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BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 4: Daniel 8:1-14

October 1, 2025September 9, 2025 by atozmom, posted in BSF Exile & Return: A Time to Build 2025/2026

Summary of Daniel 8:1-14

Daniel describes another vision he has. He saw a ram with two long horns. One of the horns was longer than the other but grew up later. The ram charged toward the west, north, and south. No animal could stand against it, and none could rescue from its power. It did as it pleased and became great.

Then a goat with a horn between its eyes appeared. It charged the ram, attacked it, and shattered its horns. The ram was powerless to stand against it; the goat knocked it to the ground and trampled on it, and none could rescue the ram from its power. The goat became very great, but at the height of its power, the large horn was broken off, and in its place four prominent horns grew up toward the four winds of heaven.

Out of one of them came another horn, which started small but grew in power. It grew until it reached the host of the heavens, and it threw some of the starry host down to the earth and trampled on them. It set itself up to be as great as the commander of the army of the Lord; it took away the daily sacrifice from the Lord, and his sanctuary was thrown down.Because of rebellion, the Lord’s people and the daily sacrifice were given to it. It prospered in everything it did, and truth was thrown to the ground.

A holy one asked how long till the vision is fulfilled. It will take 2,300 evenings and mornings; then the sanctuary will be reconsecrated.

BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 4: Daniel 8:1-14

9) Here, Daniel describes another vision he has. He saw a ram with two long horns. One of the horns was longer than the other but grew up later. The ram charged toward the west, north, and south. No animal could stand against it, and none could rescue from its power. It did as it pleased and became great. Then a goat with a horn between its eyes appeared. It charged the ram, attacked it, and shattered its horns. The ram was powerless to stand against it; the goat knocked it to the ground and trampled on it, and none could rescue the ram from its power. The goat became very great, but at the height of its power, the large horn was broken off, and in its place four prominent horns grew up toward the four winds of heaven.

In Daniel 7, he saw:

Daniel had a dream/vision of beasts that came up from the sea.

The first beast was like a lion, and it had the wings of an eagle. Its wings were torn off, and it was lifted from the ground so that it stood on two feet like a human being, and the mind of a human was given to it.
The second beast looked like a bear. It was raised up on one of its sides, and it had three ribs in its mouth between its teeth. It was told, ‘Get up and eat your fill of flesh!’
The third beast looked like a leopard. And on its back it had four wings like those of a bird. This beast had four heads, and it was given authority to rule.
The fourth beast—terrifying and frightening and very powerful. It had large iron teeth; it crushed and devoured its victims and trampled underfoot whatever was left. It was different from all the former beasts, and it had ten horns.

Another horn appeared and uprooted other horns. The horn had eyes and a mouth that spoke.

Daniel then saw God (the Ancient of Days) on his throne. A river flowed before him he was attended by thousands.

The beast was then slain. The other beasts were stripped of authority.

Then Daniel saw Jesus (the Son of Man). He was given authority, glory, and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom will never be destroyed.

The difference:

The vision in Daniel 7 is a broad overview of four monstrous gentile empires (including Babylon and Rome) rising from the chaotic sea, spanning all of history until the Son of Man’s final judgment.

Daniel 8 is more focused. It uses specific sacrificial animals (a ram and a goat) to detail only the Medo-Persian and Greek empires. Its climax is not the end of the world, but the specific persecution of Israel and the desecration of the Jerusalem Temple.

10) These verses depict a shift from earthly chaos to the ultimate authority of the heavenly court. The “Ancient of Days” (God the Father) takes His seat as the eternal and righteous Judge. The symbols of fire, the white throne, and the opened books signify that a time of final, divine judgment has come. The most arrogant and blasphemous earthly power (the fourth beast) is judged and utterly destroyed, demonstrating God’s absolute sovereignty over all human history.

11) Suffering is temporary and temporal while we are here on Earth. God is in control, and one day, we won’t suffer at all.

This truth raises profound and difficult questions. Hearts might cry out, “If God is good and in control, why must His people suffer at all?” Minds might grapple with the purpose, asking, “Why allow this pain if the end is already determined?” This leads to the most pressing question for those in the midst of trial: “How can I endure until the promised limit is reached?” It forces a struggle between trusting God’s sovereignty and the painful reality of suffering.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 4: Daniel 8:1-14

Amazing how Daniel had visions and shared them with all Christians to come, to give us hope that suffering is not forever, and God does win in the end.

End Notes BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 4: Daniel 8:1-14

Map of Susa:

The ram represents the Meso-Persian Empire, which is the empire that conquered Babylon. A ram was a symbol of Persia.

The different sizes of the horns represent the different empires. Persia was larger than the Medes and emerged after the Medes.

The male goat is Greece (Daniel 8:21-22).

The Greeks rose from the west suddenly under Alexander the Great. Their enemy was the Persians, whom they often fought and eventually defeated. Alexander died, and his kingdom was divided 4 ways.

Because of Alexander the Great, who spread Greek culture and language everywhere he went, the New Testament was written in Greek.

The little horn was Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who ruled over Syria and Israel’s land under the Seleucid dynasty.

Horns symbolize military power.

We see “the Glorious Land” used for Israel in the Bible Ezekiel 20:6 , Ezekiel 25:9, Daniel 11:16 and 11:41, and in Psalm 48:2.

Antiochus Epiphanes fulfills exactly what these Scriptures say about him.

The host and stars are symbols used in the Old Testament for angels, kings, and leaders, or God’s people (Genesis 15:5, 22:17, 26:4), (Exodus 12:41)

The holy one speaking could be Jesus.

The 2,300 is most likely days. This is prophecy fulfilled as it conclusively happened.

END NOTES SUMMARIZED

Daniel 8:1-14 presents a symbolic vision detailing the transition of power from the Medo-Persian Empire to the Greek Empire, and the subsequent rise of a tyrannical king who persecutes God’s people.

The interpretation of its key elements is as follows:

The Ram and the Goat: The powerful two-horned ram represents the Medo-Persian Empire. It is violently conquered by a swift, one-horned goat from the west, which symbolizes the Greek Empire under the meteoric conquests of its first king, Alexander the Great (the “prominent horn”).
The Broken Horn and the Four Horns: The prominent horn breaking off at the height of its power represents Alexander the Great’s sudden death. The four horns that rise in its place symbolize the four successor kingdoms that his generals carved out of his vast empire.
The “Little Horn”: A small but arrogant horn emerges from one of the four kingdoms. This figure represents the Seleucid king Antiochus IV Epiphanes. His defining actions are blasphemous arrogance against heaven and a direct assault on the Jewish religion, specifically by stopping the daily sacrifices in the Jerusalem Temple and desecrating the sanctuary.
The Promise of Restoration: The vision concludes by revealing that this period of desecration is limited. A heavenly voice declares that after 2,300 “evenings and mornings” (a set period of time), the sanctuary will be reconsecrated, offering a firm promise of hope and eventual restoration beyond the intense suffering.

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BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 3: Daniel 7:15-28

September 30, 2025September 13, 2025 by atozmom, posted in BSF Exile & Return: A Time to Build 2025/2026

Summary of Daniel 7:15-28

Daniel was troubled by his previous dreams (Daniel 7:1-14) and asked for an interpretation.

The four great beasts are four kings that will rise from the earth. But the holy people of the Most High will receive the kingdom and will possess it forever.

The fourth beast is a fourth kingdom that will appear on earth. It will be different from all the other kingdoms and will devour the whole earth. The ten horns are ten kings who will come from this kingdom. After them, another king will arise, different from the earlier ones; he will subdue three kings. He will speak against the Most High and oppress his holy people and try to change the set times and the laws. The holy people will be delivered into his hands for a time.

But his power will be taken away and completely destroyed forever. Then the sovereignty, power, and greatness of all the kingdoms under heaven will be handed over to the holy people of the Most High. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will worship and obey him.

BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 3: Daniel 7:15-28

6) Daniel was troubled before because the beasts were terrifying, and he was scared. Daniel knew that dreams had meanings since he could interpret dreams with God’s help. So, he did not know what horror his dream meant. Afterward, he was scared as wars and destruction were described. Lack of understanding causes fear.

7a) The fourth beast was not a beast of known animals like the other beasts. Daniel says the fourth beast had iron teeth and bronze claws—the beast that crushed and devoured its victims and trampled underfoot whatever was left. It had ten horns on its head, and the horn that looked more imposing than the others had eyes and a mouth that spoke boastfully.

b) Knowing that God was in control. His faith in God. And, knowing that God would prevail and His kingdom would be everlasting.

8 ) I can get through anything with God’s strength. I live knowing this is not my home and everything is just temporary. I am not afraid because I know God has got it. And, I feel I live more and worship more, too.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 3: Daniel 7:15-28

I love how God always wins in the end. It’s good to know that despite the hardships, a happy ending is near!

End Notes BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 3: Daniel 7:15-28

Daniel’s vision was most likely more than what he told us. So, you can imagine his fear just from what we know!

Succinctly, the passage means that four kings are conquered by God, and their kingdoms are given to God’s people. You’ll note that this is very similar to Nebuchadnezzar’s vision in Daniel 2. There, we saw four empires rise and fall to God.

God shows us here how he sees the empires — as animals.

Note Jesus is more often a lamb, not a wild beast with no conscience.

Many people wonder how this will end since the Roman Empire (the 4th kingdom) is long gone. Bible scholars believe there will be a “New Rome” at the End Times.

Most believe that the 10 kings mentioned are not literal since they don’t exist yet.

The notable horn is the Antichrist.

The little horn will have limited power and shall only rule for 3.5 years (time and times and half a time). This phrase is used in Revelation (11:2-3, 12:6 and 13:5) to refer to half of the last seven-year period of man’s rule on this earth.

Jesus establishes his kingdom immediately after the end of the fourth kingdom. This causes problems for Bible scholars. Therefore, this is either symbolic or hasn’t happened yet.

END NOTES SUMMARIZED

Daniel 7:15-28 provides the divine interpretation of the vision, focusing on the suffering God’s people will endure under the final beastly kingdom and guaranteeing their ultimate, triumphant vindication.

The interpretation of its key elements is as follows:

The “Little Horn” as the Final Enemy: The interpretation centers on the terrifying fourth beast and its “little horn.” This figure is revealed to be a future, arrogant ruler who will blaspheme God (“speak against the Most High”) and actively persecute His “holy people.”
A Limited Period of Suffering: The angel explains that the faithful will be handed over to this power for a specific, symbolic period (“a time, times and half a time”). This is a crucial assurance that while the persecution will be severe, it is finite and measured by God, not an uncontrolled or endless tragedy.
The Certainty of Judgment: The vision makes it clear that the heavenly court will ultimately sit in judgment. The “little horn’s” power will be definitively taken away and permanently destroyed. This reveals that all earthly persecutors are subject to God’s final and just verdict.
The Ultimate Victory of the Saints: The climax of the interpretation is the promise that after the judgment, all sovereignty, power, and greatness will be given to the “holy people of the Most High.” Their suffering is temporary, but their inheritance is an everlasting kingdom.

In essence, this passage is a sober warning of coming persecution, but it is ultimately a message of profound hope, assuring the faithful that their suffering is limited and their ultimate vindication and eternal reign are certain.

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BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 2: Daniel 7:1-14

September 29, 2025September 9, 2025 by atozmom, posted in BSF Exile & Return: A Time to Build 2025/2026

Summary of Daniel 7:1-14

Daniel had a dream/vision of beasts that came up from the sea.

The first beast was like a lion, and it had the wings of an eagle. Its wings were torn off, and it was lifted from the ground so that it stood on two feet like a human being, and the mind of a human was given to it.
The second beast looked like a bear. It was raised up on one of its sides, and it had three ribs in its mouth between its teeth. It was told, ‘Get up and eat your fill of flesh!’
The third beast looked like a leopard. And on its back it had four wings like those of a bird. This beast had four heads, and it was given authority to rule.
The fourth beast—terrifying and frightening and very powerful. It had large iron teeth; it crushed and devoured its victims and trampled underfoot whatever was left. It was different from all the former beasts, and it had ten horns.

Another horn appeared and uprooted other horns. The horn had eyes and a mouth that spoke.

Daniel then saw God (the Ancient of Days) on his throne. A river flowed before him he was attended by thousands.

The beast was then slain. The other beasts were stripped of authority.

BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 2: Daniel 7:1-14

3a)

Four winds of heaven: 4 angels hold back the 4 winds of the earth to prevent any wind from blowing on the land, sea, or tree.

Great sea: The great sea is depicted as roaring.

Lion, eagle: An eagle represents power. A lion represents strength.

Bear: A symbol of consequences for sin.

Leopard: A leopard is stealthy.

Iron teeth, 10 horns: Horns enact justice. A horn symbolizes strength, and here the Lord gives strength.

Natural Elements

Four Winds of Heaven
- Qualities: The winds are described as powerful forces “churning up” the great sea. They represent a chaotic, foundational disturbance that brings about great change.
- Significance: In Scripture, winds often symbolize the powerful, invisible acts of God, sometimes in judgment or to bring about His sovereign will upon the earth (Jeremiah 49:36). Here, they signify that the turmoil of human history, from which empires rise, is ultimately stirred by a divine, heavenly power.
Great Sea
- Qualities: The sea is vast, dark, chaotic, and tempestuous. It is the source from which the monstrous beasts emerge.
- Significance: The sea is a common biblical metaphor for the abyss, chaos, and the tumultuous Gentile (non-Jewish) nations of the world in their restless and ungodly state (Isaiah 17:12, Revelation 17:15). That the beasts arise from the sea signifies that these earthly empires are of human, chaotic, and profane origin, not from heaven.

The Four Beasts

Lion with Eagle’s Wings (First Beast)
- Qualities: A combination of the king of beasts and the king of birds, representing supreme strength, speed, and majesty. The vision includes its wings being plucked off and it being given a human heart.
- Significance: This beast is historically interpreted as the Babylonian Empire. The lion was a prominent symbol of Babylon. The combination with an eagle represents its initial power and swift conquests. The removal of its wings and the giving of a human heart is widely seen as a reference to King Nebuchadnezzar’s humbling in Daniel 4, where his beast-like pride was replaced with humility.
Bear (Second Beast)
- Qualities: A lumbering, powerful, and ferocious beast, raised up on one side with three ribs in its mouth. It is commanded to “devour much flesh.”
- Significance: This represents the Medo-Persian Empire. The bear’s brute strength reflects the empire’s massive armies. Being “raised up on one side” symbolizes the unequal partnership between the Medes and the Persians, with the Persians being the more dominant power. The three ribs signify three major conquests made by the empire (such as Lydia, Babylon, and Egypt).
Leopard (Third Beast)
- Qualities: A leopard with four wings on its back and four heads. It is characterized by extreme speed and agility.
- Significance: This symbolizes the Greek Empire under Alexander the Great. A leopard is already swift, but the four wings represent the unprecedented speed of Alexander’s conquests. The four heads signify the division of his empire among his four leading generals after his sudden death.
Iron Teeth and 10 Horns (Fourth Beast)
- Qualities: An unnamed, terrifying beast, different from all the others. It is described by its actions: crushing, devouring, and trampling with its large iron teeth. It has ten horns, representing power and rulers.
- Significance: The iron directly connects this beast to the legs of iron in Daniel 2, representing the Roman Empire. Its actions depict a new level of ruthless, all-consuming military and political power that would dominate its predecessors. The ten horns are generally understood to represent the rulers or divisions of power that would come from this empire.

b) These images offer hope, awe, and assurance of where believers will go at the end of time. We don’t have to fear human inventions or rulers; God is in charge now and forever and justice is assured!

4a) God is the Ancient of Days. It represents heaven and, more specifically, the Last Days. Fire is power, and all are attending him. The Book of Life is open.

What the Symbols Represent

The symbols surrounding the Ancient of Days are imagery of a divine, heavenly courtroom convened for ultimate judgment:

White Clothing and Hair: The clothing “white as snow” and hair “like pure wool” represent God’s absolute purity, holiness, and righteousness. White is the color of perfection, signifying that the Judge of all history is without any stain of sin or injustice. The white hair also symbolizes infinite wisdom.
The Flaming Throne and Blazing Wheels: The throne of fire symbolizes God’s awesome power and his unapproachable holiness. Fire in the Bible often represents both purification and judgment. The blazing wheels, reminiscent of the vision in Ezekiel 1, signify God’s omnipresence—His judgment is not static but can reach anywhere.
The River of Fire: Flowing from the throne, this river represents the unstoppable and all-consuming power of God’s justice. It is the active force of His judgment, purging and destroying all that is unholy before Him.
The Heavenly Host: The “thousands upon thousands” who attend Him are the angelic court. Their immense number signifies the majesty, glory, and power of the divine King and Judge.
The Seated Court and Opened Books: This is the imagery of a formal legal proceeding. The “court was seated” indicates that the time for judgment has officially begun. The “books were opened” signifies a divine accounting of all deeds. It reveals that the actions of all earthly rulers and kingdoms have been recorded and will be judged according to God’s perfect, righteous standard.

b) Jesus is “one like a son of man.”

c) It’s God and Jesus, so Father and Son. Both are rulers of everything. Jesus will be the final judge of all of humanity.

The Ancient of Days (God the Father) is the eternal Sovereign who sits in judgment. The “one like a son of man” (Jesus Christ) is the divine heir. Their relationship is one of the ultimate authority, bestowing all power upon the rightful ruler, who receives his everlasting kingdom from the Father.

For believers, the vision provides hope and assurance that earthly oppression is temporary and their righteous King will be vindicated. For all others, it is a sober warning that all human kingdoms are fleeting and will ultimately be judged and subjected to the Son of Man’s eternal, universal rule.

5) I find comfort and security in Jesus, as well as hope. Others see Jesus as a threat, responding with defiance, indifference, or fear of final accountability.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 2: Daniel 7:1-14

This lesson was most definitely full! The symbolism and the vision are great!

End Notes BSF Study Questions Exile & Return: A Time to Build Lesson 6, Day 2: Daniel 7:1-14

This is the beginning of Daniel’s visions that are recorded (they are in Daniel 7-12). The life of Daniel is in Daniel 1-6.

Fun Fact: Halfway through Daniel, he goes from a third-person account of his court stories to a first-person account of his prophecies.

Fun Fact: Daniel wrote his book in both Hebrew and Aramaic (2:4-7:28). Bible scholars believe that when Daniel wrote in Hebrew, he was addressing a Jewish audience.

This vision is before the Babylonians were conquered by the Medo-Persian Empire and after Nebuchadnezzar’s reign.

The Great Sea is most likely the Mediterranean Sea here.

Seas are dangerous since most ancient people could not swim. Seas are also seen as Gentile nations in the Bible (Psalm 74:13, Psalm 89:9, Isaiah 57:20).

The winds could be either God’s power ( Psalm 35:5, Psalm 48:7, Psalm 107:25 Isaiah 27:8 and Isaiah 41:16) or Satan’s forces (Revelation 7:1).

Lions and eagles are at the top of their respective food chains.

Lions are strong, majestic, and fast.

Bears are slower but stronger.

A leopard makes sudden, surprise attacks.

The fourth beast is indescribable but the most powerful.

Horns represent power.

Daniel tells us that they represent four kingdoms (Daniel 7:17).

Lion and eagle — Babylon. Also, they can represent Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 49:19-22)
Bear — Medo-Persian Empire. The three ribs could represent Babylon, Egypt, and Lydia (the lands they conquered)
Leopard — Greek Empire. When Alexander the Great died, his empire was divided into 4 parts (hence, the 4 heads) and 4 rulers (Casander, Lysimachus, Seleucus, and Ptolemy)
Indescribable Beast — Roman Empire

God knows the future.

The Ancient of Days is God the Father, as symbolized by His white hair and garments. Angels and humans surrounded him. It represents eternity.

Fun Fact: The term “Ancient of Days” is only used in the book of Daniel.

Fire often represents judgment. God is also seen in fire (Exodus 3:2; 19:18, Ezekiel 1:4-5). Therefore, it can represent holiness, too.

Appearing on clouds symbolizes divine authority.

Sea often represents chaos, threats, and strife.

There are several books in the Bible, but most likely this is the Book of Life since it’s also foreshadowing the End Times.

The Son of Man (Jesus) comes to establish dominion on earth.

The boastful words of the horn are from the Antichrist (Revelation 13:5-6). Jesus will crush the Antichrist.

Fun Fact: The Son of Man was used by Jesus to describe himself over 80 times in the Gospels.

The Little Horn includes the things the Lord hates (haughty eyes and a lying tongue). Proverbs 6:16-19

END NOTES SUMMARIZED

Daniel 7:1-14 is an apocalyptic vision that reveals God’s sovereign control over history, contrasting the brutal nature of human empires with the glory of His eternal kingdom.

The interpretation of its key elements is as follows:

The Four Beasts: The four monstrous beasts rising from the chaotic sea (lion, bear, leopard, and a terrifying fourth beast) represent a succession of violent and predatory earthly kingdoms (traditionally identified as Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome). The final “little horn” symbolizes the peak of arrogant, blasphemous human power that persecutes the faithful.
The Ancient of Days: The vision then shifts to the heavenly court, where the “Ancient of Days” (God the Father) sits as the ultimate and eternal Judge. This scene reveals that while empires create chaos on earth, God remains enthroned in absolute authority, and a time of final judgment is set when all earthly powers will be held accountable.
The “One Like a Son of Man”: The climax of the vision is the appearance of a divine figure who comes “with the clouds of heaven.” Unlike the beasts from the chaotic sea, he has a human appearance and a heavenly origin. This messianic figure does not seize power but is presented before the Ancient of Days.
The Everlasting Kingdom: The Son of Man is given everlasting dominion, glory, and a kingdom that will never be destroyed. This reveals God’s ultimate plan: to judge the violent human kingdoms and replace them with the eternal, universal, and righteous reign of His chosen messianic King.

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BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 5: Revelation 3:18-22

October 3, 2024September 28, 2024 by atozmom, posted in BSF Revelation: The Hope 2024/2025

Summary of Revelation 3:18-22

Jesus tells them to buy from him gold refined in the fire, so they can become rich; white clothes to wear, so they can cover their shameful nakedness; and salve to put on their eyes, so they can see. Jesus rebukes and disciplines those he loves. Jesus awaits at the door; all the people have to do is invite him in. Whoever is victorious will have the right to sit with Jesus on his throne.

BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 5: Revelation 3:18-22

12a) Spiritual wealth, salvation, holiness, righteousness.

b) Whoever is victorious will have the right to sit with Jesus on his throne. Eternal life.

13) God rebukes those he loves so that they will grow closer to him and be more like him. He disciplines us for our good so that we may share in his holiness.

14a) God disciplines his people with consequences for their actions and decisions so that they can grow closer to him. Pain in childbirth. Pain in toiling the land for food. They may suffer consequences of the law as discipline. They may be shunned as well for their actions.

b) To learn and grow in faith. To be true sons and daughters of God so that we can share in his holiness.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 5: Revelation 3:18-22

We should have a healthy attitude towards discipline in our lives. Otherwise, we wouldn’t grow closer to God. There would be no incentive to do so.

End Notes BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 5: Revelation 3:18-22

If the church of Laodicea would turn to Jesus, they would be clothed, they would see, and they would be spiritually rich.

We should want to be disciplined by God. It shows his love for us.

We need to repent and turn from our ways.

Jesus invited the church to knock at his door, dine with him, have a relationship with him, and be in his presence. We must invite Jesus into our lives. He stands waiting to respond to us!

Jesus wants to offer them a renewed spiritual vision.

He wants fellowship with us. The invitation is for all of us!

We must hear Jesus’ call on our lives.

Fun Fact: Jesus reprimands the church of Laodicea the harshest.

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BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 4: Revelation 3:14-18

October 2, 2024September 28, 2024 by atozmom, posted in BSF Revelation: The Hope 2024/2025

Summary of Revelation 3:14-18

Jesus tells the church in Laodicea that he knows their deeds and that they are neither cold nor hot (meaning they are not faithful). They are spiritually wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked. Jesus tells them to buy from him gold refined in the fire, so they can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so they can cover their shameful nakedness; and salve to put on their eyes, so they can see.

BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 4: Revelation 3:14-18

9) These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. That Jesus is the Amen, the finality of it all, and the ruler of it all.

10) Jesus tells the church of Laodicea that they are lukewarm and that he wants to spit them out because of this.

11a) The Laodiceans believe they are rich; they have acquired wealth and do not need a thing. But Jesus says they do not realize that they are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked.

b) You are blind to your need for Jesus and are extremely poor in Spirit. The result is you do not live a life for Him.

c) Staying humble, giving God the glory, always staying in the Word, realizing my blessings, praising him, and praying to him.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 4: Revelation 3:14-18

I love this description of lukewarmness because we often can become complacent in our walk with Jesus. We need to always be hot and on fire for Jesus!

End Notes BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 4: Revelation 3:14-18

map of laodicea www.atozmomm.com bsf revelation — courtesy of https://davidjeremiah.blog/seven-churches-of-revelation-bible-study/

Laodicea was a rich Roman city. Of course, pagan worship was dominant, but there were many Jews living there. The church here that Jesus addresses was also addressed by Paul in Colossians 2:1 and 4:16.

Jesus chose the term lukewarm because the water supply that served Laodicea came to them as lukewarm due to the distance it had to travel. Therefore, the people would know exactly what Jesus was saying.

Jesus is the “Amen,” meaning “so it is done.” He is first in all Creation.

The people compromised their faith, so Jesus would spit them out.

Being lukewarm is being useless. You cannot please both God and the world. You must choose. Being cold would at least drive you to Jesus.

Note here that Jesus addresses the church as the church of the Laodiceans. In the other passages, he refers to them as the town itself. Bible scholars believe Jesus is referring to them as such because they allow the majority to rule them, rather than God.

The church of Laodicea was spiritually poor AND blind to it.

If the church of Laodicea would turn to Jesus, they would be clothed, they would see, and they would be spiritually rich.

Complacency is spiritually crippling.

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BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 3: Revelation 3:11-13

October 1, 2024September 28, 2024 by atozmom, posted in BSF Revelation: The Hope 2024/2025

Summary of Revelation 3:11-13

Jesus says he will be coming soon. He will make a pillar in the temple of God. He will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, and I will also write on them my new name.

BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 3: Revelation 3:11-13

7a) Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. I hold on to God’s promises, His truths, and who He is. I have faith in what is coming. I know my home is not this side of earth.

b) The crown is eternal life and victory over Satan.

8a) The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name. Essentially, the meaning is that Jesus will create a heaven on earth and all those who belong to God will dwell there. Each person will receive a new name and we’ll be marked with that name.

b) That I am forever God’s.

c) Jesus is there to prop me up, to strengthen my faith, and to keep me abiding in him. He also will give me patience as I await his return.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 3: Revelation 3:11-13

I love this idea of the crown. Such a beautiful image that awaits us!

End Notes BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 3: Revelation 3:11-13

The church is to hold onto their faith so that their crown may not be taken.

A pillar holds up a building, so the idea is that Jesus will give us the strength to stay strong in Him and have a home in God.

The name of God, new Jerusalem, and Jesus will be our new names that shall mark us for him.

All should hear and be encouraged by these words.

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BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 2: Revelation 3:7-10

September 30, 2024September 28, 2024 by atozmom, posted in BSF Revelation: The Hope 2024/2025

Summary of Revelation 3:7-10

Jesus addresses the church in Philadelphia. Jesus knows their deeds. He places before them an open door that cannot be shut. They have kept his word and not denied his name. Those who are unbelievers will fall down at your feet. They will not face the final judgment others will face.

BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 2: Revelation 3:7-10

3a)

Holy: One who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.

True: That everything he says and does is true. The one and the only. And we are true by believing in the one who is true.

Holds the key of David: Jesus holds the key to eternal life or death. He controls what enters and enters heaven.

b) The entrance to heaven and eternal life.

4) “I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.” They were probably enduring severe persecution.

5) Unbelievers. Jews who were persecuting them. Those who did not truly believe in God and Jesus, but they professed so.

6) I stand by living out the life I believe Jesus has planned for me. I give God all the glory. I live by Biblical truth.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 2: Revelation 3:7-10

Again, I love how Jesus first commends and then he promises to help. Good stuff!

End Notes BSF Study Questions Revelation: The Hope Lesson 6, Day 2: Revelation 3:7-10

As most of us know, Philadelphia in Greek means “brotherly love.” It was founded for the sole purpose of spreading Greek culture in Asia. It was a prosperous city and the center of many trading routes.

map of philadelphia www.atozmomm.com bsf revelation — courtesy of https://www.bibleinfo.com/en/questions/seven-churches-revelation

Jesus introduces himself differently here than in the other 6 letters. The emphasis is on his absolute authority.

Philadelphia is the 2nd church that Jesus only offers praise for (the other was Smyrna).

Jesus told all of the churches in Revelation that he knows their deeds.

An open door in Scripture usually refers to evangelism (1 Corinthians 16:9, 2 Corinthians 2:12, and Colossians 4:3).

No one can shut access to Jesus.

Little strength implies strength in the Lord. They lived in the way of Jesus.

This is the 2nd church Jesus had nothing negative to say about.

Jesus promised the church vindication against their persecutors and as a reward for their faithfulness and a pass for the final Tribulation.

Fun Fact: “Those who dwell on the earth” is used 9 times in the Book of Revelation and refers to unbelievers. They are the lost.

Christians dwell in heaven, not here.

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mountains of wyoming and a lake www.atozmomm.com BSF John

BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 6, Day 5: John 4:43-54

October 12, 2023October 7, 2023 by atozmom, posted in BSF John's Gospel: The Truth 2023/2024

SUMMARY OF JOHN 4:43-54

Jesus left Sychar in Samaria and heads back to Galilee. Jesus was welcomed, as they had seen what he had done in Jerusalem at Passover. He visited Cana. A royal official whose son was sick in Capernaum went to Jesus to beg him to save his son’s life.

Jesus questions whether the man will believe without a sign. The man asks him to come down before his son dies. Jesus told him to go and that his so would live.

The man did believe, and before he even returned home, the man was told by his officials that his son was well. His whole household believed because of this miracle.

This was the second sign Jesus performed after coming from Judea to Galilee.

BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 6, Day 5: John 4:43-54

12) He went to Cana in Galilee. He was welcomed by the people as they had seen what he had done in Jerusalem at Passover.

13a) The man was a royal official whose son was sick in Capernaum went to Jesus to beg him to save his son’s life.

b) Jesus was skeptical that the man would believe, but Jesus healed the boy anyway.

14) Jesus shows grace to everyone, even to those whom may doubt him. He answers prayers simply and powerfully, which is why we must always pray!

15) He is giving me patience to wait on His answers. He is helping me reach these prayers with tiny steps every day. He gives me the encouragement I need when I need it.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 6, Day 5: John 4:43-54

Great lesson! Shows the power of prayer when you see out Jesus!

End Notes BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 6, Day 5: John 4:43-54

Let us remember that Jesus grew up in Galilee. He is returning to home territory. Because of this familiarity, it was hard for the people to believe in Jesus since he grew up there as a normal child. They did not honor him as they should.

Cana is about 20 miles from Capernaum, so the royal official had traveled that far to meet Jesus.

The Second Sign Recorded by John

Jesus wondered if the man required a sign to believe. You can imagine that many people Jesus encountered only wanted something from him without faith.

We should not require signs and wonders to prove God is who He is. Signs prove a purpose and are useful, but should not be the foundation of our faith.

Jesus tests the man by simply uttering words to heal his son. The nobleman believes, as indicated when he turned to leave, obeying Jesus.

The nobleman was not walking hurriedly (since it was yesterday at the 11th hour). This shows his faith in Jesus’ words, too.

The nobleman’s faith was deepened even more, and his whole household believed.

The signs John records are so that we will believe (John 20:29-31).

Fun fact: The first and the second sign took place in Cana (the water turned to wine and the healing of this son).

The first sign was so that the disciples may believe.

This second sign is so that the nobleman and his household would believe.

Note the Samaritans (and many others) believed without a sign.

Jesus uses whatever power is necessary that will reach us individually. What a gracious God we have!

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BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 6, Day 4: John 4:39-42

October 11, 2023October 7, 2023 by atozmom, posted in BSF John's Gospel: The Truth 2023/2024

SUMMARY OF JOHN 4:39-42

Many Samaritans believed in Jesus because of the woman’s testimony. Jesus stayed two more days, and many more believed that Jesus was the Savior of the world.

BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 6, Day 4: John 4:39-42

9) Many Samaritans believed in Jesus because of the woman’s testimony. Jesus stayed two more days, and spoke to the people. Then, after hearing for themselves, they believed in Jesus not just because of the woman’s testimony, but also because of Jesus’ words.

10) God’s plan is for all to hear about him via testimony of some sort, such as others or His word, and believe in the saving faith of Christ.

11a) Her testimony was honest, sincere, and convincing. No matter her background, others did not judge her and listened to her. We should all do the same.

b) Others can see my faith and what God has done in my life and come to Jesus through that. I can share this with people I know and those I meet.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 6, Day 4: John 4:39-42

It’s cool to imagine how Jesus traveled around and stayed where the need was the greatest, even among non-Jews, which was unheard of at the time. So cool!

End Notes BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 6, Day 4: John 4:39-42

Jesus meets us in our greatest need.

Note the title “Savior of the World.” That is, indeed, Jesus!

Fun Fact: This is the first time recorded in the Bible that a large group of people believed in Jesus.