THE DAILY BIBLE PODCAST

#502 Reveleation 13:1-10. Welcome to YourJesusJourney.com, where we believe understanding the Bible shouldn't feel like deciphering ancient alien hieroglyphics while juggling flaming swords! We're an exciting, out-of-the-box ministry dedicated to helping you unravel God's Word, connect with fellow Christian adventurers, and become a disciple-making maestro. Want to stop reading the Bible wrong and actually get it? Visit our website and click that shiny "Free Gift" button at the top to grab your free E-Book, "Stop reading the bible wrong: 7 Strategic Shifts that Change Everything." It's like a cheat code for your spiritual life! Setting the Scene: Revelation 13:1-10 We often sense that hidden powers are at work behind the scenes, even in our world today, influencing those in charge. This idea is very real in the spiritual realm: evil forces often work through others, giving them a taste of their power. While we shouldn't get lost in conspiracy theories, it's also not wise to ignore that some seemingly random events might be part of a larger, unseen plan. John, the writer of Revelation, draws heavily on Daniel 7, a book well-known to first-century Christians. Daniel 7 describes four terrifying monsters rising from the sea, each representing powerful earthly kingdoms. The last, most brutal beast (with iron teeth, bronze claws, and many horns) would wage war against God's people and speak against God Himself. But then comes a great reversal: God, the "Ancient of Days," judges this monster and gives lasting, universal rule to "one like a son of man" (representing Jesus) (Daniel 7:9-14). John brings these four monsters into one terrifying figure in his vision (Revelation 13:1-2), a beast that is part leopard, bear, and lion, with many horns and heads. For John's first readers, this monster was clearly Rome. John saw that behind Rome's demands for loyalty and worship was a dark spiritual force, Satan, who gave the empire its power (Revelation 13:2, 4). This helps explain why Pergamum, a center of Roman rule, was called "where Satan has his throne" (Revelation 2:13). John saw past the flashy displays of power to the true, evil spiritual reality. Sadly, the pattern of cruel, dehumanizing empires didn't end with Rome. These warnings from John are still important today. (For more details on the Roman Empire and its rulers, sign up for our daily in-depth study guides by clicking this link: https://forms.wix.com/r/7330608166566101604 John's vision is a sober reminder that some believers would face capture or death (Revelation 13:10). The call isn't to fight back with violence, but to hold firm with patience and faith. As we saw in Revelation 11, it's through faithful witness, even unto death, that Jesus ultimately wins. John is painting a larger, darker picture so we understand the seriousness of Christian faith, patience, and holiness in a world still influenced by the dragon and this "beast." Questions for you to chew on and discuss: 1) How does knowing about unseen spiritual forces change how you see tough situations in your life or the news? 2) Revelation 13:9 says, "If anyone has an ear, let him hear." What do you think John most wants us to understand from this challenging part about the "beast"? 3) The passage talks about "patience and faith" when facing hard times, even death (Revelation 13:10). What does that look like for you when you feel overwhelmed? Journey Group Discussion Starter: Where do you see demanding, dehumanizing power at work in the world today? How can Christians show "patience and faith" without just doing nothing? Application for the Modern-Day Christian: This passage urges us to be discerning. Not every political leader is "the beast," but the spirit of the beast—demanding absolute loyalty, dehumanizing others, and attacking truth—can appear in many forms. Be aware of where ultimate power is truly being sought or given. Secondly, remember the ultimate victory is not through earthly rebellion, but faithful endurance. John isn't calling for a political uprising, but for unwavering loyalty to Christ, even when it costs dearly. Your power against these dark forces comes from Christ's victory and your steadfast witness. Lastly, cultivate patience and faith. In a world that demands instant gratification and easy solutions, the call to patient endurance, trusting God's ultimate plan, is a radical act of defiance against the beast's hurried and demanding nature. Feeling like you need some backup when facing the monsters of this world? Don't let the beast drag you down into the deep end alone! Join a Journey Group! We've got groups ready to tackle these wild and wonderful parts of the Bible, share some laughs, and grow together. Head over to https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups to learn more about joining or even starting your own Journey Group today! #jesusjourney #dailybiblepodcast #revelation #daniel7 #endtimes #revelation13

#501 Revelation 12:7-18. Welcome to YourJesusJourney.com, where we believe understanding the Bible shouldn't be like trying to change clothes in the back seat of your car while fending off a pesky dragon! We're here to help you truly get God's Word, find Christian friends, and grow as a disciple-maker. Want to stop reading the Bible wrong? Visit our website and click the "Free Gift" button for your free E-Book, "Stop reading the bible wrong: 7 Strategic Shifts that Change Everything." It's a game-changer! Setting the Scene: Revelation 12:7-18 Today, we're looking at a powerful part of the Bible from Revelation 12:7-18. It's like watching an epic movie unfold! This isn't just a story; it shows us what's really going on behind the scenes in the battles we face every day. John, who wrote Revelation, pulls back the curtain to reveal a war happening in heaven itself—a surprising thought! Michael, a mighty angel, leads God's angels to fight against the dragon and his evil helpers. In a way, all the struggles we see on Earth—the fights between good and bad, fairness and unfairness—are like echoes of this big spiritual battle. Michael wins, and the dragon, who is called "the accuser," is thrown out of heaven down to Earth. But here's the amazing part: the song of victory gives credit to God's people on Earth! A loud voice from heaven shouts, "They conquered 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". So, who really beat the dragon? Was it Michael, or was it the faithful followers of God? It seems to be both, working together. The early Christians understood that Satan, the "accuser," was behind all the false charges thrown at them. When neighbors whispered or judged them for not worshipping false gods, these weren't just everyday problems. The early Christians saw that the "father of lies" (John 8:44) was pulling the strings, leading to harsh public punishments, even death, for those who wouldn't give up their faith. John wants his readers to know they are part of this big story and to celebrate the victory that's already happened: the Accuser can no longer go to heaven because Jesus' death erased all the accusations Satan could make. Remember when Jesus said in Luke 10:18 that He saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning? That's the moment this passage refers to. But even though the dragon lost in heaven, he's not done. He angrily turns his attention to the "woman" who ran away into the wilderness (She represents the church, all believers). What happens next is like something out of a superhero movie: the villain, Satan, spits out a river of water to sweep the woman away. But just before it reaches her, the Earth itself opens up and swallows the flood! This shows that even creation is on God's side, protecting His people. The dragon, still angry, then goes after the "children of the woman"—those who "obey God's commands and believe in Jesus." John is telling his readers, "You are also part of this drama!" Don't be shocked when the dragon attacks you with his nasty accusations. A voice from heaven warns, "Watch out, Earth and sea! The devil is furious because he knows his time is short" (verse 12). The main battle in heaven is won, and the devil knows it. But his nature is to accuse, so he's desperately attacking, blaming, and lying about what God and Jesus have done. This is the ongoing fight all Christians are in, whether they realize it or not. This vision from John is just the opening act; more is to come. The dragon, defeated, stands on the sand beside the sea—that ancient, dark place from which monsters might emerge. Questions for you to chew on and discuss: 1) How does understanding the spiritual battle described in Revelation 12 change your perspective on the challenges and accusations you face in your daily life? 2) The passage states believers "conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony." What does this mean for your own spiritual warfare and witness today? 3) How can the knowledge that creation itself is on God's side offer encouragement and hope when facing overwhelming opposition? Journey Group Discussion Starter: In what practical ways can we, as modern-day Christians, actively participate in "conquering" the accuser through our lives and testimonies, even if we don't face literal martyrdom? Modern-Day Application: This passage shows us a vital truth: the battles you face—doubts, accusations, pressure to give up your faith—are often part of a spiritual war. Remember, the main victory has already been won by Jesus. This should give you courage. Our strength comes from what Jesus did on the cross and our willingness to share His truth. Expect the enemy's attacks, but always trust that God is on your side. Learn more about getting connected, signing up for amazing resources, or book a chat with Pastor Thad at: www.YourJesusJourney.com #jesusjourney #revelation #revelations

#500 Revelation 12:1-6. Welcome to YourJesusJourney.com! If you're anything like me, remembering the names of folks you just met is tougher than a two-dollar steak, let alone trying to figure out who's who in Revelation! You're not alone! We're here to help you make sense of the Bible, find Christian friends to study with, and grow closer to God. Swing by our website to learn more and grab your Free Resource: "Stop reading the Bible wrong: 7 Strategic Shifts that Change Everything." Just hit the Free Gift button at the top of the website, and we'll send you the E-Book today! Setting the Scene: Revelation 12:1-6 Today, we're looking at a fascinating part of the Bible, Revelation 12:1-6. John, the writer, tells a story using signs and symbols. It's like a play with different characters, and sometimes it's tough to figure out who's who. But in this part, John gives us a big hint: the child born to the woman is the one "who is going to rule the nations" (verse 5). This line is from an old Bible song about Jesus, the promised King. So, this clue tells us the child is Jesus. Now, who is the mysterious woman? While you might think of Mary, Jesus' mother, John says she's a "sign," meaning she stands for something bigger. There are two main ideas about her: God's Faithful People: She could be the true Israel, God's chosen people who followed Him. Jesus was born from this faithful group. She represents all of God's people, chosen to carry out His plans. Her being shown with the sun, moon, and stars shows her special place. This also explains why evil forces want to attack her and her child – they're fighting God's plan. Eve: She could also be like Eve, the first mother. An early Bible promise (Genesis 3:15) said Eve's future child would crush the "serpent" (the devil). So, this woman could represent humanity's hope for a savior to defeat evil. It's possible both ideas are true together. Then, a big red dragon appears! This is the bad guy we've heard about before. He's the ultimate power of evil, causing all the problems. This is the main fight in Revelation. The woman and her child are doing God's work, and the dragon wants to stop them. This powerful dragon is strong and mean. We can think of how King Herod tried to kill baby Jesus – that was the dragon trying to stop God's plan. But in a flash, Jesus is shown safe in heaven, beyond the dragon's reach. However, the woman – who represents God's faithful people (the Church) – is still in danger. John wants us to see that we are part of this story too! We are part of the "woman," and God promises to care for us, even as the dragon chases us (12:13). The woman running to the desert is like when Moses and the Israelites escaped to the wilderness. God cared for them then, and He cares for us now. The stage is set. This woman will be with us throughout Revelation, and the dragon will also be a constant presence. A key goal of Revelation is to help the Church understand how evil works and how it will be defeated. This message reminds the Church that our struggles are not a sign God has forgotten us, but that we're in a huge, important spiritual battle. Questions for You to Think About and Discuss: BE SURE TO SIGN UP for the in-depth study guides for questions, small group prompts and more! Sign up here (IT'S FREE!) https://forms.wix.com/r/7330608166566101604 Living Out Revelation 12:1-6 Today This Bible passage gives us important lessons for our lives right now: - Bigger Picture: Your everyday problems aren't just about you. They're part of a bigger fight between God's good plans and evil forces. Knowing this can make you stronger. - Know Your Enemy: The dragon in the story clearly shows us where evil comes from. When we know who the real enemy is, we stop getting angry at people and instead focus on fighting the spiritual bad guys. - God's Care: The woman, who stands for God's people, is looked after in the desert. This reminds us that even in tough times, God takes care of and protects His own. You can trust Him, even when things look bad. - Your Part: Just like the first readers, we are also part of this story. We are part of the "woman," the Church, called to live out God's plans in a world that can be against Him. This should give us courage and make us strong in our faith. So, if you're tired of battling life's tough stuff alone, or just want to figure out who that fiery dragon really is (and how to avoid accidentally inviting him over for a barbecue), it's time to join a Journey Group! Don't let your faith journey be a lonely walk in the wilderness. Connect with others who are also trying to make sense of this amazing book. Head over to https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups to learn more about Journey Groups, get connected, or even start your own! #jesusjourney #dailybiblepodcast #godsword #dailybiblereading #dailydevotion #revelation #revelation12

#499 Revelation 11:1-14. Welcome to YourJesusJourney.com! Ever feel like understanding the Bible is like trying to train a squirrel to play the tuba – utterly baffling, possibly messy, and you're not even sure where to begin? We've all been there (with the Bible, not the Squirrel!) We help you understand the Bible, find Christian friends, and grow as a disciple-maker. Grab our Free Resource, "Stop Reading the Bible Wrong: 7 Strategic Shifts that Change Everything," by clicking the Free Gift button at the top of our website. Setting the Scene: Revelation 11:15-19 Today, we're diving into Revelation 11:15-19, a passage that's less a gentle stream and more a roaring waterfall, a definitive declaration of God's reign. While parts of Revelation 19 echo this climactic moment, its placement here reminds us that Revelation isn't a simple chronological story. Instead, it offers multiple perspectives on one monumental truth: God, through Jesus, is actively establishing His kingdom amidst global chaos. Like the book of Daniel, Revelation centers on the kingdom of God—a concept often misunderstood. Many assume God's kingdom is exclusively "Heaven," a realm distinct from our earthly struggles, where people go after death. This popular view, however, misses Revelation's powerful message. God's kingdom isn't just for heaven; as the Creator of the whole world, His ultimate purpose is to reclaim and restore His entire creation to its original design. This vision is also at the heart of the Gospels. The confusion between "kingdom of heaven" (Matthew) and "kingdom of God" (other Gospels) often arises from Matthew's Jewish audience. For them, "heaven" was a reverent substitute for God's name, not an indication that His real kingdom was limited to a celestial abode while earth was merely temporary. Here, it's unmistakably clear: the living God confronts worldly powers, declaring His reign. His rule is established through His Messiah, the Lamb. The powerful, yet often unwelcome, message is: "Suffering love conquers all." History confirms this; the early church's greatest expansion occurred during intense Roman persecution. As an early leader noted, "The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church." What remains is for God to destroy the destroyers of the earth. This is the ultimate meaning of God's judgment. Far from negative or destructive, God's judgment is the Creator's righteous response to everything that spoils His creation. His purpose, rooted in chapters 4 and 5, is to rescue His wonderful creation from evil, anti-creation, and chaos. It's time for death to die. This passage signifies a profound transition. For the only time in the book, John describes God's temple in heaven being opened, revealing His throne room and a triumphant song. Then, dramatically, "the ark of his covenant appeared inside." This appearance of the ark, a symbol of God's ancient covenant, signifies that God has unequivocally kept His promises. He has taken His great power and begun to reign. Questions for you to chew on and discuss: 1) Revelation shows us God's kingdom from different angles, not just a timeline. How does knowing this change how you see the book of Revelation? 2) If God wants to fix and restore the whole world, not just take people to heaven, how should that change what Christians focus on doing today? 3) The Bible says, "Suffering love wins." Where have you seen this idea proven true? Why do you think people often don't like to hear this message? Journey Group Discussion Starter: Reflect on the idea that God's judgment is about destroying the destroyers of the earth. How does this reframe your understanding of divine judgment from something purely punitive to something restorative and redemptive for creation? Applying the Principles Today: This passage calls us to radically reorient our understanding of God's kingdom. We're not just waiting to be rescued from a broken world; we're called to be active participants in its restoration. Here's how we can apply these principles: - Embrace Suffering Love: Our willingness to love, serve, and witness to Christ, even when difficult, is a powerful force for God's kingdom. - Invest in Creation: If God cares about reclaiming His entire creation, we should care for the earth, advocate for justice, and alleviate suffering. - Live as Kingdom Citizens Now: Don't wait for heaven. Live as if God is king over all, letting His values shape your daily actions and interactions. Want to dive deeper into these powerful truths with like-minded believers? Don't be a lone ranger in the wilderness of spiritual growth! Join a Journey Group and get connected with others who are passionate about understanding God's Word and living out His kingdom on earth. Go here: https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups to learn more, get connected in one, or even learn about starting your own! You won't want to miss the ultimate spiritual jam session! #jesusjourney #dailybiblepodcast #revelation

#498 Revelation 11:1-14. Welcome to YourJesusJourney.com! Ever feel like understanding the Bible is like trying to put together a puzzle with no picture on the box? Yeah, we get it. But don't worry, we're here to help you make sense of it all and maybe even find some Christian friends who are just as excited to learn! SIGN UP FOR IN-DEPTH BIBLE STUDY GUIDES HERE: https://forms.wix.com/r/7330608166566101604 Devotional for Today: Revelation 11:1-14 – God's People and Their Message Setting the Scene Revelation chapter 11 can be a bit confusing, but that’s okay! Many people find parts of the Bible hard to understand. We’ll have a more detailed guide coming out later today, but for now, let's look at what this part of the Bible might mean in a simple way. First, imagine John, the writer of this book, is told to measure a temple. This isn't a building in Jerusalem or a place in heaven. Back then, Christians started to see themselves as God's new temple – the place where God lives through His Holy Spirit. So, when John measures this group of believers, it means God is marking them out for special protection. This doesn't mean they won't have any troubles or hard times, but it means God will keep them safe from being completely destroyed. However, a part of this "temple" is left open. This means the people who don't believe in God will cause trouble for God's followers for a time. The Bible says "three and a half years," but that's a symbolic number, not a literal one. It just means it will happen for a limited time. It's God's way of showing that even though there's trouble, He is still with His people and will bless them. So, what should God's people do during these hard times? The whole book of Revelation tells God's followers to faithfully tell others about Jesus, even if it means suffering or even dying. The letters to the churches earlier in Revelation promised special rewards to those who stayed strong and didn't give up. Next, we read about two witnesses. This is another part that puzzles many. It seems these two witnesses are not actual people like Moses and Elijah coming back to life. Instead, they represent the entire church – all of God's followers – and their job to share God's message, even if it leads to their death. Why two witnesses? It's probably because John is thinking about two important Bible stories: Moses, who showed God's power by bringing plagues on Egypt, and Elijah, who showed God's power by stopping rain and calling down fire. The message here is that God's people will continue the powerful work of Moses and Elijah. They will do amazing things that bother those who don't believe, but their most important act will be their death as martyrs (dying for their faith) at the hands of an evil "monster." But here's the amazing part: the death of God's faithful followers will actually win over the unbelievers. This is how people from all over the world will come to honor God. This is how the "kingdom of the world" will become God's kingdom. And it’s important to see the mercy of God here. In the Bible, when God judged cities like Sodom and Gomorrah, He might have spared them if just a few good people were found. Here, a large number of people are saved, showing God's great mercy. This whole part of Revelation shows us a God who is sad about the evil in the world but is determined to rescue and fix it. He does this through Jesus's death and now through the faithful deaths of Jesus's followers. Questions for you to think about: 1) If you are God's "temple," how does that make you feel about your role as a Christian? 2) How can you share God's message with others, even when it might be difficult or unpopular? 3) Think about Moses and Elijah. What do their stories teach us about being brave and trusting God when we share our faith? How this applies to you today: - You are God's special place: Understand that God lives in you through His Spirit. This should make you feel strong and confident, knowing He is with you even when things are tough. - Be a faithful messenger: God wants you to tell others about Jesus, even if it's hard. Think about how you can speak up for what's right and share the good news, even if others don't agree. - Feel sad about the world's problems: It's okay to feel sad about the bad things happening in the world. This is a powerful way to show you care and to point others to God. - Trust in God's final victory: Even if things look bad, remember that God wins in the end. Your faithfulness, even in hard times, plays a part in God's big plan for the world to become His. Feeling a bit like you’ve been through a spiritual workout with Revelation 11? You're not alone! Don't go it alone; join a Journey Group! It's like a spiritual pit crew for your faith, but with better snacks and less grease! Come learn more, get connected, or even learn how to start one of your own at https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups. See you there! #jesusjourney #revelation

#497 Revelation 10:1-11. Welcome to YourJesusJourney.com! Ever feel like you’re trying to read the Bible with one eye closed and a cat sitting on your head? (kind of distracting eh') We're glad you're here! We're an exciting, out-of-the-box ministry dedicated to helping you understand the Bible, find Christian friends to study God's Word with, and grow as a disciple-maker. To help you on your way, visit our website and grab our Free Resource, "Stop Reading the Bible Wrong: 7 Strategic Shifts that Change Everything." Just click the "Free Gift" button at the top of the website, and we'll send you the free E-Book today! Setting the Scene: The Small Scroll and the Lion's Roar By way of a super quick recap: the first few chapters of Revelation were about messages Jesus sent to seven churches, telling them what they were doing well and what they needed to fix. Then, the scene changed to heaven, showing God in charge and Jesus (called the Lamb) opening a special scroll with seven seals. Chapters 6 through 9 described what happened as these seals were opened and the first six "trumpets" blew. These events caused big problems on Earth and were a call for people to repent. Now, between the sixth and seventh trumpets, something amazing happens. A powerful angel comes down from heaven. He's covered in a cloud, has a rainbow over his head, his face shines like the sun, and his feet are like fiery pillars. This description reminds us of how God often showed up in older Bible stories. The angel stands with one foot on the sea and one on the land, showing he has power over everything on Earth. This means the message he brings is from God, the Creator of everything. He shouts with a loud roar, like a lion, and then seven thunders answer back. John, the person writing down these visions, is about to write what the thunders said. But a voice from heaven tells him to stop and not write it down. This is a good reminder that God has secrets and a plan that we don't always fully understand. Then, the angel raises his right hand and makes a promise, just like someone might raise their hand in court to swear an oath. He says that "there would be no more time." This doesn't mean time will stop completely, but that time will run out for those who have been ignoring God. It means things are about to reach their final goal. This also helps us understand that the trumpet events aren't happening one after another in a strict timeline, but are different ways of showing the same big story leading to God's plan being finished. When God's plan is complete, it will be the fulfillment of creation, making it perfect, not destroying it. The angel then gives John a small scroll and tells him to eat it. Eating the scroll means taking God's message deeply inside himself. John says it tastes sweet in his mouth but turns bitter in his stomach. The sweet taste is the joy of getting a message from God. The bitter taste is about how hard it can be to share God's truth, especially when it means telling people they need to change. After eating the scroll, John is told he must "prophesy again"—meaning he needs to speak God's message to many different groups of people, nations, and kings. This is the job of a prophet: to speak for God, no matter how difficult it might be. Questions for you to chew on and discuss: 1) The angel stands with one foot on the sea and one on the land. What does this show us about how much power the angel (and God) has over everything? 2) John eats the scroll, and it's sweet at first but then bitter. What does this tell us about what it might be like to understand and share God's message with others? 3) Why do you think God told John not to write down what the seven thunders said? What does this tell us about God's plan and how much we can know? Journey Group Discussion Starter: Think about times when learning something from the Bible felt "sweet" or exciting to receive. Have there been times when God's message felt "bitter" or hard to deliver? How did you deal with that? Modern-Day Application: For Christians today, Revelation 10 reminds us we have a part in God's story. Like John, we should truly take in God's Word, letting it change us. Then, we're called to speak God's truth to the world—whether sharing the Gospel, standing for what's right, or just living like Jesus. The angel's promise of "no more time" urges us: God's plans will be finished, and His patience isn't endless. We should live actively, expecting His return. So, are you ready to "eat the scroll" and share God's truth? Don't keep God's Word to yourself! If so, then you're going to need some good "team Jesus" friends in your life! You can find them in one of our Journey Groups. To learn more about our journey groups, join one, or even start one (it's way easier than eating a scroll!), visit: https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups. #jesusjourney #dailybiblepodcast #biblestudy #dailydevotion #revelation #revelation10

#496 Revelation 9:13-21. Welcome to YourJesusJourney.com! Ever feel like understanding the Bible is like trying to navigate a massive city without your GPS? We've all been there! But don't worry, we're here to help you not only understand God's Word but also find some awesome Christian friends to journey with and become a disciple-maker yourself. Head over to our website to learn more and grab your free resource, "Stop Reading the Bible Wrong: 7 Strategic Shifts that Change Everything." Just click the "Free Gift" button, and we'll send it your way today! Setting the Scene: When Nightmares Become Reality Today, we're diving into Revelation 9:13-21, an intense passage that underscores God's heart even amidst terrifying visions. John's imagery of four angels by the Euphrates River unleashing massive armies directly evoked the worst nightmares of his audience, who lived under the constant threat of empires like Parthia. Like the earlier locusts, these are powerful symbols of escalating terror designed to call humanity to repentance (verses 20-21). History shows us, however, that people often resist, even in suffering. God, true to His promise, patiently gives humanity space to repent and worship Him, not idols. Yet, this mercy risks further rebellion. John, writing to persecuted churches, depicts these coming plagues as both natural disasters and terrifying armies—as if to say, "Imagine your worst nightmares, doubled and unleashed simultaneously." This is God allowing evil to consume itself. Ultimately, Revelation 9 reveals that human evil stems from idolatry: you become like what you worship. Idols lead to spiritual blindness, deafness, and lifelessness (verses 20-21). Repentance is a radical, gut-wrenching turning away from these death-dealing idols. God longs for this genuine turning, even as six trumpets have sounded without it. Want to go deeper into Revelation and other complex Bible passages? Our In-Depth Study Guides provide maps, pictures, and much more detail, delivered right to your inbox! Sign up here: https://forms.wix.com/r/7330608166566101604 Questions for you to chew on and discuss: 1) How does understanding the historical context of the Euphrates River and the Roman-Parthian conflict deepen your understanding of Revelation 9? 2) The passage emphasizes that God allows evil to do its worst in order to bring about repentance. How does this perspective challenge or affirm your understanding of God's justice and mercy? 3) If idolatry leads to becoming "blind, deaf, and lifeless," what "idols" might be prevalent in our modern society that lead to similar spiritual deadness? Journey Group Discussion Starter: In what practical ways can we cultivate a "gut-wrenching turning away from idols" in our daily lives, moving beyond mere regret for sins to genuine, life-altering repentance? Applying the Principles Today: This passage offers vital applications for us. First, it reminds us of unrepentant sin's gravity and idolatry's destructive power. Anything taking God’s rightful place in our hearts – money, power, comfort – becomes an idol. We're called to examine our hearts and identify what we truly worship. Second, it highlights God’s profound patience and desire for repentance. Even amid judgment, His aim is to draw people back. This should fuel our evangelism and encourage us to never give up on those who seem hardened, knowing God’s patience extends to them. Finally, the vivid imagery warns against spiritual complacency. Ignoring God’s warnings and persisting in rebellion leads to severe consequences. This should motivate us to live lives of constant repentance, walking in humility and obedience to God’s Word. Ready to stop reading the Bible wrong and get connected with amazing people? Don't tackle this Christian journey alone! Our Journey Groups are like spiritual life rafts in a sea of confusion. Head over to https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups to learn more about joining or starting one. It's way more fun than trying to figure out Revelation by yourself! #jesusjourney #dailybiblepodcast #biblestudy #dailybiblereading #godsword #dailydevotion #dailydevotional #livebiblestudy #revelation #revelation9

#495 Revelation 9:1-12. Welcome to YourJesusJourney.com! Ever feel like you're trying to make sense of the Bible, and it just keeps throwing curveballs? Like, is that an actual giant grasshopper with a scorpion tail, or did I just eat too much pizza last night? You’re in the right place! We're an exciting, out-of-the-box ministry dedicated to helping you understand the Bible, find Christian friends to study God's word with, and grow as a disciple-maker. Head over to our website to learn more and grab our Free Resource, "Stop reading the bible wrong: 7 Strategic Shifts that Change Everything." Just click the Free Gift button at the top of the website, and we'll send you the free E-Book today! By the way, this description here is only a quick short look at what we're covering in the video podcast. For a full in-depth study guide, with more context, history, maps, pictures, questions to help you dig deeper, and a life application section meant to help you make the move from just learning the Word to actually living it out! Click the link below and sign up to get these in-depth study guides emailed to your inbox every day! It's Free! SIGN UP HERE: https://forms.wix.com/r/7330608166566101604 Setting the Scene: Revelation 9:1-12 Today, we're diving into Revelation 9:1-12, a passage straight out of a nightmare. John's vivid description of "super-locusts" was clearly meant to terrify. So much detail is given that some modern readers try to identify them as military machines, like attack helicopters. But this misses the point; the true essence is the nightmare itself—all your worst fears unleashed. The fifth angel's trumpet reveals something monstrous and hellish. This passage describes a "falling star" given the key to a smoldering pit, unleashing a wretched evil. This echoes Jesus' teaching in Mark 7:1-23 about wickedness bubbling up from the human heart—the "black hole" within all of us. Just as human hearts are filled with rebellion, so too, Revelation suggests, is the cosmic realm. God, though loving, eventually allows this deeply rooted evil to emerge and show its true colors. These monstrous locusts parallel the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 10:1-20) and Joel (Joel 2:1-11), but these are man-tormenting locusts with impenetrable armor. Crucially, they are limited: they don't harm vegetation or those sealed by God. Everyone else is "fair game." Their emergence from smoke echoes the Exodus plagues (Exodus 9:8-12). The names for their king, Abaddon (Hebrew) and Apollyon (Greek), both mean "the destroyer." Like the plagues of Egypt, the ultimate aim is to challenge humanity to repent, as seen later in verses 20-21. Their five-month torment, likely reflecting a locust's active cycle, underscores another key point: their work, though horrific, is limited. Throughout this vision, John reassures his readers that God and the Lamb remain sovereign. Evil, though allowed to do its worst, is ultimately under God's control and will be conquered. Questions for you to chew on and discuss: 1) How does the imagery of these "super-locusts" make you feel? What do you think John's intention was in describing them in such vivid detail? 2) The passage mentions a "falling star" given the key to the abyss. Other scriptures allude to a similar "black hole inside all of us." How do you understand the connection between cosmic evil and the evil that resides within the human heart? 3) Given that these locusts are explicitly not to harm those sealed with God's seal, what comfort or challenge does that bring to you as a modern-day Christian? Journey Group Discussion Starter: Discuss the concept of God allowing evil to "show its true colors" before it is finally conquered. What does this reveal about God's character and His ultimate plan? Applying Principles to Modern-Day Christian Life: This passage, while terrifying, offers profound insights for today's Christian. Firstly, it reminds us of the profound reality of evil, both cosmic and within the human heart. It encourages us not to be naive about the destructive power of sin and rebellion. Secondly, it highlights God's absolute sovereignty. Even in the midst of unimaginable chaos and suffering, God remains in control, and His purposes are being worked out. The limitations placed on these locusts are a powerful reminder that God sets boundaries for evil, even when it appears to be unleashed. Finally, the ultimate aim of these judgments, like the plagues of Egypt, is repentance. This should stir in us a renewed urgency to share the good news of Jesus, offering hope and a way to be "sealed" with God's protection. Don't let Revelation's intense imagery overwhelm you! Join a Journey Group to understand these biblical visions, connect with other Christians, and strengthen your faith. Learn more or sign up at yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups. #jesusjourney #dailybiblepodcast #biblestudy #dailybiblereading #revelation #revelation9 #revelations #endtimes #apocolleagues #bibleverse