Mission 66 Bible Commentary

Today, we dive into Revelation 17, with the theme “Lady in Red.” Here, we encounter a symbolic image of a prostitute dressed in purple and scarlet, riding a beast with seven heads and 10 horns. This “Lady in Red” represents a false religious system that deceives and leads people away from the truth of Jesus Christ. The chapter warns us about the dire consequences of following this path and urges us to stay true to God’s Word. The “beast” symbolizes the political powers that oppose God. This study will help us understand the importance of discerning truth and standing firm in our faith in the face of deception.

In today’s study, we will delve into Revelation Chapters 15 and 16. The theme is “Seven Plagues and Seven Bowls.” We learn about the time of the end when God’s wrath is to be poured out on the earth. These chapters discuss the seven last plagues, symbolizing God’s final judgments on a disobedient world. Despite these harsh judgments, we are reminded of God’s righteousness and justice. This study will help us understand the severity of sin and the necessity of God’s judgment, while emphasizing the importance of being prepared for the end times.

Today’s theme is “Time’s up!” We’re studying Revelation 14, where we learn about the 144,000 witnesses chosen by God, the final warnings given by angels and the ultimate judgment of Earth’s inhabitants. This chapter reminds us that everything happening in the world is not forever. There will come a time, known only to God, when judgment will be passed. The righteous will be harvested into God’s kingdom, while the unrighteous will face eternal judgment.

In today’s study, we delve into Revelation Chapter 13, where we explore the theme “The Mark of the Beast.” This chapter presents a sort of satanic trinity, involving the Dragon, the Beast and the False Prophet, in opposition to God and his people. The Beast, who receives power from the Dragon, forces all people to receive a mark, known as the Mark of the Beast. The number of the Beast, 666, represents the empire of humankind opposing God. Only those with their names written in the Book of Life, the true followers of Jesus Christ, will be free from the power of the Beast.

In today’s study, we explore Revelation Chapter 12, focusing on the theme “the Lady and the Dragon.” This chapter represents the battle between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness. The Lady, representing the nation of Israel, gives birth to the Messiah, who will reign over the entire Earth. The Dragon, representing Satan, attempts to thwart God’s plan, but ultimately fails. The conflict continues with the Dragon pursuing the Lady, but God provides protection. The chapter concludes with the Dragon making war on the rest of her offspring, symbolizing the ongoing conflict between good and evil.

In today’s study, we delve into Revelation Chapters 10 and 11, under the theme “no more delay.” We explore the divine revelation with the two witnesses who, after being killed by the Antichrist, are resurrected and ascend into heaven. This is followed by the Seventh Trumpet blast, signaling that the kingdoms of the world will be handed over to God and his Christ, indicating that there will be no more delay. This is a testament to the inevitability of God’s reign forever and ever.

The theme for Revelation Chapters 8 and 9 is “die hard,” which shows the unyielding nature of humanity even in the face of severe divine judgment. As the end of time approaches, people will become increasingly resistant to God, refusing to repent despite catastrophic events. In these chapters, the seventh seal is opened, introducing the Trumpet Judgments. The Earth experiences unprecedented disasters: a third of the world burns, seas turn to blood, waters become poisoned and darkness covers the skies. Yet, the people’s hearts remain hardened. Demonic creatures emerge, tormenting those without God’s seal. Despite the pain, humanity clings to its sinful ways rather than turning to God. This reveals the depth of human depravity and the danger of hardening one’s heart against the Almighty.

Revelation 7 introduces us to the 144,000 servants of God from the twelve tribes of Israel who are marked with a seal for protection during the tribulation. This chapter also presents a countless multitude from every nation, dressed in white robes and praising God. The main theme is God’s mercy in the midst of judgment, as He marks His servants for protection and gathers a great multitude of believers from all nations.

Revelation 6 explores the opening of the seven seals, known as the “seal judgments,” marking the end of the age. As each seal is opened, a new judgment is unleashed upon the world. These judgments are symbolized by the four horsemen of the apocalypse: conquest, war, famine and death. The main theme of this chapter is the unveiling of God’s justice and judgment on the world’s rebellion and sin.

Revelation 4 and 5 invite us to take a peek beyond our human limitations, revealing the eternal glory of Jesus Christ. We see him on his majestic throne, ruling heaven and Earth. The chapters delve into the vision of the Apostle John, who is shown a door standing open in heaven, a throne and various heavenly beings. The main theme revolves around the power and majesty of Jesus Christ, the Lamb who was slain, who is worthy of all praise and worship, and who will take back rightful ownership of the Earth.

Today’s Mission 66 study with our teacher, John Mathews, delves into the messages for the last three of the seven churches in Revelation Chapter 3: Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. The overarching theme is “lukewarm,” as Jesus Christ critiques each church’s actions and spiritual state. The church in Sardis appears alive but is spiritually dead and needs to wake up. Philadelphia, though weak, has kept Jesus’ word and is promised protection from future trials. Laodicea is criticized for being lukewarm — neither hot nor cold — and is warned about complacency. Jesus stands at the door and knocks, seeking entrance into the hearts of believers to restore fellowship and urging them to be zealous and repent. These messages call for self-examination, urging believers to love Jesus as their first love, remain vigilant, awake, faithful and never lukewarm.

Today on Mission 66, our teacher John Mathews takes us through Revelation 2, where we learn the importance of maintaining our “first love” for Jesus. The chapter contains letters to four different churches in Asia Minor, each with its own set of challenges and commendations. Jesus praises the church in Ephesus for their hard work and perseverance but points out they have abandoned their initial passionate love for him. Smyrna is commended for its faithfulness amid poverty and persecution, while Pergamum is called out for tolerating false teachings. Thyatira is recognized for its works and love but reprimanded for tolerating a false prophetess. The key takeaway is that our actions and endurance must be fueled by a deep, abiding love for Jesus, who is our primary reason for living faithfully. These letters remind us to self-reflect and realign our hearts to Jesus, ensuring we’re serving him out of love rather than obligation or habit.

Revelation 1 serves as an introduction to the book, revealing that God showed John, while he was on the island of Patmos, the coming return of the Lord Jesus Christ. This was a message of hope to believers who were being persecuted by the Roman Empire. Even though the theme is “the beginning of the end,” for true believers in Christ it signifies the end of suffering and the beginning of eternal happiness. The return of Christ will be so glorious that it will completely outweigh all our present trials and sufferings.

Today’s theme in the study of Jude 1 is “Contend for the Faith.” Jude, a leader in the early Christian church and brother of James, wrote this letter as a warning against false teachers. These teachers were distorting the truth and leading believers astray. Jude called for steadfastness in faith and warned against falling into heresy. He stressed the importance of staying true to the teachings of Jesus Christ and to resist the temptations of false prophets.

In this chapter, our teacher, John Mathews, explores the third letter written by the apostle John. The key theme is “Characters in Contrast,” where John commends the good character of two men, Gaius and Demetrius, and criticizes the behaviour of Diotrephes. The importance of walking in truth, showing hospitality, and respecting authority are emphasized, providing valuable lessons for us today.

Today’s Mission 66 study brings us to Second John, where our teacher, John Mathews, delves into the importance of adhering to the essentials of the Christian faith and the need for discernment when faced with false teachings. The early church faced challenges from false prophets trying to introduce harmful ideas, which required a firm and united stand from church leaders. John emphasizes love and truth, warning against those who deny Jesus Christ’s coming in the flesh—a dangerous heresy. It’s stressed that we must stay true to the core teachings of Christ and not be led astray by those who offer a different message, even in our personal interactions and hospitality. Christians are encouraged to be vigilant, to uphold the truth, and to demonstrate love through obedience to God’s commandments.

In 1 John 4-5, our teacher John Mathews highlights the importance of distinguishing between truth and falsehood, light and darkness. He presents us with tests to determine what comes from God and what belongs to the devil. A key test is to confess that Jesus Christ came in the flesh, an affirmation against the false ideas of the time. John emphasizes God’s nature as love and the necessity of loving one another as a reflection of our relationship with God. He assures us that fear has no place in perfect love and that true believers have the Holy Spirit as a guide. Obedience to God’s commands, which are not burdensome, is a sign of overcoming the world through faith. Moreover, believers have eternal life in Jesus, and we are encouraged to keep ourselves from idols and to love one another deeply.

In 1 John Chapter 3, the main themes are love and the difference between God’s children and those led astray by sin. John emphasizes that true believers don’t make a habit of sinning, because God’s seed is in them. Instead, they practice righteousness and love. This love is not just in words but in actions, like helping those in need. John also tackles a false belief that it’s OK to sin because Jesus paid for all sins. He clarifies that although everyone makes mistakes, living in constant sin without remorse shows a lack of true connection with Jesus. This chapter teaches us to understand love by looking at Jesus’ example: He laid down His life for us, and we should do the same for others. It’s not about evolving into something divine on our own but about reflecting God’s love and purity in our lives.

1 John Chapter 2, as explained by our teacher John Mathews, centres on the theme “The True and the False.” John advises believers on identifying and differentiating between true followers of Christ and those who are deceptive. He emphasizes the importance of obedience, love and walking in the way of Jesus as marks of genuine faith. John also warns against the love of the world and the dangers of antichrists who lead others away from the truth.

In 1 John Chapter 1, our teacher John Mathews explains that the theme “No Ghost” addresses the reality of Jesus Christ’s life, death and resurrection. John emphasizes firsthand experience with Jesus, the importance of walking in the light of truth, and the necessity of confessing sins to maintain fellowship with God and fellow believers. He warns against claiming sinlessness and deceiving oneself.

In 2 Peter Chapter 3, our teacher John Mathews introduces the theme “Global Warming,” referring to the prophecy of the end times when the heavens and earth will be destroyed by fire. He emphasizes that God’s patience offers time for repentance, and the importance of living holy and godly lives in anticipation of a new heaven and earth. Peter urges believers to hold fast to the truth and to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

In 2 Peter Chapter 2, our teacher John Mathews discusses “Getting Off Mission” by examining the dangers of false prophets and teachers. These individuals introduce heresies, denying Christ and leading others astray. Peter warns of their destructive impact and the ultimate judgment they face. He reminds believers to stay true to the teachings of Christ and to maintain integrity in their faith.

In 2 Peter Chapter 1, our teacher John Mathews emphasizes that believers have “Everything We Need” for a godly life through their knowledge of Jesus Christ. He reassures us that Jesus’ sacrifice is sufficient and that the teachings of the apostles provide us with all the necessary guidance. Peter encourages Christians to lead lives of virtue, knowledge, self-control, godliness and love, confirming their calling and election. He also affirms the truthfulness of Scripture, emphasizing that prophecy is not open to personal interpretation but is inspired by the Holy Spirit.

These chapters encourage Christians to live for God’s will and to expect suffering as part of their faith journey. Believers are reminded to use their gifts to serve others, and elders are instructed on how to shepherd the flock. The final exhortation is to be humble, casting anxieties on God, and to be vigilant against the devil’s attacks. The letter closes with personal greetings and a call to stand firm in the grace of God.

1 Peter Chapter 3 addresses the roles of wives and husbands, highlighting the importance of inner beauty and consideration. It discusses how to handle suffering for doing good, reminding us that Christ also suffered. Peter explains baptism as a pledge of a good conscience toward God and emphasizes that it

In 1 Peter Chapter 2, believers are described as living stones being built into a spiritual house with Jesus as the cornerstone. Christians are urged to live honourably among others, even when wronged, and to submit to authority out of reverence for God. Peter reminds us that Jesus suffered for us, leaving an example to follow, and that we are called to endure for doing good.

In 1 Peter Chapter 1, the apostle addresses Christians who are dispersed and facing trials, providing them with hope and assurance. He celebrates the new birth through Jesus Christ, which promises an inheritance that is incorruptible. Peter reminds believers of their salvation, a theme prophesied by the prophets and longed to be seen by angels. He calls for holy living, in reverence to God, and encourages love among the faithful, as they are cleansed by obeying the truth.

James Chapter 5 warns the rich about the misery that awaits them due to their selfishness and injustice toward workers. It encourages patience in suffering, just like a farmer waits for the harvest. Christians are to avoid grumbling against each other and to follow the example of the prophets and Job who showed endurance. James emphasizes the importance of honesty, prayer and confession of sins to one another. He also highlights the power of prayer, using Elijah as an example. The chapter concludes with the call to bring back those who have wandered from the truth, as this saves souls and covers a multitude of sins.

In James Chapters 3 and 4, John Mathews teaches the power and danger of the tongue. He illustrates how a small organ can have a significant impact, likening it to a rudder steering a ship. The chapters call for self-examination, urging believers to replace jealousy and selfish ambition with humility and wisdom from above. James calls out worldly desires as the source of conflicts and challenges believers to draw near to God, cleanse their lives and submit to his will, promising that humility before the Lord leads to exaltation.

John Mathews addresses the relationship between faith and works in James Chapter 2. He teaches that genuine faith is evidenced by good deeds. The chapter warns against favouritism and the sin of partiality, reminding us that loving our neighbour is central to living out our faith. James uses the examples of Abraham and Rahab to illustrate that faith is made complete by actions. A living faith is active and produces works that align with God’s will.

John Mathews explores how trials refine our faith in James Chapter 1. He highlights the transformative power of enduring hardships, encouraging believers to find joy in the process. The chapter stresses the importance of wisdom, self-control and genuine faith reflected in actions. Our speech and actions should align with God’s Word, and we are warned against the deception of empty religious practices. True faith produces a life that cares for others and remains untainted by the world’s influence.

John Mathews emphasizes the importance of living out our faith through actions. He advises against the allure of wealth and self-sufficiency, reminding us that God’s presence is our true comfort. The chapter outlines practical ways to demonstrate faith, such as hospitality, supporting those in distress, honouring marriages and leading a content life. It concludes with the idea that Jesus Christ’s sacrifice is superior to any religious practice and that our worship should reflect a heart changed by his unshakeable kingdom.

In Hebrews Chapter 12, our teacher, John Mathews, uncovers the purpose behind life’s challenges. As athletes discipline their bodies to win a race, God disciplines us for a greater purpose. This divine training is not punishment but preparation. God treats us as his children, refining our character and guiding us toward a peaceful life of righteousness. Difficulties are a part of God’s “discipline by design,” intended to strengthen us in our spiritual journey. By focusing on Jesus, enduring trials and embracing God’s discipline, we’re promised a kingdom that cannot be shaken and a future of eternal peace.

Hebrews Chapters 10 and 11 teach us about faith as the means by which we receive the promises of God. Chapter 10 explains that the Old Testament law was only a shadow of the good things to come through Christ, who offers a single, perfect sacrifice for sins. It encourages us to hold onto our faith and meet with other believers to stir up love and good works. Chapter 11, known as the “hall of faith,” recounts the lives of those who lived by faith, from Abel to Abraham to Moses, demonstrating that faith is timeless and essential for pleasing God.

Hebrews Chapters 10 and 11 teach us about faith as the means by which we receive the promises of God. Chapter 10 explains that the Old Testament law was only a shadow of the good things to come through Christ, who offers a single, perfect sacrifice for sins. It encourages us to hold onto our faith and meet with other believers to stir up love and good works. Chapter 11, known as the “hall of faith,” recounts the lives of those who lived by faith, from Abel to Abraham to Moses, demonstrating that faith is timeless and essential for pleasing God.

Hebrews Chapter 9 discusses the concept of “one chance at life,” emphasizing the finality of Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins. The chapter compares the old tabernacle worship with the New Covenant, where Christ serves as the perfect, eternal high priest. It explains that earthly rituals were merely a shadow of the heavenly reality that Christ has fulfilled. We’re reminded that we die only once, and after death comes judgment, reinforcing the urgency of securing salvation through faith in Jesus during our lifetime.

In Hebrews Chapter 8, we learn about the “New Covenant,” which is far superior to the Old Covenant. The New Covenant allows us to have a direct relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This new arrangement means that God’s laws are written on our hearts, and we have the Holy Spirit to guide us. The chapter also explains that the old way of sacrifices and rituals is no longer needed because Jesus has fulfilled all the requirements for us.

Hebrews 7 highlights the theme “Melchizedek,” revealing the superiority of Jesus’ eternal priesthood compared to the Levitical priesthood. Melchizedek, an ancient priest who blessed Abraham, serves as a type of Christ, with neither beginning nor end. This chapter presents Jesus as the guarantor of a better covenant, one that saves completely and is forever effective. It emphasizes that Jesus, as the high priest, intercedes for us and has made the ultimate sacrifice once and for all, abolishing the need for the old system of sacrifices.

Hebrews Chapter 6 brings a stern warning to Jewish Christians not to abandon their faith in Christ. The impossibility discussed here is not about losing salvation by committing sins, but about the deliberate, final rejection of Christ after fully knowing the truth. The chapter emphasizes that it is impossible for God to lie and assures us of his promises. Jesus is shown as superior to all, and faith in him is necessary for salvation. This chapter serves as a reminder that once we have embraced the way of righteousness and been filled with the Holy Spirit, turning our backs on Jesus is senseless, and true believers will always return to the Lord.

Hebrews Chapter 5 illustrates Jesus as the Great High Priest, surpassing the old priesthood. He is appointed by God and offers a direct connection to him. Jesus, through suffering, learned obedience and became the source of eternal salvation. The chapter then criticizes some believers for being spiritually immature, urging them to move beyond basic teachings and deepen their understanding and practice of God’s Word.

Hebrews Chapter 4 discusses the concept of “rest” as a metaphor for salvation and eternal life with God. It explains that just as God rested on the seventh day, believers are invited to enter into God’s rest through faith in Christ. The chapter warns against the dangers of unbelief and disobedience, which prevented the Israelites from entering their promised rest. It emphasizes the power of God’s word and introduces Jesus as our sympathetic high priest.

Hebrews Chapter 3 compares Jesus to Moses, declaring Jesus as superior and the faithful son over God’s house, which is the church. Believers are urged to hear God’s voice and not harden their hearts as the Israelites did in the wilderness, leading to their inability to enter God’s rest. The chapter encourages Christians to exhort one another and warns against the deceitfulness of sin and the danger of unbelief, which can prevent entering God’s eternal rest.

Hebrews Chapter 2 cautions against neglecting the great salvation available through Christ. It explains that Jesus, who was made a little lower than angels, tasted death for everyone and became the founder of salvation through suffering. He is not ashamed to call us brothers and sisters, sharing in our humanity to defeat death and the devil. By experiencing suffering and temptation, Jesus is able to help those who are being tempted, making him the perfect high priest

Hebrews Chapter 1 emphasizes the supremacy of Christ over angels and other religious figures. It explains that Jesus, the Son of God, is the ultimate revelation of God’s truth, superior to the prophets and angels. Jesus is the exact representation of God and upholds the universe. He made purification for sins and sits at the right hand of God. The chapter cautions against angel worship, highlighting that Jesus, not angels, deserves our worship. This message is directed to Jewish Christians to encourage them to stay with Christ despite facing persecution and the temptation to return to old beliefs.

Paul writes to Philemon, a fellow Christian, to address the situation with Onesimus, a slave who ran away but has since converted to Christianity. Paul appeals to Philemon to accept Onesimus back not as a slave, but as a brother in Christ. He emphasizes the transformative power of the gospel and equality in Christ, even in an unjust society.

Paul tells Titus to teach sound doctrine and for Christians to live virtuously, setting a good example for others. He discusses the roles of older men and women, young people and bondservants in modeling Christian behavior. Paul also addresses the second coming of Christ and how our actions should demonstrate what we believe.

Paul instructs Titus on leading the church in Crete. Leaders must be blameless, faithful and strong against false teachings. Paul denounces the corrupt behavior of some Cretans and emphasizes the need for church members to act truthfully and uphold sound doctrine.

Paul encourages Timothy to keep preaching the truth and to be ready to share his faith. Despite his impending death, Paul is content, knowing he has fought the good fight, and a crown awaits him in heaven. He warns Timothy about people who will reject truth and provides final instructions and greetings.

Paul warns Timothy about the tough times ahead, especially as society breaks down. People will be selfish, disobedient and turn away from God. Leaders must avoid these behaviors and stay true to the teachings of Jesus. Paul also emphasizes the importance of the Bible, which is inspired by God and useful for teaching and guiding Christians.

Paul encourages Timothy to be strong in grace and to endure hardships like a good soldier of Christ. He reminds him of his heritage of faith and the gift of God within him. Paul warns against idle talk and instructs Timothy to correctly handle the word of truth, avoiding arguments over words.