Revelation 15 Commentary
Seven churches, seven seals, seven trumpets – John’s love for sevens. It’s a constant reminder not to look for seven plagues. If John had his way, humans would have seven fingers on each hand!
Verse 2 talks about “those who had been victorious over the beast and its image and over the number of its name.” Whatever the scripture means!
At one point the dragon is given power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer them. Chapter 13 verse 7. And from the letters to the seven churches, we know satan persecutes the church, impoverishing some while killing others.
Victory versus persecution, pain, and suffering; so, what is the scripture saying?
Paul’s letter to the Ephesians answers this question – the same church addressed in this Book.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6 verse 12.
The saint’s armor is as follows:-
The belt of truth buckled around your waist; the breastplate of righteousness in place; the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace; the shield of faith; the helmet of salvation; and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God Ephesians 6 verses 14 to 17.
Truth fights deception. The Breastplate of righteousness protects the heart from fear, anxiety, and wicked feelings among others. The shield of faith fights pride and doubt. The Helmet protects your head. Your intentions and thoughts must be in line with God’s will.
Check the list and see that we are looking at the fruit of the Spirit: Love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5 verse 22.
This is where the victory is! Victory doesn’t translate into immunity against persecution, imposed poverty, scorn, or possible martyrdom. Victory means taking up ‘this’ cross the Jesus way. The saint must always watch out for definitions from the world!
Revelation is best read with the rest of the written word in mind. Scripture explains scripture. But we must, at the same time, appreciate the spiritual happenings behind the scenes.
He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. Luke 10 verses 18 and 19.
The LORD Jesus made this statement in full view of His disciples. The disciples were all fully awake. It wasn’t a vision. We are probably happy that the statement was short, otherwise, the gospel of Luke would be like the Book of Revelation!
There are some realities we cannot see. Revelation is full of such issues. But for us, we have our own world to contend with. Our own battles are fought with the elements of the “fruit of the Spirit”. With this armor, the unseen world submits into defeat and the LORD Jesus is worshipped.
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