9.5 The Three Angels’ Messages
The Choice between Worship of the Creator and the Beast

The message of the three angels in Revelation 14, particularly the proclamations of the first and second angels, presents an urgent call to decision and true worship. The first angel urges us to fear God and give Him glory, for the hour of His judgment has come. This means we should align our lives and faith in light of the impending divine judgment. Worshiping the Creator, who made heaven and earth, reminds us that our worship must be directed towards the true God, who alone is worthy.

The second angel warns of the fall of Babylon, which symbolizes a fallen and false religious system. This system has rejected the message of the first angel and has intoxicated the world with false worship and spiritual deception. This warning emphasizes the consequences of worshiping the beast and its image, which represents a departure from the true worship of the Creator.

The choice between worshiping the Creator and worshiping the beast is a decision of great significance and consequence. Every person will ultimately have to decide to whom they pledge their allegiance – Jesus, the Creator and Redeemer, or Satan, who works through the beast and its image. This decision is not only a theological or spiritual choice but also impacts our daily lives and values. It calls us to honor God in our daily lives and faith, keeping His commandments with the conviction that He is our Creator and righteous Judge.

Read Revelation 14:12. What are the two characteristic features of those who refuse to worship the beast? Why are both crucial?

Revelation 14:12 states: “Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” These two characteristics – keeping the commandments of God and having faith in Jesus – are crucial for several reasons:

1. Keeping the Commandments of God:

   • Obedience and Loyalty: Keeping God’s commandments shows the believers’ loyalty to God. It is an expression of their obedience and dedication, even under extreme conditions and persecution.

   • Reflection of God’s Character: God’s commandments represent His character and principles. By keeping these commandments, believers reflect God’s nature and His righteousness.

   • Sign of True Worship: The Sabbath, as part of the commandments, plays a central role in the true worship of the Creator. Observing the Sabbath becomes a visible sign of loyalty to God and stands in contrast to the worship of the beast.

2. Faith in Jesus:

   • Trust and Dependence: Faith in Jesus involves deep trust in His salvation, guidance, and promises. It is a faith that relies on Jesus in every situation.

   • Following Christ: Faith in Jesus also means following His example and obeying His teachings. It is a life lived in the footsteps of Christ, even when it is difficult and challenging.

   • Endurance in Trials: Faith in Jesus is especially crucial in times of trial and persecution. It gives believers the strength to remain steadfast amid opposition and threats.

Both characteristics – keeping the commandments of God and faith in Jesus – are therefore crucial because they define what it means to belong to God’s end-time people. These believers will be distinguished not only by their beliefs but also by their actions and trust in Christ. In a time of great conflict between good and evil, they will stand out through their obedience to God’s commandments and their unwavering faith in Jesus. This faithfulness and trust will guide them through the final challenges until Jesus returns.

How is God Preparing Your Faith Today for What Is to Come?

God is preparing our faith for future challenges by strengthening and shaping us through various means today. Here are some ways God does this:

1. Trials and Difficulties:

   • Strengthening Faith through Challenges: God allows trials in our lives to solidify our faith. James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

   • Building Trust: Through difficulties, we learn to trust God more and rely on His guidance. These experiences prepare us to remain steadfast in greater trials.

2. Study and Application of Scripture:

   • Understanding and Wisdom: Studying the Bible provides us with wisdom and understanding of God’s ways. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

   • Practicing Obedience: By applying God’s commandments in our daily lives, we grow in obedience and dedication. This prepares us to remain faithful even in tough times.

3. Prayer and Communion with God:

   • Daily Connection: Through prayer, we maintain a close relationship with God that sustains us in all circumstances. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to pray about everything and experience God’s peace.

   • Filling with the Holy Spirit: Prayer opens us to the guidance and strengthening by the Holy Spirit, helping us grow in faith.

4. Community with Other Believers:

   • Encouragement and Support: Fellowship with other believers offers us encouragement and support. Hebrews 10:24-25 highlights the importance of gathering together and encouraging one another.

   • Example and Teaching: Through the example and teaching of other believers, we are inspired and strengthened in our faith.

5. Experiences and Testimonies:

   • Experiences of God’s Faithfulness: Personal experiences of God’s intervention and provision strengthen our trust in His faithfulness. These experiences are valuable reminders when facing future challenges.

   • Sharing Testimonies: Sharing and hearing testimonies from other believers encourages us and shows how God works in various situations.

Thus, God uses a variety of ways to strengthen our faith and prepare us for future trials. By embracing His guidance and growing in His grace, we will be able to face upcoming challenges with a firm and tested faith.

The connection between our daily life and our faith is closely linked to preparation for the future, especially considering end-time events and the associated spiritual challenges.

1. Decisions in Daily Life and Faith: The decision between worshiping the Creator and worshiping the beast, as described in Revelation, has direct implications for our daily life and faith. Our daily decisions on how we live and whom we worship are an expression of our faith and loyalty to God.

2. Obedience and Loyalty: By keeping God’s commandments and holding firmly to our faith in Jesus Christ, we demonstrate our loyalty to God in everyday life. Our obedience to God’s commandments and our trust in Christ influence our daily actions, decisions, and relationships.

3. Preparation for Future Challenges: Living in obedience and faith prepares us for future challenges. Every day we live in faithful following of Christ strengthens our faith and determination to remain steadfast even in difficult times.

4. Community and Support: Fellowship with other believers in daily life offers encouragement, support, and spiritual strengthening. By sharing experiences and praying together, we are strengthened and encouraged to live our faith.

5. Prayer and Spiritual Disciplines: Daily prayer, Bible study, and spiritual disciplines strengthen our faith and help us prepare for upcoming challenges. These spiritual exercises help us deepen our relationship with God and recognize His guidance in our lives.

Overall, the connection between our daily life and our faith is crucial for our preparation for the future. By being faithful in everyday life and actively living our faith, we will be strengthened and prepared to face the end-time challenges with a firm and tested faith.

Those who honor God in their daily lives and keep His commandments are preparing their faith for any future challenge.

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