Revelation 9
Highlights In Today's Reading:
Intense terror, 5th trumpet, stinging locusts (9:1-12). Even more intense terror, 6th trumpet, 200 million on killing spree (9:13-21). The bitter . . . sweet words from heaven (10:1-10). Holy City trampled but the witnesses of God still heard (11:2-6). The 7th trumpet brings victory, our God reigns forever (11:15-17)!
More countries are becoming hostile against Christians and the preaching of the Gospel of salvation. But from the time of the Lord Jesus even to this day the followers of Christ have endured opposition, suffering, tribulation (severe troubles), and even martyrdom (Matt. 11:12). The prospect of facing those who hate us and oppose the witness we desire to share should be expected. The Lord Jesus foretold: These 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 (John 16:33).
I will give power unto My two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth (Rev. 11:3). These two witnesses will be called upon by the Lord to face the fierce opposition of those who hate God. Furthermore, God will empower them to fulfill their calling, and they will be invincible until they have finished their testimony (11:7). Then, and only then, will these witnesses of Christ be martyred in the city where also our Lord was crucified (11:8).
Their dead bodies will be left in the street. Those who have opposed these servants of God will be so happy over the deaths of the two witnesses, they will declare a celebration and will refuse to allow them to be buried. But after three days and an half The Spirit of Life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them. And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them (11:11-12). Satan works through people to oppose the ministry we are doing for Christ. But, we have a commission to be Christ's witnesses. Jesus said: Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost (Spirit) is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me (Acts 1:8). We, too, are called to live — or die — as faithful witnesses for Christ. His Word must, and will be, preached unto all nations, and then shall the end come (Matt. 24:14).
Thought for Today:
In God I will praise His Word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me (Ps. 56:4).
Cross References:
For Rev. 9:2: See Joel 2:10. Rev. 9:4: See Ex. 12:23. Rev. 9:6: See Jer. 8:3. Rev. 9:7: See Joel 2:4. Rev. 9:8: See Joel 1:6. Rev 9:9: See Joel 2:5-7. Rev. 10:6: See Neh. 9:6. Rev. 11:4: See Zech. 4:2-3,11-12,14. Rev. 11:11: See Ezek. 37:5.
Word Studies:
9:11 Abaddon (Apollyon or destroyer) =Satanic angel and king of the abyss reserved for the wicked; 10:6 time no longer =no more delay.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Pauline Carnahan • Government Official: Sen. Evan Bayh (IN) • Country: Russia (146.5 million) northeastern Europe and northern Asia • Major language: Russian • Religious freedom • 55% Russian Orthodox; 9% Muslim; 1% Protestant (Baptist, Pentecostal); .8% Shamanist/Animist; .6% Buddhist; .5% Roman Catholic; .5% New Religions (e.g., Hare Krishna); .4% Jewish; .1% Old Believers; 32.1% Agnostics/Atheists/Others • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and depend upon the Lord when in need for He will not forsake you (Is. 41:17).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 28:19