is hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is calling for response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is identifying what must be overcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is promising what lies beyond overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This prepares us for the next foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing is not the end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing leads to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOMING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YOU MUST HEAR YOUR CONDITION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the hardest things for a person to hear is the truth about his own condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The churches of Revelation teach us this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A church can appear strong outwardly and be weak inwardly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A church can have a reputation for life and still be dead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A church can possess wealth and still be spiritually poor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A church can endure persecution and yet be rich toward God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A church can have works and still need correction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, hearing the Spirit requires humility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We must be willing to let God tell us the truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRIT SPEAKS BEYOND APPEARANCE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This fits our earlier principles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind judges by appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A church may say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>I am rich.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit may say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>You are poor.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A church may have a name that it lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit may say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>You are dead.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A church may appear insignificant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit may say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>I have set before thee an open door.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit sees from another realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, to hear the Spirit is to receive God&#8217;s judgment of reality rather than merely man&#8217;s perception of appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEARING REQUIRES THE RIGHT EAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every voice is the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why biblical foundation matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not simply follow every inward impression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit of God speaks consistently with the Word of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Scriptures remain our standard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We compare spiritual things with spiritual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We test what we hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We remain anchored in Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The voice of the Spirit will not contradict the revelation of Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SHEEP KNOW HIS VOICE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cMy sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 10:27<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the order:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HEAR.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOLLOW.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual hearing produces movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It changes direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It creates response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It brings a person into alignment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is exactly what happens in Revelation 2 and 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ speaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The churches must hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then they must respond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEARING MUST BECOME INWARD<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A word can pass through the natural ear and never enter the heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus warned:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTake heed therefore how ye hear\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Luke 8:18<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a remarkable statement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not only:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Listen.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TAKE HEED HOW YE HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a manner of hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A shallow hearer receives quickly and loses quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A hardened hearer resists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A distracted hearer lets other things choke the word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A prepared hearer receives, keeps, and brings forth fruit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That principle belongs in our Revelation foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE WORD MUST BE RECEIVED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">James writes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cReceive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 James 1:21<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">RECEIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing requires receptivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A closed heart can hear sound without receiving truth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An opened ear is connected to an opened heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why spiritual posture matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pride resists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Humility receives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fear distorts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Faith receives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tradition can block.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit opens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEARING CREATES ACCOUNTABILITY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once we hear, we become responsible for what we have heard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus says repeatedly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Let him hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is not casual language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It places responsibility upon the hearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God has opened the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God has spoken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now what will the hearer do?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will he receive?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will he obey?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will he repent?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will he overcome?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Will he continue?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRIT SPEAKS TO PRODUCE AN OVERCOMER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the progression of Revelation 2 and 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again and again we see two statements tied together:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>He that hath an ear, let him hear\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>To him that overcometh\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing and overcoming are connected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit speaks because something must change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals because something must be overcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit calls because there is a promise ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why revelation is never merely information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION DEMANDS RESPONSE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If God shows us something, there is purpose in the showing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If God opens our ear, there is purpose in the hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If God exposes a condition, there is purpose in the exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If God calls us upward, there is purpose in the call.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation moves us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It changes us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It prepares us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It produces transformation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE EAR IS PART OF THE NEW MAN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new man has new capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He hears differently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He sees differently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He perceives differently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What once sounded foolish begins to make sense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What once appeared hidden begins to open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What once seemed unrelated begins to form a pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is spiritual maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ear becomes trained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The eye becomes trained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The inner man becomes stronger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEARING DEVELOPS THROUGH USE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hebrews gives us a principle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Hebrews 5:14<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BY REASON OF USE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual senses can be exercised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Discernment develops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Capacity grows through use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This fits perfectly with our foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then the hearer must learn to use it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God gives sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then the believer learns to walk by what he sees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God gives discernment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then discernment grows through exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION BEFORE STRONG MEAT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hebrews makes the same distinction we have been making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is milk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is strong meat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are elementary principles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beginner needs foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The mature can receive greater weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is exactly why this book exists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are preparing the reader so that later, when the strong meat comes, he has exercised spiritual senses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YOU CANNOT SKIP HEARING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person may want the mysteries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He may want the 144,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He may want the man-child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He may want the two witnesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He may want the deeper things of Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But if he has never learned to hear what the Spirit says, the deeper subjects can become intellectual curiosities instead of spiritual realities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, we do not skip this chapter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE EAR COMES BEFORE THE DEPTH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hear first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Receive first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let the Spirit expose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let the Spirit correct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let the Spirit build.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let the Spirit prepare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then go deeper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHAT THE SPIRIT SAITH UNTO THE CHURCHES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is also a corporate dimension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit speaks to the churches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation is not merely about isolated individuals seeking private mysteries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is dealing with a people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is preparing a corporate body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is correcting churches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is forming overcomers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is building a people capable of carrying His purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That becomes very important later in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But we only lay the seed here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE VOICE PREPARES THE PEOPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before Revelation takes John into the throne room, the Spirit speaks to the churches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That order matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Correction comes before elevation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing comes before coming up higher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overcoming comes before throne participation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The churches must hear before John is called:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is another reason our chapter order matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are following the spiritual progression of the book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRIT SPEAKS SPECIFICALLY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each church receives a specific word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God does not speak generically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He knows condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He knows works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He knows faithfulness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He knows compromise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He knows suffering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He knows hidden motives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit speaks directly to what must be addressed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is spiritual hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not merely receiving broad inspiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is allowing God to put His finger upon the exact place He is dealing with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE HEARER MUST BECOME TEACHABLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A hearing ear is a teachable ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The proud man already knows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The teachable man listens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The proud man defends himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The teachable man lets God correct him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The proud man argues with the word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The teachable man receives it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is how the wineskin becomes flexible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A rigid wineskin breaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A teachable wineskin expands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEARING PREPARES THE WINESKIN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we can see the sequence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The hearer listens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit speaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth enters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Correction comes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding grows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The inner man changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Capacity expands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The wineskin is being prepared for more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE FOUNDATION IS NOW BECOMING EXPERIENCE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our earlier chapters were preparing perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now the foundation begins moving into experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have moved from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Seeing<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">to<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hearing<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and soon we move into:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOMING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is where revelation begins producing a changed life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION PRINCIPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our sixth foundation stone is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT IS SAYING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord opens the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the hearer must listen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit speaks through the Word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit corrects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit directs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit prepares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And spiritual hearing demands response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not merely read Revelation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hear it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not merely analyze the churches.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hear what the Spirit says through them.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not merely collect prophetic information.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Receive the word that changes the hearer.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARING FOR CHAPTER SEVEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We now have six foundation stones:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE ONE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE TWO:<\/strong><br><strong>HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE THREE:<\/strong><br><strong>I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FOUR:<\/strong><br><strong>THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FIVE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE LORD OPENS THE EYE AND BUILDS THE EAR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE SIX:<\/strong><br><strong>HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we come to the repeated promise attached to spiritual hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation does not merely say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It repeatedly says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTo him that overcometh\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That tells us what revelation is supposed to produce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AN OVERCOMER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is our next foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHAPTER SEVEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION MUST BECOME EXPERIENCE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTo him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 2:7<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have been laying foundation stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We began with the <strong>Revelation of Jesus Christ<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We learned that the Revelation was <strong>sent and signified<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We saw that John was <strong>in the Spirit<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established the difference between the <strong>natural mind and the spiritual mind<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We learned that <strong>the Lord opens the eye and builds the ear<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then we heard the repeated command:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now the Revelation takes us another step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing is not the destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seeing is not the destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding is not the destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation must produce something within the person who receives it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again and again, Jesus declares:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where revelation becomes experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE BOOK OF REVELATION IS FORMING OVERCOMERS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before John is shown the seals\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the trumpets sound\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the woman clothed with the sun appears\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the man-child is caught up unto God\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the beast rises from the sea\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the 144,000 stand with the Lamb\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before Babylon falls\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the New Jerusalem descends\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus speaks to His churches about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOMING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That order matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We often want to hurry toward the great prophetic pictures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus begins by dealing with the people who will receive them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He deals with their condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He deals with their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He deals with their love.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He deals with their faithfulness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He deals with their compromise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He deals with their endurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He deals with their spiritual condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And repeatedly He declares:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTo him that overcometh\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is preparing a people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEARING MUST PRODUCE OVERCOMING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the relationship in Revelation 2:7:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOME<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That progression is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit speaks because there is something to be heard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What is heard reveals something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What is revealed demands response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the response produces overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means revelation cannot remain merely intellectual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If I see truth but never walk in it, I have not yet experienced the purpose of that revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If God exposes something in me and I refuse to allow Him to deal with it, hearing has not yet become overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If God shows me a greater realm but I insist upon remaining where I am, revelation has not completed its work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION IS GIVEN TO CHANGE THE HEARER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a temptation in Bible study to measure growth by how much information we possess.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How many verses do we know?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How many doctrines can we explain?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How many prophetic symbols can we identify?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How many books have we read?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How many theological arguments can we win?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the Book of Revelation confronts us with another measurement:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHAT HAVE YOU OVERCOME?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The purpose of spiritual truth is not merely to make us knowledgeable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth works within us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth exposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth separates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth renews.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth transforms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth brings us into experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus did not merely say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Blessed is the person who can explain everything.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He repeatedly speaks of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE OVERCOMER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EACH CHURCH HAD SOMETHING TO OVERCOME<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The seven churches were not all in the same condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no single outward formula for overcoming because the Spirit deals with each condition according to what is present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ephesus had works, labor, patience, and discernment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet Jesus said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cNevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 2:4<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem was not lack of activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something inward had been lost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, overcoming for Ephesus required dealing with that condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Smyrna faced tribulation and suffering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus called that church to faithfulness:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBe thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 2:10<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pergamos faced compromise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thyatira faced corruption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sardis possessed a reputation that did not match its spiritual condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Philadelphia was called to hold fast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Laodicea was lukewarm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Different conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Different dealings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But one call:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOME<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD DEALS WITH WHERE WE ARE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This teaches us an important principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God does not deal with the imaginary person we think we are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He deals with our actual condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why spiritual hearing is essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We must hear what the Spirit says about us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Laodicea said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 3:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Jesus saw something different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look at the contrast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Laodicea had one interpretation of itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ had another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural appearance said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Rich.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual reality said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Poor.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural assessment said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>We need nothing.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>You do not even understand your condition.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This brings together several foundation principles we have already established.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind judges according to appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ear must hear what the Spirit says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then the revealed condition must be overcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION EXPOSES BEFORE IT TRANSFORMS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God&#8217;s light reveals what darkness hides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is not destruction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is mercy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a physician discovers a condition that must be treated, the discovery is not the enemy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The discovery creates the possibility of treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Likewise, when the Spirit exposes something within us, the exposure itself is part of God&#8217;s work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We cannot overcome what we refuse to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We cannot respond to what we refuse to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We cannot leave a condition that we insist does not exist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION EXPOSES.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TRUTH IDENTIFIES.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRIT SEPARATES.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LIFE OF CHRIST OVERCOMES.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And ultimately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHRIST IS MANIFESTED.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the movement of spiritual growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOMING IS NOT HUMAN WILLPOWER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We must establish this carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When Revelation calls us to overcome, it is not telling us to manufacture victory independently from Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThese things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 16:33<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Where does overcoming begin?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHRIST HAS OVERCOME<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We overcome because we participate in His victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Book of Revelation is not the story of weak human beings attempting to manufacture enough strength to defeat darkness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the unveiling of Jesus Christ and the manifestation of His victory in a people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THEY OVERCAME HIM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 12:11 gives one of the great statements of overcoming:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the first foundation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Their overcoming is connected to the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Their victory is not independent of Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb&#8217;s victory becomes operative in a people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why Chapter One had to come before Chapter Seven.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we could teach:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>You must overcome,<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we first established:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overcoming begins in Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHAT CHRIST HAS ACCOMPLISHED MUST BECOME EXPERIENCE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a difference between what Christ has accomplished and what we have entered experientially.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The victory is His.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The work is finished in Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But that victory must become operative within us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth must move from doctrine into experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can believe that Christ is victorious while still living under patterns He has called us to overcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can confess liberty while remaining bound inwardly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can teach life while still allowing death to operate in areas of our thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, the Spirit works within us to bring what is true in Christ into manifestation in His people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE WORD MUST BECOME FLESH IN A PEOPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John tells us concerning Christ:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 1:14<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Word became visible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The invisible God was manifested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The life was expressed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a principle here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God does not merely want truth written upon paper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He desires truth manifested in people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Grace manifested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Life manifested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Love manifested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Faith manifested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The nature of Christ manifested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Victory manifested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why Revelation produces overcomers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOMING IS A PROCESS OF DISPLACEMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When light comes, darkness is displaced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When life increases, death loses ground.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When truth enters, the lie is exposed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the mind of Christ governs, the carnal mind loses dominion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the new man grows, the old patterns lose their place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not merely fighting something endlessly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the increase of one life swallowing up the operation of another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026that mortality might be swallowed up of life.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Corinthians 5:4<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the language:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SWALLOWED UP OF LIFE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Life overcomes death by swallowing it up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Light overcomes darkness by appearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth overcomes error by unveiling reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ overcomes within His people by increasing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BE NOT OVERCOME OF EVIL<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul writes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBe not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Romans 12:21<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are two possibilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something can overcome us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Or something operating through Christ within us can overcome it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The call of Revelation is that God&#8217;s people become:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOMERS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not merely survivors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not merely observers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not merely students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overcomers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE PROMISES ARE TO THE OVERCOMER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look at the tremendous promises in Revelation 2 and 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To Ephesus:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTo him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 2:7<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To Smyrna:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 2:11<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To Pergamos:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTo him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 2:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To Thyatira:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 2:26<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To Sardis:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 3:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To Philadelphia:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHim that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 3:12<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And then we arrive at Laodicea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here the promise reaches toward something enormous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TO SIT WITH ME IN MY THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus declares:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTo him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 3:21<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now look at the progression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have been preparing for Revelation 4.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And immediately before Revelation 4 opens, Jesus speaks about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He connects overcoming with throne participation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then the next chapter begins:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAfter this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 4:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the voice says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then John sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026a throne was set in heaven\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 4:2<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do you see the progression?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit has been preparing us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Overcome.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Come up hither.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A throne was set in heaven.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The order is beautiful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOMING PREPARES US FOR A HIGHER VIEW<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why we could not jump immediately to the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something had to happen first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The churches had to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Conditions had to be exposed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The call to overcome had to be given.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then the door opens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then the voice says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is spiritual progression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is preparing the hearer for a higher viewpoint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EVERY PROMISE REVEALS SOMETHING ABOUT GOD&#8217;S PURPOSE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The promises to the overcomer are not random prizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They reveal God&#8217;s purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tree of life.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Crown of life.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hidden manna.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A new name.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Power over nations.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>White raiment.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A pillar in God&#8217;s temple.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The name of God.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The name of the city.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A place in the throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These promises begin showing us where God is taking a people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Book of Revelation is not merely showing us what God is destroying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is revealing what God is producing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD IS PRODUCING A PEOPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the great shifts we need to make in our understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many people read Revelation asking only:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What is going to happen to the world?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But another question is just as important:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHAT IS GOD PRODUCING IN HIS PEOPLE?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is producing hearers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is producing overcomers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is producing kings and priests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is producing witnesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is producing a people who follow the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is producing a city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is producing a people capable of participating in His government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That theme will become much deeper in later books.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For now, we simply lay the stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE OVERCOMER IS BEING PREPARED FOR GOVERNMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 3:21 cannot be ignored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTo him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne speaks of government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Divine order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But before throne participation comes overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This establishes a principle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD DOES NOT SEPARATE CHARACTER FROM GOVERNMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before authority comes preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before rule comes overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the throne comes the dealings of the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before elevation comes transformation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why the messages to the churches matter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DO NOT DESPISE THE DEALINGS OF GOD<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes we want the promise but resist the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We want the throne but not the overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We want authority but not correction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We want revelation but not exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We want the deep mysteries but not the inward dealings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But God&#8217;s order is wiser.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He builds the vessel before placing weight upon it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He develops the wineskin before pouring in the wine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He forms the person before entrusting greater responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOMING ENLARGES CAPACITY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every time God brings us through something, capacity grows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We learn His faithfulness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We learn His voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We learn His ways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We learn what belongs to the natural man and what belongs to the spiritual man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We learn to recognize the operation of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We become able to carry what once would have overwhelmed us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is spiritual maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">STRONG MEAT BELONGS TO THE MATURE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hebrews says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Hebrews 5:14<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then Hebrews 6 begins:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTherefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There comes a point when foundation has accomplished its work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not destroy the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We build upon it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And that is exactly what we are preparing to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE BEGINNER IS BECOMING A DISCIPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the beginning of this study, the reader may simply have wanted to understand Revelation better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is good.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But now something more is happening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book is no longer merely an object of study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit is beginning to deal with the student.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The question changes from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWhat does Revelation mean?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u201cWHAT IS GOD DOING IN ME?\u201d<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the movement from information to formation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From observation to participation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From hearing to overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION MUST BECOME LIFE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can know the doctrine of victory and never overcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can know the doctrine of the kingdom and never submit to the King.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can know the doctrine of the throne and never allow Christ to govern us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can know the doctrine of life and continue thinking according to death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can know the doctrine of the new man while living from the old.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God desires more than doctrinal accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He desires manifestation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHRIST IN YOU<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul speaks of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026Christ in you, the hope of glory.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Colossians 1:27<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is the mystery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ is not merely before us as an example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ is within His people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His life works within.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His nature develops within.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His victory operates within.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His mind is formed within.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His glory is revealed within.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, overcoming is not independent human achievement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the life of the Overcomer becoming operative within His body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AS I ALSO OVERCAME<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026even as I also overcame\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 3:21<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is our pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He overcame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the overcomer participates in His victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means the call to overcome is not a hopeless demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One commanding us to overcome is the One who already overcame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The victory has a source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JESUS CHRIST IS THE OVERCOMER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This takes us right back to Chapter One.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything returns to Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation begins with Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual sight reveals Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit glorifies Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The believer hears Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the believer overcomes through the life and victory of Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The foundation is becoming one connected structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SEVENTH FOUNDATION STONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can now state our seventh principle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION MUST BECOME EXPERIENCE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seeing is not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing is not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Knowing is not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth must work within us until what God has revealed becomes part of our spiritual experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit exposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit identifies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit separates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The life of Christ overcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And what was first revealed begins to be manifested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the movement:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVEAL<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EXPOSE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IDENTIFY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SEPARATE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOME<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MANIFEST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is how revelation becomes life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARING FOR CHAPTER EIGHT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seven foundation stones are now in place:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE ONE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE TWO:<\/strong><br><strong>HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE THREE:<\/strong><br><strong>I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FOUR:<\/strong><br><strong>THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FIVE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE LORD OPENS THE EYE AND BUILDS THE EAR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE SIX:<\/strong><br><strong>HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE SEVEN:<\/strong><br><strong>TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And now we stand at the end of Revelation Chapter 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The churches have been addressed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ear has been called to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The overcomer has been promised the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then something changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAfter this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the voice says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader has learned to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader has been called to overcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we are ready to learn another great principle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHERE YOU STAND DETERMINES WHAT YOU SEE.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is our next foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHAPTER EIGHT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHERE YOU STAND DETERMINES WHAT YOU SEE<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAfter this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 4:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have now laid seven foundation stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know <strong>who<\/strong> is being revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We understand that the book was <strong>signified<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have seen that John was <strong>in the Spirit<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have learned the difference between the <strong>natural mind and the spiritual mind<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have established that <strong>the Lord opens the eye and builds the ear<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have heard the command:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And we have received the call:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now Revelation moves us into another realm of understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AFTER THIS I LOOKED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And what does he see?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A DOOR WAS OPENED IN HEAVEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then the voice says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That command is not merely about movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is about <strong>position<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is about <strong>perspective<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is about <strong>where the seer stands when he receives what God is showing him<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION REQUIRES THE RIGHT VIEWPOINT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A thing can look one way from below and another way from above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A battlefield looks one way to a soldier standing in the middle of the conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It looks different to a commander who can see the whole field.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The facts may be the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The perspective is different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The understanding is different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ability to interpret what is happening is different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why the command:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">is so important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before John is shown the throne\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the sealed book\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the Lamb\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the seals\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the trumpets\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the great conflicts\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God changes his position of seeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHERE YOU STAND AFFECTS WHAT YOU SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a principle that runs throughout Scripture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person standing in fear sees differently from a person standing in faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person standing in the natural mind sees differently from a person standing in the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person standing in earthly reasoning sees differently from a person seeing from heavenly government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The object may be the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The perception is not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why Revelation cannot be properly understood merely from beneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN HAD TO COME UP<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John was already in the Spirit in Revelation 1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He had already heard the Spirit speak to the churches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He had already received the call to overcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet now he hears:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That tells us something important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual understanding has dimensions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are levels of seeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are greater perspectives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are places in God from which truth becomes clearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord can take a person who already sees and bring him into <strong>greater sight<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord can take a person who already hears and bring him into <strong>greater hearing<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord can take a person who already knows and bring him into <strong>greater understanding<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A DOOR WAS OPENED IN HEAVEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John does not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>I forced the door open.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cA door was opened in heaven.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, we see divine initiative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens the understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD OPENS THE DOOR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are realms God opens before His people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are things we cannot enter by natural effort alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A door must be opened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And once the door is opened, the invitation comes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEAVEN IS A REALM OF GOVERNMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We must begin carefully here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When Revelation speaks of heaven, we should not automatically reduce every reference to the idea of a distant geographical location somewhere beyond the stars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Heaven in Scripture can carry the language of divine government, spiritual authority, heavenly position, and the realm from which God rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where we begin introducing the principle of realms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We will not exhaust it here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But we need to lay the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SEA<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EARTH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And there is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEAVEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are more than convenient words.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They can describe realms, conditions, positions, and ways of being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later, Revelation will show us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A beast rising from the sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A beast coming out of the earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">War in heaven.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Voices in heaven.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A woman clothed with the sun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A throne in heaven.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These images require us to understand the importance of <strong>realm<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SEA SPEAKS OF INSTABILITY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throughout Scripture, the sea can carry the picture of unrest, instability, agitation, and masses in motion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Isaiah says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBut the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Isaiah 57:20<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sea is restless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It moves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is agitated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can become a picture of humanity in instability and disorder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later, when Revelation shows a beast rising from the sea, that imagery matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not exhaust it here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We simply begin learning the language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE EARTH SPEAKS OF A LOWER REALM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The earth is more settled than the sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It has form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It has order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It has stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet it is still beneath heaven.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This becomes another useful pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person may no longer live in the chaos of the sea, yet still interpret everything from an earthly realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Earthly understanding is more ordered than confusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But heaven speaks of something higher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEAVEN SPEAKS OF DIVINE PERSPECTIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When John hears:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">he is being brought into a higher realm of perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is about to see from the side of divine government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is critical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we interpret Revelation only from what is happening below, the book can become terrifying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we see it from the throne, everything changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The conflict is still real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The judgments are still real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beasts are still real within the sign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Babylon still appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the interpretation is governed by something greater.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE IS ABOVE THE CONFLICT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are preparing for the next chapter now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John comes up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And immediately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cA throne was set in heaven\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 4:2<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why the command to come up matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John is being positioned to see the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If he remains beneath, he sees only conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If he comes up, he sees government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If he remains beneath, he may see chaos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If he comes up, he sees order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If he remains beneath, he may see the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If he comes up, he sees the One sitting upon the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NATURAL PERSPECTIVE MAGNIFIES THE CONFLICT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person standing only in the visible realm can become consumed by what appears powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beast looks powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Babylon looks powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The dragon looks powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The nations look powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Death looks powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the heavenly perspective asks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHO IS ON THE THRONE?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That one question changes everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind sees events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual mind sees government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind sees conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual mind sees purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind sees what is rising.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual mind sees what is already seated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE WAS ALREADY SET<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John does not arrive and watch God trying to construct a throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cA throne was set in heaven\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Already established.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Already there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Already governing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the viewpoint Revelation wants us to possess before it begins opening the deeper visions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP BEFORE YOU INTERPRET<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This needs to become a study principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we encounter a difficult passage in Revelation, ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FROM WHAT REALM AM I TRYING TO UNDERSTAND THIS?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Am I interpreting from fear?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Am I interpreting from earthly politics?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Am I interpreting from human conflict?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Am I interpreting from natural reasoning?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Or am I seeking to see from the realm of God&#8217;s purpose and government?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The same vision can appear very different depending upon where we stand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MOSES CAME UP INTO THE MOUNTAIN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This principle is not unique to John.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throughout Scripture, God repeatedly calls His servants upward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Moses went up into the mountain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The mountain became a place of encounter, revelation, law, and government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cCome up to me into the mount\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Exodus 24:12<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The language is familiar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The higher place becomes a place from which God communicates His order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This does not mean natural altitude automatically produces spiritual maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It means Scripture repeatedly uses upward movement to communicate spiritual approach, elevation, and divine perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ISAIAH SAW THE LORD HIGH AND LIFTED UP<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Isaiah said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Isaiah 6:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>High.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Lifted up.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the prophet sees divine government, his own condition is exposed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He sees himself differently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He sees the people differently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He sees his calling differently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A higher vision produces a different understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EZEKIEL SAW ABOVE THE FIRMAMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ezekiel saw tremendous prophetic imagery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Living creatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wheels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But above all of it, he sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026the likeness of a throne\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ezekiel 1:26<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again the prophetic pattern points upward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Above movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Above creatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Above wheels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Above the visible activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That pattern helps us understand Revelation 4.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE HIGHER REALM DOES NOT DENY THE LOWER REALM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Coming up does not mean pretending that earthly problems do not exist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John will still see tremendous conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will still see judgments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will still see death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will still see Babylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He will still see beasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The higher realm does not deny what happens below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It interprets what happens below from a greater government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a crucial distinction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual perspective is not denial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is <strong>governmental understanding<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SERVANT OF ELISHA SAW FROM BELOW<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember the servant of Elisha.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He saw the enemy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His perception was not false.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The enemy really was there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But his perception was incomplete.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Elisha saw more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the Lord opened the servant&#8217;s eyes, he saw the mountain filled with heavenly forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The enemy did not disappear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But a greater reality became visible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is what heavenly perspective does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It reveals what fear cannot see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAITH SEES FROM ANOTHER REALM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul writes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cFor we walk by faith, not by sight.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 2 Corinthians 5:7<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural sight tells us one thing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Faith sees according to what God has spoken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, two realms of perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not irrational.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is spiritual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Faith does not deny circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Faith refuses to let circumstances become the highest authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SET YOUR AFFECTION ON THINGS ABOVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul writes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cSet your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Colossians 3:2<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Above.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Earth.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two realms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And believers are told to set their inward orientation toward the higher realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cFor ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Colossians 3:3<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our true life is connected to a heavenly reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SEATED IN HEAVENLY PLACES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Ephesians 2:6<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">RAISED US UP<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIT TOGETHER IN HEAVENLY PLACES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That language is very close to our Revelation progression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Raised up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Heavenly position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sitting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we begin understanding why:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">is not merely an interesting phrase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is a principle of spiritual position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YOU MUST LEARN TO LIVE FROM WHERE GOD HAS PLACED YOU<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If God has raised us up in Christ, our understanding must increasingly correspond to our position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We cannot continually think only from beneath while claiming heavenly position in Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The mind must be renewed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The perspective must change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The eye must adjust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ear must hear from another realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is part of maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EARTHLY FEAR CANNOT INTERPRET HEAVENLY REVELATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the major reasons people become terrified by Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They read everything from beneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They see destruction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They see judgment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They see beasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They see plagues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They see conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And because they never come up to the throne, they interpret the entire book from fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But John was not left beneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That command must become part of our interpretive posture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE DOOR WAS OPENED BEFORE THE DEEPER VISIONS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look at the timing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 1:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Christ unveiled.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 2\u20133:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Churches addressed.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ear is called to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The believer is called to overcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then Revelation 4:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DOOR OPENED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Only after that do the greater throne-room scenes unfold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God does not take the unprepared hearer immediately into the depths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is progression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is exactly why we are writing a pillar book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION PRECEDES ELEVATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader has been learning:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who Christ is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How signs work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What it means to be in the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural versus spiritual understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How God opens the eye and ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How to hear the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How to overcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sequence matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Elevation without foundation produces instability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Foundation gives the higher revelation somewhere to rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER IS A CALL OUT OF THE LOWER VIEW<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes the strongest prison is not a physical place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is a viewpoint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person can be trapped in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tradition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural reasoning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Human opinion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Religious systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Earthly thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God&#8217;s answer can be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">See from another realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hear from another realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understand from another realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE HIGHER VIEW REVEALS THE PURPOSE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From beneath, events can appear disconnected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From above, pattern becomes visible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is true naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stand in the middle of a large field and you may see only what is immediately around you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rise high enough and the shape of the whole field becomes visible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is what spiritual perspective does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It reveals pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And Revelation is filled with pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PATTERN REQUIRES PERSPECTIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later we will see:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The woman.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The man-child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The dragon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 144,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The two witnesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Babylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">New Jerusalem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The nations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Priests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These truths do not stand alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They belong to a larger pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The higher the spiritual perspective, the more the pattern becomes visible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD IS TEACHING US HOW TO SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This entire foundation book has really been building toward this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We thought we were learning Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But God has been dealing with the <strong>seer<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who are you looking for?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How is the book communicated?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Through signs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Where must you be?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What mind is required?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who opens the eye and ear?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What must you do?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What must truth produce?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHERE MUST YOU SEE FROM?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The seer is being prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION IS NOT MERELY ABOUT WHAT JOHN SAW<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is also about <strong>how John was prepared to see it<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is one of the most important principles in this entire book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">People often want John&#8217;s visions without John&#8217;s spiritual posture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They want mysteries without hearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They want symbols without discernment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They want throne revelation while living entirely from beneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation itself gives us another order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARATION BEFORE DEPTH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE EIGHTH FOUNDATION STONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can now state our eighth foundation principle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHERE YOU STAND DETERMINES WHAT YOU SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we stand only in the natural realm, we will interpret naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we stand in fear, we will interpret through fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If we stand in earthly reasoning, we will interpret from beneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But when the Spirit says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is calling us into a higher perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A heavenly perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A governmental perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A throne perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE READER IS NOW READY TO SEE THE THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not yet teaching every dimension of the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That belongs to the next foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But now the reader is positioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The door has opened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The voice has spoken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The call has come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And John responds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 4:2 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is the next step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In the Spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Come up hither.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BEHOLD, A THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader is now ready to understand the government behind the entire Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION PRINCIPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our eighth stone is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION MUST BE SEEN FROM THE RIGHT REALM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not interpret heaven from earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not interpret spiritual realities only through natural appearances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not allow conflict beneath to make you forget government above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hear the invitation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And learn to see from where God is showing the vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARING FOR CHAPTER NINE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Eight foundation stones are now in place:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE ONE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE TWO:<\/strong><br><strong>HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE THREE:<\/strong><br><strong>I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FOUR:<\/strong><br><strong>THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FIVE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE LORD OPENS THE EYE AND BUILDS THE EAR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE SIX:<\/strong><br><strong>HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE SEVEN:<\/strong><br><strong>TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE EIGHT:<\/strong><br><strong>COME UP HITHER<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And now John sees the first great reality from that elevated position:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That throne will become one of the greatest governing keys to the entire Book of Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is our next foundation stone:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A THRONE WAS SET IN HEAVEN.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHAPTER NINE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A THRONE WAS SET IN HEAVEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">UNDERSTANDING THE BOOK FROM THE REALM OF DIVINE GOVERNMENT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 4:2<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have now laid eight foundation stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know <strong>who<\/strong> is being revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know the Revelation was <strong>signified<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know John was <strong>in the Spirit<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know spiritual things must be <strong>spiritually discerned<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know the Lord opens the eye and builds the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know the hearer must hear what the Spirit says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We know revelation is meant to produce an overcomer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And we have heard the call:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now John is brought into the realm from which the rest of the Revelation must be understood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the first great thing he sees is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is not accidental.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the seals open\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the trumpets sound\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the dragon appears\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the beast rises\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before Babylon falls\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before the plagues are poured out\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That throne is one of the great governing keys to the entire Book of Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE WAS ALREADY SET<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the language carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John does not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A throne was being built.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He does not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>God was trying to establish a throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He does not say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The throne appeared because things had gotten out of control on earth.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cA throne was set in heaven.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It was already established.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Already there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Already governing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Already occupied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This changes the way we read everything that follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation is not the story of God trying to recover control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the unveiling of a God who already reigns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AND ONE SAT ON THE THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John continues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026and one sat on the throne.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is not empty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government is present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Authority is present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Purpose is present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nothing in Revelation later surprises the One seated there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The dragon does not frighten Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beast does not threaten Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Babylon does not dethrone Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The nations do not remove Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Death does not overthrow Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne remains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE GOVERNS THE BOOK<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From this point forward, the reader must learn to interpret every conflict from the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means when we see turmoil, we remember government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we see rebellion, we remember authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we see judgment, we remember purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we see darkness, we remember the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we see kingdoms rise and fall, we remember the One who sits above them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is how Revelation must be read.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EARTH SEES CHAOS \u2014 HEAVEN SEES GOVERNMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From the earth, things can look chaotic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nations rage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kingdoms rise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Systems appear powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fear increases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Death seems to dominate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But John is not left on the earth trying to interpret the whole thing from below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is called up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then he sees the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The heavenly perspective reveals that what looks chaotic below is still under divine government above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE IS A POSITION OF RULE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throughout Scripture, the throne speaks of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Government.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Authority.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Judgment.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Rule.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Kingship.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Divine order.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why Revelation 4 matters so much.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the great judgments of the book begin unfolding, John is shown the government behind them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD IS NOT REACTING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the great errors people make in reading Revelation is imagining that God is constantly reacting to what evil is doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The beast acts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God reacts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The dragon acts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God reacts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Babylon acts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God reacts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But that is not how the book begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is already set.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God&#8217;s purpose is already established.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb is already victorious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation unfolds from divine government, not divine panic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE PRECEDES THE CONFLICT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This order is crucial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 4 comes before Revelation 6.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne comes before the seals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 5 comes before the judgments unfold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb&#8217;s victory comes before the conflict is fully unveiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means God establishes the reader in government before showing him the struggle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is another pillar principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD PREPARES THE VIEW BEFORE SHOWING THE BATTLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The unprepared reader sees the battle and becomes afraid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The prepared reader sees the throne first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The unprepared reader sees the beast and thinks the beast is in control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The prepared reader remembers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A THRONE WAS SET IN HEAVEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The unprepared reader sees Babylon and thinks Babylon governs the earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The prepared reader remembers who sits on the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the difference foundation makes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE IS NOT DISTANT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We must also be careful not to think of the throne merely as a faraway physical chair somewhere beyond the universe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne speaks of divine government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It reveals where authority originates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It reveals the realm from which God&#8217;s purpose is administered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It reveals that heaven governs earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why the call:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">had to come before the throne was seen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John had to be brought into the right realm of perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THRONE THINKING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader must begin developing what we might call <strong>throne thinking<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throne thinking does not deny conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It interprets conflict from government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throne thinking does not deny judgment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It asks what divine purpose judgment is serving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throne thinking does not deny evil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It refuses to make evil ultimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throne thinking does not deny death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It remembers the One who has the keys of hell and death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throne thinking does not deny Babylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It remembers that Babylon falls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE REVEALS ORDER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 4 is filled with order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The One sitting on the throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Twenty-four elders.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Four living creatures.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Worship.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Heavenly order.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nothing about the scene suggests confusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The earthly realm may be confused.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Heaven is not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a powerful foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WORSHIP SURROUNDS THE THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 4 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 4:9<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the elders fall down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They cast their crowns before the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This tells us something else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is not merely about power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is connected to worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government and worship meet around the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That will become important later when Revelation contrasts true worship with false worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But here we only lay the stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THOU ART WORTHY, O LORD<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The elders declare:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 4:11<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now the throne is connected to creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All things came from Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All things exist by His purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All things belong to Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The government of God is not arbitrary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It rests upon Creatorhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CREATION BELONGS TO GOD<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This foundation becomes important later when kingdoms appear to belong to others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The earth is not ultimately the beast&#8217;s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The nations are not ultimately Babylon&#8217;s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Creation does not ultimately belong to darkness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 4 establishes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THOU HAST CREATED ALL THINGS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means the entire Revelation unfolds within the purpose of the Creator.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE AND ETERNAL PURPOSE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is not merely reacting to temporary events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It represents the government of eternal purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Through redemption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Through judgment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Through overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Through manifestation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is moving everything toward the completion of what He purposed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why the throne remains central.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JUDGMENT FLOWS FROM GOVERNMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later, Revelation will show severe judgments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But we must never interpret judgment independently from the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Judgment flows from divine government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, the right question is not merely:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What is God destroying?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We must also ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHAT IS GOD ESTABLISHING?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Judgment removes what resists divine order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Judgment exposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Judgment separates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Judgment brings hidden things into light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Judgment makes way for manifestation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne gives judgment purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE IS CONNECTED TO RIGHTEOUSNESS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Psalm 89:14 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cJustice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look at the balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Justice.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Judgment.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mercy.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Truth.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is not a throne of uncontrolled wrath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the throne of righteous government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That matters when we enter the difficult judgment passages of Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MERCY AND JUDGMENT ARE NOT ENEMIES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind often separates these things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mercy on one side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Judgment on the other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Scripture reveals both within God&#8217;s government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">True judgment can be an expression of divine love when it removes what destroys life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A physician cutting out disease is not acting against the patient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He is acting for the patient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Likewise, divine judgment can serve divine purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE IS CONNECTED TO THE LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are now preparing for Chapter Ten.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 4 establishes the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 5 introduces the Lamb in relationship to the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The two belong together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government and redemption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Authority and sacrifice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throne and Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the great patterns of Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God&#8217;s government is not separate from Christ&#8217;s redemptive victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB IS IN THE MIDST OF THE THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later Revelation says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 7:17<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is powerful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb is not outside divine government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb is in the midst of the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cross and the throne are not enemies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Redemption and government are one purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD&#8217;S GOVERNMENT IS REDEMPTIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why we must not think of the throne only as harsh authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne belongs to the God who redeems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb is in the midst.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One who rules is the One who saves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One who judges is the One who gives life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One who governs creation is the One who reconciles all things to His purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A THRONE THAT PRODUCES PEACE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Isaiah speaks of the increase of government and peace:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cOf the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Isaiah 9:7<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government and peace increase together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is another key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God&#8217;s rule is not chaos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Divine government produces order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It produces peace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It brings everything into right relationship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE KINGDOM CANNOT BE SEPARATED FROM THE THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne reveals the kingdom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The kingdom reveals the rule of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The whole Book of Revelation moves toward the declaration:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 11:15<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is throne language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government is being manifested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE DOES NOT MOVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many things move in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nations move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Armies move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Waters move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beasts rise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Babylon falls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Angels move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Judgments move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the throne is stable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That stability becomes one of our anchors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE IS THE FIXED POINT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want to understand the movement, find the fixed point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Revelation, the fixed point is divine government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything else must be interpreted in relationship to it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why the throne is shown early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND SEES POWER \u2014 THE SPIRITUAL MIND ASKS WHO GOVERNS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A natural reader sees a beast with horns and says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>That is powerful.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual reader asks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHO IS ON THE THRONE?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A natural reader sees Babylon ruling kings and says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Babylon is dominant.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual reader asks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHOSE PURPOSE IS BEING COMPLETED?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A natural reader sees death and says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Death wins.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual reader remembers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>I have the keys of hell and death.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is throne perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE BREAKS FEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fear grows when evil appears ultimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throne revelation destroys that illusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the throne is set\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">if God sits upon it\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">if creation belongs to Him\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">if the Lamb has prevailed\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">then fear loses its governing power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader may still not understand every symbol yet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But he knows enough to remain stable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">YOU DO NOT HAVE TO UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING TO KNOW WHO GOVERNS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is important for beginners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person may read Revelation and not yet know what every seal means.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He may not understand every trumpet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He may not understand every beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He may not understand every number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But he can know this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE IS SET<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And that truth becomes an anchor while understanding develops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE TRAINS THE READER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This pillar book is not trying to answer every advanced question.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is training the reader how to approach those questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the reader later sees something frightening, the training says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Return to the throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the reader gets confused:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Return to the throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the beast looks too powerful:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Return to the throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When judgment looks disconnected from purpose:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Return to the throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is how foundation works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THRONE REALITY AND INNER GOVERNMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is also an inward application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If Christ is King, His government must increasingly operate within us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne cannot remain merely a doctrine somewhere in heaven.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The King must govern the heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The desires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The affections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This connects throne revelation to overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE OVERCOMER IS PREPARED FOR GOVERNMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember Revelation 3:21:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTo him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That promise came immediately before Revelation 4.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The overcomer is being prepared for participation in government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not accidental.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hearing prepares overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overcoming prepares government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government requires maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD DOES NOT ENTRUST THRONE AUTHORITY TO AN UNPREPARED VESSEL<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is another wineskin principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Authority requires capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government requires character.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throne participation requires overcoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The deeper things of Revelation must therefore be built on spiritual formation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why we are laying foundations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE IS ONE OF OUR GREAT PILLARS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can now see why the throne will become one of the great pillars of the Revelation library.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later books can go much deeper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne of the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne and the overcomer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne and divine judgment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne and the nations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne and New Jerusalem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne and kings and priests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is enormous depth here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But this foundation book only establishes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SEE EVERYTHING FROM THE THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is enough for now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NINTH FOUNDATION STONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can state our ninth principle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DIVINE GOVERNMENT IS THE FIXED REALITY BEHIND EVERYTHING IN REVELATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is set.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is occupied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne governs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne judges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne creates order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne gives purpose to everything that follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not read Revelation from fear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not read it as though chaos is ultimate.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not read it as though evil possesses equal government with God.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do not read it as though the throne can be shaken.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read it from above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read it from divine purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read it from government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE IS SET<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREPARING FOR CHAPTER TEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nine foundation stones are now in place:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE ONE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE TWO:<\/strong><br><strong>HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE THREE:<\/strong><br><strong>I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FOUR:<\/strong><br><strong>THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FIVE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE LORD OPENS THE EYE AND BUILDS THE EAR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE SIX:<\/strong><br><strong>HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE SEVEN:<\/strong><br><strong>TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE EIGHT:<\/strong><br><strong>COME UP HITHER<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE NINE:<\/strong><br><strong>A THRONE WAS SET IN HEAVEN<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we come to the final foundation stone of this pillar book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees a sealed book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No man is found worthy to open it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John weeps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then an elder says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWeep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda\u2026 hath prevailed to open the book\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John turns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And what does he see?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A LAMB AS IT HAD BEEN SLAIN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the seals are opened, Revelation establishes the victory of Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the deeper conflict unfolds, the Lamb has already prevailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the last stone we need before we are ready to go deeper:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB HAS PREVAILED.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHAPTER TEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB HAS PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">UNDERSTANDING REVELATION FROM THE VICTORY OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have now reached the tenth foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything we have taught up to this point has been preparing the reader for this moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We began with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We learned that the book was:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SENT AND SIGNIFIED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We saw that John was:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established the difference between:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND AND THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We learned that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LORD OPENS THE EYE AND BUILDS THE EAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We heard the command:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We received the call:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then came the invitation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And John saw:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A THRONE WAS SET IN HEAVEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we come to the final stone we need before the deeper Revelation begins to open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB HAS PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That truth must be established before the first seal is ever opened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN SAW A BOOK<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 5 begins:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book is in the right hand of the One sitting upon the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book is not in the hand of the dragon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not in the hand of the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not in the hand of Babylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not in the hand of the nations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is in the hand of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, divine government is established.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book is connected to the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The unfolding of what follows comes from the realm of God&#8217;s authority and purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHO IS WORTHY TO OPEN THE BOOK?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John hears a strong angel proclaim:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWho is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:2<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the great question.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who is worthy?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who has the authority?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who has the qualification?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Who has the victory necessary to open what is sealed?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:3<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No man could do it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Human ability was not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Natural strength was not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Religious position was not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Earthly authority was not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something greater was required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN WEPT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:4<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John weeps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He sees inability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He sees limitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He sees a sealed book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He sees something that cannot be opened by man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then an elder speaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the first words are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WEEP NOT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because there is an answer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BEHOLD, THE LION HAS PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The elder says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWeep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That word:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">must become part of our foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>will perhaps prevail.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>is attempting to prevail.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>may prevail if everything goes correctly.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HATH PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The victory is established before the seals begin to open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That changes everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION PROCEEDS FROM VICTORY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the most important principles in the entire book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The deeper visions do not begin with Christ trying to win.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They begin with the declaration that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE HAS ALREADY PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, everything that follows must be interpreted from accomplished victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That does not mean there is no conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It does not mean there is no judgment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is judgment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It does not mean there is no opposition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is opposition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But none of those things determine the final outcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The outcome is established in the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN HEARS LION \u2014 JOHN SEES LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the most beautiful movements in Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John hears:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDA<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then he looks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What does he see?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:6<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John hears <strong>Lion<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees <strong>Lamb<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is not contradiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lion&#8217;s victory is revealed through the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Power is revealed through sacrifice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kingship is revealed through redemption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Victory is revealed through the One who was slain and now stands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A LAMB AS IT HAD BEEN SLAIN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice the Lamb&#8217;s condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb bears the marks of sacrifice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He has been slain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yet He stands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is resurrection language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Death touched Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Death did not hold Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The grave received Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The grave did not keep Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cross was real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The blood was real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The death was real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the Lamb stands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SLAIN LAMB IS STANDING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This picture should govern our understanding of Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb is not lying defeated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb is standing in the midst of the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One who died is alive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One who sacrificed Himself has prevailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One who shed His blood now opens the book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the Gospel inside the Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE CROSS IS NOT DEFEAT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind looks at the cross and sees weakness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual mind sees victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHaving spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Colossians 2:15<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What looked like defeat became triumph.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb prevailed through sacrifice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is one of the great mysteries of Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE VICTORY IS REDEMPTIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 5 continues with worship:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:9<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why is He worthy?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because He was slain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now we see the nature of the victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not merely military imagery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REDEMPTION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb conquers through redemptive victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His blood purchases a people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His death produces life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His sacrifice gathers people from every kindred, tongue, people, and nation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB&#8217;S VICTORY PRODUCES A PEOPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then Revelation says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:10<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here again we encounter a truth that will become much deeper later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">KINGS AND PRIESTS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But we are not going to exhaust it in this pillar book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We only establish the principle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb&#8217;s victory does not terminate in Himself alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It produces a people who participate in His purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A redeemed people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A priestly people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A governmental people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A people who reign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB DOES NOT MERELY SAVE PEOPLE FROM SOMETHING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He brings them into something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He does not merely save from sin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He brings into purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He does not merely rescue from death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He brings into life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He does not merely deliver from bondage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He brings into sonship, priesthood, government, and participation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is why the Book of Revelation is not fundamentally a book of escape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is a book of purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE BOOK OPENS BECAUSE THE LAMB HAS PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The throne.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The sealed book.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The question of worthiness.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The declaration of victory.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Lamb.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The book opens.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means the reader must know the victory before entering the judgments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE FIRST SEAL DOES NOT OPEN UNTIL VICTORY IS ESTABLISHED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 6 does not begin until Revelation 5 has established:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB HAS PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why does that matter?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because if you start interpreting the seals without carrying the victory of Revelation 5, you can read the entire book from fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit will not allow us to do that if we follow the order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The victory comes first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DO NOT READ REVELATION 6 WITHOUT REVELATION 5<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read the seals and forget the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read the trumpets and forget the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read the beast and forget the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read Babylon and forget the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read the plagues and forget the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not read the dragon and forget the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb governs the entire unveiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB IS IN THE MIDST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice where John sees Him:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cIn the midst of the throne\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is tremendous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb is in the midst of divine government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Redemption is not outside God&#8217;s government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cross is not outside God&#8217;s purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb belongs in the center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means divine government must always be interpreted through Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THRONE AND LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These two great images belong together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Redemption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne without the Lamb could be misunderstood as mere authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb without the throne could be misunderstood as powerless sacrifice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But Revelation joins them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REDEMPTIVE GOVERNMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOVERNMENTAL REDEMPTION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the God being revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB HAS SEVEN HORNS AND SEVEN EYES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 5:6 describes the Lamb as having:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, our Chapter Two foundation matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book is signified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not begin imagining a literal farm animal with seven physical horns and seven physical eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We understand that signs communicate realities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The horns speak of power and authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The eyes speak of sight, perception, and Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb is not weak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He possesses complete spiritual authority and perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB TAKES THE BOOK<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 5:7 says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAnd he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now the sealed purpose begins to open through Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb is worthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb takes the book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb opens the seals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is another foundation principle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CHRIST IS THE INTERPRETER AND FULFILLER OF GOD&#8217;S PURPOSE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book opens through Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">History opens through Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Judgment opens through Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Redemption opens through Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Purpose opens through Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything centers in Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ALL HEAVEN RESPONDS TO THE LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the Lamb takes the book, worship erupts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The living creatures worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The elders worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The angels worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Creation worships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWorthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:12<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scene is not fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scene is worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The atmosphere surrounding the opening of the book is not panic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WORTHY IS THE LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That should tell us something about how Revelation is meant to be received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE DEEPER REVELATION IS SURROUNDED BY WORSHIP<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the seals open, heaven worships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because heaven sees the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Earth may focus on the trouble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Heaven focuses on the Victor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is throne perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EARTH SEES THE CROSS \u2014 HEAVEN SEES THE LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind sees weakness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit sees worthiness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind sees death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit sees victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind sees suffering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit sees redemption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, spiritual discernment governs our reading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB&#8217;S VICTORY IS THE KEY TO JUDGMENT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later judgments must be interpreted through the Lamb who was slain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means judgment is not separated from redemptive purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One opening the seals is the Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The One who redeemed by blood is the One who opens what follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is critical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE JUDGE IS THE REDEEMER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We must never divide Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Christ who judges is the Christ who redeemed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Christ who opens the seals is the Lamb who was slain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The government of God and the redemption of God flow from one purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FEAR LOSES ITS POWER WHEN THE LAMB IS SEEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John begins Revelation 5 weeping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By the end of the chapter, heaven is worshiping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What changed?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb was revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a great pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When Christ is hidden from our understanding, fear grows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the Lamb is unveiled, perspective changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sealed book that caused John to weep becomes the occasion for worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION CHANGES THE HEARER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is what we have been teaching all along.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John moves from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>weeping<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">to<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>beholding<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">to<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>worship<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">because Christ is revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is what revelation does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BEHOLD THE LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John the Baptist said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cBehold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 John 1:29<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BEHOLD, THE LION HAS PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And John sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Bible keeps bringing us back to Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why our first foundation stone and our tenth foundation stone belong together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We began with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And we end the foundation with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB HAS PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ is the beginning of our understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Christ is the end of our foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE ALPHA AND OMEGA OF THE FOUNDATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything in between has been preparing us to see Him rightly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The signs serve His unveiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit reveals Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The spiritual mind perceives Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The opened eye sees Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The opened ear hears Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The overcomer participates in His victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The call upward brings us to His throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And at the throne we see:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WE ARE NOW READY FOR THE BOOK TO OPEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where the foundation book should stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not because there is nothing more to teach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because now the student is prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation 6 can begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The seals can open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The deeper mysteries can unfold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The advanced classroom can begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But now the reader has foundational capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE TEN FOUNDATION STONES<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let us gather them one final time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION STONE ONE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Know who the book is about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION STONE TWO<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understand how the Revelation communicates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION STONE THREE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understand the spiritual realm in which John received it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION STONE FOUR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understand that spiritual things must be spiritually discerned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION STONE FIVE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LORD OPENS THE EYE AND BUILDS THE EAR<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understand that God creates spiritual capacity within the hearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION STONE SIX<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learn to hear what the Spirit says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION STONE SEVEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Allow revelation to become spiritual experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION STONE EIGHT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learn to see from the proper realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION STONE NINE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A THRONE WAS SET IN HEAVEN<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understand everything from divine government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION STONE TEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB HAS PREVAILED<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Interpret everything that follows from the accomplished victory of Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NOW THE WINESKIN HAS CAPACITY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have not exhausted Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have prepared the reader for Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have not explained every mystery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have given the reader the principles necessary to approach the mysteries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have not taken the student into advanced physics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have established the mathematics required before he enters the classroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the purpose of foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HEBREWS 6 \u2014 NOW LET US GO ON<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hebrews says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTherefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Hebrews 6:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Leaving the principles does not mean abandoning them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It means:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">BUILD UPON THEM<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A builder does not remove the foundation when he begins constructing the house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The foundation remains underneath everything that follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So it is with Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These ten principles must remain beneath every deeper study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study the man-child:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The foundation remains.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study the 144,000:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The foundation remains.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study the two witnesses:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The foundation remains.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study Babylon:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The foundation remains.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study the seals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The foundation remains.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study the trumpets:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The foundation remains.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study the plagues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The foundation remains.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study New Jerusalem:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The foundation remains.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every advanced teaching stands upon the elementary principles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE STUDENT IS NOW READY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader should now know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Who to look for.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to read the signs.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How spiritual revelation is received.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why the natural mind is insufficient.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Who opens the eye and ear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to hear the Spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why revelation must produce overcoming.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why spiritual position affects perception.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why the throne governs the whole book.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHY THE LAMB&#8217;S VICTORY MUST GOVERN EVERYTHING THAT FOLLOWS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is enough foundation to begin building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FOUNDATION PRINCIPLE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our tenth and final foundation stone is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JESUS CHRIST HAS ALREADY PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, never interpret the Book of Revelation as though Christ is attempting to discover whether He will win.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He has prevailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb stands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is set.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book is in His hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The purpose belongs to God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SEALS CAN OPEN.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE STUDENT CAN GO DEEPER.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE FOUNDATION HAS BEEN LAID.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CONCLUSION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE FOUNDATION HAS BEEN LAID<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cFor other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 3:11<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We began this study with a simple purpose:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TO PREPARE THE READER TO UNDERSTAND THE BOOK OF REVELATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We did not begin by attempting to explain every seal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We did not begin with the trumpets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We did not begin with the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We did not begin with Babylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We did not begin with the 144,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We did not begin with the man-child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We did not begin with the two witnesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We did not begin with the seven last plagues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those things are coming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But before a building can rise, a foundation must be laid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before strong meat can be received, spiritual capacity must be developed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before a student enters the advanced classroom, he must understand the elementary principles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And before we can understand the deeper things of the Book of Revelation, we must learn:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HOW TO SEE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HOW TO HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HOW TO DISCERN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HOW TO OVERCOME<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AND FROM WHAT REALM TO INTERPRET WHAT GOD REVEALS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That has been the purpose of this book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION BEGINS WITH JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our first foundation stone established the governing truth:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe Revelation of Jesus Christ\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything begins there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Book of Revelation is not fundamentally the revelation of the Antichrist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not fundamentally the revelation of the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not fundamentally the revelation of Babylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is not fundamentally the revelation of destruction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If Christ disappears from our interpretation, we have lost the center of the book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every sign must ultimately be understood in relationship to Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every judgment must be understood beneath His government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every victory flows from His victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every overcomer overcomes through His life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every kingdom ultimately bows before His authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book belongs to Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION WAS SIGNIFIED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We then learned something about the language of the book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John tells us that Christ:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation speaks through signs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Symbols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pictures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prophetic images.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Patterns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Numbers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Candlesticks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Horns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Lamb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A dragon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These things cannot always be reduced to their natural appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We learned to ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WHAT DOES THIS SIGNIFY?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That question alone prepares the reader for much of what follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">JOHN WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then we discovered the state of the seer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI was in the Spirit on the Lord&#8217;s day\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 1:10<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Revelation was not received merely through natural observation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John was in the Spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, the reader must understand that spiritual revelation requires spiritual perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This led us directly into the distinction between:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE NATURAL MIND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paul told us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 1 Corinthians 2:14<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem is not intelligence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem is realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spiritual things are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SPIRITUALLY DISCERNED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That became another great foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD BUILDS THE HEARER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But then we asked:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If spiritual perception is necessary, where does that perception come from?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scripture answered:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThe Lord GOD hath opened mine ear\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Isaiah 50:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And again:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cThen opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Luke 24:45<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God enlightens the understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God gives a heart to perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God strengthens the inner man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We began to see that God is not merely giving revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD IS BUILDING A PERSON CAPABLE OF RECEIVING REVELATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is the wineskin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lord prepares the vessel for what He intends to pour into it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the ear is opened, responsibility follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again and again Christ says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cHe that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit speaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The hearer must hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But true hearing is more than receiving sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is receiving the word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is allowing the Spirit to reveal our condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is allowing truth to enter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is becoming teachable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is responding to what God says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then we discovered that hearing leads somewhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Book of Revelation does not produce spectators.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It produces overcomers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit speaks to reveal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revelation exposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Truth identifies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit separates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The life of Christ overcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And ultimately Christ is manifested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We established the progression:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVEAL<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EXPOSE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IDENTIFY<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SEPARATE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OVERCOME<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">MANIFEST<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is more than a method for studying Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is a pattern of spiritual transformation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">REVELATION MUST BECOME EXPERIENCE<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are not studying merely to know more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God intends truth to become life within us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Word must work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The mind must be renewed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The inner man must grow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The hearer must become an overcomer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And the overcomer is prepared for something greater.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the end of the messages to the churches, John hears:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cCome up hither\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 4:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now our foundation moved into perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Where you stand determines what you see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The earthly realm sees one thing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The heavenly realm sees another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The natural mind looks from beneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit brings us into another viewpoint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This does not mean we deny what is happening below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It means we interpret what happens below from the government above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is a tremendous difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE CHANGES EVERYTHING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John came up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 4:2<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This became one of the greatest foundation stones of all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE THRONE IS SET<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is not trying to gain control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is not reacting nervously to the dragon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is not threatened by the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God is not intimidated by Babylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is already set.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is occupied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Divine government precedes the conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, everything that follows must be interpreted from the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">DO NOT READ REVELATION FROM BENEATH<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you read Revelation only from beneath, the beast can appear enormous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Babylon can appear unstoppable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Death can appear victorious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The nations can appear beyond God&#8217;s purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fear can govern the interpretation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But John was called upward before the deeper visions unfolded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From the throne realm, another reality becomes clear:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD GOVERNS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And then Revelation brings us to the final foundation stone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB HAS PREVAILED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John sees the sealed book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No man is worthy to open it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John weeps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then comes the word:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWeep not\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201c\u2026the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Revelation 5:5<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And when John looks, he sees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A LAMB AS IT HAD BEEN SLAIN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb was slain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the Lamb stands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb died.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But death did not hold Him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb shed His blood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But His sacrifice became redemption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb prevailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And only after His victory has been established do the seals begin to open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That gives us one of the most important rules for everything we study from this point forward:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NEVER INTERPRET THE CONFLICT AS THOUGH THE OUTCOME IS UNDECIDED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb has prevailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE FOUNDATION NOW STANDS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can now gather the entire foundation in one place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE ONE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST<\/strong><br>Know who the book is about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE TWO:<\/strong><br><strong>HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT<\/strong><br>Understand the language of signs and symbols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE THREE:<\/strong><br><strong>I WAS IN THE SPIRIT<\/strong><br>Understand the realm in which the Revelation was received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FOUR:<\/strong><br><strong>THE NATURAL MIND VERSUS THE SPIRITUAL MIND<\/strong><br>Spiritual things must be spiritually discerned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE FIVE:<\/strong><br><strong>THE LORD OPENS THE EYE AND BUILDS THE EAR<\/strong><br>God develops within us the capacity to perceive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE SIX:<\/strong><br><strong>HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR<\/strong><br>Receive what the Spirit is saying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE SEVEN:<\/strong><br><strong>TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH<\/strong><br>Let revelation become experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE EIGHT:<\/strong><br><strong>COME UP HITHER<\/strong><br>Learn to see from the proper realm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE NINE:<\/strong><br><strong>A THRONE WAS SET IN HEAVEN<\/strong><br>Interpret the book from divine government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FOUNDATION STONE TEN:<\/strong><br><strong>THE LAMB HAS PREVAILED<\/strong><br>Interpret everything from the accomplished victory of Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THESE STONES MUST REMAIN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are now ready to go deeper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But going deeper does not mean abandoning the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The seven seals<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The seven trumpets<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The woman clothed with the sun<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The man-child<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The dragon<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The two witnesses<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The 144,000<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The beast<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mystery Babylon<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The seven last plagues<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Kings and priests<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When we study:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The New Jerusalem<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">we carry the foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The deeper we go, the more important these stones become.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NOW WE CAN GO ON UNTO PERFECTION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hebrews says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cTherefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection\u2026\u201d<\/strong><br>\u2014 Hebrews 6:1<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not leave the foundation by rejecting it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We leave it in the same way a builder leaves the foundation after laying it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HE BUILDS UPON IT<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now the walls can rise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now greater weight can be carried.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now stronger meat can be received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now the deeper patterns can begin to open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE WINESKIN HAS BEEN PREPARED<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jesus taught that new wine requires an appropriate wineskin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That has been our work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have been building capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A reader who came into this study simply asking:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWhat does the Book of Revelation mean?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">should now be asking deeper questions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Who is being revealed?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What does the sign signify?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Am I looking naturally or spiritually?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What is the Spirit saying?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What is God revealing in me?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What must be overcome?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>From what realm am I seeing this?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where is the throne in this picture?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How does the victory of the Lamb govern this passage?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those questions reveal growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader is learning how to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE GOAL WAS NEVER MERELY INFORMATION<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We were not trying merely to make you knowledgeable about Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We were preparing you to become a hearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A seer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A discerner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An overcomer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person capable of receiving more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because the deeper things of God require capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is strong meat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are mysteries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are patterns that run from Genesis through Revelation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are dimensions of the kingdom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are truths concerning the throne.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are truths concerning God&#8217;s government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are truths concerning kings and priests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are truths concerning the man-child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are truths concerning the 144,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are truths concerning the overcoming company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are truths concerning the city of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But foundation comes first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GOD BUILDS BEFORE HE FILLS<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That principle must remain with us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God prepares the vessel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God enlarges capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God opens the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God builds the ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God renews the mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God strengthens the inner man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">God calls us upward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then God reveals more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE REVELATION IS OPENING<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Perhaps when you first approached the Book of Revelation, you saw confusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Perhaps you saw strange creatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Numbers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Judgments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Symbols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Plagues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mysteries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Perhaps you wondered how anyone could understand such a book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But now we have learned something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not begin with the beast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WE BEGIN WITH CHRIST.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not begin with fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WE BEGIN IN THE SPIRIT.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not begin with natural interpretation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WE BEGIN WITH SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not begin beneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WE COME UP HITHER.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not begin with chaos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WE BEGIN WITH THE THRONE.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We do not begin wondering who will win.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WE BEGIN WITH THE LAMB WHO HAS ALREADY PREVAILED.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now the book begins to look different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE SAME REVELATION \u2014 A DIFFERENT READER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The words did not change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The reader changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne was always there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb had already prevailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The signs were already present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Spirit was already speaking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But now the eye is beginning to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ear is beginning to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The understanding is beginning to open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The wineskin is beginning to expand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And that is exactly what foundation is supposed to accomplish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE DOOR IS OPEN<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cAfter this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The door is open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The voice still says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COME UP HITHER<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The throne is set.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb stands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The book is in His hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Lamb has prevailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And now the student is ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LET US GO ON<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are greater things to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are deeper things to understand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are mysteries yet to be opened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are patterns yet to be connected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is strong meat yet to be received.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But we will not enter those things as unprepared readers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have laid the stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have established the principles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have prepared the wineskin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE FOUNDATION HAS BEEN LAID.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THE LAMB HAS PREVAILED.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NOW LET US GO ON UNTO PERFECTION.<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How to Study, Understand, and Interpret the Book of Revelation, Biblical Prophecy, Its Symbols, and Its Message ABOUT THE AUTHOR Carl Timothy Wray Carl Timothy Wray is a Christian author and Bible teacher whose ministry represents more than four decades of studying, teaching, and writing the Word of God. His work extends far beyond a&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-65","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wealthandwellnessdirect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/65","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wealthandwellnessdirect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wealthandwellnessdirect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wealthandwellnessdirect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wealthandwellnessdirect.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=65"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/wealthandwellnessdirect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/65\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":66,"href":"https:\/\/wealthandwellnessdirect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/65\/revisions\/66"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wealthandwellnessdirect.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=65"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}