To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion..
In the book of Revelation, it is clear that Jesus reigns victorious above all. Throughout the book are pictures of Him seated in heaven on the throne where he reigns. In Revelation 19:6-7 John heard a voice of a great multitude like the sound of many waters and mighty thunderings saying, “Alleluia! For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns! Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.”
Jesus is the ultimate King, reigning sovereignly for all eternity. Eventually He will come and complete His reign on the earth, putting an end to Satan's reign on earth. Revelation 11:15-18 says, “Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever! And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, saying:
Jesus is clearly seen in the book of Revelation as one who reigns not only in the age to come, but in the beginning and currently. Rev. 1:8 says, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, says the Lord, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Colossians 1:15-16 says, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.”
And Hebrews 1:8-13 says, “But to the Son He says: 'Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions.' And, ' You, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands. They will perish, but You remain; And they will all grow old like a garment; Like a cloak You will fold them up, and they will be changed. But You are the same, and Your years will not fail.”
Reigning in Mercy
God is enthroned above the mercy seat (2 Kings 19:15, Ex 25:22). Justice and righteousness are the foundation of His throne. Too often, we can get a picture of Jesus coming back to judge us for our sin in wrath and anger.
Revelation 6: 15-17 says, “And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains, and said to the mountains and the rocks, 'Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?”
"Baby don't you worry, cause I got you, and I'll never let you go" sings.
We see God as causing us harm rather than holding onto us tightly with strong cords of love in the midst of tribulation and shaking. The original sin in the garden was because Adam and Eve distrusted that God was doing what was best for man. This is often why we take matters into our own hands. We think we know what is best and we think we cannot trust God.
However, 'making us pay' has never been the way that Jesus has treated sinners. For instance, Paul was throwing Christians in jail and participating in murdering them. Jesus did not respond by striking Paul dead or dropping him off a cliff. Rather, Jesus let Paul have an encounter with Him and then asked Him why he was persecuting Him. He then spoke to him of the days to come and healed him of his blindness.
In my own life, Jesus showed me tremendous mercy. I had plenty of sin that He could have judged and condemned me for. However, instead, He revealed Himself to me and then healed and cleansed me.
And when Jesus walked on the earth, He did not come in wrath, punishing people for their sin or calling down fire from heaven. Rather, when John the Baptist wanted to know if He was the One they were waiting for, He told them, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: The blind see and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them.”
Deuteronomy 33:27 says, "The eternal God is a dwelling place, And underneath are the everlasting arms; And He drove out the enemy from before you, And said, 'Destroy!'
So why would we think God would be so different when He comes for us? Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
When he comes for us to reign, it is not to consume us in wrath, but to bring complete holiness, wholeness and oneness with Him (1 Thes. 5:23). [a]
Zeph. 3:11 says, "In that day you will feel no shame because of all your deeds by which you have rebelled against Me; For then I will remove from your mist your proud, exulting ones, and you will never again be haughty on my holy mountain."
Rev. 7:17 says, "For the Lamb who stands in front of the throne will be their Shepherd. He will lead them to the springs of life-giving water. And God will wipe away all their tears."
At the end of the age, when Jesus comes to reign, Allen Hood notes that God will “unfold the splendor of His Son is such a way that lovesickness, wholeheartedness, and exploits of faith are produced in His people.”
He refers to Isaiah 4:2, “In that day the Branch of the Lord shall be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and appealing for those of Israel who have escaped.”
I once had a dream about the 2nd coming of Jesus. I saw Him come for His bride. It was not a horrible, wrath filled experience. He did not come to control, manipulate or dominate but to be one with His bride. As He began to come and reveal Himself (His glory), the bride responded to the revealing of Him with overwhelming lovesickness. The more she cried out in lovesickness, the more He revealed Himself, and the more lovesick His bride became.
Psalm 111:3a
“Your people will volunteer freely in the day of Your power.”
The Conquering King
As a great leader, Jesus is victorious over every obstacle. He conquers all and obtains the victory. He is the only one who is worthy to open the scroll because He prevailed over sin and death. Rev. 5:5 says, “Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.”
Jesus shows what it looks like to conquer and prevail over one's enemy as He stood in the midst of the throne as a Lamb though it had been slain (Rev. 5:6). He conquered by suffering and laying down His own life.
Jesus not only conquers all and reigns victoriously, but as a great leader, He calls His people to overcome and empowers them, leading them into victory.
In Revelation 19:11-16, John has a vision that paints a picture of Jesus leading His people into victory. It says, “now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse [b]. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called the Word of God. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He has on His robe and on His though a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
Seated with Him, Reigning on Earth
Rev. 5:9-10 says, “You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; For You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us kings and priests to our God' and we shall reign on the earth.” (Rev. 5:9-10)
God had said in Exodus 19:5-6, “Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine. And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”
Kings is the Greek word basileus, Strongs #935. It is used to refer to someone who rules or commands. However, as commentary notes, “the most authentic mss. have the word basileia, “kingdom,” instead of the plural of basileus, kjv, “kings;” rv, “a kingdom (to be priests),” and “a kingdom (and priests).” [1]
Kingdom, as used in the Old Testament denotes (1) the territory of the kingdom, (2) the Ascension to the throne, (3) the year of rule, and/or (4) anything royal or kingly. [2] As His people, we are called to reign as a kingdom of priests to our God. Commentary writes, “the entire nation fulfilling priestly worship and service” ” (Exod. 19:6).
A very similar word in the Greek to 'kings' (basileus) and 'kindom' (basileia) is basileuo, Strongs #936, which means “to reign.” In Rev. 5:10, it says that as a kingdom of priests, we shall reign on the earth. As commentary notes, reigning on earth “indicates the activity of life in fellowship with Christ in His sovereign power, reaching its fullness hereafter.”[3]
Ephesians 2:2-7 says, “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness towards us in Christ Jesus.”
Victory over Death
Through Jesus, who tasted death for us, He has given us victory over death. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:52-57, “For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: 'Death is swallowed up in victory.' 'O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?' The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Rev. 20:5 says, “Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.”
Victory over Sin
Hebrews 2:14-18 goes on to say, “Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For indeed He does not give aid to angels, but He does give aid to the seed of Abraham. Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.”
1 Peter 4:1-2 says, “Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.”
Through Jesus, we have victory over sin. Romans 5:17 says, “For if by the one man's offense [Adam's sin] death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.”
In Revelation 1-3, as the Lord speaks to the seven churches, He commends them for what they do well, but He also calls them to come up higher, being victorious over sin. To each church, He calls them to overcome sin.
In Rev. 3:21 He says, “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” (Rev. 3:21)
Divine Grace
Fortunately, as a great leader, God gives us much divine grace while we are learning to reign on earth. Romans 5:20-21 says, “But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more, so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” [4]
However, this does not give us license to sin. Paul says in Romans 6:1, “What shall we say then? Shall we continue sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?”
And 1 John 3:9 says, “No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God.”
“You are so beautiful to me” sings in the background.
As I mentioned last week, it is in an environment of grace rather than accusation that we learn to let go of hiding and pretending in our sin and become fully alive. Rather than condemn us for our sin, as a great leader, Jesus creates for us a place of grace to come fully alive, reigning with Him.
In Revelation 12:10-12 John says,
“Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: 'Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.'”
"He's gonna turn it all around, just wait and see. He's gonna make everything beautiful just in time... everything is in My hand, it's gonna be alright, it's gonna be okay" sings.
What gave the accuser no more right to accuse man before God? When the penalty for their sin was paid by Jesus. Wesley's Notes state, “By the blood of the Lamb - Which cleanses the soul from all sin, and so leaves no room for accusing.” [5]
“I'll be riding with Him when He comes back again... On that white horse He'll be riding, I'll be riding with Him” sings.
We will not only reign here with Christ, but we will see the fullness of this reign in the life to come. Rev 22:5 says, “And we shall reign forever with Jesus in the life to come.”
“He who sits upon the throne, sustainer of all things” sings.
Hebrews 2:5-9 says, “For He has not put the world to come, of which we speak, in subjection to angels. But one testified in a certain place, saying: 'What is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You take care of him? You have made him a little lower than the angels; You have crowed him with glory and honor, and set him over the works of Your hands. You have put all things in subjection under his feet.' For in that He put all in subjection under him, He left nothing that is not put under him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone.
For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of one, for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying: I will declare Your name to My brethren; In the midst of the assembly I will sing praise to You.' And again: “I will put My trust in Him.” And again: 'Here am I and the children whom God has given Me.'”
Jesus learned obedience by the things He suffered (Hebrews 5:8). And He conquered the enemy and learned to reign by laying down His life (Romans 14:9). In the same way, He teaches us obedience by what we suffer. And we learn to reign by laying down our lives (John 12:24).
Kingdom of Priests, Reigning on Earth
We are placed in the midst of our enemies (Ps. 23:5). And we are to learn to reign, conquering the enemy and driving them out just as the Israelites did when they took the Promised Land. Our enemy, is not people, our battle is “against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Eph. 6:12)
As one article notes that priests, in the role of spiritual leadership, were responsible to serve others. This author writes, “The Hebrew word kohen actually means "to serve," and a deeper linguistic connection can be found in the word ken, meaning "yes," itself related to kivvun, "to direct." Thus a kohen is called upon to direct himself, and others, in the proper service of God: "And you, separate your brother Aaron and his sons from among the Israelites, and bring them close to you... so they can serve me." (Ex. 28:1)” [6]
And as priests in His kingdom, we are called to serve and love others to life right where God has placed us. Dietrich Bonhoeffer notes about Jesus that he had came to bring peace to the enemies of God. He writes, “'The Kingdom is to be in the midst of your enemies. And he who will not suffer this does not want to be of the Kingdom of Christ; he wants to be among friends, to sit among roses and lilies, not with the bad people but the devout people. O you blashphemers and betrayers of Christ! If Christ had done what you are doing who would ever have been spared?' (Luther).” [7]
The priests had a position of responsiblity before man and to God to perform certain works. Their works, or labors, were meant to glorify God. In Revelations 1-3, when Jesus sent a message to each one of the seven churches, He told them, "I know your works." Our labors matter to God. However, most important to Jesus, is our heart behind them.
Priests daily came to the temple where they offered sacrifices to God for the people's sin. Jesus, showing us what this looked like when rather than judging, condemning or keeping us at a distance for our sin, offered up Himself as payment for sin once and for all.
Revelation 5:12 says, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing!”
Priests also offered praise, offerings of thanksgiving, and prayers for the people. They were called to serve before God and for man. And they were to demonstrate God's love, mercy and provision for the people. They were appointed by God for service and privileged to enter the holiest of holies in worship.
This article notes that one of their main functions was to serve as a conduit between God and man and bring God's “radiant blessing and influence into this world. In fact, it is on this account that they are commanded to deliver God's blessing of peace and love to the people, as well: 'Say to Aaron and his sons... Thus shall you bless the people of Israel: 'May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord shine His face upon you, and be gracious unto you. May the Lord lift up His face to you and may He grant you peace'.' (Numbers 6:22 – 26)” [8]
This article goes on to write, “The daily blessing of the priests in the Temple serves to open the Heavenly gates of mercy. Through it, the people of Israel merit not only material well-being - including offspring and longevity - but spiritual blessings as well; mercy, Divine protection and the greatest blessing of all... true peace. Since the priests themselves represent the attribute of kindness, their service brings the flow of God's blessing down to His people.” [9]
“I exalt Thee O, Lord!” sings.
As noted in the article, priests were called to holiness and separation onto God. The author writes, "The priest must be holy to his God. You must keep him holy, for he presents the offering to your God... 'He must be holy, for I am God - I am holy and I am making you holy' (Lev. 21).
God Has Sanctified The Priests Above All Men. The Holy One ordained special laws which effect the lives of the priests. The fundamental understanding behind these principles is that the status of the priest is different than that of other men. Their lot is one of dedication, of separation - for they are the servants of the Lord, and the custodians of His service. '... For he presents the offering to your God... '
Because of this, '... he must be holy, for I am God - I am holy and I am making you holy.' The Creator has sanctified these men above the rest for all time, and drawn them to Himself through unique commandments.” [10]
Jesus, forgive me in the so many ways I fail to be a priest before You. I fail to love others well. I often expect You to put me in a comfortable place where You and everyone else serves me rather than in the midst of my enemies to serve others. I also fail to be separated from the world unto You. I too often get caught up in worldly concerns.
Lord, we are so grateful that You reign - now and through eternity. We can rest in Your loving care knowing that You are sovereign over all and hold onto us with a greater love than life. Would you help us to be a kingdom of priests to You in a way that brings You glory and serves those around us. That we may be a conduit of Your love and presence, bringing Your radiant blessings and influence to all we encounter.
"Jesus will reign on the earth, and the two shall become one, ever uninted in the Son... Forever more Your Kingdom shall be!"
a. When Jesus appears, He will be revealed in a cloud of glory.
Revelation 1:7 says, “Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.”
Matthew 24:30 says, “Then the sign of the Son of man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”
"Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven." (Acts 1:9-11).
"Jesus said to him, 'It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.'" (Matthew 26:64).
We will meet the Lord in the clouds when He comes according to Paul in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, “Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.
Clouds in the bible are often associated with God's manifest glory.
Matthew 17:5 says, “While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!”
It was the cloud that lead the Israelites through the wilderness. 1 Corinthians 10:1-2 says, “Moreover, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware that all our fathers were under the cloud, all passed through the sea, all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea...”
And it was the cloud of glory that came down upon Mount Sinai. Exodus 24:16 says, “and the glory of the LORD settled on Mount Sinai. For six days the cloud covered the mountain, and on the seventh day the LORD called to Moses from within the cloud. “
b. The white horse was previously associated with conquering. Rev. 6:1-2 says, “Now I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals; and I heard on of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, 'Come and see.' And I looked, and behold, a white horse. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went conquering and to conquer.”
1-4. Vine, W. E. ; Unger, Merrill F. ; White, William: Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words. Nashville : T. Nelson, 1996, S. 2:343
5. Wesley's Notes. Located at: http://biblecommenter.com/revelation/12-11.htm. Last Accessed: 8/16/11
6, 8-10. Richman, Rabbi Chaim. “The Levitical Priests: Their Function and Role in the Holy Temple.” The Red Heifer. The Temple Institute, Jerusalem, Israel. Located at: http://www.templeinstitute.org/red_heifer/levitical_priests.htm
7. Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Christian Community. Harper & Row Publishers, New York, NY. 1954.
Jesus is the ultimate King, reigning sovereignly for all eternity. Eventually He will come and complete His reign on the earth, putting an end to Satan's reign on earth. Revelation 11:15-18 says, “Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever! And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, saying:
'We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, the One who is and who was and who is to come, because you have taken Your great power and reigned. The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that You should reward Your servants the prophets and the saints, and those who fear Your name, small and great, and should destroy those who destroy the earth.'Revelation 22:1-5 gives a picture of His eternal reign: “And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And the shall reign forever and ever.”
Jesus is clearly seen in the book of Revelation as one who reigns not only in the age to come, but in the beginning and currently. Rev. 1:8 says, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, says the Lord, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Colossians 1:15-16 says, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.”
And Hebrews 1:8-13 says, “But to the Son He says: 'Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions.' And, ' You, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands. They will perish, but You remain; And they will all grow old like a garment; Like a cloak You will fold them up, and they will be changed. But You are the same, and Your years will not fail.”
Reigning in Mercy
God is enthroned above the mercy seat (2 Kings 19:15, Ex 25:22). Justice and righteousness are the foundation of His throne. Too often, we can get a picture of Jesus coming back to judge us for our sin in wrath and anger.
Revelation 6: 15-17 says, “And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains, and said to the mountains and the rocks, 'Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?”
"Baby don't you worry, cause I got you, and I'll never let you go" sings.
We see God as causing us harm rather than holding onto us tightly with strong cords of love in the midst of tribulation and shaking. The original sin in the garden was because Adam and Eve distrusted that God was doing what was best for man. This is often why we take matters into our own hands. We think we know what is best and we think we cannot trust God.
However, 'making us pay' has never been the way that Jesus has treated sinners. For instance, Paul was throwing Christians in jail and participating in murdering them. Jesus did not respond by striking Paul dead or dropping him off a cliff. Rather, Jesus let Paul have an encounter with Him and then asked Him why he was persecuting Him. He then spoke to him of the days to come and healed him of his blindness.
In my own life, Jesus showed me tremendous mercy. I had plenty of sin that He could have judged and condemned me for. However, instead, He revealed Himself to me and then healed and cleansed me.
And when Jesus walked on the earth, He did not come in wrath, punishing people for their sin or calling down fire from heaven. Rather, when John the Baptist wanted to know if He was the One they were waiting for, He told them, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: The blind see and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them.”
Deuteronomy 33:27 says, "The eternal God is a dwelling place, And underneath are the everlasting arms; And He drove out the enemy from before you, And said, 'Destroy!'
So why would we think God would be so different when He comes for us? Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
When he comes for us to reign, it is not to consume us in wrath, but to bring complete holiness, wholeness and oneness with Him (1 Thes. 5:23). [a]
Zeph. 3:11 says, "In that day you will feel no shame because of all your deeds by which you have rebelled against Me; For then I will remove from your mist your proud, exulting ones, and you will never again be haughty on my holy mountain."
Rev. 7:17 says, "For the Lamb who stands in front of the throne will be their Shepherd. He will lead them to the springs of life-giving water. And God will wipe away all their tears."
At the end of the age, when Jesus comes to reign, Allen Hood notes that God will “unfold the splendor of His Son is such a way that lovesickness, wholeheartedness, and exploits of faith are produced in His people.”
He refers to Isaiah 4:2, “In that day the Branch of the Lord shall be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and appealing for those of Israel who have escaped.”
I once had a dream about the 2nd coming of Jesus. I saw Him come for His bride. It was not a horrible, wrath filled experience. He did not come to control, manipulate or dominate but to be one with His bride. As He began to come and reveal Himself (His glory), the bride responded to the revealing of Him with overwhelming lovesickness. The more she cried out in lovesickness, the more He revealed Himself, and the more lovesick His bride became.
Psalm 111:3a
“Your people will volunteer freely in the day of Your power.”
The Conquering King
As a great leader, Jesus is victorious over every obstacle. He conquers all and obtains the victory. He is the only one who is worthy to open the scroll because He prevailed over sin and death. Rev. 5:5 says, “Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.”
Jesus shows what it looks like to conquer and prevail over one's enemy as He stood in the midst of the throne as a Lamb though it had been slain (Rev. 5:6). He conquered by suffering and laying down His own life.
Jesus not only conquers all and reigns victoriously, but as a great leader, He calls His people to overcome and empowers them, leading them into victory.
In Revelation 19:11-16, John has a vision that paints a picture of Jesus leading His people into victory. It says, “now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse [b]. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called the Word of God. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He has on His robe and on His though a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
Seated with Him, Reigning on Earth
Rev. 5:9-10 says, “You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; For You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us kings and priests to our God' and we shall reign on the earth.” (Rev. 5:9-10)
God had said in Exodus 19:5-6, “Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine. And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”
Kings is the Greek word basileus, Strongs #935. It is used to refer to someone who rules or commands. However, as commentary notes, “the most authentic mss. have the word basileia, “kingdom,” instead of the plural of basileus, kjv, “kings;” rv, “a kingdom (to be priests),” and “a kingdom (and priests).” [1]
Kingdom, as used in the Old Testament denotes (1) the territory of the kingdom, (2) the Ascension to the throne, (3) the year of rule, and/or (4) anything royal or kingly. [2] As His people, we are called to reign as a kingdom of priests to our God. Commentary writes, “the entire nation fulfilling priestly worship and service” ” (Exod. 19:6).
A very similar word in the Greek to 'kings' (basileus) and 'kindom' (basileia) is basileuo, Strongs #936, which means “to reign.” In Rev. 5:10, it says that as a kingdom of priests, we shall reign on the earth. As commentary notes, reigning on earth “indicates the activity of life in fellowship with Christ in His sovereign power, reaching its fullness hereafter.”[3]
Ephesians 2:2-7 says, “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness towards us in Christ Jesus.”
Victory over Death
Through Jesus, who tasted death for us, He has given us victory over death. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:52-57, “For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: 'Death is swallowed up in victory.' 'O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?' The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Rev. 20:5 says, “Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.”
Victory over Sin
Hebrews 2:14-18 goes on to say, “Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For indeed He does not give aid to angels, but He does give aid to the seed of Abraham. Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.”
1 Peter 4:1-2 says, “Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.”
Through Jesus, we have victory over sin. Romans 5:17 says, “For if by the one man's offense [Adam's sin] death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.”
In Revelation 1-3, as the Lord speaks to the seven churches, He commends them for what they do well, but He also calls them to come up higher, being victorious over sin. To each church, He calls them to overcome sin.
In Rev. 3:21 He says, “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” (Rev. 3:21)
Divine Grace
Fortunately, as a great leader, God gives us much divine grace while we are learning to reign on earth. Romans 5:20-21 says, “But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more, so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” [4]
However, this does not give us license to sin. Paul says in Romans 6:1, “What shall we say then? Shall we continue sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?”
And 1 John 3:9 says, “No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God.”
“You are so beautiful to me” sings in the background.
As I mentioned last week, it is in an environment of grace rather than accusation that we learn to let go of hiding and pretending in our sin and become fully alive. Rather than condemn us for our sin, as a great leader, Jesus creates for us a place of grace to come fully alive, reigning with Him.
In Revelation 12:10-12 John says,
“Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: 'Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.'”
"He's gonna turn it all around, just wait and see. He's gonna make everything beautiful just in time... everything is in My hand, it's gonna be alright, it's gonna be okay" sings.
What gave the accuser no more right to accuse man before God? When the penalty for their sin was paid by Jesus. Wesley's Notes state, “By the blood of the Lamb - Which cleanses the soul from all sin, and so leaves no room for accusing.” [5]
“I'll be riding with Him when He comes back again... On that white horse He'll be riding, I'll be riding with Him” sings.
We will not only reign here with Christ, but we will see the fullness of this reign in the life to come. Rev 22:5 says, “And we shall reign forever with Jesus in the life to come.”
“He who sits upon the throne, sustainer of all things” sings.
Hebrews 2:5-9 says, “For He has not put the world to come, of which we speak, in subjection to angels. But one testified in a certain place, saying: 'What is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You take care of him? You have made him a little lower than the angels; You have crowed him with glory and honor, and set him over the works of Your hands. You have put all things in subjection under his feet.' For in that He put all in subjection under him, He left nothing that is not put under him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone.
For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of one, for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying: I will declare Your name to My brethren; In the midst of the assembly I will sing praise to You.' And again: “I will put My trust in Him.” And again: 'Here am I and the children whom God has given Me.'”
Jesus learned obedience by the things He suffered (Hebrews 5:8). And He conquered the enemy and learned to reign by laying down His life (Romans 14:9). In the same way, He teaches us obedience by what we suffer. And we learn to reign by laying down our lives (John 12:24).
Kingdom of Priests, Reigning on Earth
We are placed in the midst of our enemies (Ps. 23:5). And we are to learn to reign, conquering the enemy and driving them out just as the Israelites did when they took the Promised Land. Our enemy, is not people, our battle is “against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Eph. 6:12)
As one article notes that priests, in the role of spiritual leadership, were responsible to serve others. This author writes, “The Hebrew word kohen actually means "to serve," and a deeper linguistic connection can be found in the word ken, meaning "yes," itself related to kivvun, "to direct." Thus a kohen is called upon to direct himself, and others, in the proper service of God: "And you, separate your brother Aaron and his sons from among the Israelites, and bring them close to you... so they can serve me." (Ex. 28:1)” [6]
And as priests in His kingdom, we are called to serve and love others to life right where God has placed us. Dietrich Bonhoeffer notes about Jesus that he had came to bring peace to the enemies of God. He writes, “'The Kingdom is to be in the midst of your enemies. And he who will not suffer this does not want to be of the Kingdom of Christ; he wants to be among friends, to sit among roses and lilies, not with the bad people but the devout people. O you blashphemers and betrayers of Christ! If Christ had done what you are doing who would ever have been spared?' (Luther).” [7]
The priests had a position of responsiblity before man and to God to perform certain works. Their works, or labors, were meant to glorify God. In Revelations 1-3, when Jesus sent a message to each one of the seven churches, He told them, "I know your works." Our labors matter to God. However, most important to Jesus, is our heart behind them.
Priests daily came to the temple where they offered sacrifices to God for the people's sin. Jesus, showing us what this looked like when rather than judging, condemning or keeping us at a distance for our sin, offered up Himself as payment for sin once and for all.
Revelation 5:12 says, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing!”
Priests also offered praise, offerings of thanksgiving, and prayers for the people. They were called to serve before God and for man. And they were to demonstrate God's love, mercy and provision for the people. They were appointed by God for service and privileged to enter the holiest of holies in worship.
This article notes that one of their main functions was to serve as a conduit between God and man and bring God's “radiant blessing and influence into this world. In fact, it is on this account that they are commanded to deliver God's blessing of peace and love to the people, as well: 'Say to Aaron and his sons... Thus shall you bless the people of Israel: 'May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord shine His face upon you, and be gracious unto you. May the Lord lift up His face to you and may He grant you peace'.' (Numbers 6:22 – 26)” [8]
This article goes on to write, “The daily blessing of the priests in the Temple serves to open the Heavenly gates of mercy. Through it, the people of Israel merit not only material well-being - including offspring and longevity - but spiritual blessings as well; mercy, Divine protection and the greatest blessing of all... true peace. Since the priests themselves represent the attribute of kindness, their service brings the flow of God's blessing down to His people.” [9]
“I exalt Thee O, Lord!” sings.
As noted in the article, priests were called to holiness and separation onto God. The author writes, "The priest must be holy to his God. You must keep him holy, for he presents the offering to your God... 'He must be holy, for I am God - I am holy and I am making you holy' (Lev. 21).
God Has Sanctified The Priests Above All Men. The Holy One ordained special laws which effect the lives of the priests. The fundamental understanding behind these principles is that the status of the priest is different than that of other men. Their lot is one of dedication, of separation - for they are the servants of the Lord, and the custodians of His service. '... For he presents the offering to your God... '
Because of this, '... he must be holy, for I am God - I am holy and I am making you holy.' The Creator has sanctified these men above the rest for all time, and drawn them to Himself through unique commandments.” [10]
Jesus, forgive me in the so many ways I fail to be a priest before You. I fail to love others well. I often expect You to put me in a comfortable place where You and everyone else serves me rather than in the midst of my enemies to serve others. I also fail to be separated from the world unto You. I too often get caught up in worldly concerns.
Lord, we are so grateful that You reign - now and through eternity. We can rest in Your loving care knowing that You are sovereign over all and hold onto us with a greater love than life. Would you help us to be a kingdom of priests to You in a way that brings You glory and serves those around us. That we may be a conduit of Your love and presence, bringing Your radiant blessings and influence to all we encounter.
"Jesus will reign on the earth, and the two shall become one, ever uninted in the Son... Forever more Your Kingdom shall be!"
a. When Jesus appears, He will be revealed in a cloud of glory.
Revelation 1:7 says, “Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.”
Matthew 24:30 says, “Then the sign of the Son of man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”
"Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven." (Acts 1:9-11).
"Jesus said to him, 'It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.'" (Matthew 26:64).
We will meet the Lord in the clouds when He comes according to Paul in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, “Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.
Clouds in the bible are often associated with God's manifest glory.
Matthew 17:5 says, “While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!”
It was the cloud that lead the Israelites through the wilderness. 1 Corinthians 10:1-2 says, “Moreover, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware that all our fathers were under the cloud, all passed through the sea, all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea...”
And it was the cloud of glory that came down upon Mount Sinai. Exodus 24:16 says, “and the glory of the LORD settled on Mount Sinai. For six days the cloud covered the mountain, and on the seventh day the LORD called to Moses from within the cloud. “
b. The white horse was previously associated with conquering. Rev. 6:1-2 says, “Now I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals; and I heard on of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, 'Come and see.' And I looked, and behold, a white horse. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went conquering and to conquer.”
1-4. Vine, W. E. ; Unger, Merrill F. ; White, William: Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words. Nashville : T. Nelson, 1996, S. 2:343
5. Wesley's Notes. Located at: http://biblecommenter.com/revelation/12-11.htm. Last Accessed: 8/16/11
6, 8-10. Richman, Rabbi Chaim. “The Levitical Priests: Their Function and Role in the Holy Temple.” The Red Heifer. The Temple Institute, Jerusalem, Israel. Located at: http://www.templeinstitute.org/red_heifer/levitical_priests.htm
7. Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Christian Community. Harper & Row Publishers, New York, NY. 1954.
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