The Church at Sardis
The city of Sardis lay some thirty miles southeast of Thyatira. It was the ancient capital of Lydia. While it had lost most of its former glory, it was still known for its wealth, and also for its wickedness. The church in Sardis was in a sad state of spiritual decline.
From BIBLE STUDY ATLAS ENCYCLOPEDIA (bibleatlas.org):
The ancient city was noted for its fruits and wool, and for its temple of the goddess Cybele, whose worship resembled that of Diana of Ephesus. Its wealth was also partly due to the gold which was found in the sand of the river Pactolus, and it was here that gold and silver coins were first struck. During the Roman period its coins formed a beautiful series, and are found in abundance by the peasants who till the surrounding fields. The ruins of the buildings which stood at the base of the hill have now been nearly buried by the dirt washed down from above.
TO THE CHURCH IN SARDIS
Revelation 3:1-6 New International Version
“To the angel [messenger] of the church in Sardis write:
These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits [sevenfold spirit] of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. 2 Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. 3 Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.
4 Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. 5 The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels. 6 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
The following contains excerpts from STUDY FROM THE GUZIK BIBLE COMMENTARY (https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary). Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
Sardis was … a city well known for its softness and luxury. It had a well-deserved reputation for apathy and immorality. In Sardis here was a large, stately temple to the mother goddess, Cybele. From the ruins of that temple we can see that its main columns were 60 feet (20 meters) high and more than 6 feet (2 meters) in diameter. This mother goddess was honored and worshipped with all kinds of sexual immorality and impurity.
Sardis columns with mountain behind
…The combination of easy money and a loose moral environment made the people of Sardis notoriously soft and pleasure loving. "The great characteristic of Sardis was that, even on pagan lips, Sardis was a name of contempt. Its people were notoriously loose-living, notoriously pleasure and luxury loving. Sardis was a city of decadence. "(Barclay)"
1. Jesus describes Himself to the church at Sardis:
Revelation 3:1
…These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars…
“These things says He”
As Jesus described Himself, He used terms that emphasized His character as the Master of every spiritual power and authority. The repetition of the number seven helped indicate this because seven is the number of completeness in the Bible. Therefore, Jesus holds the fullness of the Spirit of God, and the fullness of the church.
“He who has the seven Spirits of God”
Jesus has the fullness of the Holy Spirit in Himself, and He has the Holy Spirit in fullness to give to the Church.
“And the seven stars”
Jesus also has the fullness of the church in His hand. We know the seven stars represent the churches because of what Jesus said in Revelation 1:20: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and through these letters, when Jesus speaks to the angels of the seven churches, He speaks not to one individual, but to the entire church through that individual.
2. What Jesus knows about the Christians of Sardis:
Revelation 3:1
… I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive…
“I know your works”
As Jesus said to each church, He also said to Sardis. What a church is and what a church does is never hidden from Jesus.
“That you have a name that you are alive”
Jesus knew the church at Sardis had a name - that is, a reputation - of life and vitality. If you looked at the church of Sardis, you would see signs of life and vitality. In the church of Sardis, like the city of Sardis, everything seemed alive and good.
“We are not to get the impression that Sardis was a defunct affair with the building a wreck, the members scattered, the pastor ready to resign. It was a busy church with meetings every night, committees galore, wheels within wheels, promotion and publicity, something going on all the time. It had a reputation of being a live, wide-awake, going concern." (Havner)
3. What Jesus has against the church at Sardis:
…but you are dead… (Revelation 3:1):
Despite their reputation of life, Jesus saw them for what they really were. “But you are dead” shows that a good reputation is no guarantee of true spiritual character. Despite their good appearance, Jesus saw them as dead.
This indicates no struggle, no fight, no persecution. It wasn't that the church at Sardis was losing the battle. A dead body has lost the battle, and the fight seems over. In this letter Jesus didn't encourage the Christians in Sardis to stand strong against persecution or false doctrine, probably because there simply wasn't a significant danger of these things in Sardis. Being dead, the church in Sardis presented no significant threat to Satan's domain, so it wasn't worth attacking.
Sardis was "a perfect model of inoffensive Christianity." (Caird) Their problem was not scandalous wickedness, but a decent death. Their image said "alive," but in substance they were dead. [Political Correctness]
"The church of Sardis was at peace - but it was the peace of the dead." (Barclay) [Image vs Substance]
4. What Jesus wants the church at Sardis to do
Revelation 3:2 New King James Version (NKJV)2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die…
Be watchful: This first instruction from Jesus told them they need to examine and protect, strengthening what they have. The things which remain tells us that though the spiritual condition of the church of Sardis was bad, it wasn't hopeless. Spiritually, there were things which remain that could be strengthened. Jesus had not given up on them, and though it was late (that are ready to die) it was not too late.
In its history, the city of Sardis was easily conquered twice before. It wasn't that the attacking armies overwhelmed Sardis, but because overconfidence made them stop being watchful. The spiritual state of the church in Sardis was a reflection of the city's historical character.
Revelation 3:2 New King James Version (NKJV)…for I have not found your works perfect before God worthy.
I have not found your works perfect before God: This shows that their works, though present, had not measured up to God's standard.
The presence of works isn't enough because God requires a particular intent and purpose in all of our works. They should be done with a heart and in a manner that show them to be perfect before God.
Note: [God's standard = serve: His purpose, His will, His glory] Motivation is a Pure Heart and His Method.
Clarke on I have not found your works perfect: "They performed duties of all kinds, but not duty completely. They were constantly beginning, but never brought anything to a proper end."
Revelation 3:3 New King James Version (NKJV) …Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent…
What they must do was to remember how they first received and heard the Word of God. Then they must hold fast to those things, and repent by turning and restoring the gospel and apostolic doctrine to authority over their lives. [Note: God's Word, God's Authority]
Paul described the kind of reception of the word they needed to remember:
1 Thessalonians 2:13
For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.
Revelation 3:3 New King James Version (NKJV) … Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.
Jesus warned them of the great danger in failing to watch. If they ignored His command to be watchful, then Jesus would come upon them as a thief, at a time completely unexpected.
How would Jesus come upon them? He could come in the sense bringing immediate judgment. Or, He could come in the sense of His coming at the rapture of the church (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). Used in either sense, it showed He might come suddenly and unannounced, so they must be watchful.
[Note: Judgment or Rapture - suddenly]
Winston Churchill said to Britain in the early days of World War II: "I must drop one word of caution, for next to cowardice and treachery, overconfidence leading to neglect and slothfulness, is the worst of wartime crimes." (cited in Bunch)
Revelation 3:4 New King James Version (NKJV)You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.
Even among the dead Christians in Sardis, there was a faithful remnant, but only a few names. In Pergamos (Revelation 2:14) and in Thyatira (Revelation 2:20) there were a few bad among the good; in Sardis there were a few good among the bad.
[Note: Faithful is God's remnant]
“Even in Sardis” shows that in some ways it was remarkable that there were a few names still faithful to the Lord. It may have been remarkable because of the city's notoriously immoral reputation. Even in a city that wicked, some among the Christians had not defiled themselves by joining in sin.
[Note: God always has a remnant.]
Revelation 3:4 New King James Version (NKJV)… who have not defiled their garments…
Jesus referred to defiled garments because in the heathen worship of the day, the pagan gods could not be approached with dirty clothes. The analogy works for the worship of Jesus because He gives His people white garments.
…"As sin is expressed under the notion of nakedness, so holiness is expressed under the notion of a garment." (Poole)
Revelation 3:4 (NKJV)
… and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.
Jesus also promised that these pure ones would walk with Me. This picture of close fellowship and friendship is seen in Enoch, who walked with God; and he was not, for God took him. (Genesis 5:24).
Of course, the garments Jesus gives are always white. Sardis was a church that was dead because of sinful compromise. They needed to receive and walk in the pure, white garment that Jesus gives. White was also the color of triumph to the Romans, so the white garments spoke of the believer's ultimate triumph in Jesus.
[Note: White represents Resurrection Power]
“Walk with Me.” This is the greatest reward Jesus can give His followers. The Christians in Sardis who forsook the sinful compromise of their city would be rewarded with a closer, more intimate walk with Jesus. This reward is ultimately a better motivator than the fear of punishment or ruin from our sin.
[Note: Intimacy with Jesus, pure intimacy, cannot be earned but comes as we seek Him.]
The pure can have greater intimacy with God not because they have earned it, but because they are simply more interested in the things of God. God promises to reward that interest:
Matthew 5:8
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
“But what shall be done with such persons as live in the church, but are not of it, having a name to live, but are dead? What shall be done with mere professors who are not possessors? What shall become of those who are only outwardly religious but inwardly are in the gall of bitterness? We answer, as good Calvin did once: 'They shall walk in black, for they are unworthy.' They shall walk in black - the blackness of God's destruction. They shall walk in black - the blackness of hopeless despair. They shall walk in black - the blackness of incomparable anguish. They shall walk in black - the blackness of damnation. They shall walk in black for ever, because they were found unworthy." (Spurgeon)
A promise of a reward:
Revelation 3:4,5 New King James Version (NKJV)4 You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.5 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.
Jesus identified the overcomers with those few names who have not defiled their garments (Revelation 3:4). These overcomers would wear white garments, received from Jesus.
The difference between the dead majority with imperfect works (but who had a good reputation) and the few names who pleased God was purity, and the closeness with Jesus that is always related to purity. The deadness and spiritual facade of most of the Christians in Sardis was related to their impure lives, their embrace of the impurity and sin of the world around them. It's hard to say if the deadness came before the impurity or the impurity came before the deadness, but they were surely related. [Note: Hypocrisy]
Jesus explained the absolute necessity of this being clothed by God with His garments of purity and righteousness in His parable of the wedding feast (Matthew 22:11-14). Real righteousness is receiving God's covering instead of trying to cover ourselves. Adam and Eve tried to cover their own sin (Genesis 3:21) but God provided them with a covering that came from sacrifice (Genesis 3:7).
[Note: Justification vs Repentance; Covenant]
Revelation 3:5 New King James Version (NKJV) … 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.
By this, the overcomers were assured of their heavenly citizenship. In the ancient world, death or a criminal conviction could blot out the name of an ancient citizen from the city's book of the living, which was the city register.
"In ancient times cities kept a register of their citizens; and when a man died, his name was removed from the register. The risen Christ is saying that, if we wish to remain on the roll of the citizens of God, we must keep our faith flamingly alive." (Barclay)"
End of Guzik Commentary Study
Note: Empowered by the Holy Spirit and Grace
Philippians 2:13 "For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose."
SUMMARY and REVIEW
Revelation 3:2 (NIV)
Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God.
The church has a reputation for activity. Probably its services are well attended and properly conducted. It may have committees and anniversaries and rallies. It may number among its members prominent social leaders. Yet it is dead.
It may have had an exciting form of worship, but not the true power and righteousness of the Holy Spirit. But Jesus saw the inner lives and hearts of the people.
From the Commentary from the Bible Alliance on Revelation 2 in The Full Life Study Bible by Donald C Stamps, New International Version, 9/1/92, Life Publishers/Zondervan. Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
There are two particular proofs:
1) it is accomplishing nothing in the spiritual realm - souls are not being saved, saints are not being strengthened, help is not being rendered to those in need, its services are formal, lifeless, meaningless: [Note: the Spiritual Realm vs the Soul Realm]
2) The lives of the church members are stained by sin.
The situation in the church was serious but not all the members were guilty of spiritual deadness, and not all have been stained by heathen impurities..to these the Master has given his promise: "They shall walk with me in white; for they are worthy." Their names would not be blotted out of the book of life and will be acknowledged before the "father, and before his angels."
[Note: Revelation Knowledge]
This admonition to be "watchful" may have been suggested by the fact that twice in its history the citadel of Sardis fell into the hands of the enemy because of a lack of vigilance on the part of the defenders.
To stimulate the church to action, an appeal is made to the memory of better days, and to the joy and eagerness with which the gospel was first welcomed.
They had remained and sought to return to the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ that the apostles and many others in the NT knew.
If they did not watch Jesus would come as a thief and they would not know the hour he would come. The coming of Christ is a blessed hope, yet to those who are unprepared it may be an event of terror and surprise.
The following is from John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible on Revelation 3 (http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/). Liberty was taken to reformat, copy, and/or paraphrase as needed.
Revelation 3:5-6 King James Version (KJV)5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
“He that overcometh” the deadness, formality, and imperfection of this church state; gets over these things, and is among the few names in it.
“…the same shall be clothed in white raiment;”
The Vulgate Latin, Syriac, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions, read, "thus shall he be clothed in white raiment"; he shall have abundance of spiritual peace and joy, great success and prosperity, both inward and outward, in himself, and in the church; and triumph over all his enemies, sin, Satan, the world, death, and every other enemy; and not only be clothed with change of raiment, the pure and spotless righteousness of Christ, but shall enjoy eternal glory and happiness! the allusion seems to be to the custom of the
Jewish Sanhedrim in judging of priests fit for service -
“they examined the priests concerning their genealogies and blemishes; every priest in whom was found anything faulty in his genealogy, he was clothed in black and veiled in black, and went out of the court; but everyone that was found perfect and right, (Mynbl vbwl), he was clothed in white, and went in and ministered with his brethren the priests.'' [Note: Tribe of Judah, Jesus' Blood, Royal Priesthood]
“And I will not blot out his name out of the book of life” by which is meant the choice of persons to everlasting life and salvation; and this being signified by a book, and by writing names in it, shows the exact knowledge God has of his elect , the value he has for them, his remembrance of them, his love to them, and care for them; and that this election is of particular persons by name, and is sure and certain; for those whose names are written in it shall never be blotted out, they will always remain in the number of God's elect, and can never become reprobates, or shall ever perish; because of the unchangeableness of the nature and love of God, the firmness of his purposes, the omnipotence of his arm, the death and intercession of Christ for them, their union to him, and being in him, the impossibility of their seduction by false teachers, and the security of their persons, grace, and glory in Christ, and in whose keeping this book of life is; which respects not this temporal life, that belongs to the book of providence, but a spiritual and eternal life, from whence it has its name.
[Note: Power of Eternal Covenant; Eternal Perspective]
“But I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels,” which shows that Christ has an exact and perfect knowledge of all the chosen ones, he knows them by name; [Ephesians 2:4-10] and that he has a strong and affectionate love for them, and is not ashamed of them, of their cause, of their persons, and of their relation to him; and that he does and will own, acknowledge, and approve of them, both here and hereafter: and the confession he will make of them will be in their praise; in praise of their persons and the comeliness of them, which he has put upon them; and of their graces, though they are his own; and of their good works as the fruits of grace: and this will be made before his Father, who chose these persons, and gave them to him to preserve and save; and before the angels, who rejoice at their salvation and happiness; and this will be at the last day.
The New Jerusalem
The following was taken from John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible (http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/). Liberty was taken to paraphrase, format, and/or copy as needed.
Revelation 21:27 King James Version
27 And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.
“And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth” as evil thoughts, words, and actions do; and therefore he that enters into this city must be free from all these: or "that is defiled", as the Vulgate Latin and Syriac versions read; or "that is unclean", as the Arabic and Ethiopic versions; alluding to the tabernacle and temple, into which no unclean person might come; see (Isaiah 52:1). No profane sinner, whose mind and conscience are defiled, and whose conversation is defiling, may enter here; nor any self-righteous person, whose righteousness is as filthy rags, and he himself is as an unclean thing, shall be admitted here; only such who are washed in the blood of Christ, and have on his righteousness, and so are without spot or wrinkle; which shows the pure and perfect state of this church and therefore cannot design any state of the church previous to the coming of Christ and the first resurrection:
[Note: Revelation 13:8;17:8]
“Neither whatsoever worketh abomination;”
commits sin, which is abominable in the sight of God, lives and dies in a course of wickedness; or particularly is guilty of idolatry, either makes idols, or serves them, or both, which are an abomination to the Lord; see (1 Kings 11:17)
“or maketh a lie;”
- any lie in general; who is a common liar, loves and invents a lie, and speaks one; delivers that which is false with an intention to deceive; or in particular, who embraces and propagates antichristian lies, doctrinal ones, lies spoken in hypocrisy; such shall be damned; see (1 Timothy 4:1, 2 Thessalonians 2:11, 2 Thessalonians 2:12) but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life; who are predestinated to eternal life; and though they are naturally, and in themselves defiled and sinful creatures, yet they are justified by the righteousness of Christ, and sanctified by his Spirit, and so are made meet and fit to enter this city; (See Gill on Revelation 13:8.)
It is by the Jews observed, that the Jerusalem of the world to come is not as the Jerusalem of this world; the Jerusalem of this world, whoever would go up to it (or enter into it) might; but that of the world to come, (hl Nynmwzmh ala Nylwe Nya), "none may go up to it (or enter into it) but those who are prepared, or appointed for it.
HE WHO HAS EARS TO HEAR, LET HIM HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT SAYS TO THE CHURCHES!
Revelation 3:6
THE BOOK OF LIFE
Revelation 21:27 (NIV)
Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.
The following is from Encyclopedias - International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (http://www.biblestudytools.com/encyclopedias/isbe/book-of-life.html) Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
BOOK OF LIFE
(cepher chayyim; he biblos tes zoes, "book of life"):
The phrase is derived from the custom of the ancients of keeping genealogical records (Nehemiah 7:5,64; 12:22,23) and of enrolling citizens for various purposes (Jeremiah 22:30; Ezekiel 13:9). So, God is represented as having a record of all who are under His special care and guardianship. To be blotted out of the Book of Life is to be cut off from God's favor, to suffer an untimely death, as when Moses pleads that he be blotted out of God's book--that he might die, rather than that Israel should be destroyed (Exodus 32:32;Psalms 69:28). In the New Testament it is the record of the righteous who are to inherit eternal life (Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5;13:8; 17:8; 21:27). In the apocalyptic writings there is the conception of a book or of books, that are in God's keeping, and upon which the final judgment is to be based (Daniel 7:10; 12:1; Revelation 20:12,15; compare Book Jubilees 39:6; 19:9).
Exodus 32:32 NIV
But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.
Psalm 69:28 NIV
May they be blotted out of the book of life and not be listed with the righteous.
Revelation - The Book of Life
Luke 10:20 (NIV)
However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
The following is from Barnes' Notes on the Bible reference Luke 10:20 (http://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/luke/10.htm)
Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
Rather rejoice .. - Though it was an honor to work miracles, though it is an honor to be endowed with talents, and influence, and learning, yet it is a subject of "chief" joy that we are numbered among the people of God, and have a title to everlasting life.
Names are written in heaven - The names of citizens of a city or state were accustomed to be written in a book or register, from which they were blotted out when they became unworthy, or forfeited the favor of their country. Compare Psalm 69:28; Exodus 32:32;Deuteronomy 9:14; Revelation 3:5. That their "names were written in heaven," means that they were "citizens" of heaven; that they were friends of God and "approved" by him, and would be permitted to dwell with him. This was of far more value than all "earthly" honor, power, or wealth, and "in" this people should rejoice more than in eminent endowments of influence, learning, talents, or possessions.
The following is from John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible reference Luke 10:20 (http://biblehub.com/commentaries/gill/luke/10.htm):
Notwithstanding in this rejoice not,.. That their power was enlarged, or that they had, the same as before:
that the spirits, evil spirits, devils, are subject unto you; and come out of men at your command; rejoice not so much in this, or chiefly and principally; not but that it was matter of joy both with respect to the gift bestowed upon them, and the benefits men received by it, and the glory that was brought to Christ through it; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven; in the book of life, called the Lamb's book of life, written from the foundation of the world: in divine predestination to everlasting glory and happiness: which shows that God's election to eternal life is of particular persons, of persons by name; that it is sure, and certain, and immutable, being in opposition to what is written in earth, Jeremiah 17:13, that the knowledge of this may be attained to, through the grace of God, the revelation of Christ, and the witnessings of his Spirit; and that this is matter of the greatest job, since it is the foundation and security of all the blessings of grace and glory.
John 17:2-3 (NIV)
2 For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. 3 Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.
Romans 6:23 (NIV)
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Philippians 4:3 (NIV)
Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
The following is from Barnes' Notes on the Bible (http://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes)
The word "life" here refers to eternal life; and the whole phrase refers to those who were enrolled among the true friends of God, or who would certainly be saved. The use of this phrase here implies the belief of Paul that these persons were true Christians. Names that are written in the book of life will not be blotted out. If the hand of God records them there who can obliterate them?
Revelation 3:5 (NIV)
The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels.
John 16:33 (NIV)
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Revelation 3:5 Amplified Bible (AMP)
He who overcomes [the world through believing that Jesus is the Son of God] will accordingly be dressed in white clothing; and I will never blot out his name from the Book of Life, and I will confess and openly acknowledge his name before My Father and before His angels [saying that he is one of Mine].
Revelation 13:8 (NIV)
All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written in the Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world.
Footnote on Revelation 13:8: Or written from the creation of the world in the book of life belonging to the Lamb who was slain.
Revelation 13:8 Amplified Bible (AMP)
All the inhabitants of the earth will fall down and worship him, everyone whose name has not been written since the foundation of the world in the Book of Life of the Lamb who has been slain [as a willing sacrifice].
Revelation 13:7 (NIV)
It (the beast) was given power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer them. And it was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation.
Revelation 13:7 New International Reader's Version (NIRV)
The beast was allowed to make war against God’s holy people and to overcome them. It was given authority over every tribe, people and nation, no matter what language they spoke.
From the Commentary from the Bible Alliance on Revelation 13 in The Full Life Study Bible by Donald C Stamps, New International Version, 9/1/92, Life Publishers/Zondervan. Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
The war was to last 42 months and then he is to be destroyed.
1) The beast represents the end-time Gentile world kingdom, but also the king of that kingdom.
2) He is a person as cruel as a beast who will gain the political and religious power of the world at that time.
3) He is called the "man of lawlessness" and the "antichrist"["anti" means "instead of" thus the antichrist may claim he is the real Christ, the true Messiah.
4) He will make a covenant with the nation of Israel
Note: Meanwhile the followers of Christ are not to resist. They are to win their true victory by steadfastness and hope, knowing that their names have been written "in the book of life of the Lamb that has been slain."
Revelation 17:8 (New International Version)
The beast, which you saw, once was, now is not, and yet will come up out of the Abyss and go to its destruction. The inhabitants of the earth whose names have not been written in the book of life from the creation of the world will be astonished when they see the beast, because it once was, now is not, and yet will come.
Revelation 17:8 (Amplified Bible)
“The beast that you saw was [once], but [now] is not, and he is about to come up out of the abyss (the bottomless pit, the dwelling place of demons) and go to destruction (perdition). And the inhabitants of the earth, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world, will be astonished when they see the beast, because he was and is not and is yet to come [to earth].
Revelation 20:12 (New International Version)
And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.
Revelation 20:15 (New International Version)
Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.
Revelation 21:27 (New International Version)
Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.[The New Jerusalem].
Revelation 21:27 (Amplified Bible)
…and nothing that defiles or profanes or is unwashed will ever enter it, nor anyone who practices abominations [detestable, morally repugnant things] and lying, but only those [will be admitted] whose names have been written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
The following is from Bible.Org, Revelation – Appendix 6: The Book of Life. (https://bible.org/seriespage/revelation-appendix-6-book-life). Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
First, believers are told their names stand permanently written (recorded) in the book of life.
Second, in Revelation 3:5, overcomers are promised that their names will never be erased or blotted out of the book of life. The negative “not” represents the emphatic double negative ou mh in the Greek. The idea and emphasis is “by no means or under no circumstances will I erase …”
This promise not only stresses the security of the believer, for every believer’s name stands permanently written in the book of life, but by stating the promise in this way, the Lord is promising something special to the overcomer in the kingdom and eternal future.
Blotting names from the book of life is never applicable to a believer in Christ because believers are secure in Him, being kept by the power of God (1 Pet. 1:5) and held secure in both the hand of the Son and of the Father (John 10:28-30).
1 Peter 1:5 (NIV)
… who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.
John 10:28-30 (NIV)
28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.”
The following is from Barnes' Notes on the Bible from John. http://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/john/10.htm
Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
John 10:29
My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
“Is greater than all” - Than all others - men, angels, devils. The word includes everything - everything that could attempt to pluck them away from God; in other words, it means that God is supreme. It implies, further, that God will keep them, and will so control all other beings and things that they shall be safe.
John 6:37
"All that the father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away."
John 6:44
"No one can come to me unless the Father, who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day.
None is able - None has power to do it. In these two verses we are taught the following important truths:
[Note: James 2:18 - Faith = Deeds]
Click to Go to The Church at Philadelphia
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From BIBLE STUDY ATLAS ENCYCLOPEDIA (bibleatlas.org):
The ancient city was noted for its fruits and wool, and for its temple of the goddess Cybele, whose worship resembled that of Diana of Ephesus. Its wealth was also partly due to the gold which was found in the sand of the river Pactolus, and it was here that gold and silver coins were first struck. During the Roman period its coins formed a beautiful series, and are found in abundance by the peasants who till the surrounding fields. The ruins of the buildings which stood at the base of the hill have now been nearly buried by the dirt washed down from above.
TO THE CHURCH IN SARDIS
Revelation 3:1-6 New International Version
“To the angel [messenger] of the church in Sardis write:
These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits [sevenfold spirit] of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. 2 Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. 3 Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.
4 Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. 5 The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels. 6 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
The following contains excerpts from STUDY FROM THE GUZIK BIBLE COMMENTARY (https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary). Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
Sardis was … a city well known for its softness and luxury. It had a well-deserved reputation for apathy and immorality. In Sardis here was a large, stately temple to the mother goddess, Cybele. From the ruins of that temple we can see that its main columns were 60 feet (20 meters) high and more than 6 feet (2 meters) in diameter. This mother goddess was honored and worshipped with all kinds of sexual immorality and impurity.
Sardis columns with mountain behind
…The combination of easy money and a loose moral environment made the people of Sardis notoriously soft and pleasure loving. "The great characteristic of Sardis was that, even on pagan lips, Sardis was a name of contempt. Its people were notoriously loose-living, notoriously pleasure and luxury loving. Sardis was a city of decadence. "(Barclay)"
1. Jesus describes Himself to the church at Sardis:
Revelation 3:1
…These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars…
“These things says He”
As Jesus described Himself, He used terms that emphasized His character as the Master of every spiritual power and authority. The repetition of the number seven helped indicate this because seven is the number of completeness in the Bible. Therefore, Jesus holds the fullness of the Spirit of God, and the fullness of the church.
“He who has the seven Spirits of God”
Jesus has the fullness of the Holy Spirit in Himself, and He has the Holy Spirit in fullness to give to the Church.
“And the seven stars”
Jesus also has the fullness of the church in His hand. We know the seven stars represent the churches because of what Jesus said in Revelation 1:20: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and through these letters, when Jesus speaks to the angels of the seven churches, He speaks not to one individual, but to the entire church through that individual.
2. What Jesus knows about the Christians of Sardis:
Revelation 3:1
… I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive…
“I know your works”
As Jesus said to each church, He also said to Sardis. What a church is and what a church does is never hidden from Jesus.
“That you have a name that you are alive”
Jesus knew the church at Sardis had a name - that is, a reputation - of life and vitality. If you looked at the church of Sardis, you would see signs of life and vitality. In the church of Sardis, like the city of Sardis, everything seemed alive and good.
“We are not to get the impression that Sardis was a defunct affair with the building a wreck, the members scattered, the pastor ready to resign. It was a busy church with meetings every night, committees galore, wheels within wheels, promotion and publicity, something going on all the time. It had a reputation of being a live, wide-awake, going concern." (Havner)
3. What Jesus has against the church at Sardis:
…but you are dead… (Revelation 3:1):
Despite their reputation of life, Jesus saw them for what they really were. “But you are dead” shows that a good reputation is no guarantee of true spiritual character. Despite their good appearance, Jesus saw them as dead.
This indicates no struggle, no fight, no persecution. It wasn't that the church at Sardis was losing the battle. A dead body has lost the battle, and the fight seems over. In this letter Jesus didn't encourage the Christians in Sardis to stand strong against persecution or false doctrine, probably because there simply wasn't a significant danger of these things in Sardis. Being dead, the church in Sardis presented no significant threat to Satan's domain, so it wasn't worth attacking.
Sardis was "a perfect model of inoffensive Christianity." (Caird) Their problem was not scandalous wickedness, but a decent death. Their image said "alive," but in substance they were dead. [Political Correctness]
"The church of Sardis was at peace - but it was the peace of the dead." (Barclay) [Image vs Substance]
4. What Jesus wants the church at Sardis to do
Revelation 3:2 New King James Version (NKJV)2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die…
Be watchful: This first instruction from Jesus told them they need to examine and protect, strengthening what they have. The things which remain tells us that though the spiritual condition of the church of Sardis was bad, it wasn't hopeless. Spiritually, there were things which remain that could be strengthened. Jesus had not given up on them, and though it was late (that are ready to die) it was not too late.
In its history, the city of Sardis was easily conquered twice before. It wasn't that the attacking armies overwhelmed Sardis, but because overconfidence made them stop being watchful. The spiritual state of the church in Sardis was a reflection of the city's historical character.
Revelation 3:2 New King James Version (NKJV)…for I have not found your works perfect before God worthy.
I have not found your works perfect before God: This shows that their works, though present, had not measured up to God's standard.
The presence of works isn't enough because God requires a particular intent and purpose in all of our works. They should be done with a heart and in a manner that show them to be perfect before God.
Note: [God's standard = serve: His purpose, His will, His glory] Motivation is a Pure Heart and His Method.
Clarke on I have not found your works perfect: "They performed duties of all kinds, but not duty completely. They were constantly beginning, but never brought anything to a proper end."
Revelation 3:3 New King James Version (NKJV) …Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent…
What they must do was to remember how they first received and heard the Word of God. Then they must hold fast to those things, and repent by turning and restoring the gospel and apostolic doctrine to authority over their lives. [Note: God's Word, God's Authority]
Paul described the kind of reception of the word they needed to remember:
1 Thessalonians 2:13
For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.
Revelation 3:3 New King James Version (NKJV) … Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.
Jesus warned them of the great danger in failing to watch. If they ignored His command to be watchful, then Jesus would come upon them as a thief, at a time completely unexpected.
How would Jesus come upon them? He could come in the sense bringing immediate judgment. Or, He could come in the sense of His coming at the rapture of the church (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). Used in either sense, it showed He might come suddenly and unannounced, so they must be watchful.
[Note: Judgment or Rapture - suddenly]
Winston Churchill said to Britain in the early days of World War II: "I must drop one word of caution, for next to cowardice and treachery, overconfidence leading to neglect and slothfulness, is the worst of wartime crimes." (cited in Bunch)
Revelation 3:4 New King James Version (NKJV)You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.
Even among the dead Christians in Sardis, there was a faithful remnant, but only a few names. In Pergamos (Revelation 2:14) and in Thyatira (Revelation 2:20) there were a few bad among the good; in Sardis there were a few good among the bad.
[Note: Faithful is God's remnant]
“Even in Sardis” shows that in some ways it was remarkable that there were a few names still faithful to the Lord. It may have been remarkable because of the city's notoriously immoral reputation. Even in a city that wicked, some among the Christians had not defiled themselves by joining in sin.
[Note: God always has a remnant.]
Revelation 3:4 New King James Version (NKJV)… who have not defiled their garments…
Jesus referred to defiled garments because in the heathen worship of the day, the pagan gods could not be approached with dirty clothes. The analogy works for the worship of Jesus because He gives His people white garments.
…"As sin is expressed under the notion of nakedness, so holiness is expressed under the notion of a garment." (Poole)
Revelation 3:4 (NKJV)
… and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.
Jesus also promised that these pure ones would walk with Me. This picture of close fellowship and friendship is seen in Enoch, who walked with God; and he was not, for God took him. (Genesis 5:24).
Of course, the garments Jesus gives are always white. Sardis was a church that was dead because of sinful compromise. They needed to receive and walk in the pure, white garment that Jesus gives. White was also the color of triumph to the Romans, so the white garments spoke of the believer's ultimate triumph in Jesus.
[Note: White represents Resurrection Power]
“Walk with Me.” This is the greatest reward Jesus can give His followers. The Christians in Sardis who forsook the sinful compromise of their city would be rewarded with a closer, more intimate walk with Jesus. This reward is ultimately a better motivator than the fear of punishment or ruin from our sin.
[Note: Intimacy with Jesus, pure intimacy, cannot be earned but comes as we seek Him.]
The pure can have greater intimacy with God not because they have earned it, but because they are simply more interested in the things of God. God promises to reward that interest:
Matthew 5:8
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
“But what shall be done with such persons as live in the church, but are not of it, having a name to live, but are dead? What shall be done with mere professors who are not possessors? What shall become of those who are only outwardly religious but inwardly are in the gall of bitterness? We answer, as good Calvin did once: 'They shall walk in black, for they are unworthy.' They shall walk in black - the blackness of God's destruction. They shall walk in black - the blackness of hopeless despair. They shall walk in black - the blackness of incomparable anguish. They shall walk in black - the blackness of damnation. They shall walk in black for ever, because they were found unworthy." (Spurgeon)
A promise of a reward:
Revelation 3:4,5 New King James Version (NKJV)4 You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.5 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.
Jesus identified the overcomers with those few names who have not defiled their garments (Revelation 3:4). These overcomers would wear white garments, received from Jesus.
The difference between the dead majority with imperfect works (but who had a good reputation) and the few names who pleased God was purity, and the closeness with Jesus that is always related to purity. The deadness and spiritual facade of most of the Christians in Sardis was related to their impure lives, their embrace of the impurity and sin of the world around them. It's hard to say if the deadness came before the impurity or the impurity came before the deadness, but they were surely related. [Note: Hypocrisy]
Jesus explained the absolute necessity of this being clothed by God with His garments of purity and righteousness in His parable of the wedding feast (Matthew 22:11-14). Real righteousness is receiving God's covering instead of trying to cover ourselves. Adam and Eve tried to cover their own sin (Genesis 3:21) but God provided them with a covering that came from sacrifice (Genesis 3:7).
[Note: Justification vs Repentance; Covenant]
Revelation 3:5 New King James Version (NKJV) … 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.
By this, the overcomers were assured of their heavenly citizenship. In the ancient world, death or a criminal conviction could blot out the name of an ancient citizen from the city's book of the living, which was the city register.
"In ancient times cities kept a register of their citizens; and when a man died, his name was removed from the register. The risen Christ is saying that, if we wish to remain on the roll of the citizens of God, we must keep our faith flamingly alive." (Barclay)"
End of Guzik Commentary Study
Note: Empowered by the Holy Spirit and Grace
Philippians 2:13 "For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose."
SUMMARY and REVIEW
Revelation 3:2 (NIV)
Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God.
The church has a reputation for activity. Probably its services are well attended and properly conducted. It may have committees and anniversaries and rallies. It may number among its members prominent social leaders. Yet it is dead.
It may have had an exciting form of worship, but not the true power and righteousness of the Holy Spirit. But Jesus saw the inner lives and hearts of the people.
From the Commentary from the Bible Alliance on Revelation 2 in The Full Life Study Bible by Donald C Stamps, New International Version, 9/1/92, Life Publishers/Zondervan. Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
There are two particular proofs:
1) it is accomplishing nothing in the spiritual realm - souls are not being saved, saints are not being strengthened, help is not being rendered to those in need, its services are formal, lifeless, meaningless: [Note: the Spiritual Realm vs the Soul Realm]
2) The lives of the church members are stained by sin.
The situation in the church was serious but not all the members were guilty of spiritual deadness, and not all have been stained by heathen impurities..to these the Master has given his promise: "They shall walk with me in white; for they are worthy." Their names would not be blotted out of the book of life and will be acknowledged before the "father, and before his angels."
[Note: Revelation Knowledge]
This admonition to be "watchful" may have been suggested by the fact that twice in its history the citadel of Sardis fell into the hands of the enemy because of a lack of vigilance on the part of the defenders.
To stimulate the church to action, an appeal is made to the memory of better days, and to the joy and eagerness with which the gospel was first welcomed.
They had remained and sought to return to the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ that the apostles and many others in the NT knew.
If they did not watch Jesus would come as a thief and they would not know the hour he would come. The coming of Christ is a blessed hope, yet to those who are unprepared it may be an event of terror and surprise.
The following is from John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible on Revelation 3 (http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/). Liberty was taken to reformat, copy, and/or paraphrase as needed.
Revelation 3:5-6 King James Version (KJV)5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
“He that overcometh” the deadness, formality, and imperfection of this church state; gets over these things, and is among the few names in it.
“…the same shall be clothed in white raiment;”
The Vulgate Latin, Syriac, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions, read, "thus shall he be clothed in white raiment"; he shall have abundance of spiritual peace and joy, great success and prosperity, both inward and outward, in himself, and in the church; and triumph over all his enemies, sin, Satan, the world, death, and every other enemy; and not only be clothed with change of raiment, the pure and spotless righteousness of Christ, but shall enjoy eternal glory and happiness! the allusion seems to be to the custom of the
Jewish Sanhedrim in judging of priests fit for service -
“they examined the priests concerning their genealogies and blemishes; every priest in whom was found anything faulty in his genealogy, he was clothed in black and veiled in black, and went out of the court; but everyone that was found perfect and right, (Mynbl vbwl), he was clothed in white, and went in and ministered with his brethren the priests.'' [Note: Tribe of Judah, Jesus' Blood, Royal Priesthood]
“And I will not blot out his name out of the book of life” by which is meant the choice of persons to everlasting life and salvation; and this being signified by a book, and by writing names in it, shows the exact knowledge God has of his elect , the value he has for them, his remembrance of them, his love to them, and care for them; and that this election is of particular persons by name, and is sure and certain; for those whose names are written in it shall never be blotted out, they will always remain in the number of God's elect, and can never become reprobates, or shall ever perish; because of the unchangeableness of the nature and love of God, the firmness of his purposes, the omnipotence of his arm, the death and intercession of Christ for them, their union to him, and being in him, the impossibility of their seduction by false teachers, and the security of their persons, grace, and glory in Christ, and in whose keeping this book of life is; which respects not this temporal life, that belongs to the book of providence, but a spiritual and eternal life, from whence it has its name.
[Note: Power of Eternal Covenant; Eternal Perspective]
“But I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels,” which shows that Christ has an exact and perfect knowledge of all the chosen ones, he knows them by name; [Ephesians 2:4-10] and that he has a strong and affectionate love for them, and is not ashamed of them, of their cause, of their persons, and of their relation to him; and that he does and will own, acknowledge, and approve of them, both here and hereafter: and the confession he will make of them will be in their praise; in praise of their persons and the comeliness of them, which he has put upon them; and of their graces, though they are his own; and of their good works as the fruits of grace: and this will be made before his Father, who chose these persons, and gave them to him to preserve and save; and before the angels, who rejoice at their salvation and happiness; and this will be at the last day.
The New Jerusalem
The following was taken from John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible (http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/). Liberty was taken to paraphrase, format, and/or copy as needed.
Revelation 21:27 King James Version
27 And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.
“And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth” as evil thoughts, words, and actions do; and therefore he that enters into this city must be free from all these: or "that is defiled", as the Vulgate Latin and Syriac versions read; or "that is unclean", as the Arabic and Ethiopic versions; alluding to the tabernacle and temple, into which no unclean person might come; see (Isaiah 52:1). No profane sinner, whose mind and conscience are defiled, and whose conversation is defiling, may enter here; nor any self-righteous person, whose righteousness is as filthy rags, and he himself is as an unclean thing, shall be admitted here; only such who are washed in the blood of Christ, and have on his righteousness, and so are without spot or wrinkle; which shows the pure and perfect state of this church and therefore cannot design any state of the church previous to the coming of Christ and the first resurrection:
[Note: Revelation 13:8;17:8]
“Neither whatsoever worketh abomination;”
commits sin, which is abominable in the sight of God, lives and dies in a course of wickedness; or particularly is guilty of idolatry, either makes idols, or serves them, or both, which are an abomination to the Lord; see (1 Kings 11:17)
“or maketh a lie;”
- any lie in general; who is a common liar, loves and invents a lie, and speaks one; delivers that which is false with an intention to deceive; or in particular, who embraces and propagates antichristian lies, doctrinal ones, lies spoken in hypocrisy; such shall be damned; see (1 Timothy 4:1, 2 Thessalonians 2:11, 2 Thessalonians 2:12) but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life; who are predestinated to eternal life; and though they are naturally, and in themselves defiled and sinful creatures, yet they are justified by the righteousness of Christ, and sanctified by his Spirit, and so are made meet and fit to enter this city; (See Gill on Revelation 13:8.)
It is by the Jews observed, that the Jerusalem of the world to come is not as the Jerusalem of this world; the Jerusalem of this world, whoever would go up to it (or enter into it) might; but that of the world to come, (hl Nynmwzmh ala Nylwe Nya), "none may go up to it (or enter into it) but those who are prepared, or appointed for it.
HE WHO HAS EARS TO HEAR, LET HIM HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT SAYS TO THE CHURCHES!
Revelation 3:6
THE BOOK OF LIFE
Revelation 21:27 (NIV)
Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.
The following is from Encyclopedias - International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (http://www.biblestudytools.com/encyclopedias/isbe/book-of-life.html) Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
BOOK OF LIFE
(cepher chayyim; he biblos tes zoes, "book of life"):
The phrase is derived from the custom of the ancients of keeping genealogical records (Nehemiah 7:5,64; 12:22,23) and of enrolling citizens for various purposes (Jeremiah 22:30; Ezekiel 13:9). So, God is represented as having a record of all who are under His special care and guardianship. To be blotted out of the Book of Life is to be cut off from God's favor, to suffer an untimely death, as when Moses pleads that he be blotted out of God's book--that he might die, rather than that Israel should be destroyed (Exodus 32:32;Psalms 69:28). In the New Testament it is the record of the righteous who are to inherit eternal life (Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5;13:8; 17:8; 21:27). In the apocalyptic writings there is the conception of a book or of books, that are in God's keeping, and upon which the final judgment is to be based (Daniel 7:10; 12:1; Revelation 20:12,15; compare Book Jubilees 39:6; 19:9).
Exodus 32:32 NIV
But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.
Psalm 69:28 NIV
May they be blotted out of the book of life and not be listed with the righteous.
Revelation - The Book of Life
Luke 10:20 (NIV)
However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
The following is from Barnes' Notes on the Bible reference Luke 10:20 (http://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/luke/10.htm)
Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
Rather rejoice .. - Though it was an honor to work miracles, though it is an honor to be endowed with talents, and influence, and learning, yet it is a subject of "chief" joy that we are numbered among the people of God, and have a title to everlasting life.
Names are written in heaven - The names of citizens of a city or state were accustomed to be written in a book or register, from which they were blotted out when they became unworthy, or forfeited the favor of their country. Compare Psalm 69:28; Exodus 32:32;Deuteronomy 9:14; Revelation 3:5. That their "names were written in heaven," means that they were "citizens" of heaven; that they were friends of God and "approved" by him, and would be permitted to dwell with him. This was of far more value than all "earthly" honor, power, or wealth, and "in" this people should rejoice more than in eminent endowments of influence, learning, talents, or possessions.
The following is from John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible reference Luke 10:20 (http://biblehub.com/commentaries/gill/luke/10.htm):
Notwithstanding in this rejoice not,.. That their power was enlarged, or that they had, the same as before:
that the spirits, evil spirits, devils, are subject unto you; and come out of men at your command; rejoice not so much in this, or chiefly and principally; not but that it was matter of joy both with respect to the gift bestowed upon them, and the benefits men received by it, and the glory that was brought to Christ through it; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven; in the book of life, called the Lamb's book of life, written from the foundation of the world: in divine predestination to everlasting glory and happiness: which shows that God's election to eternal life is of particular persons, of persons by name; that it is sure, and certain, and immutable, being in opposition to what is written in earth, Jeremiah 17:13, that the knowledge of this may be attained to, through the grace of God, the revelation of Christ, and the witnessings of his Spirit; and that this is matter of the greatest job, since it is the foundation and security of all the blessings of grace and glory.
John 17:2-3 (NIV)
2 For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. 3 Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.
Romans 6:23 (NIV)
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Philippians 4:3 (NIV)
Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
The following is from Barnes' Notes on the Bible (http://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes)
The word "life" here refers to eternal life; and the whole phrase refers to those who were enrolled among the true friends of God, or who would certainly be saved. The use of this phrase here implies the belief of Paul that these persons were true Christians. Names that are written in the book of life will not be blotted out. If the hand of God records them there who can obliterate them?
Revelation 3:5 (NIV)
The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels.
John 16:33 (NIV)
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Revelation 3:5 Amplified Bible (AMP)
He who overcomes [the world through believing that Jesus is the Son of God] will accordingly be dressed in white clothing; and I will never blot out his name from the Book of Life, and I will confess and openly acknowledge his name before My Father and before His angels [saying that he is one of Mine].
Revelation 13:8 (NIV)
All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written in the Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world.
Footnote on Revelation 13:8: Or written from the creation of the world in the book of life belonging to the Lamb who was slain.
Revelation 13:8 Amplified Bible (AMP)
All the inhabitants of the earth will fall down and worship him, everyone whose name has not been written since the foundation of the world in the Book of Life of the Lamb who has been slain [as a willing sacrifice].
Revelation 13:7 (NIV)
It (the beast) was given power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer them. And it was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation.
Revelation 13:7 New International Reader's Version (NIRV)
The beast was allowed to make war against God’s holy people and to overcome them. It was given authority over every tribe, people and nation, no matter what language they spoke.
From the Commentary from the Bible Alliance on Revelation 13 in The Full Life Study Bible by Donald C Stamps, New International Version, 9/1/92, Life Publishers/Zondervan. Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
The war was to last 42 months and then he is to be destroyed.
1) The beast represents the end-time Gentile world kingdom, but also the king of that kingdom.
2) He is a person as cruel as a beast who will gain the political and religious power of the world at that time.
3) He is called the "man of lawlessness" and the "antichrist"["anti" means "instead of" thus the antichrist may claim he is the real Christ, the true Messiah.
4) He will make a covenant with the nation of Israel
Note: Meanwhile the followers of Christ are not to resist. They are to win their true victory by steadfastness and hope, knowing that their names have been written "in the book of life of the Lamb that has been slain."
Revelation 17:8 (New International Version)
The beast, which you saw, once was, now is not, and yet will come up out of the Abyss and go to its destruction. The inhabitants of the earth whose names have not been written in the book of life from the creation of the world will be astonished when they see the beast, because it once was, now is not, and yet will come.
Revelation 17:8 (Amplified Bible)
“The beast that you saw was [once], but [now] is not, and he is about to come up out of the abyss (the bottomless pit, the dwelling place of demons) and go to destruction (perdition). And the inhabitants of the earth, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world, will be astonished when they see the beast, because he was and is not and is yet to come [to earth].
Revelation 20:12 (New International Version)
And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.
Revelation 20:15 (New International Version)
Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.
Revelation 21:27 (New International Version)
Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.[The New Jerusalem].
Revelation 21:27 (Amplified Bible)
…and nothing that defiles or profanes or is unwashed will ever enter it, nor anyone who practices abominations [detestable, morally repugnant things] and lying, but only those [will be admitted] whose names have been written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
The following is from Bible.Org, Revelation – Appendix 6: The Book of Life. (https://bible.org/seriespage/revelation-appendix-6-book-life). Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
First, believers are told their names stand permanently written (recorded) in the book of life.
Second, in Revelation 3:5, overcomers are promised that their names will never be erased or blotted out of the book of life. The negative “not” represents the emphatic double negative ou mh in the Greek. The idea and emphasis is “by no means or under no circumstances will I erase …”
This promise not only stresses the security of the believer, for every believer’s name stands permanently written in the book of life, but by stating the promise in this way, the Lord is promising something special to the overcomer in the kingdom and eternal future.
Blotting names from the book of life is never applicable to a believer in Christ because believers are secure in Him, being kept by the power of God (1 Pet. 1:5) and held secure in both the hand of the Son and of the Father (John 10:28-30).
1 Peter 1:5 (NIV)
… who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.
John 10:28-30 (NIV)
28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.”
The following is from Barnes' Notes on the Bible from John. http://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/john/10.htm
Liberty was taken to copy, paraphrase, and reformat the information to make points and present the information in an understandable manner.
John 10:29
My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
“Is greater than all” - Than all others - men, angels, devils. The word includes everything - everything that could attempt to pluck them away from God; in other words, it means that God is supreme. It implies, further, that God will keep them, and will so control all other beings and things that they shall be safe.
John 6:37
"All that the father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away."
John 6:44
"No one can come to me unless the Father, who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day.
None is able - None has power to do it. In these two verses we are taught the following important truths:
- that Christians are given by God the Father to Christ.
- that Jesus gives to them eternal life, or procures by his death and intercession, and imparts to them by his Spirit, that religion which shall result in eternal life.
- that both the Father and the Son are pledged to keep them so that they shall never fall away and perish. It would be impossible for any language to teach more explicitly that the saints will persevere.
- that there is no power in man or devils to defeat the purpose of the Redeemer to save his people. We also see our safety, if we truly, humbly, cordially, and daily commit ourselves to God the Savior. In no other way can we have evidence that we are his people than by such a persevering resignation of ourselves to him, to obey his law, and to follow him through evil report or good report. If we do that we are safe. If we do not that we have no evidence of piety, and are not, cannot be safe.
[Note: James 2:18 - Faith = Deeds]
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