Questions & Answers About the Book of Revelation and End Time Events that’s been asked of me 9-25-24 Vicki Goforth Parnell 

 

QUESTIONS

1. Does the Bible say who are the 2 end time witnesses? 

2. The 2 witnesses cannot be female because they’re called prophets and not prophetesses can they? 

3. Are the 144,000 toddler virgin boys that follow and minister to Jesus Christ? 

4. Can the 144,000 be male and female? 

5. What does, “We’re not appointed to wrath,” mean? 

6. If there were a pretrib rapture why would Jesus tell people the day before Armageddon they were in danger of losing their garments? This is found in Revelation 16:15-16 

7. If Jesus comes before tribulation, then why is He telling them to keep their garments clean? (Referring to question #6) 

8. What is Jacob’s Trouble? 

9. How long is the tribulation and what is it? 

10. Does the Bible tell us what the last trump is in 1 Corinthians 15:52 when Jesus Christ returns? 

 

ANSWERS

#1 Does the Bible say who are the 2 end time witnesses? 

 

The two end time witnesses/prophets are found in the Holy Bible in Zechariah 4 & Revelation 11:3-12 with most of the information being located in the book of Revelation. 

 

Their identities are never given, nor does it say they are male and/or female. The most common beliefs are that the 2 witnesses are either Elijah and Enoch, or Elijah and Moses although there are others out there as well. The reason being for Elijah and Enoch is because the Holy Bible gives an account of how both men were taken into Heaven without dying. (Genesis 5:24 for Enoch and 2 Kings 2:11 for Elijah) This is because Hebrews 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So if we’re all appointed an appointment with death then these two will have to return to earth and die a fleshly death. This is faulty because those of the Bride of Christ who are caught up to Him in what we call the rapture will be alive. God determines who lives or dies so He can choose whether we keep an appointment with death or not. He’s God, we are not! (Job 14:5; Acts 17:25-26) 

 

Most people don’t take into consideration that Father God in Heaven may have taken more people to Heaven without dying than what’s recorded.One example would be found in the Apocrypha which originally was part of the Holy Bible until men chose to remove it…Not God.

In 2 Esdras 8:19 which ends with this sentence. This is the beginning of the words of Esdras (Ezra) [Esdras is latin for Ezra] before he was taken up. 

 

Now concerning why some think it’s Elijah and Moses as the two witnesses. It is because of Revelation 11:5-6 which tells of the power, the anointing of God displayed in their lives through both of them. Let’s first be clear as was discussed prior there aren’t any separate anointings. 

The Word of God says this:

 

Ephesians 4:4-6 

4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 

5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 

6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. 

 

What does this mean? In 1 John 2:27 the Holy Spirit/Holy Ghost is also called the Anointing. There is only 1 Spirit and 1 Anointing and it’s through this 1 anointing that we each operate and utilize through the power of the Holy Ghost the gifts we are given for our callings. The two witnesses of the end times will utilize the same part of His anointing power that Moses and Elijah operated in and even more. 

 

To summarize it, the two end time witnesses' names according to the Word of God are never given. So they are whoever God calls them to be with the power of the anointing being utilized in them by the sweet Holy Spirit such were demonstrated by Moses and Elijah in their days. That’s all it is. 

 

Question #2 The 2 witnesses cannot be female because they’re called prophets and not prophetesses can they? 

 

Actually according to the Word of God they can be either male or female. We see this when the word study is done on the word ‘prophets’ in: 

 

Revelation 11:10; 18. 

10 And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth. 

 

18 And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth. 

 

In both these verses the word prophets is Strong’s G4396 Prophetes: a foreteller; prophet; an inspired speaker; An interpreter or spokesman for God; One whom through God speaks. The same Strong’s G4396 Prophetes is also used throughout the New Testament including where prophets both male and female are being discussed. One writer Paul has used the word prophets 

instead of saying prophets and prophetesses while discussing the order to be maintained inside a church service setting or building so there wouldn’t be any confusion. In addition when also talking about the different positions God has given to the church. Here are a few examples: 

 

1 Corinthians 12:28-29 

28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 

29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 

 

1 Corinthians 14:29-33 

29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. 

30 If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. 

31 For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. 

32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 

33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. 

 

Ephesians 4:11-12 

11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 

12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 

 

****Here are a few other verses where Strong’s G4396 is also used for the word prophet/prophets. You can see it’s commonly used for both male and female. Romans 1:2; 3:21; 11:3; James 5:10; 2 Peter 3:2; Revelation 10:7; Revelation 16:6.***** 

 

We must never forget that in the Kingdom of God there is no respect for persons with God as we know from Romans 2:11 and Galatians 3:28-29. So yes, the 2 end time witnesses according to the Word of God can be either male or female. 

 

Question #3 Are the 144,000 toddler virgin boys that follow and minister to Jesus Christ? 

 

Lord willing I will bring understanding for this question through the Holy Word of God. After praying in Jesus Christ’s Name this is what I learned that I am providing at this time. The verses in question concerning the 144,00 with the Lamb (who is Jesus Christ) is found in this passage of Scripture.

 

Revelation 14:1-5 

1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads. 

2 And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: 

3 And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.

4 These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. 

5 And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God. 

 

I will first be addressing the part of the 144,00 being young toddler boys who ministers and follows Jesus Christ. Lord willing, the rest will be answered in the next question concerning the 144,00. First it’s mentioned in verse 3 the 144,000 were redeemed from the earth. Then in verse 4 it says they were redeemed from among men. The redeemed we know from the Word of God are those who have accepted Jesus Christ into their hearts as their Lord. They have reached the age of accountability knowing right from wrong and recognize their need for a Savior to save them from their sins. This doesn’t sound like toddler boys. Secondly Jesus Christ came to serve not to be ministered and served. But let’s continue with verses showing us who are the redeemed and who this redemption was given to scripturally and show how Jesus Christ came to be a servant. 

 

Redeemed definition…to buy back 

Redemption: the action of regaining or gaining possession of something in exchange for payment, or clearing a debt: 

Archaic redemption definition: the action of buying one's freedom 

 

Galatians 3:13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: 

 

Ephesians 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 

 

Philippians 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 

 

Colossians 1:13-14 

13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 

14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 

 

1 Peter 1:18-19 

18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 

19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 

 

Mark 10:45 For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. 

 

Matthew 10:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

 

In these verses alone we see both Jesus Christ didn’t come to be ministered to but to give His life a ransom for many. To redeem them. The 144,000 according to the Word of God are the redeemed who have accepted Jesus Christ into their hearts. Another thing, the 144,000 are old enough according to verse 3 to sing a new song. A completely new song that only they can sing and can learn. These are those who have been redeemed from among men. Meaning once they were living under the curse of sin in this world on the earth but now redeemed by the Blood of Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:13) 

 

One more point. Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. Malachi 3:6….I am the Lord, I change not. If Jesus Christ came to be a servant and not be ministered to and He never changes as Hebrews 13:8 says then, “No,” the 144,00 will not be there to personally minister or wait on Jesus Christ in anyway no matter what age they are because as we now see this would be contrary to the written Word of God. 

 

Question #4 Can the 144,000 be male and female? 

We know from the above verses in Revelation 14:3-4 the 144,000 are those who have been redeemed…saved by Jesus Christ as we have already determined with the first question about them. This verse in Revelation 14:4 is talking about those who have not defiled themselves with women. What does this actually mean? It's assumed they are male only but could it in reality be referring to both male or female? Let's see what the scripture says about it because it does say there is no respect of persons with God. This means we are all the same in His eyes. 

 

2 Chronicles 19:7  Wherefore now let the fear of the Lord be upon you; take heed and do it: for there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts. 

 

Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God. 

 

Acts 10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 

 

Lord willing, let's examine this closer. Sweet Holy Spirit in Jesus Christ’s Name please lead us. 

The Greek word for women in Revelation 14:4 is Strong’s G1135 gynē. It means a woman …especially a wife .. not just women as it has been translated to fit the verse’s translation. So women in this verse refers to a wife and is symbolic of the world. The ‘they’ in this Scripture are not defiled by or married to the world but to Jesus Christ. They are faithful to Him. We know this by the rest of the verse itself. They are married/follow the Lamb who is Jesus Christ. 

 

The word virgins in verse 4 is Strong's G3933 parthenos which means:

3933 parthénos – properly, a virgin; a woman who has never had sexual relations; a female (virgin), beyond puberty but not yet married; (figuratively) believers when they are pure (chaste), i.e. faithful to Christ their heavenly Bridegroom (2 Cor 11:2; Rev 14:4). (Bible Hub website word study site) 

 

Why is this important? Because Father God according to His Word is our husband and Jesus Christ is referred to as our Bridegroom. Our betrothed. We are either married to the world or to Father God/Jesus Christ. 

 

Verses about Jesus Christ as our Bridegroom spoken and symbolically. 

 

Matthew 9:15 And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast. 

 

Luke 5:34-35 

34 And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? 

35 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, 

Revelation 19:7 Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready. 

 

John 3:29 He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. 

 

Symbolically: 

Matthew 25:1-13 

 

*****God our husband verses: ****** 

 

Israel 54:5-6 

5 For thy Maker is thine husband; the Lord of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called. 

6 For the Lord hath called thee as a woman forsaken and grieved in spirit, and a wife of youth, when thou wast refused, saith thy God. 

 

Here we see where God calls Himself Husband to His people. (remember those who are saved by Jesus Christ are grafted into the vine and become heirs and joint heirs also to the kingdom of God and the promises of Abraham. Here also in verse 6 we see the land (part of earth) referred to as a female…a woman forsaken…a wife.

 

Betrothal in Bible days was the same as being married without them coming together in the flesh as one in the eyes of God. (Joseph & Mary is one example: Matthew 1:18-20)

 

If you have accepted Jesus Christ into your heart you are now married/betrothed to Father God and Jesus Christ who are one according to John 10:30. Jesus is the bridegroom so that makes all His children both male and female making up the Bride, His church. You are either married to Father God/Jesus Christ or the world. 

 

In the parable of the 10 virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 which is symbolic of Jesus Christ as our bridegroom coming for those of His bride who are ready, being pure undefiled virgins living holy lives with their lamps full of oil. The other 5 virgin’s lamps were empty. Again take notice in Scripture how all the Bride of Christ is made up of both male and female and are categorized as virgins. The word virgins here is the word used for virgins in Revelation 14:4 Strong's G3933 parthenos. It would appear that Revelation 14:4’s virgins are both male and female but let’s seek out more information in Jesus Christ’s Name from the Word of God. 

 

We who are redeemed by the Blood of Jesus Christ are all called to be kings and of the royal priesthood through our acceptance of Jesus Christ into our hearts. We are all the same with none being different from one and another. Here are the Scriptures to show this truth. 

 

Galatians 3:26-29 

26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 

27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 

28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. 

29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. 

 

Revelation 1:5-6 

5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 

6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. 

 

1 Peter 2:4-10 

4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, 

5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 

6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. 

7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 

8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.

9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light; 

10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. 

 

2 Corinthians 6: 14-18 

14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 

15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 

17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 

18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

 

John 15:8; 19-20 

8 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. 

 

19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. 

20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. 

 

The 144000 are those of Jewish DNa or descent who have kept themselves undefiled from the world and its pleasures of sin. Remember, there is no respect of persons with Jesus Christ and Father God. It's written in His Word in Romans 2:11. His true children are kings and priests. They are those who do not defile themselves with the world because we no longer belong to it. We are called to separate from the world. Come out from among it. We are to abstain and live holy undefiled lives in Jesus Christ as 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 & John 15:8-9 tells us. So according to the Word of God, yes the 144,000 can be both male and female. 

 

Question #5 What does, ‘We’re not appointed to wrath,’ mean? 

 

As a child of God who has accepted Jesus Christ into their hearts as Lord we His body have become redeemed and justified through His Blood and by all He has done for us. He became the propitiation which means the atonement for our sins. When He was on the cross Jesus Christ became sin so He could break the curse of sin and we could go free. We could have the garment of salvation and the robe of His righteousness now upon each of us. Meaning His righteousness. But also God’s wrath was upon Him while He was on the cross. He took our place.This is how we are justified and free from His wrath to come. We will not be subjected to God’s wrath when Christ Jesus has already satisfied God’s judgment on the cross in our place. 

 

Hebrews 9:24-28

24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: 

25 Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; 

26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. 

27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: 

28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. 

 

2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. 

 

Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 

 

1 Thessalonians 5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

 

Revelation 3:10-11 

10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 

11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 

 

***Note: This is spoken to the church of Sardis, one of the 7 Churches Jesus Christ speaks about in Revelation 2 & 3 which will be the condition and state from all 7 churches that will be present in the churches in the end time days. We know this because He repeatedly says after speaking of each individual church He says the word “churches”. It’s plural. This is before the opening of the seals in Revelation 6 signifying the Bride ready church will be kept from the hour of temptation that comes upon all the world, plus referring to His coming. Meaning the tribulation because it’s the whole world.**** 

 

2 Peter 2:9 

The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly (justified/redeemed by Jesus Christ’s Blood) out of temptation, and to reserve the unjust (un justified/unredeemed by Jesus Christ’s Blood) unto the day of judgment to be punished: (Great Day of the Lord of Wrath) 

 

Romans 3:22-26 

22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 

23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 

24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 

25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 

 

1 John 2:1-2 

1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: 

2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. 

In my understanding of these verses those not appointed unto wrath are those living clean holy lives with His help and are bride ready. They will be caught up to Jesus Christ before the wrath hits. 

 

****Who then is the wrath of God reserved for?****** 

 

John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. 

 

Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 

 

Nahum 1:2 God is jealous, and the Lord revengeth; the Lord revengeth, and is furious; the Lord will take vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserveth wrath for his enemies. 

 

Ezra 8:22 For I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way: because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him. 

 

Revelation 14:9-11 

9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, 

10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: 

11 And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. 

 

Question # 6 If there were a pretrib rapture why would Jesus tell people the day before Armageddon they were in danger of losing their garments? This is found in Revelation 16:15-16  

 

Revelation 16:15-16 

15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. 

16 And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon. 

 

This warning is given in several places through the Word of God showing God’s faithfulness and unchanging ways of warning His children to stay clean, live holy, be prepared, and keep watch for Jesus Christ’s return. Otherwise His return would come upon them like the rest of the world

unexpectedly and like a thief in the night whether it’s before or during the tribulation. There are verses that say this. But let’s continue to the next question gain the answer in its entirety.

 

Question #7 If Jesus comes before tribulation then why is he telling them to keep their garments clean? (Referring to question #6) 

 

Lord willing, I will answer these two questions together. 

 

I thought these verses were self-explanatory because we know at the end of the tribulation is when armageddon occurs. The left behind or tribulation saints as they are also called which include the Jews who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord will have visible signs they will know to watch for His returning at this time. Even more so than for the rapture. To the enemy's forces He will come unexpectedly like a thief in the night and for those tribulation saints not ready and not watching for His return. When all the armies began amassing for the battle of Armageddon to be fought in the Megiddo valley all His remaining children, the tribulation saints watching and waiting for Him to return again will know it’s time for Him to reappear and put an end to antichrist’s reign of terror. Then the time of the Millenium reign will soon begin. 

 

But let’s see what the Word of God says about the answers to these questions number 6 & 7. Let’s start with why there is a reminder to those tribulation saints to keep their garments clean also what it means by being naked or clothed biblically speaking. 

 

Psalms 5:4 For thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness: neither shall evil dwell with thee. 

 

Hebrews 12:14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: 

 

If you want to see Father God or enter Heaven/New Jerusalem you cannot get there without clean garments and a holy life at any time even during the tribulation. It’s a reminder at this time when they see these things occurring they must still keep their garments spotless, keep living holy, pure, obedient lives just as we have to do now if they want to enter Heaven or see Father God. When we accept Jesus Christ into our hearts we become washed in His Blood (Revelation 1:5; 1 John 1:9) and we are clothed in His righteousness. Our garments are white and clean but we must keep them that way with His help. 

 

****Garments in the Holy Bible.**** 

 

Put on or adorn oneself with these: 

 

Colossians 3:12-14 

12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 

13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 

14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 

 

***Put on or clothe yourselves with the Armor of God in Ephesians 6:11-17. 

***Be clothed with humility it says in 1 Peter 5:5.

***Put on the Lord Jesus Christ it says in Romans 13:14 

 

****Garments represent many things in the Word of God.**** 

In Revelation 19:8 clean white linen is the righteousness of the saints. 

 

Isaiah 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. 

 

****Also we find examples of soiled and dirty garments.***** 

 

Revelation 3:4 Jesus Christ speaks about a few in the church of Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. This tells us the others in the church had garments that were defiled which meant dirty from sinning. 

 

****Example of what being naked means.***** 

 

In Revelation 3:14-19 Jesus Christ is speaking of the Laodicean church. This is His church so they haven’t taken the mark of the beast yet or He wouldn’t be talking to them and trying to get them to repent because once you take the mark of the beast you are lost forever. This is the lukewarm church and He calls them naked. Their spiritual garments are dirty leaving them exposed for all to see they’re not walking in holy righteousness as we are instructed to do if we profess Jesus Christ as redeeming us. 

 

Revelation 3:14-19 

14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; 

15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 

17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 

18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. 

19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. 

 

If you’re living holy and keeping your garments clean and cease from doing evil (sinning) as we’re instructed to do in Isaiah 1:16, Ecclesiastes 9:8, James 4:8, & 2 Corinthians 7:1 then your life will be pleasing and an obedient one to Father God and Jesus Christ. When we accepted Jesus Christ into our hearts we became washed in His Blood (Revelation 1:5; 1 John 1:9) and we are clothed in His righteousness. Our garments are white and clean but we are instructed to keep them this way and it’s only possible with His help. Otherwise if we don’t we no longer have His

blood covering and we stand naked in our sins. We need to repent and let His Blood wash us clean again so we will once again be dressed in His pure, clean garments and His robe of righteousness. This is the nakedness that Revelation 16:15 is talking about that the Christians are being warned of. 

 

We know this is for all the tribulation saints including the Christian Jews because Daniel 12:1 says this. “And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.” Referring to those Jews who have their names in the Lamb’s book of life. (Revelation 3:5; 13:8) 

 

A Physical example of sin being the cause of nakedness would be when Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden. Sin had entered and they were no longer holy and undefiled and became consciously aware they were naked. Sin was the cause. (Genesis 3:7-2) 

 

We can see why the tribulation saints were warned again about keeping themselves clean and prepared for Jesus Christ’s return. This warning is given near the end of the great tribulation period right before the battle of Armageddon is to begin. How long before its start, whether it’s days or months it doesn’t say. The return of Jesus Christ is expected with many signs to watch for the tribulation saints still on the earth signifying to them it's time. The armies gathering from around the world for the battle of Armageddon it’s one sure sign for them of His imminent return with the saints and holy angels.There will also be signs in the Heavens to observe. The whole world though unprepared will know and see His return in great power and the glory of God. Not only was Revelation 16:15 inserted here as a reminder and warning to stay clean and prepared but also it’s reminding them at this point it’s almost over and the Millennial reign is soon to begin. 

 

Question # 8 What is Jacob’s Trouble? 

 

Jacob’s trouble is mentioned in Jeremiah 30:7 which says, “Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble, but he shall be saved out of it.” It’s also mentioned but not by that name in other locations in the Word of God. 

 

Deuteronomy 4:30-31 

30 When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the Lord thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice; 

31 (For the Lord thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them. 

***Latter days is a reference to end time days.***

 

Daniel 12:1 And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a

nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. 

 

***Revelation 12 we see the woman that is believed to be Israel by some. She flees to the wilderness where she has a place provided for her by God in verse 6. This goes with the verses found in Matthew 24. 

 

Matthew 24:16-24 

16 Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: 

17 Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: 

18 Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. 

19 And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! 

20 But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: 

s time, no, nor ever shall be. 

22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened. 

23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. 

24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. 

 

In Revelation 12:11 we read how the enemy is defeated even before we’re told about the antichrist, the false prophet, and his mark of the beast and it is because they had refused to worship the beast, or take his mark. What a God we serve. 

 

Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. 

 

Question #9 How long is the Tribulation and what is it? 

 

The tribulation is seventy weeks or a seven-year period when God will finish His discipline of Israel drawing them back to Him and they finally accept His Son Jesus Christ as their long awaited Messiah. It’s to finalize His judgment of the unbelieving world in which the end result is the removal of sin and darkness but also to establish His kingdom. The second half is called the great tribulation. 

 

Daniel 9:24-27 

24 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.

25 Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.

26 And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.

27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate. 

 

These above verses actually reveal the reasons, the purpose for the tribulation. God’s purpose is “to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to make reconciliation for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy, and to anoint the Most Holy,” as priorly mentioned. In verse 24, The angel Gabriel says, “Seventy ‘weeks’(& days in 1 week) are decreed for your people and your holy city.” Almost all commentators agree that this should be understood as seventy “weeks” of years, in other words, a period of 490 years. (Some translations refer to 70 “sevens” of years.) (Please note the only place I have found that mentions 7 months in the Holy Bible is in Ezekiel 39:11-13 where this allotted time is spent burying the dead from the Gog/Magog war. So the 70 weeks doesn’t refer to months) 

 

In Daniel 9:25 and 26, the Messiah will be cut off after “ shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: (Or seven sevens and sixty-two sevens” 69 total sevens), beginning with the decree to rebuild Jerusalem. In other words, 69 sevens (483 years) after the decree to rebuild is issued, the Messiah will die. Biblical historians confirm that 483 years passed from the time of the decree to rebuild Jerusalem to the time when Jesus was crucified. 

 

The “seventy weeks” prophecy goes on to divide the 490 years into three smaller units: one of 49 years, one of 434 years, and one 7 years. The final “week” of 7 years is further divided in half. Verse 25 says, “Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.’” Seven “weeks” is 49 years, and sixty-two “sevens” is another 434 years: 

 

49 years + 434 years = 483 years 

 

God said that 70 weeks had been determined (490 years), but, with the death of the Messiah, we only have 69 weeks accounted for (483 years). This leaves one seven-year period to be fulfilled all that was written in Daniel 12:1. 

 

So the tribulation is for a seven-year period in the end times in which mankind’s debauchery and depravity will reach its fullness, with God judging accordingly. Also during that time, Israel will repent of their sin and receive Jesus Christ as their Messiah, setting up a time of great blessing

and restoration (Zephaniah 3:9–20; Isaiah 12; 35) with Jesus Christ’s eternal kingdom being established. (2 Peter 1:11; Revelation 11:15) 

 

Question #10 Does the Bible tell us what the last trump is in 1 Corinthians 15:52 when Jesus Christ returns? 

 

1 Corinthians 15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 

 

No, the Bible never does say exactly and it could mean a number of different things. To determine a clearer picture more verses from other locations shall be brought and we can then eliminate what it is not with Jesus Christ’s help. 

 

Some say it is the last trumpet of the 7 trumpet judgments found in Revelation 8-9; 11:15-19. There is no mention of any of these 7 angels sounding the 7 trumpets of being an archangel. So most likely it isn’t one of these trumpets when you do the Word study in the Holy Bible in the Greek original language since it’s the New Testament. Which I did concerning 1 Thessalonians 4:16 which is another reference to the rapture or being caught up. 

 

We know 1 Corinthians 15:52 is referring to the rapture because the dead shall rise then the ready saints bodies shall be changed but when you pull the surrounding verses in this part of the verse it’s more clearly seen. As well as verses from other locations. 

 

1 Corinthians 15:51-52 

51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 

52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 

53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 

54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 

 

1 Thessalonians 4:14-18 

14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 

15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 

16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 

17Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 

18Wherefore comfort one another with these words. 

 

“With” Strong’s G1722 en = in, by, with, among, at, on, through; in, by, with etc. “The voice” is Strong’s G5456 phōnē = a sound, a tone; a voice; of a language, tongue

Thayer Greek Lexicon definition: the awakening shout of the archangel, the leader of the angelic host 

***The last trumpet mentioned here will also accompany the resurrection of the dead not just Jesus Christ’s return for His bride. 

***These 2 chapters should actually be read together as part of the same discussion. Men put the chapter dividers into the Holy Bible.****