Tuesday, January 6, 2004 (67)
HOW AMAZING IS SHE? John for all his spiritual and biblical back ground is seen as being deeply impressed by this woman. Everything about her appearance is that of great beauty. Her status in the political and religious community is extremely imposing. John was in great wonder and admiration of her beauty and power. She is all that a worldly, carnal, power hungry religious body could desire. Her appeal and consequence on a Laodicean church cannot be over emphasized. Her influence is pointed out by the Apostle Peter when he speaks of, pernicious ways. 2 Peter 2:2-3
A STERN WARNING AND CALL TO THE TRUE CHURCH. A voice from heaven heard calling the redeemed to separate themselves from her. Rev. 18:4 This is a cry of the Spirit and the Word that from of old has been heard by the saints of the Lord. It was a message that came to Lot as the Lord urged him to, bring them out of this place. Gen. 19:12 It is a message that has in the past and is in the present sounding out to the true church of the Lord. Come out, be ye separate. Touch not the unclean and I will receive you. You shall be mine. 2 Cor. 6:17-18 Those who refuse to participate in her sin will not have to partake of her plagues. There is great blessing in standing for righteousness. The blessings of the Lord are assured the individual who will refuse to walk or participate with the church of compromise. Because his delight is in the Word, he has been led of the Word into a fellowship of righteousness where his life is blessed of the Lord. Ps. 1:1-2
THE CHURCH OF INIQUITY. The measure of her sins has extended even to heaven. The Lord is moved to bring her to an end. It is time for retribution. She will receive a double portion of judgment. The measurement of her punishment will be according to the magnitude of the self glorification and luxurious living that she has heaped upon herself. There is great danger in a heart which seeks self aggrandizement and luxurious living in this life. Rich, worldly achievements in this life do not assure one of the same in eternity. The rich man did not gain heaven. Therefore his rewards were only for his life. The benefits to Lazarus were eternal and everlasting, though he had nothing in this life. Luke 16:25 She will embrace and disseminate the popular doctrine of prosperity. Paul warned those whose impetus is toward riches that they would face many temptations and snares. Also many foolish and hurtful lusts which would plunge them into ruin and destruction. 1 Tim. 6:9 This certainly embraces the love of money which is the root of all manner of evil. Causing some to lose their faith and bring upon themselves a multitude of grief. 1 Tim. 2:10 The greatest source of supply for our needs is the Lord Himself. He has promised to meet all your need. A provision that comes directly from the bank of heaven. Phil. 4:19 Great and true gain is godliness. 1 Tim. 6:6 There is no greater contentment to be found.