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Friday, April 24, 2009

Ready for Armageddon

The word, "Armageddon," is found only one time in the entire Bible - in Revelation 16:16 - and contrary to popular opinion, there is absolutely no hint in its context that this final "battle of the great day of God Almighty" (verse 14) has anything to do with guns, missiles, bombs, or is centered in the Middle East. Verses 17-21 make it clear that when "Armageddon" hits, a mighty "earthquake" (verse 18) causes every city around the world to crumble (verse 18), "every island" to flee, and "the mountains" to vanish (verse 20). Clearly, its effect will be global.
Not only is there only one verse in the Bible where "Armageddon" is mentioned, but there is only verse that specifically states how to prepare for the battle. In that solitary verse, Jesus Christ declares:
  • Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame (Revelation 16:15).
Those "garments" refer to the pure robe of the righteousness of Jesus Christ (see also Revelation 3:5, 18; 6:11; 7:14) which God's loyal people will both "put on" and continue wearing throughout the temptations of these last days.
Let's put on that garment now.
Let's prepare for the end.

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