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29.03.2025 – Revelation Chapter 4 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

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March 29, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Offenbarung Chapter 4
1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.
2 And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.
3 And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.
4 And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.
5 And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.
6 And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.
7 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.
8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.
9 And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,
10 The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,
11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary
🟦 Introduction
Revelation 4 marks the transition from the letters to the churches (chapters 2–3) to the heavenly perspective that is shown to John in visions. This chapter symbolically opens the view into heaven, to God’s very throne. It not only displays a majestic scene but also reveals central truths about God’s nature, His reign, and the worship He receives in heaven.
🟨 Commentary
1.The Open Door and the Invitation (v. 1)
John sees an open door in heaven—a symbol of revelation and an invitation into the divine realm. The voice (like a trumpet—cf. chapter 1,10) calls him to “ascend”: a transition from the earthly to the heavenly.
2.The Vision of the Throne (v. 2–3)
In the spirit, John sees God’s throne—the center of heaven. The description of God (“like jasper and carnelian”) points to glory and holiness. The rainbow symbolizes mercy and faithfulness (cf. God’s covenant with Noah).
3.The Elders (v. 4)
The 24 elders likely symbolize the united community of the redeemed (12 tribes of Israel + 12 apostles). Their white garments and crowns represent righteousness and the victory through Christ.
4.Power and Holiness (v. 5–6)
Thunder and lightning indicate God’s power and judgment (cf. Sinai). The seven golden lamps are a representation of the Holy Spirit. The glassy sea stands for purity, clarity, and exaltation.
5.The Four Living Creatures (v. 6b–8)
These symbolic beings represent the entire creation in its diversity and vitality (lion = wild animals, calf = domestic animals, man = humanity, eagle = birds). Their many eyes suggest knowledge and vigilance. Their constant worship emphasizes God’s holiness.
6.Eternal Worship (v. 9–11)
The elders fall down and lay their crowns aside—a demonstration of complete submission to God’s rule. They praise God as the Creator, through whose will everything came into being. Worship of God is at the center of heaven.
🟩 Summary
Revelation 4 opens the view to God’s throne and heavenly worship. John is taken into heaven and sees a throne surrounded by radiant glory, elders, and symbolic beings. They ceaselessly worship God and acknowledge His holiness, omnipotence, and creative authority. Everything in heaven is oriented toward God’s throne—the center of power, honor, and worship.
🟥 Message for Us Today
1.God sits on the throne—He has everything under control.
In a world full of uncertainties, this vision reminds us that God reigns sovereignly. Our lives, our future, and history are in His hands.
2.Worship is not secondary.
Heaven is filled with worship—not as an obligation, but as a response to God’s nature. Our lives should also be an act of daily worship through words, actions, and trust.
3.God’s holiness is awe-inspiring.
The ceaseless worship of “Holy, holy, holy” calls us to reverence before God—an antidote to our often superficial relationship with Him.
4.We are invited to partake.
Like John, we too may look through the “open door.” The Bible invites us to access the heavenly throne through Christ (Hebrews 4:16).

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 10—A Knowledge of God
Read online here

 

Commentary
🟦 Introduction
Chapter 10 is a profound call to recognize God’s nature, actions, and love in creation, in His Word, and in our own lives. Creation, the Word of God, and the influence of the Holy Spirit are three central ways in which God connects with us. This reflection invites us to contemplate God’s glory and to know Him more deeply.

🟨 Commentary
1.God Reveals Himself in Nature
Nature constantly speaks of its Creator. Whoever has an open heart and a listening ear can hear the voice of God in creation. Jesus’ parables drawn from nature show how closely heaven and earth are connected. Nature is not only meant to be admired but also to be a teacher and a mediator between God and humanity.
2.God’s Care Is All-Encompassing
From the universe to the sparrow, from the palace to the simplest meal – God’s gaze rests on everyone. This all-embracing love is meant to free us from fear and lead us into deep peace.
3.The Glory to Come
The beauty we now see is only a faint reflection of what God has prepared for those who love Him. The hope of a world without sin and death brings comfort and perspective.
4.The Bible as a Source of Knowledge
God speaks to us through His Word. In it, Christ is revealed. The Holy Spirit helps us to understand these truths. Scripture is clear, accessible, and intended for everyone. But it is not surface reading, rather deep study that brings true understanding.
5.The Effect of the Word on Our Lives
Just as natural food strengthens the body, the Word of God strengthens our spiritual life. Meditation, prayer, and the Holy Spirit work together to transform our character and make us more like Christ.

🟩 Summary
God reveals Himself in many ways – through nature, through His Word, and through the Holy Spirit. Those who are willing to listen will recognize His voice. The Bible is the clearest expression of His will. Only through deep study, prayer, and humility can we truly grasp God’s nature. His love is evident in His care for both the smallest and the greatest. Reflecting on these truths leads to the transformation of our hearts.

🟥 Message for Us Today
  • Be attentive to God’s voice in nature and in everyday life.
  • Take time for God’s Word and study it with dedication.
  • Ask the Holy Spirit for understanding and guidance.
  • Let God’s care comfort and guide you.
  • Live with your eyes fixed on the glory to come.
God’s knowledge is not secret wisdom but an invitation to relationship.
Whoever seeks will find. Whoever listens will understand. And whoever believes will be transformed.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/29-03-2025-revelation-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/

Mission Spotlight for March 29

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Our Sabbath School program has always been linked to the support of the Seventh-day Adventist Mission program. This video provides a little insight into this important work.

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Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/mission-spotlight-for-march-29/

March 28, 2025: Digital Evangelism in France & More Global News.

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On this episode of ANN: See how the Adventist Church in Northern France is taking evangelism online by opening a new digital studio and campaign. Discover Adventist Connect, a next-level digital outreach platform, and follow 10,000 Pathfinders in the Philippines as they “Rebuild the Altar.” We’ll also take you to Australia, where 35 baptisms at an Adventist college underscore the power of faith, and to Brazil, where therapy dogs boost students' emotional health. Plus, we highlight a charity cycling journey across New Zealand’s Alps2Ocean trail and share inspiring updates from Belarus, Indonesia, and beyond. Stay tuned as ANN brings you everything you need to know about what is happening in the church worldwide. For a deeper dive into these headlines, visit https://www.adventist.news ANN is the official news channel of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Subscribe to ANN HERE: https://www.youtube.com/@AdventistNewsNetwork
Like ANN on Facebook HERE: https://www.facebook.com/AdventistNews/
Follow ANN on X HERE: https://twitter.com/adventistnews Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FjDnhairmU

How to Prepare for the 2025 General Conference Session

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by Loren Seibold  |  28 March 2025  | The last full General Conference (GC) session was in 2015. Blame Covid, which hijacked our best-laid plans.  So we’ve had ten years to prepare. But I’ll bet you haven’t. You say, Loren, what are you talking about? I’m not attending the General Conference session. Why do I […] Source: https://atoday.org/preparing-for-the-2025-general-conference-session/

Oakwood’s New President Is Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown

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by Pamela Maize Harris  |  28 March 2025  |   Oakwood University’s Board of Trustees is expected to announce Gina Spivey-Brown as the new president of Oakwood University. Though it has yet to be officially announced, Carlton Byrd, who was the favorite candidate of some, has sent out a note that appears to be a joint […] Source: https://atoday.org/oakwoods-new-president-is-gina-spivey-brown/

Wintley Phipps Introduces AI Model to Generate Sermons and Theological Aid

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28 March 2025 | In an interview with Danny Shelton and his wife, Pastor Wintley Phipps introduced his new artificial intelligence model, GospelTruth.ai, on the Three Angels Broadcasting Network show, 3ABN Today. Phipps created the model out of concern for existing AI systems that tend to skim both sacred and secular materials, often providing repetitive […] Source: https://atoday.org/wintley-phipps-introduces-ai-model-to-generate-sermons-and-theological-aid/

KOMENTARZ / NADUŻYCIA, FEMINIZM, SEKSIZM

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Seksistowski kościół krzywdzi nas wszystkich: komentarz do Safe Church („Bezpieczny Kościół”)” Andrew J. Bauman’a 28 lutego 2025 “Safe Church („Bezpieczny Kościół”): jak chronić się przed seksizmem i przemocą w chrześcijańskich wspólnotach”, Andrew J. Bauman, Baker Books, 2025, 195 str. Przeglądu dokonała Dorothy Porawski Jako kobieta z własnym kościelnym bagażem doświadczeń, kilka tematów podnosi mi ciśnienie […] Source: https://atoday.org/komentarz-naduzycia-feminizm-seksizm/

SATIRE: Marie Kondo to GC: Which Fundamental Beliefs “Spark Joy?”

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SILVER SPRING, Md. — In a presentation to overwhelmed General Conference leaders this morning, Japanese organization consultant, Marie Kondo, urged the group to declutter their approach to faith. “Holding up the ever-growing book of Adventist fundamental beliefs, Kondo said attempting the reading of the dense volume on the flight from Tokyo ranked as one of […] Source: https://atoday.org/satire-marie-kondo-to-gc-which-fundamental-beliefs-spark-joy/

Sabbath: Some Principles of Prophecy

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Daily Lesson for Sabbath 29th of March 2025

Man Studying his Bible

Image © Pacific Press

Read for This Week’s Study: Jeremiah 29:23-24; Psalms 139:1-6; Daniel 12:4; Revelation 22:10; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; Hebrews 4:12.

Memory Text:

“ ‘But let him who glories glory in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight,’ says the Lord” (Jeremiah 9:24, NKJV).

As with most everything else in Scripture, Christians disagree about prophecy, which often convinces others that Bible prophecy is a waste of time. After all, if Christians fight over every prophetic jot and tittle, how valid could it be? Unfortunately, many believers also begin to think that some books of the Bible, such as Revelation, are simply incomprehensible. Instead of reading them, they avoid them, sometimes with the encouragement of a well-meaning pastor who thinks that studying prophecy causes more problems than it solves.

It was not always so. For the first eighteen centuries of Christian history, most Christians were very comfortable with biblical prophecy, and there was a surprising level of agreement on what the key messages of the prophecies were. This is how God intended for it to be: “Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10, NKJV).

This week, we will explore some principles that yield a consistent and reliable understanding of prophecy.

*Study this week’s lesson to prepare for Sabbath, April 5.

Sunday–>

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Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/25b-01-some-principles-of-prophecy/

Introduction: Precursors for Prophecy

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During the First Gulf War (1991), a well-known Protestant writer and speaker was convinced that the book of Revelation predicted this conflict. His argument was based on the fact that some of the helicopters in the war looked like the locusts depicted in Revelation 9. “And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke arose out of the pit like the smoke of a great furnace. So the sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke of the pit. Then out of the smoke locusts came upon the earth. And to them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power.” (Revelation 9:2, 3, NKJV).

Quarterly Cover, 2025 2nd Quarter

Image © Pacific Press

Not exactly the best way to interpret biblical prophecy, is it? Yet, interpretations like this are fairly common. In fact, over the decades a stream of books, articles, videos, and now websites, all dedicated to prophecy, have made many predictions, including date setting, about final events—usually centered on wars or turmoil in the middle east.

As Seventh-day Adventists, we take a different approach, a Christ-centered approach, in which the focus of prophecy is no longer on a single geographic location in the Middle East and whatever military conflicts unfold there. Instead, we view the prophecies through the lens of the great controversy between Christ and Satan—a worldwide spiritual struggle that will climax when God’s people, Jew and Gentile (see Revelation 12;17, Revelation 14:12), face the final crisis, which centers on worshiping the Creator (see Revelation 14:7), as opposed to the beast and his image.

A key element in understanding these last-day prophecies is Daniel 2, which contains not only the historical outline of the prophecies but the interpretive key to unlocking their meanings, as well.

Quotation from the IntroductionDaniel 2 depicts four world empires—Babylon, Media-Persia, Greece, and Rome—followed by God’s establishing His eternal kingdom, “ ‘which shall never be destroyed, and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever.’ ” (Daniel 2:44 NKJV). The parallel prophecies in Daniel 7 and 8 contain this same basic outline, that of these worldly empires arising and vanishing until God’s kingdom is forever established.

In Daniel 7, the angel interpreter sets it all out for us “ ‘Those great beasts, which are four, are four kings which arise out of the earth. But the saints of the Most High shall receive the kingdom, and possess the kingdom forever, even forever and ever’ ” (Daniel 7:17, 18, NKJV).

Four worldly empires (Babylon, Media-Persia, Greece, and Rome) move in an unbroken succession through history until, after the second coming of Jesus, God established His eternal one.

Of course, we are still here, in the time of the division of Rome, the fourth and final earthly kingdom before Christ returns.

With this historical perspective as the foundation for understanding prophecy, we are going to study this quarter the theme of how to interpret Bible prophecy, specifically some of the allusions, stories, images and metaphors that unlock prophetic truth and final events.

We go from the Genesis creation account—important for understanding not only prophecy but for what follows, especially the cross and the atoning death of Jesus—to the tower of Babel, to the sanctuary service, to the Psalms, even to some Old Testament marriages. In all these, and more, we can find images, symbols, and metaphors that, when studied prayerfully and with a humble, submissive spirit (if you go to the Bible with a rebellious heart, you are wasting your time), will help make end-time prophecies, specifically in Revelation, come alive.

One quarter is certainly not enough even to begin to study all the stories and images that help unlock prophetic truth. Who knows—we might need eternity for that. Until then, by God’s grace, we will study what we can.

Shawn Boonstra is speaker/director for the Voice of Prophecy ministry. His broadcasts and books have been a source of inspiration around the globe, and over the years, his live evangelistic events have been presented on every continent except Antarctica.

 

 

 

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Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/introduction-precursors-for-prophecy/

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