To Him That Overcometh...

Transcription

1 To Him That Overcometh... By Mark Mayberry 8/26/2012 Introduction The Book of Revelation depicts an epic struggle between good and evil. It reveals the power and majesty of Christ; it sets forth the Omnipotence and Sovereignty of God. It foreshadows the downfall of those forces arrayed against God s people; it foretells the defeat of Satan. Although the present distress may seem great, God Almighty is upon His throne. No persecuting power can frustrate the righteous purposes of God. The forces of good will ultimately triumph over the forces of evil. Revelation is a message of victory. The Greek word nikaō, translated overcome, means to conquer, prevail [Thomas 3528]. BDAG defines it as (1) to win in the face of obstacles, be victor, conquer, overcome, prevail; (a) in a battle or contest; (b) in a legal action; (2) to overcome someone, vanquish, overcome; (3) to surpass in ability, outstrip, excel. This word occurs 28 times in the New Testament, and 17 of these are in Revelation (2:7, 11, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 21; 5:5; 6:2; 11:7; 12:11; 13:7; 15:2; 17:14; 21:7). The concept of overcoming is the major theme of Revelation. This means that Christians must be victorious over the circumstances of life. Revelation 2: He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is in the Paradise of God. (NASB95) Revelation 2: He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death. (NASB95) Revelation 2: He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it. (NASB95) Revelation 2: He who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, TO HIM I WILL GIVE AUTHORITY OVER THE NATIONS; (NASB95) Revelation 3: He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. (NASB95) Revelation 3: He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will not go out from it anymore; and I will write on him the name of My

2 God, and the name of the city of My God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, and My new name. (NASB95) Revelation 3: He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. (NASB95) Revelation 5: and one of the elders said to me, Stop weeping; behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to open the book and its seven seals. (NASB95) Revelation 6: I looked, and behold, a white horse, and he who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer. The Second Seal -- War (NASB95) Revelation 11: When they have finished their testimony, the beast that comes up out of the abyss will make war with them, and overcome them and kill them. (NASB95) Revelation 12: And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death. (NASB95) Revelation 13: It was also given to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them, and authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation was given to him. (NASB95) Revelation 15: And I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire, and those who had been victorious over the beast and his image and the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, holding harps of God. (NASB95) Revelation 17: These will wage war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful. (NASB95) Revelation 21: He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son. (NASB95) The Lord uses a similar pattern in addressing each of the seven churches of Asia: Salutation, Christ s self-designation, commendation of good, condemnation of evil, warnings and threats, exhortations, and promises of reward. As He closes each letter, the Lord calls on the saints to hear and heed His message. Let us consider the promises that are extended to those who overcome. Ephesus Revelation 2: He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God. (NKJV) 2

3 Revelation 2: He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is in the Paradise of God. (NASB95) To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life. This is a symbolic description of heaven. It represents fullness of life and freedom from death. Adam and Eve lost access to the tree of life because of their disobedience (Gen. 2:8-10; 3:22-24), but this blessing is restored to those who are faithful (Rev. 22:1-2). Genesis 2:8-10 (NASB95) 8 The Lord God planted a garden toward the east, in Eden; and there He placed the man whom He had formed. 9 Out of the ground the Lord God caused to grow every tree that is pleasing to the sight and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. 10 Now a river flowed out of Eden to water the garden; and from there it divided and became four rivers. Genesis 3:22-24 (NASB95) 22 Then the Lord God said, Behold, the man has become like one of Us, knowing good and evil; and now, he might stretch out his hand, and take also from the tree of life, and eat, and live forever 23 therefore the Lord God sent him out from the garden of Eden, to cultivate the ground from which he was taken. 24 So He drove the man out; and at the east of the garden of Eden He stationed the cherubim and the flaming sword which turned every direction to guard the way to the tree of life. Revelation 22:1-2 (NASB95) 1 Then he showed me a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb, 2 in the middle of its street. On either side of the river was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. Which is in the midst of the Paradise of God. The Greek word paradeisos, translated paradise, of Persian origin, refers to a park, a garden, a paradise [Thomas 3857]. BDAG associates it with (1) the garden of Eden, paradise; (2) a transcendent place of blessedness, paradise. Jesus told the penitent thief on the cross, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise (Luke 23:39-43). This refers to the blessed region of the Hadean realm, the abode where the souls of the righteous dead await the resurrection, which is distinct from that place of torment (Luke 16:22-23). Elsewhere, Paul associated this term with heaven itself, the eternal abode of God (2 Cor. 12:2-4). Here we find that the word is used again to refer to the dwelling place of God. Obviously, the context must determine its usage. Luke 23:39-43 (NASB95) 39 One of the criminals who were hanged there was hurling abuse at Him, saying, Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us! 40 But the other answered, and rebuking him said, Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41 And we indeed are suffering justly, for we are receiving what we deserve for our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong. 42 And he was saying, Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom! 43 And He said to him, Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise. 3

4 Luke 16:22-23 (NASB95) 22 Now the poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham s bosom; and the rich man also died and was buried. 23 In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom. 2 Corinthians 12:2-4 (NASB95) 2 I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago whether in the body I do not know, or out of the body I do not know, God knows such a man was caught up to the third heaven. 3 And I know how such a man whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, God knows 4 was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which a man is not permitted to speak. Smyrna Revelation 2: Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death. (NKJV) Revelation 2: Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death. (NASB95) Be faithful until death. Saints must be willing to accept death rather than renounce their faith. Today, we may not be called upon to die, but we must have the same conviction and dedication that was seen in these early martyrs. The people of God must stand up for their convictions, regardless of the cost (Matt. 10:32-33; 2 Tim. 1:8-9). Matthew 10:32-33 (NASB95) 32 Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. 33 But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven. 2 Timothy 1:8-9 (NASB95) 8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, 9 who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, I will give you the crown of life. The Greek word stephanos refers to a crown [Thomas 4735]. BDAG defines it as (1) a wreath made of foliage or designed to resemble foliage and worn by one of high status or held in high regard, wreath, crown; (2) that which serves as adornment or source of pride, adornment, pride, figurative extension of 1; (3) award or prize for exceptional service or conduct, prize, reward figurative. This crown symbolizes the gift of eternal life awaiting the faithful (1 Cor. 9:25; 2 Tim. 4:6-8; James 1:12). However, the reception of this honor is dependent upon our continued faithfulness (Rev. 3:11). 4

5 1 Corinthians 9:25 (NASB95) 25 Everyone who competes in the games exercises selfcontrol in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. 2 Timothy 4:6-8 (NASB95) 6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; 8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing. James 1:12 (NASB95) 12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Revelation 3:11 (NASB95) 11 I am coming quickly; hold fast what you have, so that no one will take your crown. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death. There are only two alternatives: We will either inherit eternal life or eternal destruction. The unbeliever who dies will find another death awaiting him. The second death is far more serious and fearful than the first (Rev. 20:14-15; 21:8). However, those who die in the Lord will be preserved from the second death (Rev. 20:6). Revelation 20:14-15 (NASB95) 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. 15 And if anyone s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. Revelation 21:8 (NASB95) 8 But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death. Revelation 20:6 (NASB95) 6 Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years. Pergamum Revelation 2: He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it. (NKJV) Revelation 2: He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it. (NASB95) 5

6 To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. As God fed Israel with manna in the wilderness (Exod. 16:35; Deut. 8:3), so Jesus will provide for the needs of His faithful servants (John 6:33-35, 48-51). God will satisfy our spiritual hunger and thirst (Matt. 5:6; Rev. 7:16-17). Exodus 16:35 (NASB95) 35 The sons of Israel ate the manna forty years, until they came to an inhabited land; they ate the manna until they came to the border of the land of Canaan. Deuteronomy 8:3 (NASB95) 3 He humbled you and let you be hungry, and fed you with manna which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that He might make you understand that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by everything that proceeds out of the mouth of the Lord. John 6:33-35 (NASB95) 33 For the bread of God is that which comes down out of heaven, and gives life to the world. 34 Then they said to Him, Lord, always give us this bread. 35 Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst. John 6:48-51 (NASB95) 48 I am the bread of life. 49 Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. 50 This is the bread which comes down out of heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. 51 I am the living bread that came down out of heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread also which I will give for the life of the world is My flesh. Matthew 5:6 (NASB95) 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Revelation 7:16-17 (NASB95) 16 They will hunger no longer, nor thirst anymore; nor will the sun beat down on them, nor any heat; 17 for the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd, and will guide them to springs of the water of life; and God will wipe every tear from their eyes. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it. The Greek word psēphos, translated stone, refers to a small smooth stone, a pebble [Thomas 5586]. BDAG say it identifies (1) a pebble used in voting: a black one for conviction, a white one for acquittal, voting-pebble, used in cases of injuries and in other circumstances; (2) a pebble serving as an amulet, amulet. Paul used this word in his defense before Agrippa, when he said, And this is just what I did in Jerusalem; not only did I lock up many of the saints in prisons, having received authority from the chief priests, but also when they were being put to death I cast my vote against them (Acts 26:10). This symbol pictures those faithful disciples who stand before God acquitted, forgiven of their trespasses, arrayed in holiness and purity (Eph. 1:7; 2:1-7). Acts 26:10 (NASB95) 10 And this is just what I did in Jerusalem; not only did I lock up many of the saints in prisons, having received authority from the chief priests, but also when they were being put to death I cast my vote against them. 6

7 Ephesians 1:7 (NASB95) 7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace Ephesians 2:1-7 (NASB95) 1 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, 2 in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. 3 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Thyatira Revelation 2: And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations He shall rule them with a rod of iron; They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter s vessels -- as I also have received from My Father; 28 and I will give him the morning star. (NKJV) Revelation 2: He who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, TO HIM I WILL GIVE AUTHORITY OVER THE NATIONS; 27 AND HE SHALL RULE THEM WITH A ROD OF IRON, AS THE VESSELS OF THE POTTER ARE BROKEN TO PIECES, as I also have received authority from My Father; 28 and I will give him the morning star. (NASB95) He who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end. The Greek word telos, translated end, refers to (1) a point of time marking the end of a duration, end, termination, cessation; (2) the last part of a process, close, conclusion, esp. of the last things, the final act in the cosmic drama; (3) the goal toward which a movement is being directed, end, goal, outcome [BDAG]. It is a tragedy for people to grow lax in the Lord s service. We must persevere to the end; otherwise, all our efforts will have been wasted (Matt. 10:22; Luke 8:15; Heb. 3:5-6, 13-14). Matthew 10:22 (NASB95) 22 You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved. Luke 8:15 (NASB95) 15 But the seed in the good soil, these are the ones who have heard the word in an honest and good heart, and hold it fast, and bear fruit with perseverance. Hebrews 3:5-6 (NASB95) 5 Now Moses was faithful in all His house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken later; 6 but Christ was faithful as a Son over His house whose house we are, if we hold fast our confidence and the boast of our hope firm until the end. 7

8 Hebrews 3:13-14 (NASB95) 13 But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called Today, so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we have become partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our assurance firm until the end, To him I will give power over the nations. The Greek word exousia, translated power, identifies power to act, authority [Thomas 1849]. BDAG say it refers to (1) a state of control over something, freedom of choice, right; (2) potential or resource to command, control, or govern, capability, might, power; (3) the right to control or command, authority, absolute power, warrant; (4) power exercised by rulers or others in high position by virtue of their office, ruling power, official power The martyred saints shall reign and rule with Christ. We share in the glories of His kingdom (Psa. 2:6-9). This reference describes the spiritual rule of Christ and the triumph of His cause. The faithful share in His triumph (Matt. 19:28; Luke 22:28-30). In eternity, those who trust in the Lord will be vindicated (Rev. 1:6; 5:9-10). Psalm 2:6-9 (NASB95) 6 But as for Me, I have installed My King Upon Zion, My holy mountain. 7 I will surely tell of the decree of the Lord: He said to Me, You are My Son, Today I have begotten You. 8 Ask of Me, and I will surely give the nations as Your inheritance, And the very ends of the earth as Your possession. 9 You shall break them with a rod of iron, You shall shatter them like earthenware. Matthew 19:28 (NASB95) 28 And Jesus said to them, Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Luke 22:28-30 (NASB95) 28 You are those who have stood by Me in My trials; 29 and just as My Father has granted Me a kingdom, I grant you 30 that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Revelation 1:6 (NASB95) 6 and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. Revelation 5:9-10 (NASB95) 9 And they sang a new song, saying, Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. 10 You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth. I will give him the morning star. The birth of Jesus was accompanied by a celestial sign (Matt. 2:1-2). Jesus is the Sunrise from on high who has visited us (Luke 1:78-79). Messianic prophecy is like a lamp shining in a dark place, announcing the dawning of the day, heralding the rise of the morning star (Num. 24:17; 2 Pet. 1:19; Rev. 22:16) Matthew 2:1-2 (NASB95) 1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, 2 Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him. 8

9 Luke 1:78-79 (NASB95) 78 Because of the tender mercy of our God, With which the Sunrise from on high will visit us, 79 To shine upon those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace. Numbers 24:17 (NASB95) 17 I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near; A star shall come forth from Jacob, A scepter shall rise from Israel, And shall crush through the forehead of Moab, And tear down all the sons of Sheth. 2 Peter 1:19 (NASB95) 19 So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. Revelation 22:16 (NASB95) 16 I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star. However, the sense appears somewhat different in this context. When speaking of the morning star, reference is usually made to the planet Venus that is visible in the east just before or at sunrise. The symbolism is obvious: Just as the morning star heralds the approach of a new day, so Christ comforts the faithful, saying, The night is almost over. Sorrows may darken our earthly existence (Psa. 6:6-7; 69:2-3), but for the faithful, joy comes in the morning (Psa. 30:5; cf. 42:1-5). Such promises offer great motivation (1 John 3:2-3). Psalm 6:6-7 (NASB95) 6 I am weary with my sighing; Every night I make my bed swim, I dissolve my couch with my tears. 7 My eye has wasted away with grief; It has become old because of all my adversaries. Psalm 69:2-3 (NASB95) 2 I have sunk in deep mire, and there is no foothold; I have come into deep waters, and a flood overflows me. 3 I am weary with my crying; my throat is parched; My eyes fail while I wait for my God. Psalm 30:5 (NASB95) 5 For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning. Psalm 42:1-5 (NASB95) 1 As the deer pants for the water brooks, So my soul pants for You, O God. 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; When shall I come and appear before God? 3 My tears have been my food day and night, While they say to me all day long, Where is your God? 4 These things I remember and I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go along with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God, With the voice of joy and thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival. 5 Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him For the help of His presence. 1 John 3:2-3 (NASB95) 2 Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. 3 And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. 9

10 Sardis Revelation 3: He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. (NKJV) Revelation 3: He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. (NASB95) He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments. White is symbolic of purity and holiness (Psa. 51:7; Isa. 1:18). In this life, we strive, however imperfectly, to develop these qualities (2 Cor. 7:1; Eph. 5:25-27), but they shall be fully realized in heaven (Rev. 7:14-17; 21:1-2). Psalm 51:7 (NASB95) 7 Purify me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Isaiah 1:18 (NASB95) 18 Come now, and let us reason together, Says the Lord, Though your sins are as scarlet, They will be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They will be like wool. 2 Corinthians 7:1 (NASB95) 1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Ephesians 5:25-27 (NASB95) 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, 26 so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27 that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless. Revelation 7:14-17 (NASB95) 14 I said to him, My lord, you know. And he said to me, These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 For this reason, they are before the throne of God; and they serve Him day and night in His temple; and He who sits on the throne will spread His tabernacle over them. 16 They will hunger no longer, nor thirst anymore; nor will the sun beat down on them, nor any heat; 17 for the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd, and will guide them to springs of the water of life; and God will wipe every tear from their eyes. Revelation 21:1-2 (NASB95) 1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. 2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life. The word blot out literally means to smear out, obliterate, erase, or wipe away. God s book of life is a register of the faithful from all 10

11 ages (Exod. 32:31-33; Phil. 4:3; Rev. 20:11-15). The wicked are not written there (Rev. 13:8; 17:8). If we are faithful unto God, our names will be preserved in God s book of life (Rev. 3:5). Only the redeemed have access to the holy city (Rev. 21:27). Exodus 32:31-33 (NASB95) 31 Then Moses returned to the Lord, and said, Alas, this people has committed a great sin, and they have made a god of gold for themselves. 32 But now, if You will, forgive their sin and if not, please blot me out from Your book which You have written! 33 The Lord said to Moses, Whoever has sinned against Me, I will blot him out of My book. Philippians 4:3 (NASB95) 3 Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. Revelation 20:11-15 (NASB95) 11 Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and heaven fled away, and no place was found for them. 12 And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead which were in them; and they were judged, every one of them according to their deeds. 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. 15 And if anyone s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. Revelation 13:8 (NASB95) 8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been slain. Revelation 17:8 (NASB95) 8 The beast that you saw was, and is not, and is about to come up out of the abyss and go to destruction. And those who dwell on the earth, whose name has not been written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, will wonder when they see the beast, that he was and is not and will come. Revelation 3:5 (NASB95) 5 He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. Revelation 21:27 (NASB95) 27 and nothing unclean, and no one who practices abomination and lying, shall ever come into it, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb s book of life. I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. At graduation services, the student that has completed his required courses walks across the stage and hears his name called before the assembly of faculty, friends and family. In like manner, faithful saints will hear their name proclaimed as they receive the victory crown. As Caird says, At the Great Assize Christ the Advocate will acknowledge as his colleagues in sovereignty those who have been his colleagues in suffering. i If we are faithful to God through tribulation and trials, Christ will 11

12 profess and proclaim our name unto the Father. If we are unfaithful, Christ will disown us (Matt. 7:21-23; 10:32-33; Luke 12:8-9). Matthew 7:21-23 (NASB95) 21 Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord, will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. 22 Many will say to Me on that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles? 23 And then I will declare to them, I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness. Matthew 10:32-33 (NASB95) 32 Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. 33 But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven. Luke 12:8-9 (NASB95) 8 And I say to you, everyone who confesses Me before men, the Son of Man will confess him also before the angels of God; 9 but he who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God. Philadelphia Revelation 3: He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. And I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name. (NKJV) Revelation 3: He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will not go out from it anymore; and I will write on him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, and My new name. (NASB95) He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. Many times the church is described as God s temple (1 Cor. 3:16; Eph. 2:19-22; 1 Pet. 2:5). The church is the pillar and ground of the truth (1 Tim. 3:15). Those who give stability and support to the church by their faithful lives will be honored in heaven. 1 Corinthians 3:16 (NASB95) 16 Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? Ephesians 2:19-22 (NASB95) 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God s household, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit. 12

13 1 Peter 2:5 (NASB95) 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 1 Timothy 3:15 (NASB95) 15 but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem and I will write on him My new name. This symbolizes the confident hope that belongs to the faithful who share in Christ s victory. Isaiah foreshadowed the new name that the people of God would wear in the Messianic age (Isa. 56:4-5; 62:1-2). Here we see that newness extends into the heavenly realm. The name of God is branded upon him; the name of the city of God is there as a mark of his place of habitation; the name of the triumphant Christ is upon him. Many of the pagan religions used brands or marks to identify their adherents. Later in this book we find the State religion of Rome using the custom. Jesus here symbolizes the relation of his followers to himself by speaking of his new name branded upon them. ii Isaiah 56:4-5 (NASB95) 4 For thus says the Lord, To the eunuchs who keep My sabbaths, And choose what pleases Me, And hold fast My covenant, 5 To them I will give in My house and within My walls a memorial, And a name better than that of sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name which will not be cut off. Isaiah 62:1-2 (NASB95) 1 For Zion s sake I will not keep silent, And for Jerusalem s sake I will not keep quiet, Until her righteousness goes forth like brightness, And her salvation like a torch that is burning. 2 The nations will see your righteousness, And all kings your glory; And you will be called by a new name Which the mouth of the Lord will designate. Laodicea Revelation 3: To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. (NKJV) Revelation 3: He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. (NASB95) To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. Jesus, having accomplished His earthly mission, now sits on the right hand of the majesty on high (Heb. 1:3). The redeemed also sit with Him, sharing in His victorious reign (Matt. 19:28; Luke 22:28-30; 1 Cor. 6:1-2; Rev. 2:26-27). They also partake in the glory and honor of heaven (Eph. 2:6; 2 Tim. 2:11-12; Rev. 5:9-10; 22:5). Hebrews 1:3 (NASB95) 3 And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 13

14 Matthew 19:28 (NASB95) 28 And Jesus said to them, Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Luke 22:28-30 (NASB95) 28 You are those who have stood by Me in My trials; 29 and just as My Father has granted Me a kingdom, I grant you 30 that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 1 Corinthians 6:1-2 (NASB95) 1 Does any one of you, when he has a case against his neighbor, dare to go to law before the unrighteous and not before the saints? 2 Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? If the world is judged by you, are you not competent to constitute the smallest law courts? Revelation 2:26-27 (NASB95) 26 He who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations; 27 and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, as the vessels of the potter are broken to pieces, as I also have received authority from My Father; Ephesians 2:6 (NASB95) 6 and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 2 Timothy 2:11-12 (NASB95) 11 It is a trustworthy statement: For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him; 12 If we endure, we will also reign with Him; If we deny Him, He also will deny us; Revelation 5:9-10 (NASB95) 9 And they sang a new song, saying, Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. 10 You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth. Revelation 22:5 (NASB95) 5 And there will no longer be any night; and they will not have need of the light of a lamp nor the light of the sun, because the Lord God will illumine them; and they will reign forever and ever. Conclusion God is faithful. His word is not vacillating Yes one day and No the next. Instead, the promises of God are Yes! Moreover, they are expressed through His Son, Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday and today and forever (2 Cor. 1:18-20; Heb. 13:8). Like Abraham of old, let us not become weak in faith or waver in unbelief, but grow strong in faith, giving glory to God, being fully assured that what God had promised, He is able also to perform (Rom. 4:18-21). 2 Corinthians 1:18-20 (NASB95) 18 But as God is faithful, our word to you is not yes and no. 19 For the Son of God, Christ Jesus, who was preached among you by us by me and Silvanus and Timothy was not yes and no, but is yes in Him. 20 For as many as are 14

15 the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us. Hebrews 13:8 (NASB95) 8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Romans 4:18-21 (NASB95) 18 In hope against hope he believed, so that he might become a father of many nations according to that which had been spoken, So shall your descendants be. 19 Without becoming weak in faith he contemplated his own body, now as good as dead since he was about a hundred years old, and the deadness of Sarah s womb; 20 yet, with respect to the promise of God, he did not waver in unbelief but grew strong in faith, giving glory to God, 21 and being fully assured that what God had promised, He was able also to perform. In conclusion, consider these comments from Ray Summers: The glorified Christ, standing in the midst of his churches, seeing with piercing eyes of flame, brings his commendation, complaint, warning, and promise. The message delivered first to the churches of Asia Minor is universal. Its truth applies wherever similar conditions are found today; and it is difficult to find churches where at least some of these conditions are not found. The warning against spiritual apathy still stands, He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the church. iii i G. B. Caird, A Commentary on the Revelation of St. John the Divine, (New York: Harper and Row, 1966), p. 50. ii Ray Summers, Worthy is the Lamb: An Interpretation of Revelation, (Nashville, TN: Broadman Press, 1951), p iii Summers, p