This chapter in Revelation contains what is probably the most popular and ballyhooed section in Scripture. In reality, only a couple phrases in this chapter are sensationalized because of the mystery surrounding the enigma of the "Mark of the Beast." Many teach that this leads to computer chips in ones hand or forehead if we hope to buy food in the future! They teach that adding up numerical values of Greek letters to a sum of six hundred and sixty-six will tell us the identity of the infamous "Anti-Christ" of the last days! Many have become rich selling books and seminars on this mesmerizing fiction. But what is the Truth? The answer is to examine the entire section of Scripture instead of a couple snipped phrases. The book of Revelation is highly symbolic. The meanings of all these symbols are found in the Scriptures themselves. When we find these meanings we can see the reality unfold. Has the "Mark of the Beast" actually been around almost 1400 years? (Yes, it has been...) We get very detailed. Watch and see if our findings are both unique and legitimate!

In the first twelve verses in this chapter we are introduced to the two witnesses, the second woe, and then the blowing of the seventh trumpet. Who are these Two Witnesses? There has been an abundance of speculation, but they have just mostly been guesses. The answer lies by looking at the symbolism used that is defined for us in other parts of Scripture. Do you really want to know the identity of these two witnesses? Come join us and see if you don't agree! River Valley Torah Assembly

Rev 10:9 And I went to the angel, telling him to give me the little book. And he said^ to me, "Take it, and eat it; and it will make your stomach bitter, but in your mouth it will be sweet as honey." Rev 10:10 And I took the little book out of the angel's hand and ate it, and it was in my mouth sweet as honey; and when I had eaten it, my stomach was made bitter. This same command is given to Ezekiel. He is told to eat a scroll and it tasted sweet to his mouth. Ezekiel 3:1-4 Then He said to me, “Son of man, eat what you find; eat this scroll, and go, speak to the house of Israel.” 2So I opened my mouth, and He fed me this scroll. 3And He said to me, “Son of man, feed your stomach, and fill your body with this scroll which I am giving you.” Then I ate it, and it was sweet as honey in my mouth. 4Then He said to me, “Son of man, go to the house of Israel and speak with My words to them. Jeremiah tells us that accepting the Word of Elohim by faithfulness is "eating it" Jer 15:16 Thy words were found and I ate them, And Thy words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart; For I have been called by Thy name, O LORD God of hosts. The Book of Life given to John tastes sweet at first, but it made his stomach bitter. Those in the Book represent those who will inherit the Kingdom. Notice that it is a little book. It is NOT a huge book. It is mentioned three times in this passage that the book is "little." It is only for those who know Him, know His Son, and obey the words of the Father. The fact that it was small is likely what made it bitter to his stomach. River Valley Torah Assembly

Hail-Fire, Burning Mountain, Wormwood, Darkness, Tormenting Locusts, Mounted Warriors, Silence. The 3 Woes - Locusts, Killing a third of mankind, Judgment.

https://youtu.be/xw1s-8fuNs4 Click the above link for the video in its entirety! River Valley Torah Assembly

Rev 6:1 And I saw when the Lamb broke one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying as with a voice of thunder, "Come." Rev 6:2 And 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. Keep in mind that John is telling us what he sees and hears. He is not trying to fabricate object lessons that teach us anything. He is telling us what he saw and heard. This rider on the white horse has a bow. We are not told how many arrows he is carrying, but that is a moot point. We can look into Scripture and only one man has ever been described as an "archer," and that is Ishmael (Gen. 21:15-20). The descendants of Ishmael are the Muslim people. "Muhammed died in 632 A.D. and was buried in Medina. This is a known historical fact but Muslim tradition tells a different story. They claim that he went to Jerusalem on a white horse and ascended into heaven from a rock that is now enclosed in the Dome of the Rock (Mosque of Omar) on Mt. Moriah. This is why Jerusalem is considered a holy place for Muslims. From the Combating[1] Terrorism Center at West Point The[2] white horse is inextricably tied to conceptions of the prophet, martyrdom, and paradise (heaven). It is most often associated with the Prophet Muhammads miraj or night journey to heaven, when the Prophet ascended to heaven on the back of a white horse. http://www.ctc.usma.edu/imagery_nature.asp In[3] the year 621, at the age of 51 years old, He (Muhammad) flew on the magical Winged-Horse of Fire which he called Burak, which literally means White Horse but seen as "Thunder-Lightning". The full version of this most memorable moment has been preserved in "The Bokhari" (Vol.15, p.3615) one of the Holy Islamic Scriptures. http://www.allaboutturkey.com/muhammed.htm The white horse is undoubtedly Muhammad who went forth conquering and to conquer. (look at Rev 6:1-2 again). The Four Horsemen This is one incredible passage in Scripture! It is so plainly laid out and yet so sadly misunderstood. The Four Horsemen are described in chapter 6 and their identification is truly astounding. Are you curious as to their identities? Watch and see if you don't agree! If you haven't watched our commentary on chapters 4 & 5, we recommend you see it first. If you have already seen it, we know you will want to watch this!

Rev 4:1 After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven, and the first voice which I had heard, like the sound of a trumpet speaking with me, said, "Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after these things." John says it is "after these things" that he sees a door open in heaven. This means that after he was given the seven letters to the seven assemblies, he sees this door. John looked up and saw a door open. Keep in mind that this whole account is recorded in the words of a first century fisherman. He said he saw a door open and a voice like a trumpet call him up to heaven. Many conservative Christians say that this is a picture of the rapture of the Church at the beginning of the Great Tribulation. They say that the voice, "like the sound of the trumpet" is the same thing as the "last trumpet" of the resurrection. This is patently absurd. Regardless, it is still used to bolster this imaginative, non-Scriptural doctrine. River Valley Torah Assembly

Rev 3:1 "And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: He who has the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars, says this: 'I know your deeds, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Sardis was the capital of the great kingdom of Lydia and one of the most important cities of Asia Minor. It was located inland and built on a small, elevated plateau which rises sharply above the Hermus Valley. On all sides the rock are smooth and vertical but one. On that side it is still a very difficult climb. As the civilization and commerce grew, the high plateau became too small and a lower city was built on the west side of the original city. It was then a double city and called by the plural name "Sardis." The plain on which the second part of the city was built was well watered by the Pactolus River. It became the center for the carpet industry and was noted for it's wealth. Coins were first minted there. It's last prince was a wealthy man named Croesus who was captured by Cyrus. He was the wealthiest man in the world. Sardis was then ruled by the Persians, then by Alexander, then by Antiochus the Great, and finally by the Romans. It was destroyed by an earthquake during the reign of Tiberius. The ruins of the temple of Cybele and also of the temple of Apollo can be seen. It is one of the few double temples that can be found in the world. Cybelle was Dianna in Ephesus and worshiping her was similar to the orgy in Ephesus. She was the moon goddess and Apollo was the sun god. Hence the double temple. Extensive excavations have uncovered the gymnasium and the synagogue as well as the Roman road. Paul traveled that road. "These things says He who has the seven Spirits of Elohim, and the seven stars." He presents Himself as the one who sent the Spirit of Elohim in to the world. "I know your works." This is all Yeshua says to them in the way of commendation. This assembly followed some parts of Torah but they were not without disobedience. "That you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead." What does it mean in Scripture to be considered "dead?" To be "dead" means to be in sin (against Torah) (Eph 2:1,5, Col. 2:13).

Rev 2:26 'And he who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, TO HIM I WILL GIVE AUTHORITY OVER THE NATIONS; We are told here what "he who overcomes" means. It means "he who keeps my works until the end." The reward for those who keep His works until the end will be that He will give authority over the nations. This is a quote from the Tanakh. Daniel 7:18 ‘But the saints of the Highest One will receive the kingdom and possess the kingdom forever, for all ages to come.’ Daniel 7:22 until the Ancient of Days came, and judgment was passed in favor of the saints of the Highest One, and the time arrived when the saints took possession of the kingdom. Daniel 7:27 ‘Then the sovereignty, the dominion, and the greatness of all the kingdoms under the whole heaven will be given to the people of the saints of the Highest One; His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all the dominions will serve and obey Him.’ Those who follow righteousness will shine like the stars forever. Dan 12:3-4 “And those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. 4“But as for you, Daniel, conceal these words and seal up the book until the end of time; many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase.” The Letters to the Seven Assemblies (Part 1) We are studying the seven letters to the seven assemblies in Revelation chapter 2. We are told that the assembly at Ephesus had "left their first love." What is meant by this? It is NOT that they "do not love Jesus enough." The letter to Smyrna and Paul's letter to Ephesians give us the answer! Follow along with us as we explore these valuable messages to these assemblies!

Rev 1:16 And in His right hand He held seven stars; and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength. Was there literally a two-edged sword that came out of His mouth? Yes, because John is just telling us what he sees and hears. The point here is that this sword, or rod, is referencing His Word. Isa 11:4 But with righteousness He will judge the poor, And decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth; And He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, And with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked. Isa 49:2 For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Heb. 4:12 For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Is the Word of Elohim actually a two-edged sword? Yes it is. This is an excellent description, especially if we use it to refer to Torah. The two edges of His sword are the blessings and curses and described Torah. Deut 11:26-28 “See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse: 27the blessing, if you listen to the commandments of the LORD your God, which I am commanding you today; 28and the curse, if you do not listen to the commandments of the LORD your God, but turn aside from the way which I am commanding you today, by following other gods which you have not known. If you want to study the book Revelation in a detailed and very unique way, join us as we decipher each symbol using Scripture and find some astonishing results! Chapter 1 is the introduction. In chapters 2 & 3 we examine the letters to the seven assemblies. In chapters 4-22 we detail John's fascinating vision using a different methodology which incorporates the entirety of Scripture. The findings are amazing! Proof that Elohim has been at work controlling events from John's day until now is in John's vision!

Rev 22:3 And there shall no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His bond-servants shall serve Him; "And there shall be no more curse.." What curse is being spoken of here? It is speaking of the curses of disobeying Torah. Deut 27:26 ‘Cursed is he who does not confirm the words of this law by doing them.’ And all the people shall say, ‘Amen.’ Jer 11:3-5 and say to them, ‘Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, “Cursed is the man who does not heed the words of this covenant 4which I commanded your forefathers in the day that I brought them out of the land of Egypt, from the iron furnace, saying, ‘Listen to My voice, and do according to all which I command you; so you shall be My people, and I will be your God,’ 5in order to confirm the oath which I swore to your forefathers, to give them a land flowing with milk and honey, as it is this day.”’” Then I answered and said, “Amen, O LORD.” Psalm 119:21 Thou dost rebuke the arrogant, the cursed, Who wander from Thy commandments. Matt. 25:41-46 “Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels; 42for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; 43I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they themselves also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not take care of You?’ 45“Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46“And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” "There shall no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, Rev 22:3 And there shall no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His bond-servants shall serve Him; "The throne of Elohim and the throne of Lamb will be within His people. Rev 7:15-17 “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 shall spread His tabernacle over them. 16“They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore; neither shall the sun beat down on them, nor any heat; 17for the Lamb in the center of the throne shall be their shepherd, and shall guide them to springs of the water of life; and God shall wipe every tear from their eyes.” As of now, if you have a heart for Messiah and His Torah, the seed of His Spirit is planted within you. 1 Cor 3:16 Do you not know that you are a temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 1 Cor 6:19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? John was told to write "the things which must shortly take place." The same thing is mentioned in Chapter 1:19. If the interpretation of Revelation given in this series is correct, then that is exactly what happened! What is the significance of Yeshua stating that He is the Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End? Depending on the translation, we are to either "wash our robes" or "keep the commandments" in order to enter the gates of the City and access the Tree of Life. Which is it? May the grace of our Master Yeshua Messiah be with you all. Amen!

This chapter brings us into eternity and introduces us to New Jerusalem. Many are under the misunderstanding that this is a picture of "heaven" and describes the place we will go when we die. That is simply not true. The symbols in this chapter tell us a far different story than a literal materialistic city for the "church" to inhabit forever. Rev 21:21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; each one of the gates was a single pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass. Have you ever heard of the "Pearly Gates?" This is where that term came from. Pearls speak of wisdom and righteousness. Yeshua told a parable about a pearl of great price, being Israel, whom He gave all that He had to purchase it. Matt. 13:43-46 “Then THE RIGHTEOUS WILL SHINE FORTH AS THE SUN in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear. 44“The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid; and from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field. 45“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, 46and upon finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had, and bought it. In this text, He quoted Daniel chapter 12:3 which speaks of those with wisdom and those leading others to righteousness shining like the stars. Dan 12:3 “And those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. The street (not streets) is pure gold. That speaks of His Torah being the path for His people. Psalm 119:72 The law of Thy mouth is better to me Than thousands of gold and silver pieces. Psalm 119:127 Therefore I love Thy commandments Above gold, yes, above fine gold. New Jerusalem is described as the "Bride of Messiah." How is that possible? What does that mean? Watch and see if you don't agree!

Rev 20:5 The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were completed. This is the first resurrection. This passage should be read in conjunction of the previous verse. Rev 20:4-5 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given to them. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of the testimony of Jesus and because of the word of God, and those who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received the mark upon their forehead and upon their hand; and they came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. 5The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were completed. This is the first resurrection. The first resurrection is when one dies to sin, reigns with Messiah and lives according to Torah. The rest of the dead (those who do not die to sin) do not come to life until after the thousand years (short time) is completed. There is only one physical resurrection. It is a resurrection of both the righteous and unrighteous at one time. John 5:28-29 “Do not marvel at this; for an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs shall hear His voice, 29and shall come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment. Dan 12:1-3 “Now at that time Michael, the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people, will arise. And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time; and at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the book, will be rescued. 2“And many of those who sleep in the dust of the ground will awake, these to everlasting life, but the others to disgrace and everlasting contempt. 3“And those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. Rev 20:6 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. Blessed and holy are those who have a part in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them. It does not say they will not die. It says that for those who have Messiah and live holy (set-apart), over these, the second death has no power. Paul says this same thing about the second death. 1 Cor 15:51-56 Behold, I tell you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. 53For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, “DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory. 55“O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?” 56The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law;

Rev 19:7 "Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready." The bride of Messiah is Israel. That is abundantly clear in Scripture. Hosea 2:19-23 “And I will betroth you to Me forever; Yes, I will betroth you to Me in righteousness and in justice, In lovingkindness and in compassion, 20And I will betroth you to Me in faithfulness. Then you will know the LORD. 21“And it will come about in that day that I will respond,” declares the LORD. “I will respond to the heavens, and they will respond to the earth, 22And the earth will respond to the grain, to the new wine, and to the oil, And they will respond to Jezreel. 23“And I will sow her for Myself in the land. I will also have compassion on her who had not obtained compassion, And I will say to those who were not My people, ‘You are My people!’ And they will say, ‘Thou art my God!’” Isaiah 54:5-6 “For your husband is your Maker, Whose name is the LORD of hosts; And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel, Who is called the God of all the earth. 6“For the LORD has called you, Like a wife forsaken and grieved in spirit, Even like a wife of one’s youth when she is rejected,” Says your God. Jer 3:12-14 “Go, and proclaim these words toward the north and say, ‘Return, faithless Israel,’ declares the LORD; ‘I will not look upon you in anger. For I am gracious,’ declares the LORD; ‘I will not be angry forever. 13‘Only acknowledge your iniquity, That you have transgressed against the LORD your God And have scattered your favors to the strangers under every green tree, And you have not obeyed My voice,’ declares the LORD. 14‘Return, O faithless sons,’ declares the LORD; ‘For I am a master to you, And I will take you one from a city and two from a family, And I will bring you to Zion.’ Matt. 15:24 But she came and began to bow down before Him, saying, “Lord, help me!” There is not one passage in the New Testament or any Scripture that claims the Gentile Church or any other organization or people as the bride of Messiah. The only things left are a war and a wedding!

Rev 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, "Come out of her, my people, that you may not participate in her sins and that you may not receive of her plagues; It would appear that this warning comes after the destruction of the Whore of Babylon. This same warning was given when Babylon was destroyed. Jer 51:6-7 Flee from the midst of Babylon, And each of you save his life! Do not be destroyed in her punishment, For this is the LORD’s time of vengeance; He is going to render recompense to her. 7Babylon has been a golden cup in the hand of the LORD, Intoxicating all the earth. The nations have drunk of her wine; Therefore the nations are going mad. The plagues she will receive pertain to her idolatry. Jer 51:47-48 Therefore behold, days are coming When I shall punish the idols of Babylon; And her whole land will be put to shame, And all her slain will fall in her midst. 48“Then heaven and earth and all that is in them Will shout for joy over Babylon, For the destroyers will come to her from the north,” Declares the LORD. The warning to flee Babylon is given two more times in Jeremiah. Jer 51:45 “Come forth from her midst, My people, And each of you save yourselves From the fierce anger of the LORD. Jer 51:50 You who have escaped the sword, Depart! Do not stay! Remember the LORD from afar, And let Jerusalem come to your mind. In chapter 18, we see the judgment of the Whore of Babylon. Many have speculated that Babylon would be rebuilt in the last days because this chapter speaks of a rich Babylon after the time of John. But Elohim said through the prophet Isaiah over 2500 years ago that the city of Babylon will never again be inhabited (Isaiah 13:19-22). There have been attempts to rebuild the walls of ancient Babylon, but it is certainly not inhabited. Pictures of it today show it to be a desolate hollow place where only jackals might live. Using Scripture and historical context, we can see who exactly is (was) the Whore of Babylon! (Hint) What do you know of the history of the Byzantine Empire? Watch and see if you don't agree!

Rev 17:1 And one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and spoke with me, saying, "Come here, I shall show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters, Rev 17:2 with whom the kings of the earth committed acts of immorality, and those who dwell on the earth were made drunk with the wine of her immorality." We are told several things about her. It says she "sits upon many waters." The many waters means that she controls many peoples, nations, and tongues. Rev 17:15 And he said to me, “The waters which you saw where the harlot sits, are peoples and multitudes and nations and tongues. "With whom the kings of the earth committed fornication." The power struggles and deals that the Roman Church had with kings is thoroughly documented in world history. The Popes in history often claimed control of countries with the threat of keeping the royalty and the citizens out of heaven by excommunication. "The inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication's." Christianity has adopted much Babylonian paganism. This same warning was given in the day of Jeremiah. Jer 51:6-7 Flee from the midst of Babylon, And each of you save his life! Do not be destroyed in her punishment, For this is the LORD’s time of vengeance; He is going to render recompense to her. 7Babylon has been a golden cup in the hand of the LORD, Intoxicating all the earth. The nations have drunk of her wine; Therefore the nations are going mad. The sin of Babylon was her idolatry. Jer 51:47-48 Therefore behold, days are coming When I shall punish the idols of Babylon; And her whole land will be put to shame, And all her slain will fall in her midst. 48“Then heaven and earth and all that is in them Will shout for joy over Babylon, For the destroyers will come to her from the north,” Declares the LORD. The institutions of Christianity have made people "drunk" and confused with idolatry, pagan tradition, and claims of being the only way to Elohim. The reason the judgment of the Whore of Babylon is included in this section of Scripture is because the Byzantine Empire controlled Jerusalem for 88 years. Keep in mind that the sealed book in Revelation 5 & 6 is the Title deed to the Land of Israel. Since the Byzantine Empire reigned over Israel for 88 years, they are included in Revelation. Their anti-semitic actions were performed in Jerusalem also. Jer 51:24 “But I will repay Babylon and all the inhabitants of Chaldea for all their evil that they have done in Zion before your eyes,” declares the LORD. We are now on Revelation Chapter 17 and the subject of the "Whore of Babylon." There are many that believe the identity of the Whore of Babylon is the Catholic Church. But that is not exactly true. The fact is, if you do not know the meaning and purpose of the Book with Seven Seals in Revelation 5-6, then you will not know the identity of the Whore of Babylon. Keep in mind that, according to Scripture, the Whore of Babylon is (was) destroyed by the Beast. Is this chapter and chapter 18 now a part of history? Yes it is. Watch and see if the Scriptural and historical evidences given are not clear and convincing!

As we continue our trek through the Revelation, we are now on chapters 15 and 16. This brings us to the bowl judgments. Theses judgments are similar to the trumpet judgments, but do not let that confuse you! They occur in a different time frame and affect a different people! These bowl judgments wrap up the wrath of Elohim on earth. Did these judgments occur in the past or will they occur in the future? Are they occurring now? Who do they affect? (Hint: It has to do with those that have the mark of the beast.) Watch and see if you don't agree with our findings!

This chapter is a continuation of the chapter 13. There probably should not be a chapter break at this point. The last chapter leaves off telling of the false prophet and the mark of the beast and the multitudes of his name. This chapter starts with the arrival of Messiah in judgment with the 144,000 who are the first fruits of the twelve tribes of Israel. Come join us and see if Revelation can be completely understood by using the rest of Scripture to interpret it all!

This chapter in Revelation contains what is probably the most popular and ballyhooed section in Scripture. In reality, only a couple phrases in this chapter are sensationalized because of the mystery surrounding the enigma of the "Mark of the Beast." Many teach that this leads to computer chips in ones hand or forehead if we hope to buy food in the future! They teach that adding up numerical values of Greek letters to a sum of six hundred and sixty-six will tell us the identity of the infamous "Anti-Christ" of the last days! Many have become rich selling books and seminars on this mesmerizing fiction. But what is the Truth? The answer is to examine the entire section of Scripture instead of a couple snipped phrases. The book of Revelation is highly symbolic. The meanings of all these symbols are found in the Scriptures themselves. When we find these meanings we can see the reality unfold. Has the "Mark of the Beast" actually been around almost 1400 years? (Yes, it has been...) We get very detailed. Watch and see if our findings are both unique and legitimate!

This outstanding chapter begins by giving us a "great sign appearing in heaven!" What does it mean? Who is this woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars?? Her identity is obvious if one looks into other parts of the Scripture that tell us the meanings of these various symbols! Why is this woman so hated by the Dragon? What is the time frame of this entire event? Does it extend into today? Join us for about 40 minutes and see if you don't agree!

In the first twelve verses in this chapter we are introduced to the two witnesses, the second woe, and then the blowing of the seventh trumpet. Who are these Two Witnesses? There has been an abundance of speculation, but they have just mostly been guesses. The answer lies by looking at the symbolism used that is defined for us in other parts of Scripture. Do you really want to know the identity of these two witnesses? Come join us and see if you don't agree!

Rev 10:9 And I went to the angel, telling him to give me the little book. And he said^ to me, "Take it, and eat it; and it will make your stomach bitter, but in your mouth it will be sweet as honey." Rev 10:10 And I took the little book out of the angel's hand and ate it, and it was in my mouth sweet as honey; and when I had eaten it, my stomach was made bitter. This same command is given to Ezekiel. He is told to eat a scroll and it tasted sweet to his mouth. Ezekiel 3:1-4 Then He said to me, “Son of man, eat what you find; eat this scroll, and go, speak to the house of Israel.” 2So I opened my mouth, and He fed me this scroll. 3And He said to me, “Son of man, feed your stomach, and fill your body with this scroll which I am giving you.” Then I ate it, and it was sweet as honey in my mouth. 4Then He said to me, “Son of man, go to the house of Israel and speak with My words to them. Jeremiah tells us that accepting the Word of Elohim by faithfulness is "eating it" Jer 15:16 Thy words were found and I ate them, And Thy words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart; For I have been called by Thy name, O LORD God of hosts. The Book of Life given to John tastes sweet at first, but it made his stomach bitter. Those in the Book represent those who will inherit the Kingdom. Notice that it is a little book. It is NOT a huge book. It is mentioned three times in this passage that the book is "little." It is only for those who know Him, know His Son, and obey the words of the Father. The fact that it was small is likely what made it bitter to his stomach.

Rev 9:1 And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star from heaven which had fallen to the earth; and the key of the bottomless pit was given to him. Who is this star that has fallen from heaven? There is no reason to believe that this is any different than the same star and burning mountain that is described in chapter 8. Rev 8:8-11 And the second angel sounded, and something like a great mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea; and a third of the sea became blood; 9and a third of the creatures, which were in the sea and had life, died; and a third of the ships were destroyed. 10And the third angel sounded, and a great star fell from heaven, burning like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of waters; 11and the name of the star is called Wormwood; and a third of the waters became wormwood; and many men died from the waters, because they were made bitter. This star was given the key to the "bottomless pit" or "the abyss." What is the "pit" being spoken of here? We are told in Scripture that a "pit" is related to a trap that nations have ignorantly set for themselves. Psalm 9:15 The nations have sunk down in the pit which they have made; In the net which they hid, their own foot has been caught. A pit is also described as the lips of an adulteress or whore. Prov. 22:14 The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit; He who is cursed of the LORD will fall into it. Isaiah says the nations will be kept there for a long time in the last days. Isa 24:21-22 So it will happen in that day, That the LORD will punish the host of heaven, on high, And the kings of the earth, on earth. 22And they will be gathered together Like prisoners in the dungeon, And will be confined in prison; And after many days they will be punished. We are told that the key to the pit was given to the star. If this is consistent with the previous chapter, we are now told that the nations of the Roman Empire are given the key to leave the realm where they are kept.

Rev 8:8 And the second angel sounded, and something like a great mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea; and a third of the sea became blood; Rev 8:9 and a third of the creatures, which were in the sea and had life, died; and a third of the ships were destroyed. What is this that is described as "something like a great mountain burning?" Babylon was described as a "destroying mountain" which "destroys the whole earth. "After Babylon was prophesied as being destroyed, they would be "a burnt out mountain." Jer 51:25 “Behold, I am against you, O destroying mountain, Who destroys the whole earth,” declares the LORD, “And I will stretch out My hand against you, And roll you down from the crags And I will make you a burnt out mountain. Mountains in Scripture are often metaphorically used to describe kingdoms. The mountain being described here is the Roman Empire. It was "thrown into the sea." The "waters" is a description of the multitudes (or nations) and it is used to describe the many peoples and nations in reference to the Roman Empire. Rev 17:15 And he said to me, “The waters which you saw where the harlot sits, are peoples and multitudes and nations and tongues. While the Roman Empire was a very flawed and destructive empire, it did bring law and authority and judgment upon those who broke the laws of Rome. The "ships" are prideful and lofty men. Isaiah 2:15-17 Against every high tower, Against every fortified wall, 16Against all the ships of Tarshish, And against all the beautiful craft. 17And the pride of man will be humbled, And the loftiness of men will be abased, And the LORD alone will be exalted in that day. Isaiah 43:14-16 Thus says the LORD your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, “For your sake I have sent to Babylon, And will bring them all down as fugitives, Even the Chaldeans, into the ships in which they rejoice. 15“I am the LORD, your Holy One, The Creator of Israel, our King.” 16Thus says the LORD, Who makes a way through the sea And a path through the mighty waters, At this point let's assume this passage is referring to the Roman Empire. Let's look at this passage once again. Rev 8:8-9 And the second angel sounded, and something like a great mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea; and a third of the sea became blood; 9and a third of the creatures, which were in the sea and had life, died; and a third of the ships were destroyed. If that is the case, then the symbolism of the passage is saying that the Roman Empire took over the people and brought law and order to many who were otherwise lawless, barbaric, and prideful people (referred to as trees, grass, and ships). Rome destroyed many people and controlled the world and gave absolute power to the state.

Rev 6:1 And I saw when the Lamb broke one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying as with a voice of thunder, "Come." Rev 6:2 And 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. Keep in mind that John is telling us what he sees and hears. He is not trying to fabricate object lessons that teach us anything. He is telling us what he saw and heard. This rider on the white horse has a bow. We are not told how many arrows he is carrying, but that is a moot point. We can look into Scripture and only one man has ever been described as an "archer," and that is Ishmael (Gen. 21:15-20). The descendants of Ishmael are the Muslim people. "Muhammed died in 632 A.D. and was buried in Medina. This is a known historical fact but Muslim tradition tells a different story. They claim that he went to Jerusalem on a white horse and ascended into heaven from a rock that is now enclosed in the Dome of the Rock (Mosque of Omar) on Mt. Moriah. This is why Jerusalem is considered a holy place for Muslims. From the Combating[1] Terrorism Center at West Point The[2] white horse is inextricably tied to conceptions of the prophet, martyrdom, and paradise (heaven). It is most often associated with the Prophet Muhammads miraj or night journey to heaven, when the Prophet ascended to heaven on the back of a white horse. http://www.ctc.usma.edu/imagery_nature.asp In[3] the year 621, at the age of 51 years old, He (Muhammad) flew on the magical Winged-Horse of Fire which he called Burak, which literally means White Horse but seen as "Thunder-Lightning". The full version of this most memorable moment has been preserved in "The Bokhari" (Vol.15, p.3615) one of the Holy Islamic Scriptures. http://www.allaboutturkey.com/muhammed.htm The white horse is undoubtedly Muhammad who went forth conquering and to conquer. (look at Rev 6:1-2 again). The Four Horsemen This is one incredible passage in Scripture! It is so plainly laid out and yet so sadly misunderstood. The Four Horsemen are described in chapter 6 and their identification is truly astounding. Are you curious as to their identities? Watch and see if you don't agree! If you haven't watched our commentary on chapters 4 & 5, we recommend you see it first. If you have already seen it, we know you will want to watch this!

Rev 5:1 And I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a book written inside and on the back, sealed up with seven seals. What is this scroll (or book)? Some people think that it's the "Book of the Future," that no man has the right to open. This viewpoint states that no prophesy can be understood until after it is fulfilled. This mindset defeats the purpose of prophecy. The identity of the book is not precisely given to us in these verses, but we can use other portions of Scripture to help identify it. It is the title deed to the land of Israel. It is clearly associated with the principles and laws of land redemption in the Tanakh. This title deed to Israel is also the Book of Life which determines who will live and reign forever with Messiah in Israel. First of all, the earth is permanently Elohim's possession by the right of creation and nothing can alter that fact (Psalm 24:1,2). A description of a type of this land ownership was signified by Elohim's permanent gift of a portion of land to each family among His chosen people (Lev 25:23-28). Keep in mind that Elohim is a righteous Elohim of law and justice. The laws He sets forth apply, not only to the land of Israel, but He applies them to Himself also. Why? Because that's the way He wants it! A lost estate in Israel could be redeemed by the closest kinsman with the purchase price. This was normally done in the presence of witnesses who were elders (Ruth 4:1-7). The only one able to redeem the land of Israel is the One who is the Creator (the rightful Owner) and One who is also a kinsman of Israel. This could explain why John kept saying that One is coming whose sandals he is not worthy to untie (Matt. 3:11, Acts 13:25). He had to first come to Israel as a Son of man that is the Son of Abraham and Son of David. Yeshua had the elders, and the other host of heaven (as well as John) as witnesses to this land redemption (Ruth 4:8-10). Keep in mind that while redemption of the Land is what is taking place, He also paid the redemption price for His people which was not mere money (1 Peter 1:18-20). This aspect is also pictured in the Tanakh in terms of the long absence of the whole nation of Judah during it's captivity in Babylon. The prophet Jeremiah bought a tract of land which he was entitled to buy as a kinsman-redeemer. He did this even though he KNEW the nation of Judah was going to be taken captive for 70 years (Jer 25:11). The evidence of the transaction was to be buried until such a time as the invaders were expelled and the rightful heirs could claim it (Jer 32:10-15). The customs of that day were as follows: The deed was written and sealed. A duplicate was also made which was kept open to bear testimony to what was written in the sealed copy and this was available for records and reference. HOWEVER, the sealed copy could ONLY be opened by the rightful owner which was identified in the open copy. The transaction of reclaiming the property was not complete until he came forward to break the seals and exhibit the official title deed and right of ownership. In Jeremiah's case, both copies were buried together since there would be no safe place to keep records when they were taken into captivity. This scroll we see in verse one is written on the front and back. It probably states on the back who is the only rightful owner worthy to break the seals and open the scroll. What we will see in this chapter is the Yeshua Messiah in the process of taking back his property and setting the stage to expel those who made unlawful claims to Elohim's real estate (Psalm 83). Opening the Book Join us as we go over Revelation chapters 4 & 5! We have stated that this book can be fully understood and we will now demonstrate that fact. Who are the 24 elders and what does their attire tell us about them and their roles in Revelation? What do the four creatures with four faces represent? Most importantly, what is the sealed book in Chapter 5? In order to comprehend Revelation, the identity and purpose of this book must be understood! Why was the Lamb the only one worthy to open the book, or even look at it? Join us as we answer these questions and many more in a fun and insightful journey in Elohim's Word!

Rev 3:14 "And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God, says this: Sir William Ramsay called Laodicea the "city of compromise." The city was founded by Antiochus II in 261-246 B.C. Laodicea was about forty miles east and inland from Ephesus. Laodicea was located in a spectacular valley, but today the ruins are covered up with growth that looks like wild oats. It's name means "justice of the people." It was named for Laodice, the wife of Antiochus. Laodicea had their very own local god by the name of Men Karou. The temple was the very center of society, religion, and commerce in that day. Laodicea was a place of great wealth and Greek culture. It was a place of science and of literature. It also had an excellent medical school which was very primitive and very heathen. The city was eventually abandoned because of earthquakes. The impressive ruins of two Roman theaters, a large stadium, and three early assemblies are still there. What was developed here was known as the Phrygian powder which was a salve for the ears and eyes. The clay used for the salve has been analyzed in modern times and it has been found to be worthless as medication. Someone made a lot of money selling it in those days though. We may criticize these people back then for this fake medicine, but we take a lot of worthless medicine ourselves today. If we do not want to be too critical of these people, keep in mind that Yeshua Messiah was very critical of them. He is going to tell them to get REAL eye salve for their eyes and to open up their eyes! The city was in a valley and had difficulty getting water. When we understand the geography of the area, we learn that Laodicea had no suitable drinking water of its own. Colossae (to the east) was watered by a fresh cold mountain stream. Hieropolis (to the north) was well-known for its hot springs and the pools which were fed by those springs thought[1] to have healing qualities. The river Lycus which ran through Laodicea was described as turbid[2] with white mud. nauseous[3] and undrinkable. This is the only place in Scripture where the word "Amen" is used as a proper name. Yeshua Messiah is the Amen. He is the Last Word. He is the beginning (the Alpha or Aleph) and the end (the Omega, or Tav). The "Amen" is the only part of the description of Him used in Chapter one to address this assembly. He is "the Faithful and True Witness." What is He a faithful and true witness of for us? He is a faithful and true witness of His Father's Torah. He demonstrated to us how to obey the Father in the manner He intended (Jer 42:5). "The Beginning of the creation of Elohim." This lead some to believe that Yeshua was a creation of Elohim. But that is no more true than to say that Elohim had to create His own Word. The beginning of His creation was through His spoken Word. He is His Word made flesh (John 1:1-3, 14). This passage is stating that Yeshua "began" the creation of Elohim by being His Word. The Letters to the Seven Assemblies (Part 2) We are studying the seven letters to the seven assemblies in Revelation chapter 2. We are told that the assembly at Ephesus had "left their first love." What is meant by this? It is NOT that they "do not love Jesus enough." The letter to Smyrna and Paul's letter to Ephesians give us the answer! Follow along with us as we explore these valuable messages to these assemblies!

Rev 2:26 'And he who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, TO HIM I WILL GIVE AUTHORITY OVER THE NATIONS; We are told here what "he who overcomes" means. It means "he who keeps my works until the end." The reward for those who keep His works until the end will be that He will give authority over the nations. This is a quote from the Tanakh. Daniel 7:18 ‘But the saints of the Highest One will receive the kingdom and possess the kingdom forever, for all ages to come.’ Daniel 7:22 until the Ancient of Days came, and judgment was passed in favor of the saints of the Highest One, and the time arrived when the saints took possession of the kingdom. Daniel 7:27 ‘Then the sovereignty, the dominion, and the greatness of all the kingdoms under the whole heaven will be given to the people of the saints of the Highest One; His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all the dominions will serve and obey Him.’ Those who follow righteousness will shine like the stars forever. Dan 12:3-4 “And those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. 4“But as for you, Daniel, conceal these words and seal up the book until the end of time; many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase.” The Letters to the Seven Assemblies (Part 1) We are studying the seven letters to the seven assemblies in Revelation chapter 2. We are told that the assembly at Ephesus had "left their first love." What is meant by this? It is NOT that they "do not love Jesus enough." The letter to Smyrna and Paul's letter to Ephesians give us the answer! Follow along with us as we explore these valuable messages to these assemblies!

Rev 1:16 And in His right hand He held seven stars; and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength. Was there literally a two-edged sword that came out of His mouth? Yes, because John is just telling us what he sees and hears. The point here is that this sword, or rod, is referencing His Word. Isa 11:4 But with righteousness He will judge the poor, And decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth; And He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, And with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked. Isa 49:2 For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Heb. 4:12 For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Is the Word of Elohim actually a two-edged sword? Yes it is. This is an excellent description, especially if we use it to refer to Torah. The two edges of His sword are the blessings and curses and described Torah. Deut 11:26-28 “See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse: 27the blessing, if you listen to the commandments of the LORD your God, which I am commanding you today; 28and the curse, if you do not listen to the commandments of the LORD your God, but turn aside from the way which I am commanding you today, by following other gods which you have not known. If you want to study the book Revelation in a detailed and very unique way, join us as we decipher each symbol using Scripture and find some astonishing results! Chapter 1 is the introduction. In chapters 2 & 3 we examine the letters to the seven assemblies. In chapters 4-22 we detail John's fascinating vision using a different methodology which incorporates the entirety of Scripture. The findings are amazing! Proof that Elohim has been at work controlling events from John's day until now is in John's vision!