From: December 20, 2014
Who are these two “prophets” (witnesses)? Since Scripture is the best interpreter of Scripture, as a rule, the Old Testament is best understood through the lens of the New Testament. But an understanding of the book of Revelation often requires a reversal of this approach, as it is filled with Old Testament imagery and reference. The description of the “two prophets” is a clear allusion to the “two olive trees” found in Zechariah 4. There, the angel told Zechariah that these two are “the anointed ones who stand beside the Lord of the whole earth” (Zech. 4:14). Those with a historical view of Revelation have named various heroes of the faith in the early church as the identity of the two witnesses. But holding to a futurist view of Revelation, I believe that these two witnesses are yet to come. Their identity is not named, yet their description brings to mind the ministries of Moses and Elijah. Certainly, they are the two who stood with the Lord on the Mount of Transfiguration. Perhaps, they will be the ones who stand for Him again in the future at the end of days.
From: December 20, 2013
The prophet Haggai wrote during the time when Israel’s remnant returned from Babylonian captivity. The temple lay in ruins. Yet, the people were not inclined to rebuild it. They were focused on their own houses and excused their behavior by saying to themselves, “The time has not yet come to rebuild the Lord’s house.” This prompted the Lord to ask them a question about the timing for their own homes being built. These were not mere shelters to help them survive. These were fine “paneled” houses, meaning they had been in the land long enough to start prospering and yet, they ignored the Lord’s house. The Lord’s question exposed their true priorities. They were not putting God first. The wonderful difference between their response and the response of their pre-exile forefathers is that they repented. They obeyed. And the Lord “stirred” their spirits and they went to work!
From: December 20, 2012
The Magi followed the star looking for the one born king, and found HIm in the city of Bethlehem as prophesied. Yet, His kingdom had not yet come. Jesus preached the kingdom, and taught us to pray “Thy kingdom come” prayers. He was crucified and rose from the grave to overcome the ruler of this world and inaugurate His Kingdom. Some day, the 7th trumpet will sound and King Jesus’ will reign on earth as in heaven.
From: December 20, 2011
The Greek philosophers taught that to “know thyself” was the beginning of wisdom. But the Psalmist says that God knows you better than you can know yourself. The answers you seek are not inside you. Self knowledge is best acquired by knowing the One who made you. Let Him tell you your true identity.