10 Since you have kept My command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.
And so it begins …………..
This verse is the kickoff to everything that is controversial about Revelation. It all starts with this. The controversy is over the interpretation or meaning of the “hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world”. This is an obvious prophesy as it is “going to come”. It is also going to involve everyone in “the whole world” and as this trial will test all “the inhabitants of the earth.” This is not an easy thing to read. But, we would be amiss if we didn’t read the promise in it. Since you are enduring patiently and keeping His commands, He will protect you. This is worth remembering and standing on in view of a great trial.
There are several ways to read this. One is that this is a reference to the trial that does test everyone on earth, mortality. Everyone will die. Everyone will have to face judgment. Everyone will have to acknowledge if they believe in the One true Living God and that Jesus is His Son as their redemption for their sins. This is going to come to everyone in the whole world and this faith test is for all mankind, the inhabitants of the earth.
The most common interpretation can only be done by reading further into this book of Revelation. Many believe it is a reference to a coming worldwide devastation that is described further herein and that this is an indication that Jesus will call up those who know Him before that destruction. It is commonly referred to as the Rapture of the Saints. Most commentaries are written to reflect this view.
Either way, for me the important aspect is the promise of protection in that hour of trial. I can trust Him with all that I am no matter what comes. Can you?
No comments:
Post a Comment