The Fall of Babylon & The Second Coming of Christ

This present world is moving toward what the Apostle John calls in the Book of Revelation, the Fall of Babylon (Revelation 18) and the Second Coming of Christ (Revelation 19).

The Second Coming of Christ is when Christ physically descends on the clouds of glory and returns to this earth. It marks the end of this present evil age.

The Fall of Babylon precedes that endpoint. It is a time of increased rebellion, the final apostasy, and God’s judgments on that rebellion and apostasy. It is called the Fall of Babylon because in the Book of Revelation, the name Babylon is used to express all that is evil and in rebellion to God (see Babylon in Revelation).

While Scripture tells us that no one knows the day or hour of Christ’s return, it does say it occurs! There is indeed an endpoint, and there is indeed a time that precedes that endpoint.

So, what is the point of this article? It is not to speculate on the timing of things. The point is to grasp what God says about the Fall of Babylon. As the world becomes more profane and the church more apostate, it only makes sense that we gain a handle on this. We dare not push it out into the distant future as though it could never “touch” us. After all, we want to live in light of all of God’s truth, do we not?

We will look at three key figures that emerge during the Fall of Babylon.

All three are expressions of immense evil, rebellion, and satanic power. They are ultimately under God’s sovereign hand for His purposes of judgment.

However, they do not always appear evil.

So, are they identifiable?

Yes, and as we look at some of their characteristics and conduct, ask yourself if you see any similarities between what Scripture says and what we see escalating in our world today.

1. The Antichrist & His System (The Beast from the Sea)

Read Revelation 13:1-10

The Beast from the Sea is the Antichrist as well as the system headed up by the Antichrist. He is powerful and exercises his authority through satanic signs, wonders, and blasphemies against God. He is supported by ten world rulers (ten horns) who are empowered by the Beast from the Earth.

This one-world government rules intensively for 42 months. During this time, the Antichrist persecutes true saints of Jesus Christ, all while being worshiped as the “Majestic One” by the nations of the world (Revelation 13:7-10).

But do not be fooled! The Antichrist will not always come across as tyrannical.

Before the final 42 months, the Antichrist is said to “take his seat in the temple of God” (2 Thessalonians 2:4). There is some discrepancy as to what this means, and Scripture does not give us a lot of details, but let me ask you this: does an outright devilish man sit in the temple of God?!

Of course not. This refers to the fact that the Antichrist establishes a position in the visible church as its leader.

What?! How can this happen? No doubt, he does not appear wicked at this time. His seemingly trustworthy persona deceptively leads the final apostasy of said church. Those who truly have the Holy Spirit indwelling them will see the deception for what it is.

So let me ask you: do you know of any prominent church leader who is ready and willing to compromise on truth, yet remains in the spotlight and has numerous followers regardless? (Read 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12) And would we be surprised if his persona changed from what it is to what it shall become (since we know that leaders are never two-faced)? (See Will Christians Know Who the Antichrist Will Be?)

Scripture also tells us in Daniel 9:27 that the Antichrist will “confirm a covenant with the many.” The final 7 years (The Great Tribulation) are initiated by the Antichrist affirming some kind of agreement with the Jewish people regarding their sacrificial offerings. Again, the Antichrist probably does not appear nefarious at this time.

But in the middle of that 7 years, something changes, and he causes those offerings to cease, and an abomination is committed (Matthew 24:15). This begins the final 42 months of the Great Tribulation, the dispersion of the Jewish people, and the persecution of the saints.

During this time, God sends great judgments upon the earth (see What are the Trumpets and Bowls of Revelation?). The “Majestic Antichrist” is both feared and worshiped as the world looks to follow a leader and deliverer.

The last thing we want to discuss about this beast is its “seven heads” (Rev. 13:1). This is referring to seven kingdoms that persecute Israel/the church. Six of them are past: Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. The seventh is yet future – a revived Roman Empire. This Roman Empire is Babylon the Great (see The Beast from the Sea Part 1: Seven Heads).

So this Beast from the Sea is both a man and a controlling system. As such, it persecutes God’s people – both the nation of Israel and the true church.

2. The False Prophet (The Beast from the Earth)

Read Revelation 13:11-18

The Beast from the Earth is the Antichrist’s right-hand man. Also named the False Prophet (Revelation 19:20), this beast has a deceptive persona. He has “two horns like a lamb but speech like a dragon” (Revelation 13:11b), which suggests he is not suspect.

But they are merely the means by which this “Great Techno Wizard” persuades his “users” to submit to the first beast. Any devotion to him and the first beast ends up really being worship of Satan (the evil triumvirate). (Also see The Beast From the Earth Part 1: The False Prophet.)

This false worship is really of no surprise. If you think about it, fallen mankind already worships the fallen image (as Romans 1:18-25 states and as expressed by the number six in Revelation 13:18). Now it is just made obvious through outward expression. After all, self-worship always leads to worship of a deity other than the One True God.

Do you see any evidence that the world could be “run” by one technical economy and united by a single visualized image? Could it lead to sole allegiance of one person/system that is instantaneous in its global use to both delight and enslave the masses? So much so that it would seem that the earth is “man’s and the fullness thereof” instead of the God who created it?

3. The False World Religion (The Great Harlot)

Read Revelation 17:1-18

Scripture often uses adultery and immorality to describe the prostitution of true religion. We have the same thing with the Great Harlot – an adulterous woman who represents false religion. She is placed in direct contrast to the woman in Revelation 12, who represents true faith.

The Great Harlot “is seated on many waters,” meaning she has influence into the whole world. She is adorned outwardly with costly things like jewels and wardrobe, yet she is an abomination for all of her children (see The Great Harlot).

It means false religion plays a significant role throughout the world during The Fall of Babylon. This should come as no surprise since false religion has always played a role in rebellious cultures/governments of our world.

It also means the Antichrist supports and uses false religion as a display of his greatness. But this mutual relationship does not last because the Antichrist will discard her in order to have the world’s full attention. This leads to the pinnacle of the Antichrist’s power, authority, and worship by the world.

Does it seem to you that religion has become a smorgasbord of subjectivity and inclusive participation by the masses? What has happened to the objective reality of worshiping the true and living God in Christ Jesus?

Concluding Remarks

Scripture makes it very clear that these three figures and their successful rise at the end of the age are really only God’s judgment upon man’s rebellion. This is clearly displayed as this world system, called Babylon, is destroyed when Jesus Christ returns on the clouds of heaven in judgment. Then He will set up His throne and rule with a rod of iron over the nations (Revelation 19 & 20).

So, at the speed with which things are progressing in our world, can you see some of these things emerging? Do you think these three figures are already in place? If you said probably, you might be right. Watch, be patient, and wait expectantly. James 5:7-8 tells us, “Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.”

For More Information:

What Are the Trumpets and Bowls of Revelation?
The Beast from the Sea Part 1: Seven Heads
The Beast from the Sea Part 2: Ten Horns
The Beast from the Sea Part 3: The Antichrist
When and Where Will the Antichrist First be Seen?
The Beast From the Earth Part 1: The False Prophet
The Beast from the Earth Part 2: The Image and Mark
Babylon in Revelation
The Great Harlot

Timeline of Revelation

In this article, we lay out the chronology of the Book of Revelation. Although the book is not chronological from start to finish, God has given it beautiful order, and we hope you see that through the timeline charts we provide.

There are a total of nine charts. The first is an overlay showing Revelation in its entirety. You will see eight different sections or themes, each designated with a different color. The first theme “Jesus, Lord of His Church” consists of chapters 1-5 and is chronological. The final theme “Jesus, Eternal King” includes chapters 19-22 and is also chronological. The middle chapters (6-18) are not chronological in that the timing of events is not consecutive and/or may overlap at various points. This will make more sense as you view each timeline.

The charts can be downloaded as a packet, or you can view each one individually on this webpage. They are available for download for free. However, we would appreciate any donations to help cover the costs of making these materials available. Thank you!
To send a check, please mail to:

David Sheldon
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Important Term: Interlude – An intervening period or event within the flow of the text. Can be historic, present or future.

The Book of Daniel is similar to Revelation and we have several articles and charts on it also: The Chronology of Daniel, Seventy Weeks of Daniel, and The Main Message of Daniel.

Understanding Revelation

Revelation is apocalyptic meaning it uses images and symbols to describe future events. The constant use of symbols can make it seem overwhelming. But, as discussed in 5 Reasons Why Revelation is Hard to Understand, we must keep each symbol and its details within their own context to understand it there first. Then we can piece multiple symbols together to get the big picture! We may not understand every detail and that is ok. We might not fully understand them until they happen. But always remember the purpose of the images/symbols is to reveal truth!

Also, let us not forget the main point of the Book of Revelation – The Revelation of Jesus Christ!

Considering these things as well as the following timeline charts, should give us much confidence in understanding the Book of Revelation! Be sure to have your Bible open as you continue, and may God bless you in the reading of His Word!

Chart #2 – Jesus, Lord of His Church (Revelation 1-5)

Helpful information: The ancients used Scrolls for information. They could be used as books. The Seven Seals held the book from being opened. The content of the actual Scroll is what we find in the rest of the book of Revelation. It is the destined plan and purpose of God in both salvation and judgment through Christ for time and eternity for mankind!

Chart #3 – Seals (Revelation 6:1-8:1)

For further study of Revelation 6:1-8:1, see:
Who Are the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse?

Chart #4 – Trumpets (Revelation 8:2-11:19)

Overview:
The trumpets and their individual judgments will be the warning signs of the “day of the Lord” (a short period of time of God’s judgments) is already present upon the earth. The day (single day) of the Lord will soon happen! The first four trumpets emphasize the beginning destructions of the planet with resulting deaths, whereas the final three (called woes) emphasize the incredible increase of pains upon mankind in relation to the judgments. But God has carefully measured out both His protection of His own as well as the extent of His judgments. He sends two witnesses who prophesy! A question arises in the text: Where is the specific statement regarding the third woe? (Can you find it?) We give what we believe to be the answer.

For further study of Revelation 8:2-11:19, see:
Who Are the Two Witnesses of Revelation 11?
What are the Trumpets and Bowls of Revelation?

Chart #5 – Satan (Revelation 12)

Chart #6 – Beasts (Revelation 13-14)

Overview: This particular timeline/overlay is the first and most dramatic and specific reference we have of the connection of the book of Revelation with the Old Testament book of Daniel! The First Beast is the Central Player, the Apex, of man’s rebellion against God. This Beast is a final representative of all the beasts before it with its Seven Heads, and it also has Ten Horns. The Seventh Head (who is also an Eighth) is the Man of Lawlessness, the Antichrist. The Second Beast, the False Prophet, is the Chief Promotion and Implementation Officer of the First Beast. His workings are powerful signs to bring about allegiance to the Ten Horns via a Mark and worship of the Image and the Antichrist. God allows the Beast System to be empowered by Satan himself. However, their kingdom is short-lived from the perspective of their citizens as we get our first glimpse of those who worship the Beast meeting their death by God’s wrath. This particular aspect of the final fallen world system has a doom pronounced upon it: Fallen, Fallen is Babylon the Great! In the midst of all of this, God preserves a select remnant of His own choosing, the 144,000, and has His angels preach an eternal gospel calling people to fear God!

For further study of Revelation 13-14, see:
When and Where Will the Antichrist First be Seen?
The Beast from the Sea Part 1 – Seven Heads
The Beast from the Sea Part 2 – Ten Horns

Chart #7 – Bowls (Revelation 15-16)

Overview: Just before God pours forth the seven bowls, there is worship of God in heaven for His righteous justice. The bowls are the climax of God’s judgments upon the earth just before the mystery of God is finished, ie. Christ’s second coming. The first six bowls are devastating events brought upon people due to their sin. Then, the world is gathered together for the Battle of Armageddon. The seventh bowl is dramatic and cataclysmic events that signal the extreme nearness of the end of the age.

For further study of Revelation 15-16, see:
What are the Trumpets and Bowls of Revelation?

Chart #8 – Babylon (Revelation 17-18)

Overview: We are shown the Great Harlot and get our second look at the First Beast of Revelation 13. She is sitting upon this Beast as the final False Corporate Religion of the fallen world system, called Babylon. Both her and the Beast have a history depicted. The Beast allows her to ride upon him until he has no further use for her. Her headquarters are identified as Rome. We are next introduced to another Woman. She is depicted as a “Queen City” from which all of the earth’s idolaters have gotten rich. She is “Sensual Babylon” and she meets her doom in a single day by the hand of God. The world observes this destruction and is in anguish because of their loss.

For further study of Revelation 17-18, see:
The Great Harlot
Babylon in Revelation

Chart #9 – Jesus, Eternal King (Revelation 19-22)

For More on the Book of Revelation & End Times

Five Reasons Why Revelation is Hard to Understand
When was the Book of Revelation Written?
The Beast from the Sea Part 1 – Seven Heads
The Beast from the Sea Part 2 – Ten Horns
End Time Events: A Brief Overview
War on Israel – Ezekiel 38
The Church’s New Agenda
Will Christians Know Who the Antichrist Will Be?

Nature of Eschatology

Eschatology is the study of things concerning the end times: the Tribulation, the return of Christ, the rapture, the Apostasy, the millennium, and such. Numerous texts of Scripture deal with eschatology and were developed throughout the entire writing of the finalized canon.

When Scripture reveals a portion of something at one point and later reveals more about that same thing, we refer to it as “progressive revelation.” This happens repeatedly with eschatological things (prophecies). So we should read and study the initial texts first. Then consider further revelations that enhance the original understanding. Evaluating all of Scripture, not ignoring or cherry-picking anything, will provide much more insight and understanding into end-time prophecies.

That said, obviously there are different views of the end times even among Christians. Actual strong believers in Jesus Christ have varied opinions which is fine because God is gracious to all His own. However, the nearer we get to the end, should we not want to get it correct?!

This article gives a broad overview of each of the four main end-time viewpoints: historic premillennialism, amillennialism, postmillennialism, and dispensational premillennialism. We also discuss how/when each one came into the church. Could this have more significance in correct eschatology than we realize?!

Four Views of the Millennium (and their “founding” dates)

A huge part of eschatology has to do with the millennium – a time when Christ rules over the earth (Messianic Kingdom). The questions have been: Is this a literal thousand-year period or a figurative timeline? And does Christ reign on the earth by His physical presence or reign spiritually from heaven? How one views these things then plays into how one perceives things will unfold upon the earth at the end of the age and who participates.

As stated, there are largely four views of the millennium within Christianity. Here is an overview of each position and when they first appeared on the radar in the church’s history. Revelation 20:1-15 should be the starting and ending point to understanding the millennium. It is typically the interpretation of other related texts where nuances of thought come into play within each category.

Please note that it has taken some time for each category to be formalized or labeled. Bible scholars have not always categorized themselves into a particular position, so we should be careful not to read into someone’s views regarding their eschatology.

1. Historic Premillennialism (≈ 90 – 400 A.D.)

The first and prominent position in the early church was a basic understanding of the millennium which has since been labeled “historic premillennialism.” The early church called it “chiliasm” meaning there would be a literal thousand-year reign of Christ upon the earth after His return. The chiliastic view held that the rapture is at Christ’s Second Coming – when the church meets Him in the air to join Him as he descends to earth as the Deliverer and Conquering King.

Many early church leaders held to the historic premillennialism viewpoint including Papias (who knew the Apostle John), Irenaeus (a disciple of Polycarp, who was a disciple of the Apostle John), Ignatius of Antioch (35-108) (who was also a disciple of the Apostle John), as well as Barnabus, Justin Martyr, Tertullian, Methodius, Lactantius, Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, Theophilus of Antioch, Tatian of Assyria, Bishop Melito of Sardis, Clemens Alexandrinus, Hippolytus, Victorinus, Cyprian, and Commodians.

When Irenaeus wrote his main work, Against Heresies, in about 180 A.D., he wrote from a historic premillennial viewpoint. He anticipated some would dispute the literal view of the millennium, so he considered that when he wrote. We discuss Irenaeus’ writings here.

Although historic premillennialism was present in the church after 400 A.D., it began to wane at that time. Two perspectives came after historic premillennialism – amillennialism and postmillennialism – which say that the millennium was/is currently taking place on the earth and is not a separate period after Christ’s Second Coming.

2. Amillennialism (≈ 400 A.D. – the present time)

The amillennial view states that Christ’s millennial kingdom is the presence of God in His church upon the earth. So, Christ currently reigns from heaven over the earth. It is not a literal 1,000 years, but “allegorized” to mean a generally long time.

Precursors of amillennialism were circulating as early as the late second century A.D. Although Augustine (354-430 A.D.) initially believed in premillennialism, he eventually embraced and popularized amillennialism.

The culture/history of the time would make this an easy option to consider since Israel, as a nation, had scattered into the world post-70 A.D. It became easier to dismiss the idea of Israel returning as a nation and anticipating their coming Messiah’s reign. Therefore, this theology has come to mean that the church replaces God’s plan and promise to Israel of their Messiah reigning on the throne of David (Psalm 132:11). In other words, the church has become the Davidic Kingdom of Christ (this is popularly termed “replacement theology”).

3. Postmillennialism (≈ 1650 – the present day)

The postmillennial view has its roots basically in the post-Reformation era and flows from the amillennial view with a few important ideas added. It not only sees the kingdom (millennium) as Christ currently reigning in His church, but to various degrees says Christ is enabling His church to establish that reign into the culture. For some, this even means establishing the Judeo-Christian ethic into the laws of the nations. This theological basis is sometimes referred to as “dominionism” or “theonomy” or “reconstructionism.” So the Christian commission is not only to preach the gospel and to be salt and light, it is also “to take dominion.” Some even go so far as to see this mandate in its original form in the Creation Mandate of Genesis 1:28.

4. Dispensational Premillennialism (≈ 1832 – the present day)

Premillennialism lay dormant after 400 A.D. until it was once again embraced in the early 1800’s by J.N. Darby. He systematized it into a different theological format called “dispensational premillennialism.” Darby introduced both a distinction and separation of the church from Israel to such a degree that he saw the church as leaving the earth at the “rapture” – when Christ collects the church to Himself. And he saw this happening at the beginning of The Tribulation. It is then that God will deal specifically with Israel.

So this view, which currently may be the most distinct and widespread, is actually quite new! An overtly “secret rapture” teaching has only existed in the church for about 200 years!

Does History Matter?

Do we realize why the early church’s position was what it was (that of historic premillennialism though not yet labeled as such)? They learned of it from the Apostles – first and secondhand!

The Jewish people expected a literal Messianic kingdom, and they should have, based upon texts like Isaiah 9:6-7 and Isaiah 11:1-6. They knew Christ was a coming King to rule on the Davidic throne upon the earth. They didn’t know when this would happen, that Christ would fulfill this at His Second Coming, not His first. He had to deal with sin at His first coming – for anyone to be a part of that future kingdom (Isaiah 53:4-6). The Apostles then verbally passed these truths – of a literal Messianic Kingdom/millennial reign – on to the early church (along with other end-time details written by John in Revelation 20).

So why do the amill/postmill camps spiritualize/allegorize the Millennium? Is Christ reigning in the Millennium now? Is He somehow reigning through the church as the Davidic Kingdom of Christ? We should look at Scripture’s progressive revelation regarding the person and work of Christ. Genesis 3:15 says Christ will bruise Satan on the head; Matthew 1:21 says Christ will deliver His people from their sin; and Revelation 20:1-3 says He will bind/crush Satan for a thousand years:

“Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding the key of the abyss and a great chain in his hand. 2 And he laid hold of the dragon, the serpent of old, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; 3 and he threw him into the abyss, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he would not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were completed; after these things he must be released for a short time.”

An angel, sent by God, binds Satan. What does bind mean? The angel uses a great chain to grab a hold of the dragon and put him in that abyss for a thousand years! What can’t Satan do while he is in that abyss? He cannot deceive the nations any longer! When you look out upon the earth now, what do you see? Has the deceptive influence of Satan been removed from our world?

Though there are many otherwise orthodox believers in the amillennial and postmillennial camps, they have mistakenly deviated from the early church fathers in this regard. There is clear evidence in Scripture and from the early church’s witness that the millennial kingdom must be a distinct time after the return of Christ and before the eternal state. The church has not somehow replaced their Messiah as reigning on the earth. Christ will literally reign on the earthly throne of David for one thousand years! (See Psalm 132:11)

Furthermore, we must ask ourselves if the church is a special entity separated from God’s promises to Israel. Will the church be divided from God’s dealings with Israel to such an extent that Jesus has two “Second Comings” (one at the beginning of the tribulation to rapture the church and then again at the end to establish His kingdom upon the earth)?

In Genesis 12:1-3, God promised to make Abraham into a great nation. God would bless Abraham with physical descendants and land to occupy. This prophecy was brought to light when Israel became a nation again in 1948! The Israelites had been scattered into the nations because of their sin but eventually returned to the land of Israel as promised (Amos 9:11-15; Zechariah 8:4-8; Zechariah 10:8-10). And guess what?! Gentiles (the church) also participate in this promise!

How so? Will they also go to the land of Israel to occupy it? No, this is spiritual participation. The Gentiles have been made fellow heirs with the promises to Abraham! Based upon their coming to Christ (the Seed), the church has been made partakers of the promise and grafted into Israel (Ephesians 2:11-22; Ephesians 3:6; Galatians 3:16; Romans 11:17-18). So the church does not “replace” Israel, but it also is not separated from it!

And lastly, the question – will the church (but not Israel) be removed from the earth before the Tribulation? Both 1 Thessalonians 5:1-5 and 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10 teach that “on THAT day” (the Day of the Lord) the church will be present for Christ’s Second Coming at the end when certain specific things are looked for and happen. In other words, THAT day is the last day in each context, and in that context, the Gentile-believing church is still present!

Our Response

How we view the millennium and eschatology absolutely affects our Christian walk!

A non-literal view of the millennium might translate into a huge weight of doing anything and everything possible to “make the world ready” for Christ’s return. Or, if we just look around, it can leave a feeling of hopelessness.

On the other hand, from the dispensational perspective, if the church is removed from the earth before the seven-year tribulation period, saints may not be prepared for what is to come, possibly overlooking deception within the church, or really suffering for Christ.

Are we distracted from what we really should be concerned about? There is no doubt the teachings of the later views of eschatology are robbing us of significantly important things! These are things that might be critical for us as we observe what is now going on in our world.

So we each need to think through whether we have embraced the various commands – and warnings – of Scripture. The brethren are not to allow the Day of the Lord to overcome them like a thief (1 Thess. 5:1-11) – as it does for those who live in darkness. We are to maintain sober preparation and watchfulness. This might include things like being bold in our faith and maintaining a witness to the truth even amid possible persecutions, or even suffering as many believers around the world already do. If we anticipate hardships and the things described in Revelation, it should tend to make us take the stewardship of our lives more seriously. The seducing of the world that distracts us from being a good soldier for Jesus Christ should be avoided.

For More Information

If you desire to read about early church eschatology, see our articles on Against Heresies by Irenaeus who lived in the second century:

What Did the Early Church Believe About Eschatology? Part 1
What Did the Early Church Believe About Eschatology? Part 2

If you would like to consider the possibility of two prophetic chapters of Ezekiel that might soon be fulfilled in our day, see:

Is The War of Ezekiel 38-39 The Same War As The Battle of Armageddon?
Who are Gog and Magog?

Hope for Israel Amidst Rising Battlefront

God tells us in Zechariah 12:1-3 that a time will come when Israel will be in great distress and the center of attention – when the nations of the earth will rise against her. Sound familiar?

We have recently seen attacks on Israel by Hamas and Hezbollah from Lebanon (backed by Iran) and the Houthi rebels in Yemen (also see War on Israel – Ezekiel 38 & 39), and this is probably only the beginning of a much worse conflict. Israel’s current state of distress is beginning to fit perfectly with this text in Zechariah of a final battle. The eternal God predicted in past times what the eyes of 21st-century mankind are watching in real-time!

But when God allows His people to experience hardship, He provides comfort and hope.

During Zechariah’s days, the Israelites were also troubled. They were attempting to rebuild the temple, but amid their distractions, it was not progressing as they had hoped, and they were very discouraged.

God comforted them by telling them that He would send a Deliverer, the Messiah, who would come and build the temple of the Lord!

This was the most wonderful news for the Israelites – and the most wonderful news for the modern nation of Israel and the world. We will see how so in this article!

Both King and Priest – The Branch

The prophet Zechariah (among the first wave of Jewish exiles returning to Judah under Zerubbabel and Joshua in 538 BC (see Ezra 1:1-4; 3:8; Nehemiah 12:4)) was instructed by God in Zechariah 6:11-13 to do something unusual. He was told to place a crown on the head of Joshua, the High Priest, and tell him that a man, the Branch, will come who will not only build the temple of the Lord; but also sit upon God’s throne!

There are a few items of significance here. Joshua’s name in Hebrew is Yeshua (from Yehoshua), meaning “the Lord our righteousness!” Placing the crown on Joshua’s head foreshadows the crown placement on the head of this future Branch – who will Himself be the righteousness for His people!

Also noteworthy is that this coming Branch will be both King and Priest! Until this point, these two offices/functions within Judaism had always been separate, with one man occupying one or the other. But now, they would be combined in this ONE PERSON – whom the Jews were expecting – their Messiah. God’s Ruler over His people would now also function as their Intercessor!

This brings us to mention a man named Melchizedek, who is another foreshadowing of the Branch. Before Israel was a nation, back in Genesis 14:1-20, Melchizedek, the King of Salem (Jerusalem/Zion – see Psalm 76:1-2), served as king and priest. Melchizedek means “my King is Righteousness” (or “King of Righteousness”) and Salem means “peace, secure, safe” (The King of Peace). The coming Messiah will be THE King of Righteousness and Peace! King David also likens the Messiah to Melchizedek in the “Messianic Psalm,” Psalm 110:1-4, where the Messiah is seated at the Lord’s right hand, as a ruler/king; and it says He is a priest, like Melchizedek – only He is a forever and exalted one!

Servant, Stone, Endowed with Salvation

In Zechariah 3:8-9, we read of a vision where Joshua the high priest is with other priests sitting before him. These priests were temple priests who offered sacrifices in addition to other ministering priests from the tribe of Levi. Altogether they represent this one, the Branch, who is then referred to as “My Servant” (see Isaiah 42, 52, 53) and described as a stone (see Daniel 2:35, 44-45) with seven eyes, symbolic of one who sees all things (omniscience). And, it says this Branch can remove all iniquity in a single day! That is only possible via the shedding of the blood of the sacrifice – Leviticus 17:11.

In Zechariah 9:9 it says this King who will come to Zion and Jerusalem is triumphant! Unlike many of their previous wicked kings, this One is a righteous and just ruler who brings salvation to His people. Yet, He is humble and lowly as He is presented to His people.

Israel’s True Shepherd – Initially Rejected

When we come to Zechariah 11, we read of great calamity which God will bring forth on His people. False shepherds had been leading them astray, so Zechariah became a representative of God as His true shepherd (Zechariah 11:4,7). In past times, shepherds often carried two staff: one to ward off predators and one to guide and retrieve sheep going astray. We see here that Zechariah has two staff, Union and Favor.

1. Union Staff: Represents The Appointed Shepherds & Falsehood

Those who functioned as supposed shepherds for God’s people had no interest in doing the true job of shepherding (ie. warding off predators and guiding and retrieving sheep going astray). Thus, they had no real interest in Zechariah’s ministry and despised him. The result was internal conflict among God’s people, the majority of whom were not interested in being under a true shepherd. Zechariah breaks the staff, Union, into pieces (Zechariah 11:14), as a visible display of this conflict.

2. Favor Staff: Represents A Broken Covenant and Its Results

God now sets aside His covenant protection of His people who have rejected Him as their shepherd by not following His commands (see Deuteronomy 28). This truth is expressed in Zechariah breaking the staff, Favor (Zechariah 11:10).

Then, Zechariah requests his final “paycheck” from the people in Zechariah 11:12-13. Do you think they valued his ministry? They weighed out for him the insulting sum of 30 pieces of silver, the price paid to the master of a slave who was gored by an ox (see Exodus 21:32). It was thrown to the potter in the house of the Lord expressing, in a sarcastic way, how the people rejected God’s true shepherd. Since Zechariah is representative of THE Shepherd who is to come, wouldn’t that Shepherd also experience Israel’s rejection? But of course.

Israel’s One and Final Savior

Zechariah doesn’t stop with the fact that this Branch is coming and His characteristics. We see in Zechariah 12:1-3, 9, that at the very end of the age, the nations of the world come against Jerusalem and Judah! Israel’s very existence will be the cause of great hatred and animosity by a world that rejects the God of Israel. Amid this great disturbance, God will turn the Israelites to Himself (Zechariah 13:1, 7-9).

Notice in Zechariah 12:10 that God speaks as the One who is pierced, but also as the One who is observing/mourning over that One who was pierced! (There were earlier prophecies of this event long before Zechariah revealed it such as Isaiah 53:4-6.) Though He was pierced through for transgressions, God did not allow this sin-bearer to remain in the grave but raised Him from the dead (Psalm 16:10)!

So even though God will ultimately deliver His people at the end of the age, it will not be without first taking them through a very rough time. But we see God’s watch-care over His own during some incredible events at the end of the age (Zechariah 14:2-4, Zechariah 14:9, and Zechariah 14:16-17). God identifies with His sheep very personally through a man, His Associate, whom He calls My Shepherd!

As stated, the current situation in Israel and the world fits perfectly with the content of Zechariah. It is the stage set for the coming of the forever and exalted Priest. Remember that Joshua’s name was ‘Yeshua’ in Hebrew? In Greek, the name is ‘Jesus.’ Jesus came into this world born of the virgin Mary, suffered and died as the sacrifice for sin, was raised, and is seated at the right hand of God. Be sure you are ready. His feet that once stood on the Mount of Olives in times past, will come on the clouds of heaven and once again stand upon that same Mount – as King and Judge! Are you ready? Is Jesus YOUR Savior?

For More on Promises of Future Events

End Time Events: A Brief Overview – David Sheldon

Daniel’s Main Message

The Book of Daniel is well known for its prophetic and apocalyptic content. Because apocalyptic literature uses images and symbols to describe future events (also found in the Book of Revelation), it can be difficult to interpret and understand. However, the Book of Daniel has wonderful order and organization. This helps us see its main message – the power and sovereignty of God, even over evil!

When Daniel wrote the book (Matthew 24:15) during the Babylonian captivity (605-539 B.C.), he carefully recorded each vision, dream, prophecy, and story of fidelity to God. He organized similar concepts in a parallel fashion. You will see this in the Flowchart and Parallel Themes Chart we have developed (download below).

Also, please check out What Are the Seventy Weeks of Daniel? and The Chronology of Daniel.

Flowchart & Parallel Themes Chart

The multiple stories found in Daniel correlate with one another. The following chapters correspond.

Chapters 1 & 12 – Chapter 1 shows the captivity of God’s people in history (Babylon) while chapter 12 shows the great liberation of God’s people into His kingdom at the end of the age.

Chapters 2, 7, 8, 11 – reveal four great beasts (the earthly kingdoms of Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome) that will be set against God’s people. A final beast will be destroyed and God’s kingdom will be ushered in.

Chapters 3 & 6 – explain the false worship that Daniel was confronted with and his faith to withstand. He keeps his allegiance to the only true and living God, revealed in Scripture, who was to be worshiped. (Revelation 13 gives a future glimpse of a coming false worship that will be similar and will try the patience and faithfulness of God’s people.)

Chapters 4 & 5 – tell the story of two rulers, Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar, whom a sovereign God brought under His judgment. This is a clear foreshadowing of the reality that all will be judged by God’s sovereign hand. There is no hiding from Him who sees all.

Chapters 9 & 10 – comfort Daniel when he is reassured of God’s provision and protection of His people. He first is visited by the angel Gabriel who reveals the “70 weeks of Daniel.” Then there is the appearance of a man who reveals to Daniel that God and His angels are in the battle for His people and against the powers of this evil world.

God’s Sovereignty

Now that we know the major themes of each chapter, we see the main message of Daniel – God is sovereign over everything! He does and will continue to work all things toward establishing His kingdom (overall and specifically for His people).

This sovereignty of God can be seen from the very onset of the book. Daniel 1:1 says “In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it.” Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem, but God was sovereignly at work because it immediately states: “And the Lord handed Jehoiakim king of Judah over to him…” Daniel 1:2 (See 2 Chronicles 36:5-8). This should give us confidence and reassurance that God is sovereign over each of us even when it seems like He’s not working to our benefit! Like Psalm 103:19 says, “The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, And His sovereignty rules over all.”

We also see God’s sovereignty clearly in chapters 2, 7, 8, and 11 when Daniel relates his dreams and visions, and they so carefully predict how the kingdoms of this world will unfold. Many prophecies,  written during the sixth-century B.C., find incredibly accurate fulfillment in past history. Some are yet to be fulfilled and God will perfectly carry them out according to Scripture!

Next, we see God’s sovereignty in His judgments of Kings Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar in chapters 4 & 5. (To consider the identity of Belshazzar: Belshazzar on Bible Hub) We see His sovereign protection over His own people in chapters 3 & 6 during two different kingdoms: Babylonian (Nebuchadnezzar) and Medo-Persian (Darius). (To consider the identity of Darius the Mede: Darius in the Bible – Got Questions. To further research the historical complexities of Belshazzar and Darius the Mede: Historical Evidence of Belshazzar & Darius the Mede – BibleHistory.net)

So even amid trouble, God causes all things to work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose! (Romans 8:28) Does the book of Daniel reassure you of this? It should.

Further, in chapters 9 & 10, Daniel steps out in faith to inquire of God and His provisions for the future of His people. He was not only told of God’s provisions but also God’s protections. God had/has a sovereign plan for Israel as seen in the 70 weeks of Daniel, and God is present and sends help for His own, even via angels, in the midst of every battle that is waged. Can the people of God bring glory to Him in trusting that the provisions and the battle are really His? Can you?

And of course, Daniel 12 ends with the perseverance of God’s people at the end of this present evil age and the reality that – God will win in the end! Are you ready?

For Further Study on Daniel

Keil & Delitzsch, Commentary on the Old Testament Ezekiel & Daniel, Volume 9, p. 597-606 & 617-622 – Hendrickson Publishers, Peabody, Massachusetts, March 2006.

The Chronology of Daniel – By David Sheldon
What Are the Seventy Weeks of Daniel? – By David Sheldon
Daniel’s End Time Prophecies – By David Sheldon

70 Weeks of Daniel Timeline

Daniel 9:24-27 prophesies about a period called “seventy weeks” which concerns Israel, the time of the Messiah, the Antichrist, and the end times. To accurately interpret this timeframe, we must answer some key questions.

Is 70 weeks a literal period, such as 70 x 7 = 490 years? Or is it merely symbolic? Is this timeframe only regarding the nation of Israel? Or is it for all believers? Are the 70y weeks consecutive or is there some separation?

As we navigate these questions, please look at the Seventy Weeks of Daniel timeline chart (available for download below). Also, check out The Chronology of Daniel and The Main Message of Daniel.

What Should We Make of the Word “weeks”?

Hebrew scholars tell us the word weeks is “shabuim” and it means “sevens.” So, we have “seventy-sevens” (Daniel 9:24a). Sevens of what?

It could be seven days, seven weeks, or seven years. We don’t know, and the context doesn’t tell us. If we translate “sevens” as days or weeks, the timing is probably not long enough for all the events that need to occur. If we translate it as years, or “seventy-sevens” of years, that would be 70×7 = 490 years, which is a reasonable amount of time for the events to occur.

Side note: When we say 490 years, it is not according to a 365¼ day solar year. In Scripture, one year is 360 days. We know this because the timeframe “time, times, and half a time” found in Daniel 7:24-25, Daniel 12:7, and Revelation 12:14 all indicate 3½ years; and this same timeframe is said to be 1,260 days in Revelation 11:1-3 and Revelation 12:6. So, 1,260 days divided by 3½ years equals 360 days. Therefore, the actual number of days of the 70 weeks is 70 x (7×360) = 176,400 days.

What Events Occur in the 70 Weeks? (vs 24)

According to verse 24, six things occur during the 70 weeks.

1. 1. Finish (or restrain) the transgression.
   2. Make an end (or seal up) of sins.
   3. Cover (atone) for iniquity.
   4. Bring in everlasting righteousness.
   5. Seal up vision (revelation) and prophecy.
   6. Anoint a holy of holies.

The first three are things to be “rid of,” and were accomplished by Jesus Christ. Point 3 – cover (atone) for iniquity – has been once-for-all accomplished in the work of Jesus Christ. He gave Himself at Calvary as a ransom for sin. His resurrection is the proof of the complete sufficiency and finality of His work on the cross! Because of this one great work, the first four points have been fulfilled in principle with His first coming. Points 5-6 will be fulfilled at His second coming. (For further study: See A Commentary on Daniel by Leon Wood) 

The timeframe of these events is divided into three sections (vs. 25, 27): 7 weeks + 62 weeks + 1 week. Scholars believe that the city and walls of Jerusalem were completed after the 7 weeks (49 years) which may explain why Daniel divides the time. But to more fully understand these divisions, we look at prophecies. There was a prophecy that started the first 7 weeks and one that ended the 62 weeks. But the text separates the 7 weeks and 62 weeks from the last week. So we should look at the first two sections – 69 weeks – together.

When Did the 69 Weeks Begin and End? (vs 25)

The 69 weeks started with the issuing of a decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem (Daniel 9:25). This decree came to pass and is recorded for us in Nehemiah 2:1-8. According to the Jewish calendar, this decree was issued Nissan 1, 444 B.C. corresponding to our date March 5, 444 B.C. If you add 69 weeks (69x(7×360)=173,880 days), you come to Nisan 10, 33 A.D. corresponding to our date March 30, 33 A.D.

So, the 69 weeks started March 5, 444 B.C., and ended March 30, 33 A.D.

And what happens on the final day of the 69 weeks? It says “until Messiah the Prince.” March 30, 33 A.D. would have been the day Jesus was presented to His people as the Messiah as He rode into Jerusalem!!! (See Zechariah 9:9 & Matthew 21:1-10)

For further information on these start/end dates and the calculations please visit An Examination of the Chronological Difficulties of Dr. Harold Hoehner’s & Dr. Thomas Ice’s work By Bob Pickle.

What Happens in Between the 69th Week and the 70th Week? (vs 26)

We are left with an interlude between the 69th week and the beginning of the 70th week in verse 26. It began with the Messiah being “cut off” and having nothing (literally “no one”). As the Lamb of God, Jesus’ death was a once for all sacrificial death for sin. That was followed by the “people of the prince who is to come” (Antichrist) ransacking Jerusalem & destroying the temple (70 A.D. General Titus and the Roman armies). Now that interlude has been almost 2,000 years, and we are still waiting for the 70th week to begin.

What Will Happen During the 70th week (vs 27)?

The 70th week is the final seven-year period (7 x 360 days=2,520 days) known as the tribulation. It will be composed of a few specific items according to Daniel 9:27:

1. 1. At its inception, the Antichrist makes a covenant with the many.
   2. In the middle, the Antichrist puts an end to sacrifice and grain offering and the abomination of desolation occurs (see also Matthew 24:15)
   3. At the end, the Antichrist comes to his end at the Second Coming of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. (see also Revelation 19:11-19)

   As we have seen in this article, the 70 weeks of Daniel is a specified period that God has ordained for His people, to bring to pass His promises surrounding the Messiah’s first and second comings. The first coming of the Messiah, and His death/atonement for sin, was fulfilled according to God’s promise. And because God is faithful to His Word, we can count upon all the other promises in Daniel 9 coming to pass at the end of the 70th week when Christ returns. We can also count on the 70th week occurring as God says it will for the nation of Israel (Daniel 9:24). The events will affect the whole church in that they will see that God keeps His promises. Thus, all of God’s saints should look forward with anticipation to Christ’s Second Coming. Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus!

For More on the Book of Daniel

The Chronology of Daniel – By David Sheldon
The Main Message of Daniel – By David Sheldon
Prophecies Concerning the Final World Kingdom – By David Sheldon

For More on the Book of Revelation & End Times

Five Reasons Why Revelation is Hard to Understand
When was the Book of Revelation Written?
End Time Events: A Brief Overview

Encouragement From Haggai

The brief – only two chapters – Old Testament Book of Haggai is one encouraging little book! In it, we find a remarkable word of assurance from God to, not only the Jewish people of that time, but all believers.

In Haggai 2:6, we read, “Once more in a little while, I am going to shake the heavens and the earth, the sea also and the dry land.”  The writer(s) of Hebrews even thought this promise was worth referencing, “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth, but also the heaven” (Hebrews 12:26). What could be so reassuring about God promising to shake the heavens and the earth?!

Haggai starts the book by painting a picture of the disobedience of the Jewish people. Instead of being concerned about building God’s house and exercising their faith as God had commanded, they were taking care of their own houses. They had been distracted and were rebuked. So, they repented and began working on building the temple.

When we get to Chapter 2, their work has brought some discouragement along with it. Haggai asked if anyone had seen Solomon’s temple which had been destroyed. He pointed out that the temple they are building now doesn’t seem like it is going to be as “grand.” But they are to take courage in continuing the work because of the same promise their ancestors received when they came out of Egypt: “the Spirit of God will be with you (them) to do the work” (Haggai 2:4)! What encouragement – God will be with His people as they do His work!

But that is not all. A couple of verses later, we read God’s fascinating promise we mentioned above. Read it in context:

“For thus says the LORD of hosts, ‘Once more in a little while, I am going to shake the heavens and the earth, the sea also and the dry land. I will shake all the nations; and they will come with the wealth of all nations, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the LORD of hosts. ‘The silver is Mine and the gold is Mine,’ declares the LORD of hosts. ‘The latter glory of this house will be greater than the former,’ says the LORD of hosts, ‘and in this place I will give peace,’ declares the LORD of hosts.” Haggai 2:6-9

God says there will be upheaval that will occur at the end of the age. What is “encouraging” about that? Look at what He says next – “and I will fill this house with glory.” God promises His people something encouraging in the future!

This is not uncommon. Sometimes God’s promises come to pass in the present or near future. Sometimes they are far off. But He always brings them to pass because He cannot lie! Back then, in the Jew’s despondency, God “brings” a future promise of the millennial temple into their present context. He says the glory of His power and presence will be in that millennial kingdom (Revelation 11:15), and then encourages them to live in light of that fact.

Why would God say back almost 2,500 years ago that these things would occur “Once more, in a little while”? Have you ever heard someone say “time flies” or “seems like just yesterday”? Based on their experience, they know life goes by quickly and what is to occur in the future is going to come before you know it. Even the Scripture states your life is like a vapor that appears for a bit and then vanishes (James 4:14).

Will those Jews who truly had saving faith back in Haggai’s time see those events God describes? YES. Because of the reality of the resurrection of Christ and their being raised at His second coming – they will see the glorious events described!

So when God says “for the time is near” and “I come quickly,” (Revelation 1:3, 22:7,12,20) – believe it! Live and obey now in light of these truths! And remember His promise – He will be with us! Though it has been almost 2,000 years since the Revelation, God will faithfully bring it to pass!

For More on Promises of Future Events

End Time Events: A Brief Overview – David Sheldon