RISE | Orchard Church

Young Adults Ministry

Ruth | Session 6 - Ruth's Love Fulfilled 4:1-22 08/12/2026

Ruth | Session 5 - Ruth Makes an Appeal 3:1-18 08/05/2026

Ruth | Session 5 - Ruth Makes an Appeal 3:1-18 Summary: Ruth Cleaving (Chapter 1) · “In the days the judges ruled…” · Famine drives family to Moab – Elimelech (“God is my King“) – Naomi (“Pleasant” (Land?) – Mahlon (“Unhealthy”; “to blot out“) – Chilion (“Puny”; “to perish“) · Naomi discourages daughters-in-law from following – Orpah (“Fawn”) [Ultimately returns] – Ruth (“Desirable”) [Remains with Naomi] Background: The Hem, the Kinsman-Redeemer, and Ruth's Request I. The Hem Represented Authority and Protection In Bible times, the hem (or edge) of a person's robe represented their identity, authority, and covenant relationship. It wasn't just part of their clothing—it symbolized who they were. David cutting off Saul's hem (1 Samuel 24) symbolized taking the king's authority. Israelites wore tassels on their garments as a reminder to obey God's commands (Numbers 15:38–39). In Ezekiel 16:8, God says, "I spread My wing (or garment) over you," describing His covenant love, protection, and care for Israel. When the woman with the issue of blood touched the hem of Jesus' garment, she wasn't reaching for magical fabric—she was reaching out in faith to the Messiah, believing He alone could heal her (Matthew 9:20–22). Application: God's covering isn't just protection—it's a relationship. Jesus invites us to come under His care and authority. II. The Kinsman-Redeemer · According to Deuteronomy 25:5–10, a kinsman-redeemer had the opportunity to preserve a deceased relative's family by marrying the widow and continuing the family line. · To qualify, he had to meet three requirements: – He had to be a close relative. – He had to be able to redeem. – He had to be willing to redeem; it was not required. · If he refused, he publicly surrendered his right by removing his sandal—a symbol that he had declined his responsibility. Read Ruth 3:1-18 RUTH: LOVE'S Appeal Ruth 3:1-18 – Ruth makes an Appeal Big Idea: God brings clarity to those who humbly trust Him and obediently follow His direction. 1) Point 1 - Clarity Comes Through Wise Counsel [1-2a] “Security for Ruth through a kinsman. Then Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, ‘My daughter, shall I not seek security for you, that it may be well with you? Now Boaz, whose young women you were with, is he not our relative?’” a) Then Naomi her mother-in-law: After the barley and wheat harvests, Ruth and Boaz had spent weeks working alongside one another. They weren't "dating" as we think of it today. Instead, they observed each other's character in the context of everyday life and community. i) There is wisdom in this. True character is revealed over time and in how people treat others—not just how they treat someone they hope to impress. Ruth respected Boaz because she had watched him consistently live with integrity. b) Naomi wanted Ruth to find a home of rest and security (manowach). She recognized that Boaz was God's provision for Ruth's future. c) Naomi's plan was not an attempt to manipulate Boaz. It was based on God's Law concerning the goel, or kinsman-redeemer. As a close relative, Boaz had both the right and the responsibility to redeem Elimelech's family by protecting their inheritance, preserving the family name, and caring for Ruth. d) Boaz points us to Jesus, our true Kinsman-Redeemer, who redeemed us, gave us a new family, and provides eternal rest and security. Principle 1 - God often reveals His direction through godly people. [2b-5] “In fact, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor. Therefore wash yourself and anoint yourself, put on your best garment and go down to the threshing floor; but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. Then it shall be, when he lies down, that you shall notice the place where he lies; and you shall go in, uncover his feet, and lie down; and he will tell you what you should do.” And she said to her, “All that you say to me I will do.” e) Wash yourself…anoint yourself…put on your best garment…[wait] until he has finished eating and drinking: Naomi instructed Ruth to wash, apply perfume, and put on her best clothes. She also told her to wait until Boaz had finished eating before approaching him. These instructions reflected wisdom, patience, and respect rather than manipulation. Ruth was to approach Boaz with dignity and good judgment. i) Put on your best garment: The Hebrew word is simlah; which refers to an outer garment or cloak. (1) Being poor, Ruth may not have owned a “best dress.” Instead, Naomi was likely telling her to remove her widow’s clothing and dress in normal clothes. (2) In the Bible, changing clothes often symbolized the end of morning and the beginning of a new season (see 2 Samuel 12:20 – David completing his mourning for his son). (3) If Ruth had continued wearing garments of morning, Boaz would have respected her grief and would not have pursued a relationship with her. (a) Naomi’s instructed her to signal to Boaz that she was done mourning. f) Uncover his feet, and lie down: Ruth was told to uncover Boaz’s feet and lie down. While this sounds strange, it was not a sexual gesture in that culture. It was a symbol of humility, submission and trust. i) By lying at Boaz’s feet, Ruth came as a servant, placing herself under the care of her kinsman-redeemer. She was not demanding her rights but humbly trusting Boaz’s character and asking him to fulfill his God-given responsibility. In essence, she was saying, “I trust you, and I place my future in your hands.” g) All that you say to me I will do: Ruth humbly and wisely received the counsel of her mother-in-law. Principle 2 - Clarity requires obedient faith before complete understanding. 2) Point 2 - Clarity Comes Through Trusting God's Redeemer [6-7] So she went down to the threshing floor and did according to all that her mother-in-law instructed her. And after Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was cheerful, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain; and she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down. a) He went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain: Remember that these were the days of the Judges with much political and social instability in Israel. There was a high potentiality of thieves coming to steal all the hard-earned grain. i) Boaz would lie down by on heap of grain, and his servants would be scattered in other areas of his property to guad the other heaps of grain. (1) This would have provided some measure of privacy for Boaz and Ruth. b) She came softly: Ruth did just as her mother-in-law Naomi had recommended. i) Remember that we come to Jesus empty-handed. Grace is never earned…it is received. Principle 3 – Humility positions us to receive God’s grace. [8-9] Now it happened at midnight that the man was startled, and turned himself; and there, a woman was lying at his feet. And he said, “Who are you?” So she answered, “I am Ruth, your maidservant. Take your maidservant under your wing, for you are a close relative [goel].” c) It happened at midnight that the man was startled: Boaz was suddenly awakened at midnight, likely because his uncovered feet had become cold. As he stirred, he realized someone was lying at his feet. Since he was sleeping at the threshing floor to guard his grain from thieves, the unexpected presence would have initially concerned him. His initial alarm quickly turned to surprise when he discovered the visitor was Ruth and not a thief. d) Take your maidservant under your wing, for you are a close relative: Maidservant is the Hebrew word amah; and thus she was presenting herself as one who was eligible for marriage. e) Under your wing: Here, she boldly asked Boaz to take her in marriage. The phrase can also be translated as “spread the corner of your garment over me.” This was a culturally relevant way to say, “I am a widow, take me as your wife.” [10-11] Then he said, “Blessed are you of the LORD, my daughter! For you have shown more kindness at the end than at the beginning, in that you did not go after young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you request, for all the people of my town know that you are a virtuous woman.” f) Blessed are you of the LORD, my daughter... you did not go after young men: Although Boaz was likely much older (40-50) than Ruth (20-30), he never presumed upon his position as her kinsman-redeemer. He patiently waited from Ruth’s willingness and respected her freedom to choose. i) Ruth, in turn, was drawn to Boaz not because of his appearance, but because of his godly character, integrity, and kindness. (1) Biblical relationships are built on character, not chemistry; respect, not pressure; and commitment, not convenience. g) STOP TRYING TO FIND THE ONE! There IS NOT “The One,” there is ONLY “The One you pick.” (a) Stop finding and start becoming. ii) All the people of my town know that you are a virtuous woman: Boaz was also attracted to Ruth because of her character. We don’t really know how Ruth looked, but we do know that she was a woman of godly character. (1) Literally, Boaz called Ruth a hah-yil woman. The basic meaning behind this Hebrew word is “strength; moral strength, good quality, integrity, virtue.” This same word is used in a term for heroes in the Bible: A mighty man of valor. Just as courage and strength make a man a hero, so Ruth’s courage and strength, shown in her virtue — make her a hero, in the Proverbs 31 kind of definition of a woman of virtue. iii) The Virtuous Woman (Proverbs 31:10–31) – Fears the Lord – Trustworthy – Does her husband good – Hardworking and diligent – Wise steward of resources – Industrious and productive – Plans for the future – Provides for her family – Compassionate to the poor – Strong and honorable – Confident about the future – Speaks with wisdom – Kind in her words – Watches over her household – Not lazy – Honored by her children – Praised by her husband – Beautiful because of her godly character iv) The Virtuous Man (Ezekiel 18:5–9) – Does what is lawful and right – Worships God alone (rejects idolatry) – Sexually pure and faithful – Does not oppress others – Returns what is pledged – Does not steal – Provides for the hungry – Clothes the needy – Does not exploit people financially – Practices justice fairly – Obeys God's statutes – Walks faithfully with God – Lives with integrity h) Summary: i) A Virtuous Woman is recognized by her godly character, wisdom, diligence, compassion, and fear of the Lord. ii) A Virtuous Man is recognized by his integrity, justice, compassion, purity, obedience, and faithfulness to God. (1) So, stop trying to find the virtuous woman/man, and start becoming a virtuous woman/man. (a) This beautiful biblical picture of the kind of man and woman God desires to unite in marriage. Principle 2 - God's timing always produces greater clarity than our impatience. [12-13] “Now it is true that I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than I. Stay this night, and in the morning it shall be that if he will perform the duty of a close relative for you; good; let him do it. But if he does not want to perform the duty for you, then I will perform the duty for you, as the LORD lives! Lie down until morning.” i) There is a relative closer than I: The climatic potential tragedy. There is someone closer who would have first right. Under the Mosaic Law, the duty fell upon the closest male relative, unless he waved his right of priority. (This may explain why he did not make his own move earlier.) [14-15] So she lay at his feet until morning, and she arose before one could recognize another. Then he said, “Do not let it be known that the woman came to the threshing floor.” Also he said, “Bring the shawl that is on you and hold it.” And when she held it, he measured six ephahs of barley, and laid it on her. Then she went into the city. j) Do not let it be known: Boaz and Ruth were not trying to hide anything scandalous; it was just that Boaz didn’t want this nearer kinsman to learn that Ruth was now demanding her right to marriage to a goel before Boaz could tell him personally. k) He measured six ephahs of barley: The six measures of barley are a code. Boaz gave it for Naomi, not Ruth (cf. v.18). [16-18] So when she came to her mother-in-law, she said, “Is that you, my daughter?” Then she told her all that the man had done for her. And she said, “These six ephahs of barley he gave me; for he said to me, ‘Do not go empty-handed to your mother-in-law.’” Then she said, “Sit still, my daughter, until you know how the matter will turn out; for the man will not rest until he has concluded the matter this day.” l) Sit still, my daughter... the man will not rest until he has concluded the matter this day: “...will not be in rest”: How long did it take God to create the earth? Six days (Gen 1 and Ex 20:11). And on the seventh day He rested. When Boaz gives six measures to Naomi, she understands that he is saying that he won’t rest until the matter is resolved. 3) Chapter 3 Summary a) The situation by the end of this chapter is that Naomi’s prayer of Ruth (1:8, 9) is about to be answered. Ruth will find rest in marriage. The famine will no longer be a factor, since Boaz’s gift assured the woman of plenty to eat. Ruth no longer identifies as the lower status of the Moabitess, but rather she uses her own name I am Ruth (vs. 9). b) This was a time of considerable anxiety for Ruth. She had claimed her right to marriage and would be married. The only question was to whom would she be married? Would it be to Boaz, or to the nearer goel? The issue would be decided that very day. 4) Christ Connection a) Boaz points us to Jesus. (1) Boaz was willing…Jesus is willing. (2) Boaz had the ability to redeem…Jesus alone has the power to redeem. (3) Boaz gave Ruth security…Jesus gives us eternal security. (4) Boaz covered Ruth…Jesus covers us with His righteousness. Recall Questions 1) Why did Naomi seek security for Ruth? 2) What relationship existed between Boaz and Naomi's family? 3) What is the role of a kinsman-redeemer (goel)? 4) What instructions did Naomi give Ruth before going to Boaz? 5) Why did Ruth wait until Boaz had finished eating? 6) Where did Ruth lie down? 7) What request did Ruth make of Boaz? 8) How did Boaz describe Ruth's character? 9) What obstacle prevented Boaz from immediately redeeming Ruth? 10) What did Boaz send home with Ruth? Application Questions 1) Who has God placed in your life to provide wise spiritual counsel? 2) Are you waiting for complete understanding before obeying God? 3) What step of obedience is God asking you to take today? 4) Where are you tempted to demand control instead of humbly trusting God? 5) What situation in your life currently lacks clarity? 6) How have you seen God work through delays in your life? 7) In what area do you need to wait instead of forcing a solution? 8) How does Boaz help you better understand Jesus as your Redeemer? 9) What promise of God can you hold onto while waiting for clarity? 10) This week, what practical act of faith will demonstrate your trust in God's timing? /episode/index/show/cf879d7a-3595-432b-8e7f-138f3dcfdd2c/id/42331815

Ruth | Session 4 - More Than Enough 2:14-23 08/01/2026

The Unseen Realm | Session 4 - Halloween - Departure to the Occult 08/01/2026

The Unseen Realm | Session 4 - Halloween - Departure to the Occult The Unseen Realm Halloween – Departure to the Occult 1 Corinthians 10:18-29 & Deuteronomy 18:9-11 The “occult” comes from the Latin word for “hidden/secret” things. The term is used to describe practices such as astrology, numerology, witchcraft, crystal gazing, necromancy (communication with the dead), magic, and palm reading…all, according to the Bible are forbidden to man and cursed by God. Why do you think that people are drawn to these practices instead of seeking God’s guidance? Halloween Halloween is an invitation to the occult and must be recognized as a seriously risky practice by unbelievers and believers alike. Why do people enjoy dark themes associated with Halloween? You Christians are just overreacting…aren’t you? You must be careful with your entertainments. There is only one true God (Isa 44:6, 8; 46:9). Therefore, only one worldview. All false religion and idolatry is by definition involvement with demon worship…whether the participant recognizes it or not. Why might people be unaware that they are actually participating in demonic worship? Modern Halloween Traditions In early American history, Halloween was not widely practiced until the 20th century, when it was introduced by the Irish Catholic settlements. Gradually, Halloween became a secular observance, and many customs and practices developed. The carved pumpkin may have originated with the witches' use of a skull with a candle inside to light the way to coven meetings. · The Wearing Of Masks - "The purpose of wearing a mask in most primitive religious traditions is to make a spiritual connection with the deity or the Nature Spirit represented by the mask. ... According to Scripture, how should believers respond to practices that seek to connect with spirits or deities other than God? · "Trick-Or-Treating" - "Trick-or-treating originated in Ireland when on the eve of Samhain, people would go house to house looking for food contributions to Muck Olla. How can Christians use the Halloween event to show kindness and share God’s love? This is about stumbling a brother regarding what another person was eating or drinking. Even if you personally have the liberty to do something, you do not have the liberty to stumble a brother in the Lord. Paul is talking about a brother that is sincerely stumbled by your behavior, not catering to the whims of someone’s legalism. For whatever is not from faith is sin: This is the guiding principle that guides all gray areas – if we can’t do it in faith (you’re troubled by it), then it is sin. There are only two worldviews. God’s view or our own contrivances. What you believe determines how you behave. So…what do you believe? You must be careful with your entertainments. /episode/index/show/cf879d7a-3595-432b-8e7f-138f3dcfdd2c/id/42286190

The Unseen Realm | Session 3 - Satan & Hell 08/01/2026

The Unseen Realm | Session 3 - Satan & Hell The Unseen Realm Session 3 – Satan & Hell (Ezekiel 28, Isaiah 14, Luke 16:19-31) 1) We will see how the armor of God is the ultimate answer for spiritual warfare. i) How does knowing that we are both the “pawns” and the “prize” affect how seriously you take your spiritual walk? 2) Satan (demons) can possess a person against their will (Mark 5:1-20, Mark 9:14-29, John 13:2). TRUTH: There is a progression that can be associated with entries. Influence ® temptation ® decision ®possession. i) Why is it spiritually dangerous to have a misconception about Satan? (1) Satan was always evil (Isa 14:12-15, Ezekiel 28:13-17). TRUTH: Satan was a high angel who fell. 3) Ezekiel 28: The Power Behind the Throne (1) I will cast you out: He was driven out of the place of sanctity (v.14) in which he had once occupied (Ps 89:39). ii) How can we ensure we are honoring God rather than seeking splendor or recognition for ourselves? 4) Isaiah 14: Lamentation on the King of Babylon (1) These are the five “I will”s… (a) I will be like the Most High: “I will be glorious, and be set equal to God, far above all other created beings.” (i) How does our pride lead to spiritual downfall or unrighteous ambition? 5) Hell We get our English word for “Hell” from a Saxon word helan, “to cover.” It means to be covered or the invisible places. In Scripture there are four words that are rendered “Hell” and one that is associated with it; Sheol (Hebrew), Hades, Gehenna, and Tartarus (all Greek). (1) Tartarus: It is the designated place of imprisonment for the angels who sinned (Gen 6; 2 Pet 2:4; Jude 1:6). (2) Abousso: The related terms are “bottomless pit,” or “the abyss.” ii) How should these realities influence our urgency in sharing the gospel? d) The Rich Man and Lazarus: Luke 16 i) This is not a parable. Parables never use someone’s name (Lazarus). ii) The man is in Hades and was fully aware and conscious. 6) Recovery Plan a) Confess and Renounce All Sin Before God Openly and sincerely confess any and all sin before the throne of God (1 John 1:9). God's "24-hour hotline" is always open—you can come to Him at any time through prayer, right from the privacy of your own heart and will. b) Receive the Gift of Salvation Through Jesus Christ Humbly ask to receive the full benefits of what Jesus Christ has accomplished on your behalf (John 3:16; 5:24). His work is complete—trust in Him. c) Commit to Serious Bible Study Make a deliberate commitment to study the Bible as the infallible Word of God (2 Timothy 2:25–26; Psalm 119). Pursue spiritual growth by putting on "the full armor of God" (Ephesians 6:10–18). d) Pray Daily and Continually Spend time with God in prayer each day (Ephesians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:17). Let prayer become a constant part of your relationship with Him. e) Join a Bible-Centered Christian Fellowship Become part of a community of believers where the entire Bible is taught and upheld as the final authority (Hebrews 10:25). Avoid and flee from any group or movement that does not affirm the supreme authority of Scripture or denies the unique deity of Jesus Christ (1 John 4:1–4). i) Are you actively involved in a fellowship where Scripture is taught? If not, what steps will you take to find one? /episode/index/show/cf879d7a-3595-432b-8e7f-138f3dcfdd2c/id/42286170

The Unseen Realm | Session 2 - The Demonic Realm 07/22/2026

The Unseen Realm | Session 2 - The Demonic Realm The Unseen Realm Session 2 – The Demonic Realm (Daniel 10:1-21) 1) The Unseen War a) You and I are caught in an unseen war within unknowable dimensional spaces – a supernatural battle where we are both the pawns and prize. i) How does knowing that we are both the “pawns” and the “prize” affect how seriously you take your spiritual walk? 2) The Unseen Realm Scripturally Revealed (Daniel 10:1-21) a) We have here some insights into the “Dark Side” of spiritual conflicts in the unseen realm. Concealed beings that influence the rise and fall of great empires. These angelic entities possess some kind of territorial nature and are connected to specific areas. In their struggle they are both shaped and are shaped by the events that take place in our physical world. i) In what ways might the events of the physical world be influenced by the unseen spiritual battles? 3) Unveiling the Principalities and Powers of the Unseen Realm a) Here Paul names the entities principalities and powers in b) Their role in contributing to the fallenness of the world. i) These principalities and powers are at work (they don’t sleep): (1) to blind, deceive, and destroy the individual and society; (2) to stir up rebellious ideologies, wars and oppression; (3) to encourage idolatry and create rebellion in into the systems and structures of decent society. ii) How do you see this blinding happening in the culture today? 2) Demons: what they can and can’t do and their agenda Mark 5:1-17. a) These demons wanted to destroy the man just like they destroyed the pigs. Because we are made in the image of God, demons desire our destruction. i) What are some ways in which the enemy subtly works to destroy the image of God in people (e.g., through lies, oppression, or sin)? b) Demonology: i) They are different from “fallen angels.” ii) Demons are under Satan’s control, and they are part of his troop. iii) They are malicious, harmful, and dangerous, and if you are not a Christian, you are susceptible to their influence. iv) It is foolish to attribute their behavior to a simple psychiatric disorder. v) They cannot indwell animals without permission. vi) They are powerless without a host body. vii) They have superhuman strength with a body. viii) They cannot materialize as angels can. ix) They know their destiny (Gadara). x) They may be the disembodied spirits of the Nephilim that drowned in the flood (Pastor Jeno’s Opinion). xi) They require permission (even for animals) for personal entry. Inadvertent entries are dangerous for anyone to play around with: occultic practices, Ouija boards, role-playing games; séances; false worship, etc. 3) Christ’s Triumph Over Them a) It would seem that all of these evil spiritual forces are mighty, but they are not supreme. The gospel proclaims that Jesus has triumphed over them: i) Why is it important to remember that while demons are mighty, they are not supreme? ii) Through His death and resurrection, Jesus stripped them of their ultimate power. The cross was not only a redemption for sinners but a cosmic victory over the spiritual forces of darkness. Believers now stand not under their dominion, but in the authority of Christ, seated with Him in heavenly places. /episode/index/show/cf879d7a-3595-432b-8e7f-138f3dcfdd2c/id/42185095

The Unseen Realm | Session 1 - Angelic Realm 07/22/2026

The Unseen Realm | Session 1 - Angelic Realm The Unseen Realm Session 1 – The Angelic Realm (2 Kings 6:8-17) 1) The Angelic Realm Confusion a) Are angels real? i) What was your understanding of the Angelic Realm before this teaching? 2) Popular Misconceptions a) Movies often reflect the evolving cultural, spiritual, and psychological ideas about angels. While they tap into ancient archetypes and try to update them for contemporary audiences, they often misrepresent or completely distort the Biblical truths about angels. i) What is the danger of using other sources to understand Biblical truths? 3) Modern Mythology a) Cherubs: chubby babies with wings. b) People (usually women) with wings. 4) “Angel” a) מלאך; mal’ak, meaning “one who is dispatched with a message”; ἄγγελος aggelos, meaning “a messenger, envoy, one who is sent, a messenger from God”. 5) Ministry of Angels a) They are constantly on duty to serve the “inheritors of salvation.” (Heb 1:14): b) Angels encourage and strengthen us: c) Angelic Duties: i) They are guardians Matthew 18:10; Acts 12:14-15. ii) They guide us Genesis 19:15-17 iii) They encourage us Judges 6:12 iv) How does knowing that there is a possibility for a divine encounter change your everyday life? 6) Characteristics of Angels a) Angels are personal beings: b) Angels are spirit beings: c) They have physical reality: d) Angels have attributes in a degree greater than man but less than God: e) Angels are organized and ranked: 7) The Unseen Realm Scripturally Revealed (2 Kings 6:8-17) a) The Bible is the only reliable source on the subject of the supernatural realm. 8) Key Figures a) “The Angel of the Lord”: (Theophanies or Christophanies) b) Gabriel: the Messianic Messenger. c) Michael: the Military Leader. d) Senior Ranks: Cherubim, Seraphim, et al. e) Lucifer: “You were the anointed cherub who covers” and his lieutenants (these will be covered in Session #2): f) “The Angel of the LORD” Appearances i) To Abraham: Announcing the birth of Isaac (Gen18:1) and when he was about to sacrifice Isaac (Gen 22:9-19). ii) To Jacob: He wrestles with him until blessed (Gen 32). iii) To Moses: At the burning bush (Ex 3:6). iv) To Others: Balaam & his talking donkey (Num 22:22-35); Joshua as he approaches Jericho (Josh 5:13-15); Gideon’s call as a Judge (Judg 6); and Samson’s mother and Manoah his father (Judg 13). v) What is your understand of a Theophany? g) Gabriel i) He announced the birth of John the Baptist (Lk 1:11). ii) He announced the birth of the Messiah (Lk 1:26). h) Michael i) A military leader on behalf of Israel: “One of the chief princes” (Dan 10:13); “Your prince” (Dan 10:21); “The great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people” (Dan 12:1); “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against…(Satan)...and his angels…” (Rev 12:7). i) The Mystery of Moses’ Body i) Moses appears at the Transfiguration (Mt 17) and, possibly, as one of the two witnesses (Rev 11). j) Super Angels i) Cherubim (4 wings) – These figures are elevated to close proximate to the place of God and function in several ways: (1) They guard the way to the tree of life (Gen 3:24). (2) They guard the ark in Solomon’s Temple (1 Kgs 6:23-28; 8:7). (3) They support the Lord’s throne (1 Sam 4:2; 2 Sam 6:2; 2 Kgs 19:15; Ps 80:1; 99:1). ii) Seraphim (6 wings) (1) Vision of the Throne of God (Isa 6:2). iii) zoon Living Creatures (6 wings) (1) Vision of the Throne of God (Rev 4,5). iv) Which of the angels is the most interesting to you? /episode/index/show/cf879d7a-3595-432b-8e7f-138f3dcfdd2c/id/42185070

Ruth | Session 3 - Ruth in the Fields of Grace 2:1-13 07/22/2026

Ruth | Session 2 - Ruth's Decision Ruth 1:1-22 07/08/2026

Revelation | Session 14 - Daniel's 70 Weeks Daniel 9:14-27 07/08/2026

Revelation | Session 13 - The Lamb Takes the Scroll Rev 5:1-14 07/08/2026

Revelation | Session 12 - The Rapture 1 Thessalonians 4:13-19 07/08/2026

Revelation | Session 11 - The Throne Room of heaven Rev 4:1-11 07/08/2026

Revelation | Session 10 Part 2 - The Olivet Discourse Mt 24 & Lk 21 07/08/2026

Revelation | Session 10 Part 1 - The Olivet Discourse Mt 24 & Lk 21 06/21/2026

Revelation | Session 9 - Laodicea - The Lukewarm Church Rev 3:14-22 06/21/2026

Revelation | Session 8 - Philadelphia - The Faithful Church Rev 3:7-13 06/21/2026

Revelation | Session 7 - Sardis - The Dead Church Reve 3:1-6 06/21/2026

Revelation | Session 6 - Thyatira - The Corrupt Church Rev 2:18-29 06/21/2026

Revelation | Session 5 - Pergamos - The Compromising Church Rev 2:12-17 06/21/2026

Revelation | Session 15 - The Seven Seals are Opened & The Four Horsemen 06/10/2026

Revelation | Session 3 - Ephesus - The Loveless Church Chapter 2:1-7 06/09/2026

Revelation | Session 2 - The Divine Outline Chapter 1:1-20 06/09/2026

Revelation | Session 1 - Introduction Chapter 1:1 06/09/2026

Revelation | Session 1 - Introduction Chapter 1:1 The Book of Revelation Session 1 – Introduction Revelation 1:10 (NKJV) “…I heard behind me a loud voice…” I heard – the Gospel preached… Revelation 1:12 (NKJV) “…Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me…” I turned – repentance by the sinner… Revelation 1:17 (NKJKV) “And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead…” I saw – the Light of salvation… I fell – in worship to the King! 1) First note that Revelation is singular and not a plural “Revelations.” a) Revelation is “Apocalypse” (apokalupsis) and it means “unveiling.” b) Revelation of what? Of Jesus Christ, how He really is today. The Revelation belongs to Him and He is the Revelation. 2) From the very beginning, Revelation makes its priority clear. While it speaks of the Antichrist, God’s judgment, earthly calamity, and Mystery Babylon, its central message is the revelation of Jesus Christ. Miss Him, and you miss the whole book. Revelation 1:3 (NKJV), “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.” 3) The blessing comes to those who read, hear, and keep what is written. We are blessed because: a) The book keeps our focus on Jesus Christ from beginning to end. b) The Holy Spirit ministers to us personally through God’s Word. c) We are reminded that we are the victors. d) We gain confidence that we are overcomers. e) We live with the assurance that Jesus Christ’s return is imminent and could happen at any moment. i) How should the nearness of Christ’s return influence our priorities, decisions, and daily walk? 4) Why is this book so strange to the reader? a) Because of our Biblical literacy. b) Because of our lack of understanding of the Old Testament. i) The Book of Revelation has 404 verses, and of those versus there are 800 allusions to the Old Testament. ii) The more you know about the Old Testament the more comfortable you will be with the meaning of the types/idioms of the Book of the Revelation. 5) Who is the One making things known to us all? John 16:13 (NKJV) “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears he will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” 6) Do your own homework. Acts 17:11 (NKJV) “These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.” 7) This study will cost you some of your precious presuppositions (what you already believe before you start thinking about a subject). a) God means what He says and says what He means and He proves it. b) The Bible is 66 books written by 40 different authors and it is an integrated whole. Matthew 5:17-18 (NKJV) “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. c) There is nothing trivial in the Bible, it is, after all, God’s Word. Romans 15:4 (NKJV) “For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” d) The Bible is the best commentary on the Bible. i) In what ways does seeing Scripture as one integrated whole help us better understand Revelation? 8) Types and Metaphors (Signified – Rendered into codes) Hosea 12:10 (NKJV) “I have also spoken by the prophets, and have multiplied visions; I have given symbols through the witness of the prophets.” 9) God uses grammatical expressions to get ideas across. These are not just words, but visual descriptors to turn words into a thought that aids in understanding. a) Models/ Types/ Similes i) Genesis 22 – Abraham and Isaac (The sacrificing of a son – first place that the word “love” is used). ii) Daniel 3 – Nebuchadnezzar’s Image (The four great empires) iii) Ruth – Redemption of the land (Naomi), the Goel “Kinsman Redeemer/Avenger of Blood” (Boaz), and the gentile bride (Ruth). iv) Joshua – Model of the book of Revelation. b) Metaphors/ Allegories i) Tabernacle (1) I am the Bread of Life – the show bread in the Tabernacle. (2) I am the Light – the seven branched lampstand was the only light in the Tabernacle. (3) I am the Door – only one door to the Tabernacle. (4) I am the Good Shepherd – He that enters in the proper way and properly prepared is the legitimate shepherd of the flock. (5) I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life – One way into the Tabernacle, the truth of the Ten Commandments in the Ark, and the Life that comes from the sacrifice at the altar. (6) I am the True Vine, you are the branches – Single lampstand beaten out of solid gold…single branch (Jesus) and six (number of man) branches. (7) I am the Resurrection and the Life – The Mercy Seat (beaten out of a solid piece of gold) were the blood is sprinkled (John 20:12). c) Burning Bush d) Thorn bush of the desert – Part of the curse from the garden (metaphor for sin). e) Fire is symbol of judgment and the bush was on fire but not consumed – (metaphor for grace). f) Idioms (Saying or expression) i) “Friend of God” – Abraham in Genesis 18 and the Disciples in John 15 (they were given prophetic insights). ii) “Beloved” in Daniel and John (they were given apocalyptic writings). iii) How do visual descriptors deepen understanding and aid spiritual memory? 10) Signified: (1:1) “And [God] …signified it.” There are 4591 sēmainō (σημαινω) {say-mah’-ee-no} form the root sema (a mark, of uncertain derivation). “Render into a code,” and every code is explained somewhere in Scripture in the other books or in Revelation. a) Sememe = a basic unit of meaning (As a pixel is to a picture): i) To give a sign, to signify, indicate. ii) To make known. b) The word is translated “sign” (15:1), “wonder” (12:1, 3) and “miracle” (19:20). This same word is used by John for the miracles of Jesus in the gospel. It is a “spiritual code” understood only by those who know Christ personally. 11) Prophecy Nut? a) There are 1,845 references to Jesus Christ’s rule on the earth in the Old Testament and a total of 17 OT books make a special point to such an event. b) There are 216 chapters in the New Testament of which have 318 references to the Second Coming. The Second Coming is mentioned in 23 of the 27 New Testament books, but remember that three of the NT books are single-chapter books that are sent to an individual. c) The Old Testament has 23,210 verses, of which 6,641 are prophetic – 28%. d) The New Testament has 7,914 verses, of which 1,711 are prophetic – 21%. e) Both Testaments together have 31,214 verses, of which 8,352 are prophetic – 27%. f) For every prophecy relating to His First Coming, there are eight that relate to His Second Coming. g) We must remember to test all the issues within this study against the “whole counsel of God.” “In some sense, the book [of Revelation] is the conclusion to all previous biblical revelation and logically reflects the interpretation of the rest of the Bible.” [John Walvoord] h) We should make no excuses for studying prophecy. 2 Peter 1:19-21 (NKJV) “19And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your heart; 20knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, 21for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” i) Peter says that prophecy is not a “private interpretation” and that it will shine “light into a dark place.” Psalm 119:105 (NKJV) “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” So when you hear basic truths from a multiple of godly teachers you will notice that they all will line up in agreement. John 5:39 (NKJV) “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me.” j) First, there is no Apocrypha because here Jesus is speaking of the “Scriptures” that are available at that time and all that was there, then, is what we call the Old Testament. k) Second, the study of prophecy is the study of “Scripture…which testify of [Jesus Christ],” and will have no shame in my love of Him and of the Word that speaks of Him. l) Psalm 40:7 (KJV) “The volume of the book it is written of me”…the entire Book is written of Him and…(Revelation 19:10 (NKJV)) “…for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” 12) Traditional Views a) Preterist: the book was for then only. b) Historicist: the book is a historical book only. c) Idealist: the book is an allegorical book only. i) These three are nonsense…dangerous…and depending on how far one goes…it will become heretical. d) Futurist: it is a book of prophecy. (Which we will mostly take up.) e) Preterist (from latin praeteritum, “the thing that is past”) thinks that the fulfillment of most of Revelation’s visions already occurred in the distant past, during the early years of the Christian church. f) Historicist understands the literary order of the visions, especially in 4:1-20:6, to symbolize the chronological order of successive historical events that span the entire era from the apostolic church to the return of Christ and the new heaven and earth. g) Idealist agrees with historicism that Revelation’s visions symbolize the conflict between Christ and His church on the one hand, and Satan and his evil conspirators on the other, form the apostolic age to Christ’s second coming. This view also sees the visions’ literary order need not reflect the temporal order of particular events. h) Futurist Likewise treats the order of divisions as reflecting the order of a particular historical event (with some exceptions). Futurists, however, typically view the visions of chapter 4-22 as representing events still future to 21st century readers, thus a distant future from the standpoint of John and the churches of Asia. For many futurists these coming events include a discrete seven-year period of intense tribulation (chapters 6-19), followed by a Millennium (chapter 20:1-6) in which Christ will rule on earth before the general resurrection and inauguration of the new heaven and new earth (chapter 20:7-22:5). i) How does understanding Revelation as future prophecy affect your hope, urgency, and faithfulness today? 13) What does the book itself have to say: Revelation 1:3 (NKJV) “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it, for the time is near.” Revelation 10:11 (NKJV) “You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, tongues, and kings.” Revelation 22:10 (NKJV) “And he said to me, ‘Do not seal the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand.” Revelation 22:18-19 (NKJV) “For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, for the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” 14) Hermeneutic: the principles and methods used to interpret and understand Scripture, especially its meaning in context. a) Allegorical – the Bible is a story in which people, things, and events have a symbolic meaning. b) Literal – understanding the Bible according to its plain, normal meaning, as intended by the author, while recognizing figures of speech, symbolism, and literary context. 15) Eschatology: Is the branch of theology that deals with the “last things.” It studies what the Bible teaches about the end of history and god’s final purpose. a) It includes topics such as: i) The return of Jesus Christ. ii) The resurrection of the dead. iii) Judgement. iv) Heaven and hell. v) The final victory of God’s kingdom. 16) Genesis vs. Revelation Genesis is the Beginning and Creation Revelation is the Completion and the Redemption Earth Created 1:1 Earth Passes Away 21:1 Sun, moon, and stars 1:14-16 Sun/moon/stars struck 8:12 Earth’s government 37 Earth’s judgment 16:8 Sun to govern the Day 1:16 No need of the sun 21:23 Darkness called night 1:5 No night there 22:5 Waters He called seas 1:10 No more sea 21:1 A river for Earth’s blessing 2:10-14 A river for the New Earth 22:1, 2 Man in God’s Image 1:26 Man headed by Satan’s Image 13 Entrance of sin 3 End of sin 21, 22 Curse pronounced 3:14-17 No more curse 22:3 Death entered 3:19 No more death 21:4 Cherubim first mentioned 3:24 Cherubim final mention 19:4 Man driven out of Eden 3:24 Man restored 22 Tree of life guarded 3:24 Access of the Tree of life 22:14 Sorrow & suffering entered 3:17 No more sorrow 22:4 Nimrod founds Babylon 10:8-10 Babylon falls 17, 18 God’s Flood to destroy an evil generation 6-9 Satan’s flood to destroy the elect 12:15 A bride for Abraham’s son 24 A bride for Abraham’s... /episode/index/show/cf879d7a-3595-432b-8e7f-138f3dcfdd2c/id/41581645

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