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Apocalypse Apocalypse EpitomisedEpitomised

By Brother H.P. MansfieldBy Brother H.P. MansfieldSummary presentation for Avon Bible Summary presentation for Avon Bible

ClassClassPresented by Brother Dean BrownPresented by Brother Dean Brown

May 31, 2007May 31, 2007

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Ground RulesGround Rules

Description without “cheerleading” for Description without “cheerleading” for or against. This applies to all of us. or against. This applies to all of us. No arguing for or against tonight.No arguing for or against tonight.

Simple framework and confusing Simple framework and confusing details.details.

Questions about the Questions about the basic description basic description and basic logicand basic logic are allowed, but not are allowed, but not questions about details, otherwise questions about details, otherwise we’ll get bogged down.we’ll get bogged down.

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Why Why AEAE by HPM instead of by HPM instead of something more recent?something more recent?

While CH has been updated over time, most of it While CH has been updated over time, most of it remains unchanged.remains unchanged.

AEAE is widely used and widely respected today. is widely used and widely respected today. AE AE is a systematic CH look at Revelation within is a systematic CH look at Revelation within

one binding – no reading dozens of disparate one binding – no reading dozens of disparate articles.articles.

The current 5-volume edition of The current 5-volume edition of EurekaEureka was was published by the published by the LogosLogos office with many office with many publisher’s notes written by Brother Mansfield at publisher’s notes written by Brother Mansfield at about the same time as about the same time as AEAE..

AEAE was written at about the same time as the was written at about the same time as the books by Brothers Harry Whittaker and Alfred books by Brothers Harry Whittaker and Alfred Norris.Norris.

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It is clearly obvious, that if the It is clearly obvious, that if the interpretation of interpretation of EurekaEureka is accepted, the is accepted, the book of Revelation is an amplification of book of Revelation is an amplification of that section of Daniel’s prophecy which that section of Daniel’s prophecy which the prophet failed to comprehend.the prophet failed to comprehend.

The entire Apocalypse is an The entire Apocalypse is an amplification of the fourth beast and the amplification of the fourth beast and the multitudinous man (Dan 7-12); or the multitudinous man (Dan 7-12); or the development and decline of Rome both development and decline of Rome both politically and ecclesiastically, and of politically and ecclesiastically, and of the work of the saints in relation the work of the saints in relation thereto.thereto.

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““Things which must shortly come to Things which must shortly come to pass”pass”

The correct interpretation is the The correct interpretation is the HistoricHistoric one which treats the Apocalypse as a one which treats the Apocalypse as a prophetic plan of unfolding history, the prophetic plan of unfolding history, the fulfillment of which was about to fulfillment of which was about to commence, to come to pass, shortly after commence, to come to pass, shortly after it was given to the Apostle John. The it was given to the Apostle John. The visions and revelations thus cover history visions and revelations thus cover history from the day of the Apostle to the coming from the day of the Apostle to the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Hence the term “continuous-historic”.Hence the term “continuous-historic”.

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Letters to the Ecclesias:Letters to the Ecclesias: In addition to the personal messages, the In addition to the personal messages, the

seven Ecclesias seem to represent seven seven Ecclesias seem to represent seven epochs of Ecclesial activity.epochs of Ecclesial activity.

In In EurekaEureka, Brother Thomas suggests that the , Brother Thomas suggests that the messages not only describe the Ecclesias as messages not only describe the Ecclesias as they existed in the days of the Apostle, but they existed in the days of the Apostle, but that they also can be aligned with seven that they also can be aligned with seven epochs of time.epochs of time.

But in addition to that division, there seems to But in addition to that division, there seems to be a long range prophecy as well, illustrating be a long range prophecy as well, illustrating the condition of Ecclesias to the Truth the condition of Ecclesias to the Truth reaching to the epoch of the second coming.reaching to the epoch of the second coming.

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Revelation 4 and 5Revelation 4 and 5

Our attention is first directed to a Our attention is first directed to a symbolic description of the Kingdom in symbolic description of the Kingdom in its glory, and this is followed by the its glory, and this is followed by the visions that depict events leading to visions that depict events leading to this consummation. It may appear this consummation. It may appear strange that the final picture should be strange that the final picture should be given first, but it is the Spirit’s method, given first, but it is the Spirit’s method, not only in the book before us, but not only in the book before us, but throughout the prophetic Scriptures.throughout the prophetic Scriptures.

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Revelation 6 – The SealsRevelation 6 – The Seals

Judgments upon Pagan Rome.Judgments upon Pagan Rome. 11stst seal – the Pax Romana from AD 98 to seal – the Pax Romana from AD 98 to

about AD 180about AD 180 22ndnd through 4 through 4thth seals – period of trouble from seals – period of trouble from

about AD 180 to 303about AD 180 to 303 55thth seal – persecution under Emporer seal – persecution under Emporer

DiocletianDiocletian 66thth seal – political earthquake where the seal – political earthquake where the

existing pagan order is overthrown by a existing pagan order is overthrown by a pseudo-Christian system under Constantinepseudo-Christian system under Constantine

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The Seven Angelic Trumpeters The Seven Angelic Trumpeters Revelation 8-11Revelation 8-11

The opening of the seventh seal introduces The opening of the seventh seal introduces seven angelic trumpeters. This significant seven angelic trumpeters. This significant symbol is derived from the Old Testament symbol is derived from the Old Testament use of the trumpet, to call the people use of the trumpet, to call the people together. Consequently, the sounding of together. Consequently, the sounding of these Apocalyptic Trumpeters, summon the these Apocalyptic Trumpeters, summon the enemies of the Roman Empire together for enemies of the Roman Empire together for the purpose of judgment upon it. The first the purpose of judgment upon it. The first four [trumpets] introduce events that affect four [trumpets] introduce events that affect the Western section of the Roman Empire; the Western section of the Roman Empire; the last two summon forces that afflict the the last two summon forces that afflict the Eastern section of it. Eastern section of it.

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The First Six TrumpetsThe First Six Trumpets 11stst four – affecting the Western Roman four – affecting the Western Roman

Empire:Empire:– 11stst trumpet – Alaric and the Goths trumpet – Alaric and the Goths– 22ndnd trumpet – Genseric and the Vandals trumpet – Genseric and the Vandals– 33rdrd trumpet – Attila the Hun trumpet – Attila the Hun– 44thth trumpet – Odoacer and the fall of the Western trumpet – Odoacer and the fall of the Western

Roman Empire in 476 ADRoman Empire in 476 AD Next 2 trumpets – affecting the Eastern Next 2 trumpets – affecting the Eastern

Roman Empire:Roman Empire:– 55thth trumpet – the rise of Islam; Saracen expansion trumpet – the rise of Islam; Saracen expansion– 66thth trumpet – the rise of the Ottoman Turks; the fall trumpet – the rise of the Ottoman Turks; the fall

of Constantinople in 1453 (Moscow becomes the of Constantinople in 1453 (Moscow becomes the “third Rome”) “third Rome”)

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The Death and Resurrection of the The Death and Resurrection of the Witnesses Rev 11:1-13.Witnesses Rev 11:1-13.

The warfare suggested in this prophecy commenced The warfare suggested in this prophecy commenced on the establishment of Christianity as the State on the establishment of Christianity as the State Church in the year 312. It commenced a period of Church in the year 312. It commenced a period of religious controversy which continued for 1260 religious controversy which continued for 1260 years to 1572 and the Massacre of St. Bartholomew. years to 1572 and the Massacre of St. Bartholomew. In that year, Rome made determined efforts to still In that year, Rome made determined efforts to still the voice of religious opposition. This succeeded in the voice of religious opposition. This succeeded in France, at least, where a terrible massacre of those France, at least, where a terrible massacre of those opposed to Rome took place. This terminated the opposed to Rome took place. This terminated the effective testimony of the witnesses, and they were effective testimony of the witnesses, and they were given over to political death. The given over to political death. The coupe de gracecoupe de grace came in 1685 when, after a century of terrible came in 1685 when, after a century of terrible persecution, the persecution, the Edict of NantesEdict of Nantes that had granted that had granted some relief to the persecuted was revoked, and some relief to the persecuted was revoked, and effective witnessing ceased for a time.effective witnessing ceased for a time.

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[Rev 11:7] The “two witnesses” are known to [Rev 11:7] The “two witnesses” are known to history by several names: Donatists, history by several names: Donatists, Waldenses, Novatians, Huguenots, etc. All in Waldenses, Novatians, Huguenots, etc. All in their turn witnessed against the autocratic their turn witnessed against the autocratic ecclesiastical power of Rome, and so ecclesiastical power of Rome, and so maintained a continuous record of opposition maintained a continuous record of opposition to its political and religious tyranny.to its political and religious tyranny.

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The conclusion of Chapter Eleven brings us to The conclusion of Chapter Eleven brings us to the end of the first half of the Apocalypse. the end of the first half of the Apocalypse. Now, with the commencement of the second Now, with the commencement of the second half, it retraces its steps and again reviews half, it retraces its steps and again reviews history from the epoch of Constantine history from the epoch of Constantine onwards. Why the repetition? Is it not onwards. Why the repetition? Is it not confusing? No, a little thought will reveal that confusing? No, a little thought will reveal that The Apocalypse proceeds on a systematic The Apocalypse proceeds on a systematic plan of historical development. The previous plan of historical development. The previous chapters predicted the following events of a chapters predicted the following events of a political character:political character:– (1) The “Christianizing” of pagan Rome (Rev 6-7);(1) The “Christianizing” of pagan Rome (Rev 6-7);– (2) The break-up of “Christianized” Rome (Rev 8-9);(2) The break-up of “Christianized” Rome (Rev 8-9);– (3) The warfare of the witnesses and the triumph of (3) The warfare of the witnesses and the triumph of

the truth (Rev 10-11). …the truth (Rev 10-11). …

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In thus concentrating upon political In thus concentrating upon political developments, religious developments have developments, religious developments have been largely ignored. Now, in orderly fashion, been largely ignored. Now, in orderly fashion, The Apocalypse retraces its steps to take up The Apocalypse retraces its steps to take up that theme. Hence we have:that theme. Hence we have:– (1) The development and destruction of the Holy (1) The development and destruction of the Holy

Roman Empire (Rev 12-14);Roman Empire (Rev 12-14);– (2) The Divine Judgment on the latter day political (2) The Divine Judgment on the latter day political

system (Rev 15-16);system (Rev 15-16);– (3) Divine judgment on the latter day religious (3) Divine judgment on the latter day religious

system (Rev 17-19).system (Rev 17-19). The second half of The Apocalypse follows the The second half of The Apocalypse follows the

first half in orderly fashion. The Holy Roman first half in orderly fashion. The Holy Roman Empire replaces the Roman Empire, and its Empire replaces the Roman Empire, and its destruction is described.destruction is described.

[Note: more about the Holy Roman Empire [Note: more about the Holy Roman Empire shortly]shortly]

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Revelation 12Revelation 12 If the term “heaven” is to be applied literally If the term “heaven” is to be applied literally

in v. 7, it must be similarly applied in v. 1, in v. 7, it must be similarly applied in v. 1, which states that the woman gives birth to which states that the woman gives birth to her son “in heaven.” Obviously this cannot her son “in heaven.” Obviously this cannot relate to the atmospheric heavens above and relate to the atmospheric heavens above and must apply to the political “heaven” on earth. must apply to the political “heaven” on earth. Moreover, for any exposition of The Moreover, for any exposition of The Apocalypse to be sound, it must conform to Apocalypse to be sound, it must conform to the basic principle that it was given to reveal the basic principle that it was given to reveal “things which must shortly come to pass” “things which must shortly come to pass” (Rev 1:1). Applying this as a rule of (Rev 1:1). Applying this as a rule of interpretation, we must seek for the interpretation, we must seek for the fulfillment of the birth of the man-child, the fulfillment of the birth of the man-child, the war in heaven, and so forth, at some time war in heaven, and so forth, at some time after AD 96, when the revelation was given to after AD 96, when the revelation was given to John.John.

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““And she brought forth a man child” [Rev And she brought forth a man child” [Rev 12:5]12:5]

This prophecy does not relate to Christ, as is This prophecy does not relate to Christ, as is sometimes thought, for it is specifically sometimes thought, for it is specifically declared that The Apocalypse was designed to declared that The Apocalypse was designed to outline “things which must come to pass”; but outline “things which must come to pass”; but it concerns the political birth of a system it concerns the political birth of a system which the flesh has confused with Christ. The which the flesh has confused with Christ. The political birth of this “man child” was the political birth of this “man child” was the beginning of the fulfillment of Paul’s prophecy beginning of the fulfillment of Paul’s prophecy of the manifestation of the Man of Sin (2 of the manifestation of the Man of Sin (2 Thess 2:3). This refers to an order of men Thess 2:3). This refers to an order of men (the Popes) and not to a single individual.(the Popes) and not to a single individual.

[Thus: refers to Constantine and his [Thus: refers to Constantine and his successors]successors]

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Revelation 13Revelation 13

In this chapter, John reports on the uprise In this chapter, John reports on the uprise of two beasts. The first he sees arises of two beasts. The first he sees arises from out of the sea; the second arises from out of the sea; the second arises from out of the earth. from out of the earth.

As a whole the vision symbolizes the As a whole the vision symbolizes the power and influence enjoyed by Roman power and influence enjoyed by Roman Catholicism in its political manifestations, Catholicism in its political manifestations, and depicts the brutal persecution by and depicts the brutal persecution by which it endeavored to bend the minds of which it endeavored to bend the minds of men to its doctrines and practices. men to its doctrines and practices.

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The “beast of the sea” is represented as The “beast of the sea” is represented as gaining power through the help of the gaining power through the help of the “dragon.” History fulfils the prophecy “dragon.” History fulfils the prophecy inasmuch as the Papacy gained its inasmuch as the Papacy gained its prestige and power through the help of the prestige and power through the help of the Emperors of Constantinople. At that time, Emperors of Constantinople. At that time, Rome and Constantinople represented the Rome and Constantinople represented the religious and military headquarters of the religious and military headquarters of the Roman Empire. The armed might of Roman Empire. The armed might of Constantinople was constantly extended in Constantinople was constantly extended in support of the Bishop of Rome. However, support of the Bishop of Rome. However, the military power of Constantinople the military power of Constantinople gradually declined, as the empire in the gradually declined, as the empire in the east came under pressure from the east came under pressure from the Saracens and then the Ottomans, and the Saracens and then the Ottomans, and the Pope had to look elsewhere for support. …Pope had to look elsewhere for support. …

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But where could the Pope look for help? But where could the Pope look for help? The Empire in the West was at an end, and The Empire in the West was at an end, and a new power was arising: that of the Franks a new power was arising: that of the Franks under Pepin followed by his son under Pepin followed by his son Charlemagne. Meanwhile, in AD 752, the Charlemagne. Meanwhile, in AD 752, the Lombards, hostile to the Pope, had occupied Lombards, hostile to the Pope, had occupied much of Italy. On the other hand, Pepin and much of Italy. On the other hand, Pepin and Charlemagne supported the Papacy. In the Charlemagne supported the Papacy. In the year 799 an alliance was completed year 799 an alliance was completed between the Pope and the Emperor of the between the Pope and the Emperor of the Franks. This laid the foundation of the Holy Franks. This laid the foundation of the Holy Roman Empire, the two-horned Beast of the Roman Empire, the two-horned Beast of the Earth of the chapter before us.Earth of the chapter before us.

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History Lesson: The Holy Roman History Lesson: The Holy Roman EmpireEmpire

It originated with the coronation of It originated with the coronation of Charlemagne by Pope Leo III on Christmas Charlemagne by Pope Leo III on Christmas Day, AD 800, and lasted until the Day, AD 800, and lasted until the abdication of Emperor Francis II in 1806 abdication of Emperor Francis II in 1806 during the Napoleonic Wars.during the Napoleonic Wars.

The Holy Roman Empire was a conscious The Holy Roman Empire was a conscious attempt to resurrect the Western Roman attempt to resurrect the Western Roman Empire, considered to have ended with the Empire, considered to have ended with the abdication of Romulus Augustulus in 476. abdication of Romulus Augustulus in 476.

-- from Wikipedia article “Holy Roman Empire”-- from Wikipedia article “Holy Roman Empire”

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Revelation 16 – The VialsRevelation 16 – The Vials This important chapter provides details This important chapter provides details

lacking in Revelation 11-15 where the “time lacking in Revelation 11-15 where the “time of the end” is summarized. It outlines by of the end” is summarized. It outlines by symbol the significance of the international symbol the significance of the international events that followed the French Revolution, events that followed the French Revolution, and which have played such a compelling and which have played such a compelling part in the development of current events part in the development of current events that are leading to Armageddon and the that are leading to Armageddon and the revelation of Christ and the Redeemed in revelation of Christ and the Redeemed in power. Perhaps no other chapter of the Bible power. Perhaps no other chapter of the Bible is more important than this one in revealing is more important than this one in revealing the significance of current events. …the significance of current events. …

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The first five vials treat with judgments on The first five vials treat with judgments on Europe, by which the Holy Roman Empire Europe, by which the Holy Roman Empire was brought to an end. Then attention is was brought to an end. Then attention is diverted to the Middle East, and the part diverted to the Middle East, and the part that it is playing and will continue to do so that it is playing and will continue to do so in developing the time of the end is in developing the time of the end is outlined. Finally, West and East are outlined. Finally, West and East are brought together at the judgment of brought together at the judgment of Armageddon which precedes the final Armageddon which precedes the final outpouring of judgment on Babylon the outpouring of judgment on Babylon the Great.Great.

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11stst vial – French Revolution period ca. 1789 vial – French Revolution period ca. 1789 22ndnd vial – Napoleon’s Middle East campaign, vial – Napoleon’s Middle East campaign,

defeated by British navy, ca. 1793defeated by British navy, ca. 1793 33rdrd vial – Napoleon’s victories against the Alpine vial – Napoleon’s victories against the Alpine

districts and the north of Italy from 1796 onwardsdistricts and the north of Italy from 1796 onwards 44thth vial – The wars of Napoleon against Austria vial – The wars of Napoleon against Austria

and the so-called Holy Roman Empire ca. 1805and the so-called Holy Roman Empire ca. 1805 55thth vial – The beast referred to here is the papal- vial – The beast referred to here is the papal-

dominated “Beast of the Earth”, known to history dominated “Beast of the Earth”, known to history as the Holy Roman Empire. With the defeat of its as the Holy Roman Empire. With the defeat of its Austrian Emperor during the 4th-vial period, and Austrian Emperor during the 4th-vial period, and the humiliation of the Pope representing its the humiliation of the Pope representing its ecclesiastical head, the Holy Roman Empire was ecclesiastical head, the Holy Roman Empire was dissolved and Napoleon’s commission was dissolved and Napoleon’s commission was completed.completed.

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The Sixth Vial – Rev 16:12-The Sixth Vial – Rev 16:12-1616

12 The sixth angel poured out his vial on the great river, the Euphrates; and its water was dried up, so that the way would be prepared for the kings from the east. 13 And I saw coming out of the mouth of the dragon and out of the mouth of the beast and out of the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits like frogs; 14 for they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the whole world, to gather them together for the war of the great day of God, the Almighty. 15 (“Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who stays awake and keeps his clothes, so that he will not walk about naked and men will not see his shame.”) 16 And they gathered them together to the place which in Hebrew is called Armaggedon.

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12 The sixth angel poured out his vial on the great river, the Euphrates; and its water was dried up, so that the way would be prepared for the kings from the east. 13 And I saw coming out of the mouth of the dragon and out of the mouth of the beast and out of the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits like frogs; 14 for they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the whole world, to gather them together for the war of the great day of God, the Almighty. 15 (“Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who stays awake and keeps his clothes, so that he will not walk about naked and men will not see his shame.”) 16 And they gathered them together to the place which in Hebrew is called Armageddon.

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The Sixth Vial – Upon the The Sixth Vial – Upon the Euphrates [Rev 16:12-16]Euphrates [Rev 16:12-16]

The sixth trumpet saw the inundation of The sixth trumpet saw the inundation of the Euphratean flood over the Middle the Euphratean flood over the Middle East; the sixth vial witnesses its East; the sixth vial witnesses its complete evaporation. The symbolism complete evaporation. The symbolism of this vial is drawn from the historical of this vial is drawn from the historical account of the taking of Babylon by account of the taking of Babylon by Cyrus who is set forth as a type of Cyrus who is set forth as a type of Christ. He diverted the course of the Christ. He diverted the course of the River Euphrates, and entered the city River Euphrates, and entered the city along the dried up riverbed to take along the dried up riverbed to take Babylon.Babylon.

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““that the way of the kings of the east that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared” [Rev 16:12]might be prepared” [Rev 16:12]

Isaiah described Cyrus as a “king of the east” Isaiah described Cyrus as a “king of the east” (Isa 41:2), and presented him as a type of the (Isa 41:2), and presented him as a type of the Messiah (Isa 45:1-4). This forms the basis of Messiah (Isa 45:1-4). This forms the basis of the “drying Euphrates” of the chapter before the “drying Euphrates” of the chapter before us. The political “river Euphrates” has been us. The political “river Euphrates” has been partially dried up that the antitypical Cyrus partially dried up that the antitypical Cyrus might attack Babylon the Great. Christ will might attack Babylon the Great. Christ will first reveal his power in Jerusalem, and from first reveal his power in Jerusalem, and from that center will move out against “great that center will move out against “great Babylon”. The political “river Euphrates,” the Babylon”. The political “river Euphrates,” the Turkish Empire, was “dried up” from the Land Turkish Empire, was “dried up” from the Land of Promise, the “way” of the verse before us, of Promise, the “way” of the verse before us, in 1917 when the British under General in 1917 when the British under General Allenby drove the Turks from the land.Allenby drove the Turks from the land.

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““three unclean spirits like frogs” [Rev three unclean spirits like frogs” [Rev 16:13]16:13]

In In EurekaEureka, Bro. Thomas shows that three , Bro. Thomas shows that three frogs constituted the heraldic symbol of frogs constituted the heraldic symbol of the French people, in contrast to the three the French people, in contrast to the three lilies which was the heraldic symbol of the lilies which was the heraldic symbol of the Bourbon rulers of France. As the Franks Bourbon rulers of France. As the Franks originated from the marshy lands of originated from the marshy lands of Westphalia, the symbol of “frogs” is Westphalia, the symbol of “frogs” is appropriate to the origin of the people. It appropriate to the origin of the people. It is used as a common term to identify the is used as a common term to identify the French even in modern times. The “frogs” French even in modern times. The “frogs” therefore represent the people of France therefore represent the people of France in contrast to its one-time rulers. …in contrast to its one-time rulers. …

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Their voices were heard for the first time Their voices were heard for the first time in the noise agitation of Revolutionary in the noise agitation of Revolutionary principles with their demand for principles with their demand for Liberty, Liberty, Equality, FraternityEquality, Fraternity. However, John did not . However, John did not see three frogs, but “spirits like frogs.” see three frogs, but “spirits like frogs.” The term “spirit” is used for teaching or The term “spirit” is used for teaching or doctrine. The French Revolution doctrine. The French Revolution developed a doctrine, or teaching, peculiar developed a doctrine, or teaching, peculiar to it in the Communistic principles that to it in the Communistic principles that swept Europe as a result. In 1848 these swept Europe as a result. In 1848 these were consolidated by Karl Marx in his were consolidated by Karl Marx in his Manifesto of the Communist PartyManifesto of the Communist Party which which has since so drastically changed the has since so drastically changed the pattern of world politics.pattern of world politics.

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Digression: The “Eastern Question” Digression: The “Eastern Question” and the Crimean Warand the Crimean War

Eastern Question, term used to describe the Eastern Question, term used to describe the diplomatic problems posed in Europe during diplomatic problems posed in Europe during the 19th and early 20th centuries regarding the 19th and early 20th centuries regarding the decline of the Ottoman Empire. The the decline of the Ottoman Empire. The strategic location of the Ottoman territories, strategic location of the Ottoman territories, which included the Balkan Peninsula and the which included the Balkan Peninsula and the area that is now Turkey, made it of great area that is now Turkey, made it of great importance to other European powers. importance to other European powers. Austria, Britain, and Russia were the Austria, Britain, and Russia were the principal powers involved in the debate principal powers involved in the debate about what was to become of the failing about what was to become of the failing empire. – From Encarta Encyclopediaempire. – From Encarta Encyclopedia

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The Concert of Europe preserved the peace The Concert of Europe preserved the peace until the outbreak of the Crimean War in until the outbreak of the Crimean War in 1853. Tensions frequently arose, but they 1853. Tensions frequently arose, but they were managed. The Greeks achieved their were managed. The Greeks achieved their independence after a revolt initiated in 1821 independence after a revolt initiated in 1821 and the short Russo-Turkish War in 1828 and and the short Russo-Turkish War in 1828 and 1829. Although Russia had declared the war, 1829. Although Russia had declared the war, it quickly ended the conflict after Tsar it quickly ended the conflict after Tsar Nicholas I was convinced that Russia should Nicholas I was convinced that Russia should preserve the Ottoman Empire. When preserve the Ottoman Empire. When Muhammad Ali of Egypt attacked the Muhammad Ali of Egypt attacked the Ottomans in 1831, Russia came to the aid of Ottomans in 1831, Russia came to the aid of Mahmud II, the sultan of the Ottoman Empire. Mahmud II, the sultan of the Ottoman Empire. The reward was the Treaty of Unkiar-Skelessi The reward was the Treaty of Unkiar-Skelessi (1833), which placed the Ottoman Empire (1833), which placed the Ottoman Empire under the exclusive protection of the under the exclusive protection of the Russians and gave them an advantage at the Russians and gave them an advantage at the straits of Bosporus and Dardanelles. …straits of Bosporus and Dardanelles. …

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Britain, in order to nullify any Russian Britain, in order to nullify any Russian gain, sought to internationalize the gain, sought to internationalize the regime at the straits. After several years regime at the straits. After several years of tortuous diplomacy, the European of tortuous diplomacy, the European powers and the Ottomans signed the powers and the Ottomans signed the Straits Convention in 1841. That Straits Convention in 1841. That agreement closed the straits to all agreement closed the straits to all foreign warships when the sultan was at foreign warships when the sultan was at peace, thus providing the other powers peace, thus providing the other powers with the same advantage as Russia. with the same advantage as Russia. Crucial consequences flowed from the Crucial consequences flowed from the Treaty of Paris that ended the Crimean Treaty of Paris that ended the Crimean War in 1856. – From Encarta War in 1856. – From Encarta EncyclopediaEncyclopedia

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““out of the mouth of the beast” [Rev out of the mouth of the beast” [Rev 16:13]16:13]

There are two “beasts” referred to in The There are two “beasts” referred to in The Apocalypse: the beast of the sea, and the beast of Apocalypse: the beast of the sea, and the beast of the earth. The latter beast is referred to in this the earth. The latter beast is referred to in this chapter (16:10), relating it to the Holy Roman chapter (16:10), relating it to the Holy Roman Empire and the Germanic Federation. The Empire and the Germanic Federation. The headquarters of this was located in Vienna, but with headquarters of this was located in Vienna, but with the fall of the Empire, the center of Germanic the fall of the Empire, the center of Germanic influence shifted to Berlin. In any case, the symbol influence shifted to Berlin. In any case, the symbol points to Central Europe, which is today [ca. 1980] points to Central Europe, which is today [ca. 1980] dominated by Soviet Russia and its Communistic dominated by Soviet Russia and its Communistic principles. We can expect the “frog-like spirit” of principles. We can expect the “frog-like spirit” of Communism to emerge from this center even more Communism to emerge from this center even more virulently in the future to agitate the minds of men virulently in the future to agitate the minds of men and nations as indicated in the prophecy.and nations as indicated in the prophecy.

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““Armageddon” [Rev 16:16]Armageddon” [Rev 16:16] Brother Thomas suggests that the word is Brother Thomas suggests that the word is

compounded of three Hebrew words. The word bears compounded of three Hebrew words. The word bears the meaning of the meaning of a heap of sheaves in a valley for a heap of sheaves in a valley for judgmentjudgment. This is the very description given by the . This is the very description given by the prophecies for the nations gathered together to prophecies for the nations gathered together to Jerusalem at the time of the end (Zech 14:1). A Jerusalem at the time of the end (Zech 14:1). A decisive battle will take place in the valley of decisive battle will take place in the valley of Jehoshaphat and there they will be threshed (Joel 3:2, Jehoshaphat and there they will be threshed (Joel 3:2, 12, 14; Mic 4:11-12). … And here, too, according to 12, 14; Mic 4:11-12). … And here, too, according to Daniel’s prophecy (Dan 11:45) the king of the north Daniel’s prophecy (Dan 11:45) the king of the north will do so before “coming to his end with none to help will do so before “coming to his end with none to help him.” Armageddon, therefore, is a symbolic name him.” Armageddon, therefore, is a symbolic name indicating that the nations will be gathered together indicating that the nations will be gathered together for the purpose of divine judgment. The prophecies for the purpose of divine judgment. The prophecies show that the place where Christ will manifest his show that the place where Christ will manifest his power against Gog will be at Jerusalem, not Megiddo.power against Gog will be at Jerusalem, not Megiddo.

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Revelation 17Revelation 17 This chapter commences a more detailed This chapter commences a more detailed

description of the formidable anti-Christ power description of the formidable anti-Christ power briefly referred to in the last chapter. John is briefly referred to in the last chapter. John is conveyed into a wilderness where he sees a conveyed into a wilderness where he sees a profligate woman seated upon a beast, with a profligate woman seated upon a beast, with a caption on her head identifying her with Babylon caption on her head identifying her with Babylon the Great. He describes her appearance as well as the Great. He describes her appearance as well as that of the beast upon which she rides. The awful that of the beast upon which she rides. The awful description given of the woman of this chapter description given of the woman of this chapter reveals the way in which Rome is viewed by the reveals the way in which Rome is viewed by the Father and the Son. Despite its glamour and the Father and the Son. Despite its glamour and the title of “Christian” with which it has labeled itself, title of “Christian” with which it has labeled itself, it is revealed as nothing more than a whore, it is revealed as nothing more than a whore, drunken by excess of pleasure and power.drunken by excess of pleasure and power.

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““sit upon a scarlet colored beast” [Rev sit upon a scarlet colored beast” [Rev 17:3]17:3]

As a “beast” it is identified with the “beast of the As a “beast” it is identified with the “beast of the sea” of Rev 13:1. The prophecy demands, sea” of Rev 13:1. The prophecy demands, therefore, a revival of the political organization of therefore, a revival of the political organization of the “beast” at the time of the end, as guided and the “beast” at the time of the end, as guided and managed by the woman. Current developments managed by the woman. Current developments in Europe point to this. The E.E.C. (or Common in Europe point to this. The E.E.C. (or Common Market) is combining the nations of Western Market) is combining the nations of Western Europe in a manner reminiscent of the Western Europe in a manner reminiscent of the Western Roman Empire, and is creating an organization Roman Empire, and is creating an organization answering to the “beast” of Rev 13. We may well answering to the “beast” of Rev 13. We may well expect the influence of Rome to increase as expect the influence of Rome to increase as suggested by this prophecy.suggested by this prophecy.

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““when they behold the beast that was, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is” [Rev 17:8]and is not, and yet is” [Rev 17:8]

The prophecy thus requires the reappearance The prophecy thus requires the reappearance in the earth of a European system answering in the earth of a European system answering to the “beast of the sea” of Rev 13. The to the “beast of the sea” of Rev 13. The system must have individual autonomy for system must have individual autonomy for the powers represented in it, answer to the the powers represented in it, answer to the ten kings, and must yet be banded together, ten kings, and must yet be banded together, and guided by Papal influence. The E.E.C. or and guided by Papal influence. The E.E.C. or Common Market is currently developing such Common Market is currently developing such a system. Moreover, the Common Market a system. Moreover, the Common Market was brought into existence by the Treaty of was brought into existence by the Treaty of Rome in 1957. In this manner, the “beast” is Rome in 1957. In this manner, the “beast” is gradually forming.gradually forming.

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““and these make war with the and these make war with the Lamb” [Rev 17:14]Lamb” [Rev 17:14]

This is after Armageddon. At Armageddon, the beast This is after Armageddon. At Armageddon, the beast (western Europe), the false prophet (papacy), and (western Europe), the false prophet (papacy), and the dragon (Russia in Constantinople) will comprise the dragon (Russia in Constantinople) will comprise an Eurasian confederacy (Ezek 38), that will invade an Eurasian confederacy (Ezek 38), that will invade the Middle East, besiege and occupy Jerusalem (Dan the Middle East, besiege and occupy Jerusalem (Dan 11:40-45), to be destroyed by Christ (Zech 14:4). 11:40-45), to be destroyed by Christ (Zech 14:4). Thus will the “dragon” (headed by Russia) be Thus will the “dragon” (headed by Russia) be overthrown as a political force. But it will not end overthrown as a political force. But it will not end opposition to the reign of Christ. A European opposition to the reign of Christ. A European confederacy of Catholic countries (the Apocalyptic confederacy of Catholic countries (the Apocalyptic “beast”) will oppose the rising power of Israel under “beast”) will oppose the rising power of Israel under Christ and will “make war with the Lamb.” Christ, Christ and will “make war with the Lamb.” Christ, however, will take the initiative. He will “rebuke however, will take the initiative. He will “rebuke strong nations afar off” (Micah 4:3). His army will strong nations afar off” (Micah 4:3). His army will move against Catholic Europe and bring it into move against Catholic Europe and bring it into subjection as predicted in Rev 19:19-20.subjection as predicted in Rev 19:19-20.

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Revelation 20Revelation 20 Though the “beast” and the “false prophet,” have Though the “beast” and the “false prophet,” have

been silenced, the moral regeneration of mankind still been silenced, the moral regeneration of mankind still remains to be accomplished, and with this, the remains to be accomplished, and with this, the complete and final conquest of sin and death. This complete and final conquest of sin and death. This will occupy one thousand years. Paul declares that will occupy one thousand years. Paul declares that Christ “must reign, till he hath put all enemies under Christ “must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death”. A perfect Kingdom will then be handed over death”. A perfect Kingdom will then be handed over to God “that He may be all in all”. The chapter before to God “that He may be all in all”. The chapter before us outlines the means by which this is done. Though us outlines the means by which this is done. Though “the dragon,” or political rebellion against the rule of “the dragon,” or political rebellion against the rule of God, will be humbled at Armageddon, its influence will God, will be humbled at Armageddon, its influence will not be completely destroyed until the end of the reign not be completely destroyed until the end of the reign of Christ. Meanwhile, having dealt with the “beast” of Christ. Meanwhile, having dealt with the “beast” and “false prophet,” Christ will set about limiting the and “false prophet,” Christ will set about limiting the influence of the “dragon,” until the very seat of its influence of the “dragon,” until the very seat of its influence (the flesh) is swallowed up of life.influence (the flesh) is swallowed up of life.

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““and he laid hold on the dragon” [Rev and he laid hold on the dragon” [Rev 20:2]20:2]

The “dragon” is used throughout The Apocalypse as The “dragon” is used throughout The Apocalypse as a symbol for sin manifested politically. To “lay hold” a symbol for sin manifested politically. To “lay hold” of such implies the use of force. Vigorous methods of such implies the use of force. Vigorous methods will be used by Christ and the Redeemed to restrain will be used by Christ and the Redeemed to restrain all political opposition to this power during the all political opposition to this power during the millennium. At the conclusion of that period, millennium. At the conclusion of that period, however, Christ will relax his controls so as to enable however, Christ will relax his controls so as to enable men to independently demonstrate their loyalty. men to independently demonstrate their loyalty. Some will seize the opportunity to rebel, with the Some will seize the opportunity to rebel, with the result that “the dragon,” or organized political result that “the dragon,” or organized political opposition to Christ, will reveal itself again. A post-opposition to Christ, will reveal itself again. A post-millennial Gog and Magog will develop to re-enact millennial Gog and Magog will develop to re-enact the political folly exhibited by the pre-millennial Gog the political folly exhibited by the pre-millennial Gog as predicted in the prophecy of Ezekiel 38.as predicted in the prophecy of Ezekiel 38.

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““till the thousand years should be till the thousand years should be fulfilled” [Rev 20:3]fulfilled” [Rev 20:3]

A “thousand years” is a millennium, hence A “thousand years” is a millennium, hence the general use of the term. The thousand the general use of the term. The thousand years of peace described in this chapter, years of peace described in this chapter, does not commence at Christ’s return, but does not commence at Christ’s return, but after he has subdued the nations. Other after he has subdued the nations. Other parts of Scripture suggest that the judgment parts of Scripture suggest that the judgment of the household, and the subduing of the of the household, and the subduing of the nations, will occupy a jubilee of fifty years. nations, will occupy a jubilee of fifty years. The peace of Christ’s reign, once it is The peace of Christ’s reign, once it is established, will not be disturbed until the established, will not be disturbed until the millennium is completed.millennium is completed.

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ConclusionConclusion

CH understands Revelation as dealing CH understands Revelation as dealing prophetically with the judgment upon the prophetically with the judgment upon the religious-political alliance betweenreligious-political alliance between

““Rome” in its various historical Rome” in its various historical manifestations; andmanifestations; and

Apostate Christianity (i.e. Roman Apostate Christianity (i.e. Roman Catholicism, with its mouthpiece “The Catholicism, with its mouthpiece “The Pope”) with its harlot-daughters (i.e. Pope”) with its harlot-daughters (i.e. Orthodox Churches and Protestant Orthodox Churches and Protestant Churches)Churches)