Monday, September 22, 2003 (80) THE THIRD WATCH OR THE LAST WATCH OF THE NIGHT. As illustrated in the Bible it is the watch of surprise attack. We find here a time of confusion of the enemy, cause by the Lord. The Lord looked down on the pursuit Egyptians and threw their camp into utter confusion. It would appear that the Egyptians had planned and were executing a predawn attack, but they were up against a General who was far wiser than the Egyptians. He caused the wheels to fall from their chariots. The Egyptians then realized that the Lord was resisting them and were ordered to retreat. Too late, they had already committed themselves to the battle. At daybreak, the Lord commanded Moses to stretch forth his hand. The waters returned to their normal place and the Egyptians were defeated and drowned. There were no survivors. Ex. 14:24-28Saul also used this strategy in defeating the Ammonites. 1 Sam. 11:11 Sounds like the battle of Armageddon. When not only the enemy will be destroyed but all the ungodly forces and inhabitants of the earth will be eliminated, just prior to the millennial reign of Christ. Rev. 16:16
A CHANGE MADE BY THE RULING ROMANS. They change the three watches into four. Jesus alluded to this in His warning to be prepared for His return when He said that it could be during the evening, the midnight, the cockcrowing, or the morning watch. Mark 13:34 He referred to the night watches only, for Jesus will return when men walk in abject darkness. The time of day or night when He returns will depend on the time zone in which one lives. For some it will be night, for others it will be day. Coming at the speed of light He will circle every one of the time zones almost simultaneously. When He comes, in the clouds, every eye shall see Him. Even those in the grave will see His second coming. Those who pierced Him are specifically mentioned as beholding Him when He returns. Rev. 1:7
AN AMAZING MUTUAL BLUNDER. The wise as well as the foolish were found sleeping. There is nothing evident that there was any difference between them. The fervency of the ensuing event had lost its glamour until even those who had brought along an extra supply of oil gave in to the weariness of the flesh. However, even as they slept their hearts were filled with anticipation, awaiting the call and voice of the Bridegroom. Note Song 5:2 There is no discernible difference between the two groups, except for the names given them, wise and foolish. Too often the attitude of the Christian is, I am just as good as they are. Measuring ourselves by are selves we are not wise. 2 Cor. 10:12 We must be measured by the Word. When it comes to spiritual status we must consider ourselves and not try to excuse ourselves by using the comparison of another Christian. Jesus is our measuring stick and our goal. The wise will give heed to the call of the Spirit and the Word to come to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” Eph. 4:13