Please explain the symbolic meanings in Revelation 13:1-2.
Dragon – civil power, Pagan Rome; Heavens – the higher or ruling powers; Earth – the people under, or obedient to the ruling powers (under the heavens); Sea – the general masses of mankind, not under religious restraint. Revelation 13:1,2. The Dragon, symbolizing the Roman Empire, is the fourth beast of Daniel 7:7, “fourth beast [...]
Explain Revelation 13:9-10.
“If any man hath an ear, let him hear.” (Verse 9.) Some Christians had carefully studied God’s word and who had the hearing of faith. They honored God and His word, despite the magnificence, success, and power of error. These dear ones would be able to receive the foregoing scriptures concerning the deceptions of Papacy. [...]
Is there any parallel to the Image worship (Revelation 13:15) foreshadowed by the Jewish Church?
Yes, Israel was carried captive to Babylon; there an Image was set up, and all were commanded to worship it. Babylon is a type or shadow of the nominal church. Thus the name Babylon (Confusion) is applied to it in Revelation. Papacy was the greatest confusion or mixture of the church and the world. Sadly, [...]
What are some examples of ways one can get addicted?
Addictions are unhealthy coping behaviors that cannot be stopped without outside help. We are born sinners into a sinful world opposed by Satan. From these three sources of sin come pain and suffering. Many do not rely on God for help and try to escape suffering through unwise methods. Those methods may result in addictions. Consider [...]
How did Gideon defeat his enemies?
With God’s help, of course! For worshipping fake gods and other evil acts, God had allowed the Midianites to overpower the Israelites for seven years. Things were so terrible that the people cried out to God for help. An angel of the Lord appeared and told Gideon he would be the one to lead [...]
How do you cleanse your heart from all evil thoughts?
This is a lifelong struggle. Evil thoughts come from the world when we see people hurting others, or in unholy shows, movies, magazines, sexual displays, etc. Popular songs present evil as good. Our own fallen flesh tempts us with evil. Finally, the devil seeks to destroy us with evil. We cannot rid ourselves of all [...]