Allusions, Images, Symbols – Lesson 2.The Genesis Foundation | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 2.The Genesis Foundation |
The Roots of Truth – Why the Beginning Matters |
Lesson 2 takes us back to the beginning of the Bible, where many decisive truths are revealed for the first time. In Genesis, God lays the foundation for central spiritual concepts such as love, sacrifice, death, and redemption. These first mentions help us to better understand the depth and continuity of biblical teachings. Particularly for the study of prophecy, it is important to know the original meanings of these themes. The Bible does not begin with Genesis by chance – it begins where God’s great plan becomes visible. Whoever understands this beginning can better follow the red thread of the redemption story all the way to Revelation.
Memory Text: John 1,29 – “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!’ ”
Content:
2.1 The Principle of “First Mention”
The Origin of Truth: Why the Beginning Matters
The principle of “first mention” emphasizes that fundamental biblical truths are introduced already in Genesis and unfold throughout the entire Bible. These early passages serve as keys to understanding later biblical teachings and prophecies. The truths revealed by God do not change over time but are deepened and expanded through repeated emphasis. In a world where truth is often seen as relative, this principle offers a firm foundation for spiritual growth. It reminds us how important it is to take the Bible as an infallible source of divine truth seriously. Subtle attacks on this foundation can occur through philosophical trends or seemingly “new insights” that seek to lead us away from biblical truth.
2.2 Understanding God’s Love
Divine Love: More Than a Feeling – A Selfless Devotion
Understanding God’s love means growing beyond our egocentric perspective and recognizing the essence of true, self-sacrificing love. In Genesis 22, we encounter the first biblical mention of “love” in connection with Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his beloved son. This story reflects the profound, selfless love of God, who gave His own Son for us. Such love stands in stark contrast to the modern, often self-centered understanding of love. It is neither comfortable nor romantic, but courageous, humble, and sacrificial. Only through God’s help can we begin to live out this love and pass it on to others.
2.3 Isaac’s Question: “Where is the Lamb?”
“Where is the Lamb?” – The Question That Runs Through the Bible
Isaac’s question “Where is the Lamb?” runs like a red thread through the entire Bible and finds its complete answer in Jesus Christ. Already in Genesis 22, God symbolically hints at the forthcoming sacrifice of His own Son. The Lamb becomes the central image of redemption, spanning from Passover through the prophets to Revelation. In John 1:29, John the Baptist points to Jesus and prophetically answers Isaac’s question: “Behold, the Lamb of God.” This Lamb is our substitute, who dies in our place – without Him, we would be subject to judgment. The assurance that Jesus intercedes for us grants hope, peace, and the foundation for our redemption.
2.4 Dealing with Death
The Enemy of Life – And the Hope Beyond Death
Death is not “part of life” but its adversary – an unnatural intruder in God’s creation. The Bible makes it clear that death is the consequence of sin, a separation from the Creator who is the sole source of life. Already in the early chapters of Genesis, it is shown how profoundly death destroys human life – and how painful its consequences are, especially in the story of Cain and Abel. Yet through Jesus Christ, the Righteous, who was unjustly killed like Abel, God confronts death with a definitive solution. Jesus’ victory over death, evidenced by His resurrection, gives us hope beyond the grave. Without this hope, our life would ultimately be aimless – but through Christ, it has received an eternal perspective.
2.5 The Serpent
The Old Serpent in New Guise – Satan’s Unchanging Tactics
The introduction of the serpent in Genesis 3 reveals Satan’s main strategy: to sow doubt about God’s word and character. This same tactic runs throughout the entire Bible up to Revelation, where the devil is once again portrayed as the deceiver of the whole world. Although societal forms and ideologies change, Satan’s goals and methods remain constant – he wants worship for himself and leads people there through deception. In today’s culture, his lies appear in new packaging: promises of godlike self-determination or the denial of eternal consequences. Christians are called to remain vigilant, firmly grounded in God’s truth, in order to see through the enemy’s masks. God’s word and character remain unchanged – that is our security in the great battle.
2.6 Summary
Back to the Beginning – Understanding the Key Themes of the Bible
Lesson 2 takes us back to the roots of faith – into the first book of the Bible, Genesis. Genesis is more than just an account of the origin of the world; it lays the foundation for central biblical themes such as love, sacrifice, death, and redemption. Many terms and symbols that play a significant role in prophecy appear here for the first time. The so-called principle of “first mention” helps us to properly classify and better understand these themes. Those who know the origins will recognize deeper connections as the Bible unfolds and can grasp God’s plan more clearly. That is why a solid understanding of Genesis is indispensable for any serious study of prophecy.
Lesson 1.Some Principles of Prophecy | 1.7 Questions | ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS | LIVING FAITH
Lesson 1 – Some Principles of Prophecy
1.7 Questions – What Prophecy Does to Our Faith
Introduction – More Than Just Interpretation
We live in a time overflowing with information—but often lacking orientation. Especially in the field of prophecy, countless voices compete with interpretations, predictions, and end-time timelines. Some spark curiosity, others cause fear, and some may sound convincing, yet upon closer examination, prove speculative or unbiblical.
In this noise, we need a reliable compass. This lesson invites us to pause and ask two key questions:
What can prophecy mean for our personal faith—today, in the 21st century?
And how can we learn to distinguish true prophetic insight from human speculation?
Bible Study – Two Honest Questions, Two Spiritual Paths
Question 1:
In what way can studying prophecy greatly increase your faith? Some prophecies were written thousands of years ago and speak of events that would take place centuries or even millennia later. Which of these prophecies have helped you trust not just in the Bible, but more importantly, in the God who inspired it? How does Daniel 2, for example, give us strong and logical reasons to believe not only that God exists, but that He knows the future?
Answer:
Studying prophecy is like peering behind the curtain of history—and into the heart of God. It shows us that we are part of a greater plan unfolding over centuries and millennia. Take Daniel 2, for example: a simple statue describes entire empires—Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and finally the divided kingdoms of Europe. Every detail—gold, silver, bronze, iron, clay—is intentional and divine.
These prophecies weren’t just relevant in the past; they still speak powerfully today. When we see how precisely historical events unfolded according to God’s word, our trust grows:
If God knows the course of nations, He surely knows my path. If He sees the span of centuries, He sees tomorrow—and today.
Prophecy builds faith because it proves: the Bible is not a fantasy. It’s a compass, and it always points toward Christ—even in the storm.
Question 2:
How can we best protect ourselves from the many wild and speculative interpretations of prophecy—some of which even arise within our own church? Why is it so important to live out the counsel to “test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thess. 5:21)?
Answer:
In a world where “breaking news” is constant and often chaotic, it’s tempting to be drawn to dramatic interpretations of current events. But when it comes to prophecy, excitement doesn’t equal truth.
That’s why Paul’s advice is crucial: “Test everything; hold fast what is good.”
Every prophetic claim must be weighed against the Bible—not just with a single verse, but with the whole testimony of Scripture.
A few practical ways to stay grounded:
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Compare Scripture with Scripture.
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Avoid teachings rooted in fear or sensationalism.
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Ask: Does this interpretation lead me closer to Jesus—or distract from Him?
Even within the church, not every loud or impressive voice is right. Real prophecy produces peace, not panic. It strengthens faith, not fear. And it always leads to Christ—not conspiracy theories.
Spiritual Principles – How God Makes Prophecy Accessible
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Faith grows through understanding, not confusion.
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True prophecy is Christ-centered, not speculation-based.
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The Holy Spirit leads patiently and clearly, not through hype or manipulation.
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Humility matters more than knowledge. Truth isn’t a trophy, it’s a calling.
Practical Application – Living Prophecy
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Read the Bible as a student, not a skeptic.
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Ask: “What is God really saying?” not “What fits my worldview?”
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Trust what’s clear; be patient with what’s hidden.
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Speak about prophecy in love—not with arrogance or fear-mongering.
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Let prophecy inspire you to hope, not frighten you. Jesus is coming soon.
Conclusion – Prophecy Is Invitation, Not Confusion
God gave us prophecy not to overwhelm us, but to offer hope.
It’s not encrypted code—it’s a love letter in pictures.
And every symbol, every vision points to one person:
Jesus—the Redeemer, the Judge, the Coming King.
Thought of the Day
The Bible is not a book of darkness—it is a lamp to our path. Those who read it with open hearts will be led in light.
Illustration – A Windowlight Conversation
Leipzig. A rainy Thursday.
Lina, 31, sat on the windowsill with a hot cup of tea. Beside her: an open notebook, a well-worn Bible—and one question in her heart:
“Can I even understand prophecy?”
Her colleague Daniel, a thoughtful man with a love for history, stood in the doorway.
“Daniel again?” he asked with a smile.
She nodded. “Yes. I read yesterday that Daniel was told to seal his vision. That it would only be understood at the end.”
He stepped closer. “Do you think we’re living at the end?”
Lina shrugged. “All I know is that things are starting to make sense. Prophecies that once seemed confusing now point in a clear direction.”
Daniel looked at the Bible. “So, what’s the point of all this prophecy? Doom? Fear?”
She turned to Revelation 1:1.
“No. Jesus. It says: ‘The revelation of Jesus Christ.’ It’s all about Him.”
He paused. “So, it’s not about decoding everything…”
“…it’s about seeing Him,” she said softly.
Rain tapped the glass. Silence settled.
Then Daniel said quietly,
“Maybe I should read too. Not TikTok theology… real reading.”
Lina handed him her spare Bible.
“Start anywhere. Maybe Daniel 2. Or Revelation 1.”
He took it.
“I’ll start where you said: with Jesus.”
“The revelation of Jesus Christ…” (Revelation 1:1)
5.04.2025 – Revelation Chapter 11 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
DAILY BIBLE READING
Revelation 11 – The Two Witnesses and the Seventh Trumpet
5 April 2025
Daily Chapter: Revelation 11
Bible Text: Revelation 11 (King James Version)
The Two Witnesses
1 And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein.
2 But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.
3 And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.
4 These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.
5 And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.
6 These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.
7 And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.
8 And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.
9 And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves.
10 And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.
11 And after three days and an half the spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.
12 And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.
13 And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand: and the remnant were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven.
14 The second woe is past; and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly.
15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.
16 And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God,
17 Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.
18 And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.
Explanation & Context
Introduction
Revelation 11 stands as a decisive section in the prophetic depiction of the end times. In this chapter, two essential elements are introduced:
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The Two Witnesses: Two chosen prophets who proclaim God’s message within a limited period (1260 days) and possess extraordinary power—even to shut the heavens and influence the forces of nature.
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The Seventh Trumpet: With the sound of the seventh trumpet, God’s work is fulfilled, as worldly dominion is transferred to the Lord and His Christ, and judgment is enacted upon the wicked world.
This chapter not only demonstrates God’s power and authority but also the price that His witnesses must bear, and the ultimate triumph of God over evil.
Commentary
The Two Witnesses (Verses 1–14):
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Commission for Prophecy and Measurement (Verses 1–2):
A reed (symbolizing a measuring instrument) is given to measure God’s temple, the altar, and the worshipers. The outer court is excluded, as it is given to the Gentiles—a reference to the temporal dominion of the Gentiles over the holy city for 42 months. -
The Commission and Identity of the Witnesses (Verses 3–4):
The two witnesses are assigned a period of prophecy lasting 1260 days. They are described as two olive trees and two candlesticks, symbolizing their connection to God’s Spirit and truth. -
The Power and Fate of the Witnesses (Verses 5–8):
Their words possess destructive power—fire proceeds from their mouths to consume their enemies, and anyone who would harm them must be killed accordingly. They have the power to shut up the heavens so that it does not rain during the days of their prophecy, and they can turn water into blood, underscoring their divine authority. After their testimony is completed, the beast that rises from the abyss will wage war against them, overcome them, and kill them. -
The Circumstances After the Martyrdom (Verses 9–14):
Their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city (spiritually called “Sodom and Egypt”) for three and a half days—the very place where their Lord was crucified. During this time, the nations will see their dead bodies, but they will not allow them to be buried. After three and a half days, God breathes the spirit of life into them, and they stand on their feet; great fear falls upon those who witness this, and they ascend to heaven in a cloud.
The Seventh Trumpet (Verses 15–19):
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The Sound of the Seventh Trumpet (Verse 15):
The seventh angel sounds his trumpet, and great voices in heaven proclaim that the kingdoms of the world have become the kingdom of our Lord and His Christ, and that He will reign from eternity to eternity. -
Worship in Heaven (Verses 16–17):
The twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fall on their faces and worship Him, giving thanks for His eternal power and reign. -
The Judgment Over the Gentiles (Verse 18):
It is declared that the Gentiles have become angry, and that God’s wrath has come, along with the time of the dead, to reward His servants—the prophets, the saints, and those who fear His name, both small and great—and to destroy those who have corrupted the earth. -
The Heavenly Revelation (Verse 19):
The temple of God is opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant is seen in His temple; simultaneously, lightning, voices, thunder, an earthquake, and great hail occur, symbolizing the immeasurable intervention of God in earthly order.
Summary
Revelation 11 presents two central elements of the end times:
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The Two Witnesses: Two prophets chosen by God who proclaim His message within a limited time span, endowed with supernatural power, and ultimately suffer and die for their faith. Their resurrection and ascension testify to God’s power to govern life and death.
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The Seventh Trumpet: With the sound of this trumpet, God’s dominion over the world is completed; the kingdoms of the world are handed over to the Lord and His Christ, and final judgment is passed upon evil.
The chapter emphasizes God’s sovereignty, the unstoppable progression of His plan of salvation, and the ultimate triumph of the divine over the earthly.
Message for Us Today
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God’s Sovereignty and Dominion:
Revelation 11 reminds us that God holds control in all times—He determines life, death, and the course of history. -
Courage and Faithfulness in Belief:
Like the two witnesses, we are called to proclaim God’s truth, even if it means enduring suffering. Their story encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith. -
The Coming Judgment and the Eternal Reward:
The proclamation of the seventh trumpet admonishes us that God’s justice will ultimately prevail. All who remain faithful to Him will be rewarded, while evil will receive its just recompense. -
Call to Evangelism:
The global mandate given to the two witnesses is applicable even today. Every believer is called to proclaim the good news of the gospel and to be a light in an often dark world.
“Whoever belongs to Jesus need not fear the coming judgment—because God’s sovereignty and His promises are eternal.”
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING
Ellen G. White – Steps to Christ
Chapter 11 – The Privilege of Prayer
Read online here
Explanation & Classification
Introduction
Prayer is more than a religious obligation or a cry for help in difficult times – it is the living connection between the human soul and the heart of God.
Chapter 11 of Steps to Christ shows us that prayer is not only possible, but a divine privilege – a channel of grace and communion with a loving, listening Father.
And yet – this gift is often neglected, to the great loss of our spiritual life.
Commentary
Paragraphs 1–4: The Necessity of Prayer
God speaks to us through nature, Scripture, providence, and His Spirit.
But without our response in prayer, the relationship remains incomplete.
Prayer is more than words – it is opening our heart to God and drawing near to Him.
Paragraphs 5–6: Jesus’ Example in Prayer
Jesus – though divine and without sin – felt the need for prayer.
He sought solitude, carried our burdens, and became our intercessor.
If the Son of God prayed, how much more do we need to pray!
Paragraphs 7–10: God’s Willingness to Hear
God longs to bless us – and yet we pray so little!
The angels can hardly understand this – for they know the joy of constant communion.
Without prayer, we disconnect from heaven and stand defenseless against temptation.
Paragraphs 11–18: Conditions for Answered Prayer
Prayer must be sincere – coming from a heart that longs for God.
Repentance, confession, and forgiveness toward others are essential.
Faith is key – even when we see no immediate answer.
God hears – and answers at the right time, according to our real needs.
Paragraphs 19–25: The Power of Personal and Constant Prayer
Private prayer – in stillness and solitude – has great value.
But prayer can also be a continual connection, a life lived with God.
Biblical examples like Enoch and Nehemiah show us: true prayer is a lifestyle.
Paragraphs 26–30: The Danger of Neglected Prayer
Neglecting prayer leads to spiritual weakness and distance from God.
True devotion includes prayer, fellowship, and service.
Those who isolate themselves or pray without action lose the joy and power of prayer.
Paragraphs 31–End: The Joy of Prayer and Praise
Thanksgiving and praise should be central to our prayer life.
God wants our worship to be joyful, trusting, and full of love – not fear.
Praise opens our hearts to God’s presence and prepares us to receive more blessings.
Summary
Prayer is a sacred gift of grace, through which we live in communion with God.
It is the “key in the hand of faith” that opens heaven’s treasure house.
Prayer is indispensable to the spiritual life – but its power depends on conditions: humility, faith, forgiveness, and perseverance.
Christ gave us the perfect example – and invites us to find strength, peace, and nearness to God through prayer.
Message for Us Today
In a world of noise, stress, and distraction – prayer remains our direct line to heaven.
“Ask, and it shall be given you…” (Matthew 7:7)
God waits for us – not as a distant judge, but as a loving Father.
Prayer does not change God – it changes us:
Our trust deepens, our thoughts become clear, and our hearts are opened to His Spirit.
What does this mean for you today?
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Take time for silent, personal prayer – not out of duty, but for peace and strength.
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Stay connected with God throughout the day – in thought, in whisper, in silence.
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Trust His answers – even when they come differently than expected.
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Forgive others – we cannot ask for grace while holding onto bitterness.
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Praise God! Gratitude transforms the heart and prepares us for more blessings.
Prayer is not just speaking with God – it is living with God.
Let us live in the light of this grace-filled gift.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/5-04-2025-revelation-chapter-11-believe-his-prophets/
Lesson 1.Some Principles of Prophecy | 1.6 Summary | ALLUSIONS, IMAGES, SYMBOLS | LIVING FAITH
Lesson 1 – Some Principles of Prophecy
1.6 Summary
Foundations for a Clear Understanding of Biblical Prophecy
Introduction – Orientation in the Fog of Opinions
The Bible is a book like no other. Especially in the realm of prophecy, we encounter a wide variety of opinions:
The Antichrist – symbol or real person?
Daniel – for back then or for today?
What is literal, what is symbolic?
This diversity can be confusing – or challenging.
Because God invites us not to give up, but to ask more deeply:
“Let the one who reads understand!” (Matthew 24:15)
Bible Study – The 5 Principles of Prophetic Understanding
1. Attention & Humility in Reading (1.1 Let the one who reads understand!)
Principle: Prophecy requires an open, listening heart.
The Bible is not open to random interpretation – God wants us to listen and understand. It’s not just about intellect, but about our inner attitude. (cf. Revelation 1:3)
2. God Desires to Be Understood (1.2 God Wants to Be Understood)
Principle: God does not speak to confuse, but to reveal.
Even if we don’t understand everything, God gives clarity on what matters most for our salvation. (Isaiah 55:9; 2 Timothy 3:15–17)
3. The Unfolding of Knowledge Over Time (1.3 Daniel: Seal the Words)
Principle: Some prophetic truths were reserved for the time of the end.
Understanding grows – like in the book of Daniel – according to God’s set timing. Knowledge is a gift that grows with spiritual maturity. (cf. Daniel 12:4)
4. The Whole Bible Speaks (1.4 Studying the Word)
Principle: Scripture interprets itself.
Single verses should not be taken out of context. We must compare Scripture with Scripture to see the full picture – especially in prophecy. (Luke 24:27)
5. Symbolic or Literal? (1.5 Figurative or Literal)
Principle: The Bible explains its own symbols.
We must not interpret prophetic images through modern lenses (e.g., bear = Russia), but examine how the symbol is used throughout the Bible.
Spiritual Principles – How God Makes Prophecy Accessible
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Humility before truth is more important than pride in knowledge.
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The Holy Spirit leads us step by step – in peace, not panic.
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True prophecy is centered on Christ – not driven by speculation.
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The Bible is a whole – not a random collection of quotes.
Application in Daily Life – Living Prophecy, Not Just Reading It
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Read the Bible as a learner, not as a critic.
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Don’t just ask, “What do I like?” – but “What is God really saying?”
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Trust what is clear – and be patient with what is still hidden.
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Part of prophetic understanding is speaking with love, not arrogance.
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Prophecy is meant to encourage, not to frighten – Jesus is coming again.
Conclusion – Prophecy Is an Invitation, Not a Maze
God wants to speak – not to overwhelm us, but to give us hope.
Prophecy is not a secret code – it’s a love letter in images.
And all those images lead to one person:
Jesus – the Redeemer, the Judge, the Coming King.
Thought of the Day
The Bible is not a book of darkness – but a lamp on our path. Whoever reads it with an open heart will be guided.
Illustration – The Conversation by the Window
Leipzig. A rainy Thursday.
Lina, 31, sat on the windowsill with a hot cup of tea. Beside her: an open notebook, a well-worn Bible – and a question in her mind:
“Can I even understand prophecy?”
Her colleague Daniel, a quiet guy with a passion for history, leaned in the doorway.
“Daniel again?”
She smiled. “Yes. I read yesterday that Daniel was told to seal up his vision – and that it would be understood at the end.”
Daniel stepped closer. “Do you think we’re living in the end?”
Lina shrugged.
“I just know that things suddenly make sense. Prophecies that once seemed cryptic now point clearly.”
He looked at the Bible. “So what’s the goal of all this prophecy? The end of the world? Fear?”
She turned to Revelation 1:1.
“No. Jesus. It says: ‘The Revelation of Jesus Christ.’ Everything points to Him.”
Daniel was silent.
“So… it’s not about decoding everything…”
“…but about recognizing Him,” she finished the sentence.
Rain tapped against the window. Silence for a moment.
Then Daniel said softly:
“Maybe I should start reading too. Not TikTok shorts. Just… really read.”
Lina handed him her second Bible.
“Just start. Maybe with Daniel 2. Or Revelation 1.”
He took it.
“I’ll start where you said: with Jesus.”
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ…” (Revelation 1:1)
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