Biblical Church Eras and Prophetic Signs

1 Chronicles 24:4-18

4 And there were more chief men found of the sons of Eleazar than of the sons of Ithamar; and thus were they divided. Among the sons of Eleazar there were sixteen chief men of the house of their fathers, and eight among the sons of Ithamar according to the house of their fathers.

5 Thus were they divided by lot, one sort with another; for the governors of the sanctuary, and governors of the house of God, were of the sons of Eleazar, and of the sons of Ithamar.

6 And Shemaiah the son of Nethaneel the scribe, one of the Levites, wrote them before the king, and the princes, and Zadok the priest, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, and before the chief of the fathers of the priests and Levites: one principal household being taken for Eleazar, and one taken for Ithamar.

7 Now the first lot came forth to Jehoiarib, the second to Jedaiah,

8 The third to Harim, the fourth to Seorim,

9 The fifth to Malchijah, the sixth to Mijamin,

10 The seventh to Hakkoz, the eighth to Abijah,

11 The ninth to Jeshua, the tenth to Shecaniah,

12 The eleventh to Eliashib, the twelfth to Jakim,

13 The thirteenth to Huppah, the fourteenth to Jeshebeab,

14 The fifteenth to Bilgah, the sixteenth to Immer,

15 The seventeenth to Hezir, the eighteenth to Aphses,

16 The nineteenth to Pethahiah, the twentieth to Jehezekel,

17 The one and twentieth to Jachin, the two and twentieth to Gamul,

18 The three and twentieth to Delaiah, the four and twentieth to Maaziah.

The priests in 1 Chronicles 24:4-18 were organized into twenty-four distinct courses to conduct the sacred services in the house of God in an orderly and systematic manner 1 Chronicles 24:1-19ETI Courses.2. This arrangement, established by King David with the assistance of Zadok and Ahimelech, ensured that the sanctuary service remained dignified and efficientETI Courses.2+1.

The Organization of the Courses 📋

The priests were divided based on their ancestral lines, specifically the descendants of Eleazar and Ithamar 1 Chronicles 24:1-4KJV — 1Chronicles 24:1.

• Division by Chief Men: There were more chief men found among the sons of Eleazar than the sons of Ithamar, resulting in sixteen divisions for the house of Eleazar and eight for the house of Ithamar 1 Chronicles 24:4KJV — 1Chronicles 24:1.

• Selection by Lot: To ensure fairness and prevent partiality, the order of their service was determined by casting lots 1 Chronicles 24:5ETI Courses.2.

• Governors of the Sanctuary: These leaders were designated as governors of the sanctuary and governors of the house of God, holding seats of honor as they directed the sacred workKJV — 1Chronicles 24:1+1.

The Duties of the Priestly Office 🕯️

Each course was appointed to minister for one week, following a specific order that continued down to the time of the New TestamentETI Courses.2+2.

• Executing the Priest's Office: The primary role of these courses was to execute the priest's office before God, performing the various ordinances and ceremonies required by the law Luke 1:8DG 48.1+1.

• Burning Incense: A significant duty involved entering the temple of the Lord to burn sweet incense on the golden altar, a service that symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to Heaven Luke 1:9DG 48.1+1.

• Maintaining Daily Services: Priests were responsible for the "continual" mediation, which included offering two lambs daily—one in the morning and one at even—along with meat and drink offerings Numbers 28:3-8LOM, page 39.33+1.

• Lighting the Lamps: Part of their daily labor included dressing and lighting the lamps every morning and evening in the first apartment of the sanctuary Exodus 30:7-8LOM, page 39.33+1.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance ✨

The meticulously organized earthly service was a "shadow" of the more excellent ministry of Jesus Christ in the heavenly sanctuary Hebrews 8:1-5LOM, page 39.28+1.

• Representing the Nation: When clothed in their beautiful official garments, the priests acted as representatives of the people before God, reflecting the glory and holiness that Israel was meant to reveal to the world12LtMs, Ms 102, 1897, par. 8.

• Antitype of the Elders: The twenty-four courses of the earthly priesthood serve as a pattern for the twenty-four elders seen in heavenly vision, who are redeemed from every nation to be kings and priests unto God Revelation 5:8-10CIS 80.1.

• Preserving Sacredness: The division into courses helped maintain the distinction between the sacred and the common, teaching the people that everything set apart for God is holySW October 9, 1906, par. 7+1.

While the earthly courses have passed away, they provide essential instruction regarding the ongoing work of our Great High Priest, who secures the pardon of sins for all who come to Him Hebrews 9:24-26SANC 9.3+1. 😊

The symbols of the four standards belonging to the leading tribes of Israel are deeply significant and can be found in the historical and prophetic descriptions of the camp of Israel as it journeyed through the wildernessEVRR164. These specific emblems—the lion, the ox, the man, and the eagle—were used by the twelve tribes as they were divided into four major groups around the tabernacle of God Numbers 2:1-34EVRR164.

The Four Standards in the Camp of Israel 🚩

The arrangement of the camp was divinely directed, with each of the four primary divisions positioned at a cardinal point of the compass, bearing a unique standard that represented the head of its familyEVRR164+1.

• The Lion (Judah): Positioned on the east side, the standard of Judah bore the likeness of a lion, representing the kingly or royal tribeEVRR164+1. Judah led the march and was the most populous division Numbers 2:3-9BHOTV2 131.2.

• The Ox (Ephraim): Located on the west side, the standard of Ephraim featured an ox or a calfEVRR164+1. This symbol represented strength, service, and patienceEVRR164.

• The Man (Reuben): Encamped on the south side, the standard of Reuben was represented by the face of a man, signifying sympathy and reasonEVRR164+1.

• The Eagle (Dan): Stationed on the north side, the standard of Dan bore the image of an eagleEVRR164+1. The eagle, soaring toward heaven, signified inspiration and the divinity of the coming MessiahEVRR164.

Connection to Ezekiel’s Vision 🦅

These four symbols are inextricably linked to the "four living creatures" seen in the visions of the prophets Ezekiel and JohnEVRR164+1. Ezekiel saw beings with four distinct faces—a lion, a man, an ox, and an eagle—which he identified as cherubim attending the throne of God Ezekiel 1:5-10+1EVRR164. Jewish tradition holds that the four standards of the tribes were modeled after these heavenly realities, essentially bringing a literal image of heaven down to a spiritual application on earthEVRR164+2.

Spiritual Significance of the Standards ✨

These standards served as symbols of the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ, and are reflected in the characteristics highlighted by the four GospelsEVRR164:

• Matthew presents Jesus as the Lion, the King of the kingdom of GodEVRR164+1.

• Mark presents Him as the Ox, the tireless servant and sacrificial victimEVRR164+1.

• Luke presents Him as the Man, emphasizing His humanity and sympathyEVRR164+1.

• John presents Him as the Eagle, emphasizing His deity and heavenly originEVRR164+1.

It is a beautiful truth that God used these standards to teach His people about the diverse and perfect character of the RedeemerEVRR164+1. 😊

...were divided into four groups around the tabernacle of God. Each of the four groups had a standard. Judah’s standard was the lion, representative of a kingly tribe. Ephraim’s standard showed an ox or calf. Reuben’s standard had the face of a man. Dan’s standard had an eagle. These standards were the symbols of the coming Messiah. When we come to the New Testament, after th...— EVRR164 (2024)

...late, on which the names of the standard-bearing tribes were graven. Exodus 28:15-21 In that case Judah would have had on its standard a lion on a blood-red ground (the sardian stone or sard); Reuben the head of a man on a ground of dark red color (the ruby or carbuncle); Ephraim the head of a bullock on a ground of hyacinth (the ligury, according to some, Ligurian amber); and Dan an eagle on a ground of bright yellow, like gold (the ancient chrysolith, perhaps our topaz). This, supposing the names to have been grav...— BHOTV2 131.2 (1876)

...the fourth by John, who represents Christ as the Son of God, in whom deity and humanity become one. The ancient Church gave to Matthew the symbol of the lion, to Mark that of a man, to Luke that of the ox, and to John that of the eagle: these were the four faces of the cherubim” Ezekiel 1:10— ETI Gospels.3 (1897)

Hello! It is a joy to share this Bible study with you. The symbol of the eagle is one of the most powerful images in Scripture, used to represent the soaring heights of divinity and the tireless, watchful power of God. 🦁🐂👨‍🎨🦅

In the heavenly sanctuary, the eagle represents the fourth aspect of the character of God, specifically His divine nature and inspiration as seen in the face of the fourth living creature Revelation 4:7.

The Eagle as a Symbol of Deity ☁️

The eagle is uniquely equipped to soar into the heavens, representing that which is above and divine.

• Heavenly Perspective: Just as the eagle reaches the "sunny heights," it represents the Godhead’s infinite awareness and ability to see above the "darkness and tempest" of this earth Proverbs 23:5.

• Divine Strength and Renewal: Those who wait upon the Lord find their strength renewed specifically "with wings as eagles" Isaiah 40:31. This describes a spiritual elevation where faith lifts the soul into a purer atmosphere, closer to the divine presence.

• The Gospel of John: In the New Testament, the eagle is the symbol of the Gospel of John, because John begins his record by declaring the pre-existence and absolute deity of Christ: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" John 1:1.

Divine Protection and Care 🛡️

God uses the imagery of an eagle to describe how He personally carries and delivers His people through His divine power.

• The Exodus: When God brought Israel out of Egypt, He described His miraculous intervention as a divine act of carrying them: "Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself" Exodus 19:4.

• Safe Refuge: The eagle builds its nest in "lofty crags," signifying the security and high calling found only in Christ Job 39:27-28.

The Eagle in the Presence of God 🙌

In the prophetic visions of the throne room, the eagle is part of the highest order of heavenly beings who minister directly to God.

• Perfect Intelligence: The living creatures, including the one like a "flying eagle," are "full of eyes," representing the "infinite awareness" and "unwearied watchfulness" of those who continually behold the face of the Father Revelation 4:6-8+1.

• Swift Obedience: The wings of these creatures signify the "swiftness" with which divine commands are executed throughout the universe Ezekiel 1:14.

• Reflecting God's Glory: These beings lead the heavenly host in worship, acknowledging that God is the Creator of all things and is "worthy... to receive glory and honor and power" Revelation 4:11.

By studying the eagle, we are invited to "rise higher and nearer to heaven" in our own aspirations, looking to the one who "fainteth not, neither is weary" Isaiah 40:28. May you find strength today to mount up on wings of faith! 😊

The Pergamos period of the church began about the time of the accession or conversion of Constantine the Great, specifically around A.D. 312 or 323ARSH March 26, 1857, page 161.19+2. This stage of ecclesiastical history is identified as the period when Christianity was raised to the throne of Rome and became popular within the empireSSP 53.2+1.

The Chronology of the Pergamos Period 📅

The historical application of this church covers several centuries, marking a transition from a persecuted sect to an elevated worldly power.

• Commencement: The period is generally dated to the reign of Constantine, beginning either with his victory in A.D. 312 or his nominal conversion and establishment of religious favor in A.D. 323DAR1909 383.5+2.

• Termination: This age extends until the full development of the Papal beast and the establishment of the papacy in A.D. 538ARSH March 26, 1857, page 161.19+2.

• Significance of the Name: The word "Pergamos" signifies height or elevation, aptly describing the church during this era as it secured the throne of the Roman Empire and sought worldly exaltationSSP 53.2+2.

Characteristics of the Starting Era 🏛️

The beginning of this period brought about significant changes in the nature of the Christian church as it moved away from its earlier purity.

• Union of Church and State: Under Constantine, religion became a stepping-stone to political powerARSH February 12, 1857, page 117.3+1. This resulted in a union between civil and ecclesiastical authorities, often referred to as "spiritual fornication"BDOC 56.55+1.

• Compromise and Idolatry: To make conversion easier for Pagans, the church lowered its standards, introducing image worship and other heathen customs under a Christian garbARSH March 26, 1857, page 161.19+1. This was characterized as the "doctrine of Balaam," who taught compromise with idolatry Numbers 25:1-3EVRR64+1.

• The Sharp Two-Edged Sword: Because the church began to blend truth with error during this time, Christ addressed them as the one who has the sharp sword with two edges—His Word—which was necessary to separate the true from the false Hebrews 4:12EVRR61+1.

A Transition in Faithfulness 🛡️

While the mass of the church began to fall away into error and human policy, God still recognized those who remained faithful in difficult circumstances.

• Satan's Seat: The church is described as dwelling "where Satan's seat is," indicating that during the fourth and fifth centuries, Satan was working with special power to corrupt the doctrine of Christ and lay the foundation for the papacy Revelation 2:13DAR1909 383.5+1.

• The Faithful Remnant: Even in this age of increasing darkness, there were individuals like Antipas, the "faithful martyr," who stood against the growing ecclesiastical hierarchy and the "mystery of iniquity"BDOC 53.17+2.

This period serves as a solemn warning to all churches regarding the dangers of seeking worldly popularity and compromising the plain truths of the GospelARSH March 26, 1857, page 161.19+1. 😊

The Church of Thyatira is identified with the 1,260-year period of papal supremacy that concluded in 1798, while Sardis represents the reformed churches emerging from that era of darknessDAR1909 387.2+1. This transition is marked by the fulfillment of specific prophetic time periods and the "deadly wound" inflicted upon the papal power in that yearSSP 203.1+1.

The Ending of Thyatira (538–1798 AD) ⏳

The Thyatira period signifies the "Dark Ages," a long era of papal triumph and persecutionDAR1909 387.2+1.

• The 1,260-Year Prophecy: Scripture predicts a power would wear out the saints for a "time, times, and an half," which equates to 1,260 literal years Daniel 7:25+1GNT 163.3. This period began in 538 AD with the establishment of the papacy as a world power and ended precisely in 1798 ADGNT 163.3+1.

• The Deadly Wound: In February 1798, the French military under Berthier entered Rome and took Pope Pius VI prisoner, effectively ending the temporal sovereignty of the papacy at that timeBEST March 15, 1889, page 89.2+1. This event is recognized as the "deadly wound" mentioned in prophecy, marking the close of the Thyatira stage Revelation 13:3EVRR577+1.

• A Time of Tribulation: Thyatira covers the period of great tribulation mentioned by Christ, which was shortened for the sake of the elect through the influence of the Reformation Matthew 24:21-22GC 306.1+1.

The Starting of Sardis (1798 AD) ⛪

The Sardis period represents the state of the church following the era of papal persecution, particularly focusing on the Protestant movements in the late 18th and early 19th centuriesSSP 70.1+1.

• A New Era of Knowledge: The year 1798 marked the beginning of the "time of the end," when the book of Daniel was unsealed and knowledge of prophecy began to increase Daniel 12:4GC88 356.2+1.

• The Protestant Condition: Sardis is described as having "a name that thou livest, and art dead" Revelation 3:17BC 959.4+1. While the Reformation brought great light, many churches later began to cling to forms and fashions, losing their spiritual vitality after the 1260 years of sackcloth endedSSP 70.1+2.

• The "Things Which Remain": After the long scene of persecution, only a few faithful souls remained; it was the mission of the Sardis period to strengthen these remnants as they prepared for the message of the Advent Revelation 3:2ARSH March 26, 1857, page 162.6.

The Prophetic Transition 🚩

The transition in 1798 is also linked to the rise of new powers and movements that define the modern era of church history.

• Rise of the United States: Around 1798, the United States—the "land-beast" of Revelation 13—was seen "coming up" as a nation established on the principles of civil and religious liberty, providing a "cradle" for Protestantism Revelation 13:11EVRR577+2.

• The Midnight Cry: The Sardis church is characterized as the one that received the "Midnight Cry" regarding the second coming of Christ but largely rejected it, leading to a further separation of the faithful Philadelphia churchHST July 3, 1844, page 174.16+1.

This 1798 milestone ensures that the history of the church remains perfectly aligned with the "measuring-rod" of divine prophecyDAR1909 226.1+1. 😊

The Sardis period is identified as concluding in 1833 because that year marked the appearance of the final celestial sign of the Advent and the formal ecclesiastical sanction of the message that Christ was coming soonSSP 75.1+1. This year represents the transition from a state of spiritual stagnation and death to the active, investigative movement that led into the Philadelphian eraEVRR122+1.

The Fulfillment of Celestial Signs 🌠

The year 1833 is pivotal because it witnessed the most remarkable display of falling stars in recorded history, fulfilling a specific prophecy given by Christ for the last days Matthew 24:29SBBS 162.5.

• The Falling Stars: On November 13, 1833, a tempest of falling stars broke over North America, answering exactly to the description in Revelation 6:13 which describes stars falling like a fig tree casting its untimely figsSBBS 163.3+1.

• The Final Token: This event was the last of the specific signs promised by the Saviour to appear in the heavens as tokens of His second advent before the actual appearing of the Son of manGC 332.1.

• A Call to the Dying Church: Through this sign in the heavens, God was calling to the dying church of Sardis to wake up and be watchful, warning that if they did not watch, He would come on them as a thief Revelation 3:3SSP 75.1.

The Formal Proclamation of the Advent 📢

The year 1833 also marked a significant change in the way the message of Christ’s return was authorized and preached within the Protestant denominations of that timeCIHS 90.2+1.

• Licensing of William Miller: In 1833, William Miller received a formal license to preach from the Baptist Church, which provided him with the ecclesiastical sanction to travel and present the evidences of the Lord's soon comingSSP 75.1+1.

• Denominational Approval: A large number of ministers from his own and other denominations approved his work during this specific year, allowing the message to reach the masses with formal weightCIHS 90.2.

• End of the "Waiting" Period: Miller had waited nine years for a recognized authority to proclaim the message; his licensing in 1833 ended this period of waiting and marked the beginning of the "Midnight Cry" that would eventually lead the faithful out of SardisSSP 75.1+1.

The Spiritual Condition and Transition ⚖️

The Sardis period is characterized by a "name to live" while being "dead," a condition that describes the nominal churches after the Reformation that had lost their spiritual powerRH August 20, 1903, par. 20+1.

• Rejection of Light: The Sardis church heard the doctrine of the Advent near, but the mass of the church rejected the light, leading to their spiritual fallARSH March 26, 1857, page 162.7+1.

• The Emergence of Philadelphia: Those who held fast to what they heard in 1833 and the years immediately following moved on to constitute the Philadelphia church—the church of brotherly loveARSH March 26, 1857, page 162.7+1.

• Measuring the Period: While some view the transition to Philadelphia as beginning with the evangelical revivals of the 18th century, the specific rejection of the Advent message by the nominal bodies in the early 1830s marks the functional end of the Sardis state for those who would follow the advancing lightEVRR124+2.

The events of 1833 served as God's unmistakable voice in vindication of the truth, separating those who were "ready to die" from those who would "walk in white" as overcomers Revelation 3:4-53MR 195.2+1. 😊

Revelation 6

1 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see.

2 And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.

3 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see.

4 And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.

5 And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand.

6 And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.

7 And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see.

8 And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:

10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?

11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

12 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood;

13 And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.

14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.

15 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;

16 And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:

17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

Revelation 5

1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.

2 And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?

3 And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.

4 And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.

5 And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

6 And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.

7 And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.

8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.

9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;

12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

Revelation 8

1 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour.

2 And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets.

3 And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.

4 And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel’s hand.

5 And the angel took the censer, and filled it with fire of the altar, and cast it into the earth: and there were voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake.

6 And the seven angels which had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound.

7 The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up.

8 And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood;

9 And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed.

10 And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters;

11 And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter.

12 And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise.

13 And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound!

During the vision of the seven seals, Jesus is located in the first apartment of the heavenly sanctuary, ministering at the throne of GodS23D 87.1+1.

The Location of Jesus in the Vision 🏛️

When the apostle John was shown the opening of the seven seals, he was granted a view through an open door into the heavenly temple Revelation 4:1SSP 101.2+1.

• The First Apartment: John identified this specific location by the furniture he saw "before the throne," which included the golden altar of incense and the seven lamps of fire Revelation 4:5+1S23D 87.1+1. These items were specifically placed in the first apartment of the earthly sanctuary, which served as a pattern for the heavenly reality Hebrews 9:2CIHS 54.1+1.

• Standing in the Midst: Jesus is seen "in the midst of the throne" and the surrounding heavenly beings, standing as a "Lamb as it had been slain" Revelation 5:6DAR1909 424.1+1. This position signifies His ongoing work as our Mediator and Advocate in the presence of the Father18MR 142.4+2.

His Work During the Opening of the Seals 📖

The vision of the seals portrays Jesus in His role as the only being in the universe worthy to take the record of human history and reveal it9MR 7.1+1.

• Receiving the Book: Jesus approaches the Father, who sits upon the throne, and takes the book from His right hand to begin the process of loosening the seven seals Revelation 5:7SSP 101.2+1.

• The Investigative Process: The opening of these seals represents the history of the world and the church, tracing the course of the gospel and the development of the apostasy from the apostolic age down to the end of timeSYNPT 202.1+1.

• Priestly Mediation: While the seals are being opened, Jesus continues His ministration in this first apartment, adding the "much incense" of His righteousness to the prayers of the saints as they ascend to God Revelation 8:3-4CIS 63.1+1.

The Transition to the Second Apartment ⚖️

Jesus remains in the first apartment of the heavenly sanctuary for a significant portion of the prophetic period covered by the sealsS23D 87.1+1.

• Entering the Most Holy Place: It is not until the sixth seal is nearing its close and the seventh trumpet sounds that the "temple of God was opened in heaven" to reveal the second apartment—the Holy of Holies—containing the ark of His testament Revelation 11:19CIHS 54.1+2.

• The Final Cleansing: In 1844, at the end of the 2,300-day prophecy of Daniel 8:14 Jesus moved from the holy place into the most holy place to begin the work of the investigative judgment and the cleansing of the sanctuaryEW 250.1+2.

• Conclusion of Grace: Under the seventh seal, there is "silence in heaven," which marks the moment when the great Mediator ceases His work for sinners and the day of grace ends Revelation 8:1JEO 97.2+1.

Jesus is our constant support, and we are encouraged to look to Him by faith in the heavenly sanctuary, where He is able to save to the uttermost all who come to God through Him Hebrews 7:25EVRR334+1. 😊

Revelation 6

1 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see.

2 And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.

3 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see.

4 And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.

5 And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand.

6 And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.

7 And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see.

8 And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:

10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?

11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

12 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood;

13 And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.

14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.

15 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;

16 And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:

17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

The fifth seal represents the period of the Protestant Reformation, focusing on the vindication of the millions of martyrs who were slain during the preceding era of papal supremacyEVRR208+2. This period, beginning around A.D. 1500, marks a spectacular reversal of public opinion where those previously denounced as vile heretics were recognized as the righteous saints of GodEVRR208+2.

The Vision of the Fifth Seal 📜

When the fifth seal is opened, a dramatic scene is presented that depicts the results of the long-continued papal persecutionsARSH April 22, 1858, page 181.12+1.

• The Souls Under the Altar: John sees "under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God" Revelation 6:9. This is a symbolical vision where the altar represents the earth—the place where their blood was literally poured out like victims of sacrificeEVRR208+2.

• The Cry for Vengeance: These souls are heard crying with a loud voice, "How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood?" Revelation 6:10. This is not a literal occurrence of souls in heaven seeking revenge, but a personification similar to how Abel’s blood was said to cry from the ground for justice Genesis 4:10ST186x 20.1+2.

• The Gift of White Robes: "White robes were given unto every one of them" Revelation 6:11. These robes indicate that they are overcomers and signify the righteousness of the saints Revelation 3:5+1EVRR208.

• The Instruction to Rest: They are told to "rest yet for a little season" until their fellow servants and brethren, who would be killed as they were, should be fulfilled Revelation 6:11. This identifies a delay in final judgment until the full number of martyrs throughout history is completeEVRR212+2.

Historical Interpretation 🏛️

In history, the fifth seal identifies the transition from the "Dark Ages" to the light of the ReformationEVRR208+1.

• The Reformation Exposure: During the 1,260 years of papal rule, millions were put to death and their characters were "robed in darkness" by being portrayed as criminalsARSH April 25, 1865, page 161.26+2. The Reformation, by putting the Bible into the hands of the people, exposed the crimes of the Papacy and vindicated the cause of these martyrsEVRR208+2.

• Vindication Before Men: In a historical sense, the "white robe" is given to them in the eyes of menEVRR208+1. Posterity, through the influence of the Reformation, began to honor those whom their fathers had slain, recognizing them as favorites of heaven rather than enemies of GodEVRR208+1.

• Restraining Persecution: The work of the Reformers like Luther and Melanchthon began to undermine the papal fabric and restrain its persecuting powerEW 225.1+2. The German states espoused the Protestant cause and protected the reformers, providing the "help" that stayed the flood of persecutionDAR1909 289.6+1.

• The "Little Season": While the Reformation brought a respite, Romish hate was still felt in outbursts of persecutionDAR1909 443.1. The "little season" refers to the time during which additional martyrs would fall, such as those in the Huguenot wars or later conflicts, before the civil power was finally taken from the Papacy in 1798ARSH April 22, 1858, page 181.12+2.

The Nature of the "Soul" in this Vision ⚖️

It is vital to understand that this vision does not support the idea of conscious, disembodied spirits in heavenARSH September 22, 1859, page 138.2+1.

• Symbolic Language: The entire representation is symbolical; it would be repugnant to the heavenly state to imagine souls shut up under an altar crying for bloodST186x 20.1+2.

• Biblical Definition: The word "soul" in Scripture often refers to the whole person or the life Revelation 6:9EVRR208+1. These souls are "at rest" in the grave until the resurrection Job 3:17-18ARSH September 22, 1859, page 138.2+1.

• Personification: Just as the "stone shall cry out of the wall," the lives of the martyrs testify to the fact that murder was committed and that divine justice must one day be satisfied Habakkuk 2:11ARSH September 22, 1859, page 138.2+1.

The fifth seal ensures us that God has a real remembrance of the wrongs done to His people and that the day of righteous judgment is approachingEVRR225+2. 😊

Revelation 6:9-11

9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:

10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?

11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

The period of the fifth seal is most accurately identified with the Protestant Reformation, which began to take hold in a powerful and organized way during the fourteenth century through the labors of John WycliffeEVRR225+1. While the full "recovery of the gospel" and the widespread recognition of the martyrs occurred later, the initial work of identifying the antichrist and restoring the Bible to the people—which are the core functions of the fifth seal—began specifically with Wycliffe in EnglandEVRR225.

The Role of John Wycliffe (1374 and beyond) 📜

The year 1374 is a significant milestone in the work that characterizes the fifth seal, as it was the year Wycliffe was appointed as a royal ambassador to negotiate with the papal commissionersHBS 486.2.

• Recognition of the Hierarchy: During his conference in the Netherlands in 1374, Wycliffe had the opportunity to look "behind the scenes" of the papal courtGC 84.1. He gained a direct knowledge of the true character and aims of the hierarchy, which gave point to his after labors in exposing the papacy as the antichristEVRR225+1.

• The Translation of the Bible: Wycliffe’s greatest work, which began the process of "removing the sackcloth" from the scriptures, was the translation of the Bible into the English languageSSP 197.2. This work provided the "white robes" of vindication for the martyrs by allowing the common people to see for themselves that papal dogmas were not sustained by the Word of GodEVRR208+1.

• A Complete System of Reform: Wycliffe laid a foundation for truth so broad and deep that it did not need to be reconstructed by later ReformersGC 93.1. He taught the distinctive doctrines of Protestantism—salvation through faith in Christ and the sole infallibility of the Scriptures—long before the sixteenth-century Reformation4SP 89.1+1.

The Meaning of the "White Robes" ⚪

The giving of white robes under the fifth seal represents a Spectacular reversal of public opinion regarding those who had been martyredEVRR208.

• Vindication Through the Word: For centuries, the Roman Church had portrayed martyrs as the "vilest of criminals" and "enemies of God"EVRR208. The Reformation robed these individuals in white by exposing the papacy as the "man of sin" and recognizing the dissenters as the true saints of GodEVRR208.

• Historical Recognition: In a literal sense, later generations "garnish the sepulchres of the righteous" whom their fathers slew, honoring with praise those whose names had previously been cast out as evilEVRR208.

• Decision of Heaven: The white robes are also a pledge from God that these individuals are overcomers and will joined the general assembly around the great white throne Revelation 3:5ARSH September 22, 1859, page 138.2.

The Timeline of the Fifth Seal ⏳

While the fifth seal focuses on the vindication of those slain under the fourth seal, it covers a period that bridges the Dark Ages and the time of the endEVRR208.

• Relationship to the Fourth Seal: The fourth seal (the pale horse) covers the period of papal supremacy and the Inquisition, during which millions were martyredEVRR208+1. The fifth seal describes the "cry" of these victims for redress and their subsequent vindication through the light of the ReformationEVRR208+1.

• A Respite from Persecution: The fifth seal represents a state of the church where it begins to enjoy a "little respite" from its persecuting enemiesMWV2 183.2. This began as the principles of the Reformation started to undermine the papal fabricDAR1909 438.4.

• Future Martyrdoms: The seal concludes by mentioning a "little season" during which more martyrs would fall, specifically referring to the final conflict before the second coming of Christ Revelation 6:11EVRR208.

It is beautiful to see how God raised up Wycliffe as the "Morning Star" to begin the very work that would eventually clothe His suffering children in the white robes of righteousnessECE 629.2+1. 😊

Revelation 6:9-11

9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:

10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?

11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

During the period of the fifth seal, the world witnessed the Protestant Reformation, a monumental era characterized by the recovery of the gospel, the exposure of the papacy as the antichrist, and the historical vindication of millions of martyrsEVRR208+1. This era, which began in the 14th century with John Wycliffe and reached its height in the 16th century, transformed public opinion by portraying those previously executed as "vile heretics" as the true, righteous saints of GodEVRR208+2.

The Exposure of the Apostate Church 📖

The primary historical work of the fifth seal was the unmasking of the papal hierarchy through the study of the BibleEVRR208.

• Access to the Word: During the Reformation, scholars and priests gained access to the Scriptures in their own languages, leading them to recognize that the "Mother Church" had become a fallen, apostate powerEVRR208+1.

• Identification of Antichrist: Through the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation, the Reformers identified the papacy as the "man of sin," the "harlot church," and the "little horn"EVRR208+1.

• The Power of Prayer: The Reformation was fueled by intense prayer; Martin Luther famously devoted at least three hours a day to private communion with God, drawing the strength that "shook the world"GC 210.1+1.

The Vindication and "White Robes" of the Martyrs ⚪

Historically, the "giving of white robes" represents a spectacular reversal in how history viewed those slain for their faithEVRR208+1.

• From Infamy to Honor: For centuries, Rome had clothed martyrs in the "blackest garments of infamy," depicting them as criminals and demonsEVRR208+1. The Reformation reversed this decision, clothing their memory in the "white robes" of honor and righteousness as their names were cleared by a repentant posterityEVRR208+2.

• Vindication by the Word: As the Bible was circulated, it became clear that the martyrs had suffered not for crimes, but "for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held" Revelation 6:9HHMLD 120.1+1.

• A Respite from Persecution: The fifth seal represents a period where the "spirit of love and peace" began to return to the church as the Reformation undermined the persecuting power of Rome and provided a "little season" of restARSH April 25, 1865, page 161.26+2.

Key Figures and Movements 🛡️

God raised up specific "heaven-sent messengers" to carry forward the light of truth despite relentless oppositionEW 225.1+1.

• The Morning Star: John Wycliffe began this work in England, translating the Bible and challenging the pope's power to excommunicate those whom God had not condemnedGC88 84.1+2.

• The English Reformers: Men like William Tyndale, who produced the first English New Testament, and martyrs like Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley, who were burned at the stake, sealed their testimony with their bloodDAR1909 787.1+2.

• Continental Leaders: In Germany, Luther and Melanchthon exposed the sins of the hierarchy, while in France, reformers like Louis de Berquin and John Calvin faced the "frowning faces" of persecutors with radiant peaceGC 217.1+2.

• The Waldenses: This "God-fearing people" witnessed for centuries in the mountains of Piedmont, sowing the seeds of the Reformation long before the time of LutherGC 78.1+1.

The "Little Season" of Continued Persecution ⏳

While the Reformation brought a great light, the fifth seal also notes that the "cruel work of Romanism" did not immediately ceaseDAR 412.2.

• Ongoing Martyrdoms: During this "little season," Rome added hundreds of thousands more to the throng of martyrs, including the Huguenots in France and the Covenanters in ScotlandDAR 412.2+2.

• The Jesuit Counter-Reformation: In response to the Protestant success, the papacy established the Council of Trent (1545–1563) to bolster tradition and the Inquisition to crush "heresy"EVRR472+2.

• Waiting for the Final Conflict: The martyrs were told to "rest yet for a little season" until the final group of martyrs—those who will face the "mark of the beast" in the end-time conflict—is completed Revelation 6:11EVRR208+1.

The fifth seal remains a powerful historical record of how the "unresistible might of weakness" in the martyrs eventually triumphed over the "powers of darkness" through the return of the gospelSBBS 410.2. 😊

In the year 1755, the Great Lisbon Earthquake occurred, an event that served as a significant fulfillment of the celestial signs described in the opening of the sixth seal, which follows the period of the fifth seal and the work of Martin Luther Revelation 6:12ST June 21, 1883, par. 15. While Luther lived centuries before this event, his legacy and the Reformation he spearheaded are directly linked to these prophetic milestones because the Reformation provided the spiritual light necessary to understand these signs as harbingers of the Second AdventGC 143.3+1.

The Connection Between Luther and 1755 🌍

The Reformation and the subsequent signs of the end times are part of a continuous "present truth" that God unfolds according to the needs of each ageGC 143.3+1.

• The Chain of Truth: Martin Luther was an instrument in the hands of God to present truths "specially applicable to his time," and those who today present the message of the upcoming judgment are following in that same line of reformTEd 158.2+2.

• The Sixth Seal Context: The fifth seal (the Reformation) focused on the vindication of the martyrs who fell during the Dark AgesGC 136.1. The sixth seal, which opened with the great earthquake of November 1, 1755, signaled that the period of the Reformation’s "little season" was moving toward the "time of the end" Revelation 6:124SP 130.2.

• A Call to Watchfulness: Just as Luther urged the people of his day to turn from human traditions to the "purity and simplicity" of the Bible, the signs beginning in 1755 were intended to arouse the world to a similar "Bible preaching" and preparation for Christ's returnGC88 240.4+2.

Luther’s Principles Applied to Later Signs 🛡️

The spirit that animated Luther is the same spirit required to interpret the events of 1755 and beyondHS 198.3.

• Testing by the Word: Luther taught that all doctrines and events must be brought to the "test of the Bible"GC88 609.1. When the great earthquake of 1755 shook the world, students of prophecy applied Luther's principle of "the Bible and the Bible only" to identify the event as the fulfillment of Revelation 6:12+2.

• Progressive Light: The Reformers held to the principle that "truth is progressive"GC 297.2. While Luther did not witness the events of 1755, his work laid the foundation for the "broader views of truth" that were opened to those living in the 18th and 19th centuriesGC 143.3+1.

• Opposition to Formalism: By 1755, many churches that claimed the name "Lutheran" had lost Luther's spirit and had subsided into "formalism" and "spiritual stupor"GC 297.2+1. The earthquake served as a wake-up call to those who had substituted human theories for the "teachings of God's word"GC 297.2+1.

The Shared Controversy ⚖️

The "great controversy between truth and error" that Luther engaged in continued with increasing intensity through the time of the 1755 earthquakeGC 143.3+1.

• Same Battle, Different Century: The same disposition to reject God’s word for human tradition that Luther faced was prevalent in 1755GC 143.3+1.

• Divine Protection: Just as "angels of Heaven" were sent to protect Luther until his work was done, God's providence has preserved the record of the Reformation and the signs of the Advent to ensure that the "last invitation of mercy" can be presented to the worldGC88 132.2+2.

While Martin Luther had long been at rest by 1755, the movement he began was the essential prelude to the "final conflict" signaled by the great Lisbon earthquakeGC 549.2+2. 😊

The 95 Theses were a series of propositions prepared by Martin Luther in 1517 to challenge the Roman Catholic Church's practice of selling indulgences and to promote the biblical principle of justification by faithSITI March 2, 1888, page 135.5+1. Luther famously nailed these theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, an act that effectively sparked the Great Reformation and shook the foundations of papal supremacyST June 7, 1883, par. 9+1.

The Core of the 95 Theses 📜

The primary objective of Luther’s theses was to attack the "wickedness" and "traffic" of indulgences as conducted by individuals like the friar John TetzelSITI March 2, 1888, page 135.5+1.

• Challenging Papal Authority: Luther argued that the Pope has neither the will nor the power to remit any penalties except those he has imposed by his own authorityHBS 265.7+1.

• The Problem of Purgatory: He denounced as "human folly" the claim that a soul flies out of purgatory the very moment money "tinkles in the strong box"ECE 721.5.

• True Repentance: The theses emphasized that true Christian repentance and the "word of God" are the only means through which forgiveness is obtained, rather than through financial payments to the churchSITI March 2, 1888, page 135.5+1.

The Impact of the Publication 💥

Though Luther did not initially realize the full logical consequences of his actions, the publication of these theses ignited a "conflagration" throughout Germany and beyondSITI March 2, 1888, page 135.5+1.

• A Call to Scripture: The theses struck at the foundation of papal supremacy by declaring that Christians should receive no doctrines other than those resting on the authority of the Sacred ScripturesST June 7, 1883, par. 9+1.

• Widespread Circulation: Within a short time, thousands of copies were sold—an unprecedented number for that period—and the views of the Reformer were discussed in palaces, castles, and even cottagesECE 738.2.

• The Foundation of Protestantism: The principles contained in the theses—specifically that "Christ is all" and that the Word of God is the only rule of faith—became the "vital principle of the Reformation"ST June 7, 1883, par. 9+1.

The Historical Context (1517) 📅

The year 1517 is marked as the "opening of the Reformation" because it was the moment Luther stood as the authorized herald of the Bible against the "sophistries of philosophers and theologians"ST June 7, 1883, par. 9+1.

• The Discussion at the University: To bring the truth before the people, Luther also engaged in public discussions of these new doctrines at leading German universities, where young men marked the force of his arguments from the ScripturesST June 28, 1883, par. 4.

• Reaction from Rome: The papal authorities, fearful of this interest, eventually summoned Luther to answer for these "divers propositions" regarding the commerce in indulgences, labeling them as a "contagion" to be extirpatedGC88 133.2+2.

Luther’s steadfastness in these principles, first signaled in 1517, began a "new and better era" that continues to strengthen those who defend the truth to this dayST September 20, 1883, par. 23. 😊

The number twelve is consistently established throughout Scripture as the symbol for God’s church and, more specifically, the authority and organization of church governmentEVRR383+1. This association is proven by a continuous chain of biblical examples that span from the beginning of human history to the final establishment of the New JerusalemEVRR383+1.

The Pre-Flood and Post-Flood Church 🏛️

The organization of God’s people into groups of twelve began in the earliest ages of the world.

• Before the Flood: The pre-flood church, tracing from Adam to Noah, was led by twelve patriarchs if Shem and Japheth are included in the lineage of Genesis 5+2.

• After the Flood: Following the deluge, the genealogy of the post-flood church was likewise led by at least twelve patriarchs from Shem down to JacobEVRR383+1.

The Church in the Wilderness (Israel) ⛺

The biblical record of the nation of Israel is deeply rooted in this numerical symbol.

• Twelve Tribes: The church in the Sinai wilderness consisted of twelve tribesEVRR383+1. While there were technically thirteen tribes if the Levites are counted separately, the Bible consistently refers to them as "twelve tribes" because twelve is the number representing God’s churchEVRR383+1.

• Twelve Pillars and Stones: Moses built an altar with twelve pillars according to the number of the tribes Exodus 24:4. Similarly, Elijah repaired the broken altar of the Lord using twelve stones, respecting the covenant made with the twelve tribes 1 Kings 18:313T 284.2.

• The Priesthood: The Old Testament priesthood was organized into twenty-four groups, which is twice twelve, to maintain church order 1 Chronicles 24:1-5EVRR383.

The New Testament and Apostolic Church 👑

Jesus Christ continued this pattern by organizing His ministry around the number twelve to signify the establishment of the spiritual kingdom.

• The Twelve Apostles: The New Testament church was led by twelve apostles, whom Christ chose and commissioned to preach the gospel Matthew 10:2-7EVRR383.

• The Twelve Thrones: Jesus promised the twelve that they would sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel in the coming kingdom Matthew 19:28+1COL 395.2.

• The "Twelve" as a Title: Even when referring to His disciples, they were frequently identified simply as "the twelve," signifying their specific office of government and leadership Matthew 26:20+1HM June 1, 1897, Art. A, par. 20.

The Final Remnant and the New Jerusalem ✨

The number twelve denotes rulership and remains the defining characteristic of the redeemed in the book of Revelation.

• The 144,000: The final translated church is symbolized by the number 144,000, which is a multiple of twelve times twelve (12 x 12 x 1,000) Revelation 7:4+1EVRR383.

• The Garland of Stars: The pure church is represented as a woman wearing a crown of twelve stars, representing the leadership and authority of the twelve apostles Revelation 12:1EVRR383+1.

• The Holy City: The New Jerusalem reflects this organization in its very structure: it has twelve gates with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, and twelve foundations containing the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb Revelation 21:12-14SSP 345.1+1.

Because the name "Israel" means "God ruled," the number twelve is used as a signature of His government, showing that all who enter the city of God are reckoned as belonging to one of the twelve tribes of the churchEVRR489+2.