Introducing Revelation (May 2005)

May 2005
Volume 14, Number 4

The apostle John was exiled on the Mediterranean Isle of Patmos when God gave him the visions of the Day of the Lord recorded in the book of Revelation. Its first chapter provides vital information to assist us in understanding Christ's revelation of events and attitudes beginning to happen in our day! (terry harris just greece photo library / Alamy )

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
An Unpayable Debt and Obligation

When God calls us and redeems us through the sacrifice of His Son Jesus Christ, we suddenly come under obligation, an immense debt we cannot pay. Were we to somehow pay it ourselves - which we could do only by dying - we would have no hope of eternal life, just the finality of death. John Ritenbaugh illustrates the magnanimity of God's gracious redemption and the response it compels the redeemed to give Him in turn.

Ready Answer
Did God Change the Law of Clean and Unclean Meats?
by John O. Reid

Most Christians believe that the clean and unclean laws were "done away" at the crucifixion. But is that the case? John Reid looks into the most troublesome New Testament scriptures on the subject.

Prophecy Watch
The All-Important Introduction to Revelation
by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Oftentimes, in our haste to get to the "good stuff," we skip the introductions of books and articles. Richard Ritenbaugh explores the first chapter of Revelation and shows that skipping it deprives us of vital information necessary for understanding the rest of the book.

Essays on Bible Study
by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Bible study is an essential tool for Christian growth, but sometimes people get off track in their studies. Richard Ritenbaugh provides a few guidelines in three essays originally written for the CGG Weekly newsletter:
'The Jewish Testament?'
'Prophecy's Place'
'Putting Out Flawed Study Practices'

Searching for Israel (Part Twelve):
The Sign
by Charles Whitaker

Though the search criteria for the whereabouts of Israel point to only one conclusion, most Israelites are blind to their origins. In this final installment of the series, Charles Whitaker deals with the question of why Israel has forgotten its identity.

WorldWatch
Generations in America
by David C. Grabbe

Every society has multiple generations living at the same time, and the way they interact has a tremendous impact on culture and events. David Grabbe examines what forecasters see on the horizon from a generational perspective.

Bible Study
Parable of the Ten Virgins (Part One)
by Martin G. Collins

Jesus gave the Parable of the Ten Virgins to encourage His disciples to be watchful and to make preparations for His return. In Part One, Martin Collins compares the two groups of virgins, applying the lessons to our situation at the end of the age.