Swooning on the Sea - Rumor notes 151

 

Revelation 15

1 I saw another great and marvelous sign in the sky: seven angels having the seven last plagues, for in them God's wrath is finished. 2 I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire, and those who overcame the beast, his image, and the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, having harps of God. 3 They sang the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, "Great and marvelous are your works, Lord God, the Almighty! Righteous and true are your ways, you King of the nations. 4 Who wouldn't fear you, Lord, and glorify your name? For you only are holy. For all the nations will come and worship before you. For your righteous acts have been revealed."

standing on the sea of glass

Here are some things we might learn regarding what it means to stand on this sea. Consider these passages connected to standing.

They told the mountains and the rocks, "Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb, for the great day of his wrath has come; and who is able to stand?" After this, I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, so that no wind would blow on the earth, or on the sea, or on any tree. I saw another angel ascend from the sunrise, having the seal of the living God. He cried with a loud voice to the four angels to whom it was given to harm the earth and the sea, saying, "Don't harm the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, until we have sealed the bondservants of our God on their foreheads!" I heard the number of those who were sealed, one hundred forty-four thousand, sealed out of every tribe of the children of Israel: (Revelation 6:16 - 7:4)

They saw the God of Israel. Under his feet was like a paved work of sapphire stone, like the skies for clearness. (Exodus 24:10)

While this may not state that Yahweh was standing, it does inform us about His orientation to this pavement of glass and fire – He is above it. Interestingly there are other descriptions of standing or walking on a sea that contribute to our appreciation of the deeper meaning of this passage.

After he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into the mountain by himself to pray. When evening had come, he was there alone. But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, distressed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. In the fourth watch of the night, Jesus came to them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, "It's a ghost!" and they cried out for fear.

But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying "Cheer up! I AM! Don't be afraid." Peter answered him and said, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the waters." He said, "Come!" Peter stepped down from the boat, and walked on the waters to come to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was strong, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand, took hold of him, and said to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?"

When they got up into the boat, the wind ceased. Those who were in the boat came and worshiped him, saying, "You are truly the Son of God!" (Matthew 14:23-33)

What is the central issue in this story? Jesus mentions his lack of faith. This story is key for understanding the meaning of this sea of glass mixed with fire, and it can inform us about why some fall into it while others are standing on it. The difference involves their disposition towards the One who alone provides power to remain standing on top of it. I believe this story of Peter resonates closely to those who stand on this sea of glass mixed with fire.

Here are some key words in this story:

distressed, fear, troubled, contrary, beginning to sink, doubt.

In sharp contrast we also see

came to them, walking on the sea, I AM, don't be afraid, come, save me, took hold of him, worshiped him, truly the Son of God.

This alerts us to something extremely important about how we may stand on a sea mingled with fire, beginning even now. First we are not to imagine we have to do this alone. Second, we must disabuse ourselves of the idea that those standing on this sea are somehow good enough or righteous enough to deserve being honored by God for achieving this status. Neither do they have to conjure up enough faith. These overcomers standing on this sea are the same as what we have witnessed in previous passages describing the 144,000, for they are standing with the Lamb. That was the only way Peter was able to walk on top of the stormy waters that were threatening to sink the boat he just left. The storm had not yet been calmed by Christ, yet both Jesus and Peter were walking on the troubled waters still surging violently and threating imminent disaster. Yet they remained untouched, apparently defying principles of physics. So long as Peter focused on the One who had invited him to join Him, he could walk easily in spite of the appearances of the violent wind and waves.

The key to living above the storms of our fears and to overcome all odds is this element of faith. But faith is not a commodity or asset used to purchase favors from God. Faith is fixating our imagination on the truth as it is in Jesus, the truth that His words over us have more power in our experience than all our past experiences or present circumstances or perceptions of danger that affects how we have perceived reality or our life to this point. Other than an ax head caused to float on top of water in a miracle by Elisha, no one in history has ever been known to walk on top of water. At times water has been pushed aside to provide access for God's people to pass through, but this was a new dimension never known until this moment. Peter was so intrigued that he was eager to participate in this amazing experience, so he asked Jesus to give the power of His word to join Him.

"Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the waters." He said, "Come!"

The tempter came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread." But he answered, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.'" (Matthew 4:3-4)

When Peter asked Jesus to command him to come to Him, he was believing that if Jesus said something then it was possible, regardless of all previous experience or opinions. This is not only a radical elevation of understanding about faith, but it taps into the true kind of power all of us may experience, the radical faith of trusting the heart of the One who gives His word that becomes the very means that empowers us to do the previously impossible. Thus we come to see that it really is the Word of God that is the power needed for us to escape the dark identity of our past or our current reputation. God's word provides the boldness to step into a radical new life of joy in complete dependence on the One whose heart and love for us elevates us to do the impossible.

This also is closely connected to receiving the faith of Jesus, for our faith is ever dependent on His faith. This is the key element to living the life of faith. We choose to believe that the word of God has authority above all previous ideas, beliefs and experiences. We choose to believe Jesus beyond what we can explain or imagine. Thus we open access (give authority to God) to live in us as we step into a whole new dimension of possibility. This is climbing outside the boat, separating from those who remain in fear and unbelief. As we do so our perception of reality is dramatically stretched as we discover that our true identity in Christ can displace old definitions of who we are from our past experience. This story resonates strongly with the core issue of believing our identity in Christ and how we can choose to believe what Jesus says about us over any other voice in or outside of our head.

They didn't prevail, neither was a place found for him any more in heaven. The great dragon was thrown down, the old serpent, he who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world. He was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.

I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now is come the salvation, the power, and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ; for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them before our God day and night. They overcame him because of the Lamb's blood, and because of the word of their testimony. They didn't love their life, even to death. (Revelation 12:8-11)

The dragon grew angry with the woman, and went away to make war with the rest of her seed, who keep God's commandments and hold Jesus' testimony. (Revelation 12:17)

You shall diligently keep the commandments of Yahweh your God, and his testimonies, and his statutes, which he has commanded you. You shall do that which is right and good in the sight of Yahweh; that it may be well with you, and that you may go in and possess the good land which Yahweh swore to your fathers, to thrust out all your enemies from before you, as Yahweh has spoken. (Deuteronomy 6:17-19)

The smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever. They have no rest day and night, those who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.

Here is the patience of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. (Revelation 14:11-12)

These passages become the basis of our faith, the Word of God that releases new life and power in us.

I run in the path of your commandments, for you have set my heart free. (Psalms 119:32)

Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commandments of my God. Uphold me according to your word, that I may live. Let me not be ashamed of my hope. Hold me up, and I will be safe, and will have respect for your statutes continually. (Psalms 119:115-117)

He said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good but one, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments." (Matthew 19:17)

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just like I have loved you; that you also love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 13:34-35)

One who has my commandments, and keeps them, that person is one who loves me. One who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him, and will reveal myself to him." Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, "Lord, what has happened that you are about to reveal yourself to us, and not to the world?" Jesus answered him, "If a man loves me, he will keep my word. My Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our home with him. He who doesn't love me doesn't keep my words. The word which you hear isn't mine, but the Father's who sent me. (John 14:21-24)

If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and remain in his love. (John 15:10)

You are my friends, if you do whatever I command you. (John 15:14)

I want to review a an important declaration Jesus made when tempted by the devil, the same devil who continues to tempt each one of us with similar temptations as He experienced.

"If you are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread."

Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.

Contrast this to the story involving Peter calling out to Christ to command him to come to him on the water. There is far more relevance between these two than appears on the surface.

"Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the waters." He said, "Come!" Peter stepped down from the boat, and walked on the waters to come to Jesus. (Matthew 14:28-29)

Satan challenged Jesus with the insinuating word if, tempting Him to entertain a doubt about what God had expressed 40 days previous. Peter articulates similar words, yet receives a different response from what was given to Satan. What is the difference? We need to understand how we may relate to God and how to deal with our doubts. Our response to this question reveals much about how we perceive God's disposition and how free we can feel to approach Him rather than to pull back in fear.

This also taps deeply into how we imagine God feels about our negative feelings, especially towards Him. Can we trust God to not become offended if we dare unleash our anger and frustration on Him, or do we feel unsafe to be raw and transparent in our feelings and emotions before God?

The context of this story of the storm involved not only fear, but resentment, frustration and anger in the disciples. The storm that threatened to swallow them up in the sea was actually allowed because the disciples were nursing a spirit of offense against Jesus. He had just frustrated their attempts to exalt Him to be their king and assume the position as a military conqueror the Jews eagerly expected to come. Their excitement to realize their life-long dreams of deliverance from Rome through a violent, overpowering might brought by the Messiah, was not only rebuffed by Jesus, but He had sternly dispersed the crowds and ordered His disciples to get in the boat and leave Him alone on the shore without any satisfactory explanation. This was their condition when the storm hit.

The real problem was not just the storm that came, but it was their hearts being hardened with anger, resentment and bitterness towards the One who had called them to a new way of living and thinking. The darkness and discontent in their hearts fueled by their negative conversations was being reflected by the storm externally. Yet the storm also served to shift their attention making them aware of their real need for the very One they were complaining about, preparing the way for repentance and reconciliation. Satan had challenged Christ to doubt His identity; Peter was wrestling with his own identity and all needed affirmation of Christ's true disposition towards them.

The disciple's frustrated attempts to save themselves made them more aware of their desperate need for a Savior beyond just their physical distress. Their heart condition could not be remedied by command, for Jesus came to restore trust in God's heart, not demand compliance to dictates. The new commandment of selfless love Jesus spoke was not really new but had been so lost sight of that it felt new because it was so different from how men perceived God in their darkened imaginations.

This is where we see God's ways are not our ways, for in order for hearts of stone to be replaced with hearts of flesh, something different is needed than commands. Love – what the Law of God actually describes – cannot be commanded. It does not work to command love to come from hearts hardened by resentment and bitterness over frustrated hopes, plans and dreams for our lives. We may feel God has forsaken us, but the truth is just the opposite. Only unconditional love can awaken responsive love in the heart. Jesus came to His disciples when they were more aware of their real need for His presence and were more willing to reconcile their relationship with Him.

For I will take you from among the nations, and gather you out of all the countries, and will bring you into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh. I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and you shall keep my ordinances, and do them. You shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and you shall be my people, and I will be your God. (Ezekiel 36:24-28)

Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.

Jesus therefore said to them, "Most certainly, I tell you, it wasn't Moses who gave you the bread out of heaven, but my Father gives you the true bread out of heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down out of heaven, and gives life to the world."

They said therefore to him, "Lord, always give us this bread." Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will not be hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty. But I told you that you have seen me, and yet you don't believe. All those who the Father gives me will come to me. Him who comes to me I will in no way throw out." (John 6:32-37)

Most certainly, I tell you, he who believes in me has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread which comes down out of heaven, that anyone may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down out of heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. Yes, the bread which I will give for the life of the world is my flesh. (John 6:47-51)

In the context of the story of Peter and this passage here in Revelation, these words of Jesus are in sharp contrast to the demands of the beast and its image, that we define reality as they define it according to science, physics, social expectations and conformity to artificial laws for maintaining order dictated by the powers of this world. From a flesh perspective, the disciples had no reason to imagine they could get out of a boat and walk on top of water without fatal consequences. Yet this mindset is what is involved in the mark of the beast, the number of his name and how the dragon defines truth. They assert having authority to define our beliefs about who we are, and how to be saved based on laws of science and dictates of religion rather than trust in the One who created us.

Religion usually denies that God is only love. Evolution science insists truth must be reproducibly provable by scientific methods or it cannot be seen as authentic or reliable. The mark of the beast restricts people to the uniform code of balancing good and evil, and that only this reality is to be trusted. Science restricts belief in what is possible; religion demands compliance under duress in the name of God. But all of this only leads to a further hardening of the heart.

Overcoming is not merely resisting compulsive demands for the 'common good' of society, it involves living beyond narrow views of reality as defined by earthly authorities. Walking on liquid water defies gravity and physics as we presently perceive them. Loving our siblings in Christ, and also as our enemies defies the gravity pull of sin by the law of sin and death. The only way to defeat sin and death – the law of selfishness – and stand on top of the sea of glass, is by living faith in the Word of God and denying ourself, especially feelings manipulated by fear. This is how we may live according to the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus that sets us free from the Law of Sin and Death.

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who don't walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus made me free from the law of sin and of death. For what the law couldn't do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God did, sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh; that the ordinance of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (Romans 8:1-4)

This is all about a matter of choosing perspective. We have been conditioned all our lives to think according to the law of sin and death, the so-called scientific method. But that is incomplete and darkened in comparison to living in the light of heaven.

For now we see things in a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now my knowledge is in part; then it will be complete, even as God's knowledge of me. But now we still have faith, hope, love, these three; and the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13:12-13 BBE)

This sea of glass mirror reflects the image of God. Those standing on this sea are composite reflectors of God's passionate love ravishing their hearts in His fire. They are a multi-dimensional image of God who overcome by resting His word, living in the power of His word above any other including their emotions. They stand by faith in the word of God, obeying His directive to join the Lamb on Mt. Zion that has replaced Sinai as the support under this sea of glass. God's commandments are in their heart rather than on stone. These are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus because they are transformed by the gold they have purchased in exchange for their old false identity. This gold has been tried in the fire, and now they are filled with faith, hope and love.

If anyone was not found written in the book of life, he was cast into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:15)

This last passage may also prove crucial to perceiving the deeper meanings of this sea of glass. For one, those described here are cast into this lake rather than standing on top of it like those in chapter 15. Secondly, the lake of fire represents the second death which is the wages paid by sin that results in unbelief, distrust and fear. Fear is a sure symptom of distrust and unbelief in the love and care God has for every one of us. So long as we believe the lie that God is less than pure love and light with no darkness at all, we rob ourselves of the faith needed to stand with joy on top of the fiery sea. Our perceptions of God's disposition are darkened making us afraid and even allergic to love. Fear is always the result of resistance to the truth of God's love for us, and resistance itself is what fuels the reactive torment to encountering His presence of passionate love. Yet we remain free to choose who defines our identity which determines our destiny – the lies that in the end consume us, or the love of heaven that produces eternal joy and pleasures forever.

Peter's practice run of learning how to walk on troubled waters with Jesus helps us appreciate this metaphor of a sea of glass versus a lake of fire. In defiance of all past experience and awareness of physics and science, Peter observed Jesus doing it right in front of him, Peter's was inspired to believe it might be possible for him to also walk on water. The faith of Jesus awakened his faith. Yet the key for staying on top of the water without sinking and drowning, was to cling tenaciously to the faith inspired by beholding Jesus doing the impossible and riveting his attention on Jesus more than the fearful evidence all around him screaming it was impossible. I believe this story demonstrates the secret of power for overcoming the fears that threaten to sink us and inhibit our capacity to live what seems to be an impossible life of overcoming evil and even death. The faith of Jesus is our key for overcoming and is what empowers us to stand with Him in the storm.

having harps of God

Evidence seems to suggest that beginning here and through the next verse is where we see described the contents and purpose of the bowls of incense, the ammunition used by those who follow the Lamb. These are the special ops forces of the Lamb who effectively expose and cause the beginning of the collapse of the whole empire of evil played out over the next few chapters.

Now when he had taken the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. (Revelation 5:8)

Introduction of key elements in this passages begin in the backstory found in chapters 4 and 5. That backdrop plays a critical part in discerning the true meaning and import of this passage as we will see more clearly later in this chapter.

I saw, and behold, the Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with him a number, one hundred forty-four thousand, having his name, and the name of his Father, written on their foreheads. I heard a sound from heaven, like the sound of many waters, and like the sound of a great thunder. The sound which I heard was like that of harpists playing on their harps. They sing a new song before the throne, and before the four living creatures and the elders. No one could learn the song except the one hundred forty-four thousand, those who had been redeemed out of the earth. (Revelation 14:1-3)

Harps are a key element in connective passages that provide clues to help appreciate God's strategy to defeat the forces of darkness. Here are a few more.

When you are departed from me today, then you shall find two men by Rachel's tomb, in the border of Benjamin at Zelzah; and they will tell you, The donkeys which you went to seek are found; and behold, your father has left off caring for the donkeys, and is anxious for you, saying, What shall I do for my son?

Then shall you go on forward from there, and you shall come to the oak of Tabor; and there shall meet you there three men going up to God to Bethel, one carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a bottle of wine: and they will greet you, and give you two loaves of bread, which you shall receive of their hand.

After that you shall come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall happen, when you are come there to the city, that you shall meet a band of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tambourine, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they will be prophesying: and the Spirit of Yahweh will come mightily on you, and you shall prophesy with them, and shall be turned into another man. (1 Samuel 10:2-6)

David and all Israel played before God with all their might, even with songs, and with harps, and with stringed instruments, and with tambourines, and with cymbals, and with trumpets. (1 Chronicles 13:8)

It happened, when the priests were come out of the holy place, (for all the priests who were present had sanctified themselves, and did not keep their divisions; also the Levites who were the singers, all of them, even Asaph, Heman, Jeduthun, and their sons and their brothers, arrayed in fine linen, with cymbals and stringed instruments and harps, stood at the east end of the altar, and with them one hundred twenty priests sounding with trumpets;) it happened, when the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking Yahweh; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised Yahweh, saying, For he is good; for his loving kindness endures forever; that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of Yahweh, so that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of Yahweh filled the house of God. (2 Chronicles 5:11-14)

At the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, both with giving thanks, and with singing, with cymbals, stringed instruments, and with harps. (Nehemiah 12:27)

Oh, send out your light and your truth. Let them lead me. Let them bring me to your holy hill, To your tents. Then I will go to the altar of God, to God, my exceeding joy. I will praise you on the harp, God, my God. (Psalms 43:3-4)

I will incline my ear to a proverb. I will open my riddle on the harp. (Psalms 49:4)

Wake up, my glory! Wake up, psaltery and harp! I will wake up the dawn. (Psalms 57:8)

My heart is steadfast, God. I will sing and I will make music with my soul. Wake up, harp and lyre! I will wake up the dawn. (Psalms 108:1-2)

I will also praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, my God. I sing praises to you with the lyre, Holy One of Israel. (Psalms 71:22)

Let them praise his name in the dance! Let them sing praises to him with tambourine and harp! (Psalms 149:3)

who strum on the strings of a harp; who invent for themselves instruments of music, like David; (Amos 6:5)

David is likely the most famous harpist in history. Based on these words of God through Amos, it appears that David was not only a talented musician but also a craftsman who enjoyed inventing new instruments. David is like a poster child God used to highlight characteristics that mark those who pursue an intimate relationship with God like he did. We see many references in David's songs to use of the harp along with other instruments to enhance and amplify praise to God. The harp seems to symbolize the joy that can be experienced in God's presence. Yet for every genuine there is a counterfeit, yet we can even there learn important insights we might not notice otherwise.

Woe to those who rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; who stay late into the night, until wine inflames them! The harp, lyre, tambourine, and flute, with wine, are at their feasts; but they don't regard the work of Yahweh, neither have they considered the operation of his hands. Therefore my people go into captivity for lack of knowledge. Their honorable men are famished, and their multitudes are parched with thirst. (Isaiah 5:11-13)

God seems to be saying here that the problem is not in their music or with the instruments, but rather failure to use them for what they should accomplish – helping us know and praise God and to enhance the attractiveness of His wisdom and how He cares for us.

It will come to pass in that day that Tyre will be forgotten seventy years, according to the days of one king. After the end of seventy years it will be to Tyre like in the song of the prostitute. Take a harp; go about the city, you prostitute that has been forgotten. Make sweet melody. Sing many songs, that you may be remembered. It will happen after the end of seventy years that Yahweh will visit Tyre, and she shall return to her wages, and will play the prostitute with all the kingdoms of the world on the surface of the earth. Her merchandise and her wages will be holiness to Yahweh. It will not be treasured nor laid up; for her merchandise will be for those who dwell before Yahweh, to eat sufficiently, and for durable clothing. (Isaiah 23:15-18)

Application

How do my beliefs about faith affect my ability to connect more closely with my Savior?

What might be preventing me from being bold enough to ask God to invite me to do what is seemingly impossible and that others are afraid to try?

What might I learn from this story of Peter and Jesus that could help me avoid sinking in the water?

I am not bound to repeat mistakes others have made or even my own. How does this relate to how I view my value in God's eyes and how I can rise above my past?

Whose faith is it that actually can keep me safely above the water and the fire and sustains my life?

What is my part in this cooperative relationship with Jesus?

What will prompt me to leave the boat where all my friends and loved ones choose to remain?

What choices can I make and what might I do to replace my unbelief with trust in God's heart for me?

How does this inform me about the danger of giving expression to complaints and negative thoughts?

Complaining to others can be a symptom of failure of being honest with Jesus about my frustrations with Him.

Will I choose to believe the faith Jesus has in me over my doubts, fears and shame?

How might standing on top of the sea correlate to living according to the Spirit of life?

What purpose does music have in my life?

Do I use music to make me feel better, or is it designed to make God's love more attractive to me?

Can I get distracted by music that resonates with my feelings but makes my feelings more important than knowing God better?

How can music provide an uplifting, heavenly influence in my spirit?

The Ultimate Looking Glass - Rumor notes 150

Revelation 15

1 I saw another great and marvelous sign in the sky: seven angels having the seven last plagues, for in them God's wrath is finished. 2 I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire, and those who overcame the beast, his image, and the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, having harps of God.

I saw something like a sea of glass

Before the throne was something like a sea of glass, similar to crystal. In the midst of the throne, and around the throne were four living creatures full of eyes before and behind. (Revelation 4:6)

He carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God. Her light was like a most precious stone, as if it was a jasper stone, clear as crystal; (Revelation 21:10-11)

In Revelation this sea of glass is viewed from its top side, while in the Old Testament it is viewed from underneath. Consider the following descriptions of this same phenomenon.

He said to Moses, "Come up to Yahweh, you, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel; and worship from a distance. Moses alone shall come near to Yahweh, but they shall not come near, neither shall the people go up with him."

Moses came and told the people all the words of Yahweh, and all the ordinances; and all the people answered with one voice, and said, "All the words which Yahweh has spoken will we do."

Then Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel went up. They saw the God of Israel. Under his feet was like a paved work of sapphire stone, like the skies for clearness. He didn't lay his hand on the nobles of the children of Israel. They saw God, and ate and drank. Yahweh said to Moses, "Come up to me on the mountain, and stay here, and I will give you the tables of stone with the law and the commands that I have written, that you may teach them." (Exodus 24:1-3, 9-12)

There was a voice above the expanse that was over their heads: when they stood, they let down their wings. Above the expanse that was over their heads was the likeness of a throne, as the appearance of a sapphire stone; and on the likeness of the throne was a likeness as the appearance of a man on it above. (Ezekiel 1:25-26)

Then I looked, and see, in the expanse that was over the head of the cherubim there appeared above them as it were a sapphire stone, as the appearance of the likeness of a throne. (Ezekiel 10:1)

Here are stories of Jesus that may provide hints as to the experience awaiting those who choose to stand on this sea of glass.

He said to them, "Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?" Then he got up, rebuked the wind and the sea, and there was a great calm. (Matthew 8:26)

He himself was in the stern, asleep on the cushion, and they woke him up, and told him, "Teacher, don't you care that we are dying?" He awoke, and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" The wind ceased, and there was a great calm. (Mark 4:38-39)

I can easily imagine that this great calm was in such stark contrast to what had been experienced moments before, may have included a mirror smooth surface on the water surrounding the boat. Such a view would have been so serene to be mesmerizing, taking their breath away in silent wonder. With no breeze whatsoever it would have been impossible to sail anywhere, leaving them to row to shore. Yet even dipping the oars into the water making soft ripples on the surface might feel like disturbing the incredible peace now reflected in the glassy smooth lake reflecting vividly the dissipating clouds and the beautiful blue sky emerging above them.

This classic image of what peace looks and feels like is a reminder of what God intends for each of us to retain inside continually regardless of what circumstances may be around us. This scene illustrated the disposition of Jesus, yet it was maintained by daily connection at the heart level with the Father who reminded Christ of His true identity as His beloved Son. Now all of us are brought inside of Christ, meaning that this peace that insulated Jesus from every assault of fear on His soul, may be experienced by us as we choose to view every situation in light of His personal love and care for us just as He lived and rested trusting His Father.

Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments. Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. LORD, I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments. (Psalms 119:164-166 KJV)

Keep in mind that the realities of heaven are presented through physical metaphors we can perceive in our sphere of 'reality.' This is helpful for appreciating important truths being presented in this book. However, we too often limit or even block heart access to incredible insights offered us in this prophetic book by imagining that things such the sea of glass or the Holy City of God, are merely physical things like we interact with on earth. The physical things we experience here are but an introduction, a glimpse into a more expansive life in the spirit realm we were created to experience in the presence of God. We are designed for much more than physical life here on earth. Yet the decisions we make within our material world serve to form our character that determines how we interact with the greater spiritual dimension that is more real than anything we can know here.

But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things, and will remind you of all that I said to you. Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, give I to you. Don't let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful. You heard how I told you, 'I go away, and I come to you.' If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I said 'I am going to my Father;' for the Father is greater than I. (John 14:26-28)

Jesus makes clear that the way we imagine achieving peace is woefully inadequate for defining the kind of deep inner peace needed that alone can stabilize us in times of crisis. The peace He displayed while walking calmly on top of turbulent waters tossed about in a raging storm threatening the lives of His disciples, was the same kind of peace He wanted them to experience with Him, and this is for us as well. This peace comes through keeping the heart and imagination focused on God's unwavering love and care for us, regardless of circumstances. Trust in God's heart and belief in and receiving His passionate love for us, is an anchor that alone can keep us in perfect peace in any and every situation. This is what I believe this sea of glass is intended to convey. The demonstration of physically being able to walk on top of raging waves free of all fear as if they were smooth as glass, is what describes how everyone trusting God may live as they enter into His rest.

In that day, this song will be sung in the land of Judah: "We have a strong city. God appoints salvation for walls and bulwarks. Open the gates, that the righteous nation may enter: the one which keeps faith. You will keep whoever's mind is steadfast in perfect peace, because he trusts in you. Trust in Yahweh forever; for in Yah, Yahweh, is an everlasting Rock.

For he has brought down those who dwell on high, the lofty city. He lays it low. He lays it low even to the ground. He brings it even to the dust. The foot shall tread it down; Even the feet of the poor, and the steps of the needy."

The way of the just is uprightness. You who are upright make the path of the righteous level. Yes, in the way of your judgments, Yahweh, have we waited for you. Your name and your renown are the desire of our soul. With my soul have I desired you in the night. Yes, with my spirit within me will I seek you earnestly; for when your judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world learn righteousness.

Let favor be shown to the wicked, yet he will not learn righteousness. In the land of uprightness he will deal wrongfully, and will not see Yahweh's majesty. Yahweh, your hand is lifted up, yet they don't see; but they will see your zeal for the people, and be disappointed. Yes, fire will consume your adversaries.

Yahweh, you will ordain peace for us, for you have also worked all our works for us. Yahweh our God, other lords besides you have had dominion over us, but by you only will we make mention of your name. (Isaiah 26:1-13)

The peace presented here as a sea of glass, is very different from the peace as defined by the world. We send weaponized troops to troubled regions of the world and call them peace-keepers. The world defines peace as the absence of war or physical fighting. But these are external descriptions that the world seeks to achieve, imagining that simply forcing symptoms to appear peaceful is success. Law enforcement attempts to restore peace by fining or incarcerating people who disturb the peace, but this often leads to broken families, poverty and more confusion. What the world does to achieve peace falls far short of the needed transformation for inner healing of the soul and spirit. The artificial system of maintaining control over society practiced by this world cannot bring the kind of peace described here as a sea of glass mingled with passionate fire, populated by those singing praises to God from hearts liberated from all fear.

I create the fruit of the lips: Peace, peace, to him who is far off and to him who is near, says Yahweh; and I will heal him. But the wicked are like the troubled sea; for it can't rest, and its waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, says my God, to the wicked. (Isaiah 57:19-21)

But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach; and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, without any doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven by the wind and tossed. For let that man not think that he will receive anything from the Lord. He is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. (James 1:5-8)

The wicked rage because they hate not being in control. They seek to gain control through physical or emotional manipulation of circumstances. Anger, fear, deception, seduction, intimidation and force are all attempts to acquire satisfaction for unfilled cravings and lusts. Yet the wicked cannot know inner peace because they refuse to trust the heart of their Creator as trustworthy to provide for their needs. Unbelief in the goodness of God leaves one dissatisfied, uneasy, restless and looking for ways to find what they imagine will bring satisfaction for deep unmet longings. So long as our sense of worth and identity is based on how we feel or what others think of us, we do not trust the word of God as our only reliable source to defines us, and we remain unstable in all our ways.

I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)

Why is this description of the sea of glass at this location here in this chapter? Because those being commissioned to launch the upcoming assault must be securely anchored in Jesus and His victory.

Being therefore justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; through whom we also have our access by faith into this grace in which we stand. We rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:1-2)

In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:6-8)

This passage provides key insights as to how we may live in true peace resulting in rest and joy rather than simply avoiding conflicts. Peace is a result of disciplining our imagination to only allow what fits the criteria of the New Song, and repelling anything that violates God's priorities. What occupies our imagination directly affects our disposition and our ability to rest in God's care for us. Paul explains that we may have peace of soul that cannot be unsettled by the enemy's schemes to intimidate us. Using this filter to pre-test every thought, we allow only the kinds of thoughts into our imagination that enhance our mental and spiritual condition to be in harmony with the Spirit.

Rejoice in the Lord always! Again I will say, Rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:4-8)

a sea of glass mixed with fire

This sea of glass is mixed with fire. Having a right definition of God's fire is crucial to appreciate what is waiting for us in this chapter. Mention of this sea is always linked with the presence of God and His throne. Thus this fire is part of the description of what God's presence involves.

Set me as a seal on your heart, as a seal on your arm; for love is strong as death. Jealousy is as cruel as Sheol. Its flashes are flashes of fire, a very flame of Yahweh. Many waters can't quench love, neither can floods drown it. If a man would give all the wealth of his house for love, he would be utterly scorned. (Song of Solomon 8:6-7)

I find that the best way to interpret the metaphor of fire in prophecy and other places in Scripture as it relates to God, is that this symbol represents high intensity. Song of Solomon reveals that the fire of Yahweh is high intensity love, which makes sense given He is love and nothing less. Even the metaphor of brimstone or sulphur is connected to God's glory because of the intensity of heat and light that burning sulphur gives off. This is why these are used as symbols of the intensity experienced whenever anyone comes into the immediate presence of the God of the universe.

when the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from its midst, by the spirit of justice, and by the spirit of burning. Yahweh will create over the whole habitation of Mount Zion, and over her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night; for over all the glory will be a canopy. (Isaiah 4:4-5)

'For I,' says Yahweh, 'will be to her a wall of fire around it, and I will be the glory in the midst of her.' (Zechariah 2:5)

As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (Matthew 3:11 NAS95)

What is important to realize is that what is experienced as ecstasy and protection by those in harmony with love, is simultaneously experienced as torment and terror by those who hate the light.

those who overcame the beast, his image, and the number of his name

In Revelation we may connect clues from verses specifically mentioning overcoming to discern who this passage refers to. This sheds light on the meaning of these two chapters particularly. The placement of these verses describing this sea of glass are strategic, for they inform us about the true identity of this 7 angeled symbol. I have come to believe they describe the activity and character of those identified as the 144,000, the special agents who have become tightly aligned with the Lamb.

I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now is come the salvation, the power, and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ; for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them before our God day and night. They overcame him because of the Lamb's blood, and because of the word of their testimony. They didn't love their life, even to death. (Revelation 12:10-11)

This passage links the casting down of Satan from heaven to the methods and resources for those prepared to further that objective. While the 144,000 are not mentioned by name here, this description also applies to anyone choosing to learn from and follow the Lamb fully. I believe this chapter 15 portrays these angels not merely as metaphors of this group of 'resistors,' but they are being commissioned strategically by God to bring about the culmination of this last round of 7's. This final assault against the enemies of light and love will prove so potent against Satan's kingdom of lies that it will not be able to withstand the pressure. This becomes evident near the end of chapter 16. Note also the key words number and name in the description of the 144,000 that counteracts the number and name of the beast and of its image here in chapter 15.

I saw, and behold, the Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with him a number, one hundred forty-four thousand, having his name, and the name of his Father, written on their foreheads. I heard a sound from heaven, like the sound of many waters, and like the sound of a great thunder. The sound which I heard was like that of harpists playing on their harps. They sing a new song before the throne, and before the four living creatures and the elders. No one could learn the song except the one hundred forty-four thousand, those who had been redeemed out of the earth. These are those who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are those who follow the Lamb wherever he goes. These were redeemed by Jesus from among men, the first fruits to God and to the Lamb. In their mouth was found no lie, for they are blameless. (Revelation 14:1-5)

The ten horns that you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority as kings, with the beast, for one hour. These have one mind, and they give their power and authority to the beast. These will war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings. They also will overcome who are with him, called and chosen and faithful. (Revelation 17:12-14)

Three elements stand out vividly in these passages – the Lamb, overcoming along with the means of how to overcome. They overcome because the Lamb has overcome already.

One of the elders said to me, "Don't weep. Behold, the Lion who is of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome; he who opens the book and its seven seals." (Revelation 5:5)

I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)

He who overcomes, I will give him these things. I will be his God, and he will be my son. (Revelation 21:7)

This highlights a central and decisive issue of this book. Those who worship (receive their identity from) the beast, his image and who allow themselves to be identified by his number and/or name, become opposite in character in contrast to those who refuse at all costs to be involved in any of these deceptions, but who rather follow only the Lamb. The previous two chapters along with this and the next one, rely on these identifiers frequently to signal who is on which side. This must be taken seriously, for we are now entering the very times and events described in these chapters.

Some may argue that while those described here as standing on the sea of glass mingled with fire may indeed represent the 144,000, that these should not be taken to also represent the 7 angels symbolized here. That is a possible explanation, yet I find that argument weak and lacking in continuity given how the first three angels messages in chapter 14 are widely considered to be symbolic of spiritual movements on earth among human beings orchestrated by heavenly beings. Revelation is to be viewed primarily as symbolic; that is one of the two criteria we are relying on in this study. So I find it more consistent to believe that the reason this scene is presented in this strategic location in this chapter is to alert us that this special group of people who are madly in love with their Leader, are listening to the sound of a very different drum than most others on this planet. These are those who have been trained and are now being used by heaven in close sympathy with the Lamb, to accomplish fulfillment of the mystery being revealed in the grand purposes of God. For me it makes far more sense and conveys more continuity to conclude that this chapter is describing how these loyal ones will be used to prove that the Lamb's methods really can accomplish what God has long insisted alone overcomes the powers of darkness and evil without being complicit in or giving credence to any of the assertions and accusations of the enemy of love, light and truth.

Keep in mind that to overcome false sources of identity that are to be imposed on all those who dwell on the earth, the people symbolized here as standing on this sea of glass are those who have rejected any association or identification by powers that contradict, detracts from or undermines their true identity anchored only in Christ. These rely solely on the Lamb as the only Source they will trust to define who they are and to show them how to act like themselves. These are prepared to live out their purpose to glorify God's reputation, refusing to demean themselves to be a mere number. They refuse to allow the spirit of force, fear, intimidation or coercion to dictate how they react to others and especially how they choose to view God. These cling tenaciously to only the Lamb's version of God's heart, and spurn every distraction, threat or inducement.

Here is where the symbols become very relevant. In the gospel of John Jesus portrays Himself appropriately as the good Shepherd of the sheep of all who are willing to listen and follow Him. Here in Revelation we find that the Hero who alone can win the cosmic war over the dragon who is the prince of darkness and evil, is the violently slaughtered Lamb. It is no accident that what we discover in the end is that the Shepherd is actually the same as this Lamb, meaning He has more than identified as one with us in order that we might become one with Him and with the Godhead.

"Most certainly, I tell you, one who doesn't enter by the door into the sheep fold, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But one who enters in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out. Whenever he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. They will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him; for they don't know the voice of strangers." (John 10:1-5)

Notice the contrast of methods here. The tactics of the dragon, beasts and the image are all about force and coercion and intimidation. This is embedded in the ID they force of all those who dwell on the earth in the form of a name and a number. In contrast the true Shepherd who identifies with His sheep is seen as the most vulnerable and exploited more than anyone, yet because of this (not in spite of it), He displays the kind of power that alone can defeat all the intimidation arrayed against Him and all choosing to follow Him. They trust His voice alone and stay loyal to Him against all odds.

The thief only comes to steal, kill, and destroy. I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand, and not a shepherd, who doesn't own the sheep, sees the wolf coming, leaves the sheep, and flees. The wolf snatches the sheep, and scatters them. The hired hand flees because he is a hired hand, and doesn't care for the sheep.

I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and I'm known by my own; even as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep, which are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will hear my voice. They will become one flock with one shepherd. (John 10:10-16)

Jesus lays out in stark contrast the methods, motives and disposition totally opposite each other. Each of us decides whose voice we will trust to define who we are and who we will follow and worship. Jesus emphasizes here the ultimate goal and purpose toward which He leads those willing to listen and follow His voice and example – intimate knowing of the love, joy, grace, peace and abundant life that is in Him and in the Father's heart and presence.

The true Shepherd who is also seen as a Lamb, only leads by attraction, never with intimidation or violence. When we are willing to believe that this revelation is the same truth that defines the God of the universe as well as His Son, our whole perspective on everything is radically altered. Then what was previously a complete mystery suddenly becomes a glorious invitation to be drawn into the highest privilege offered to anyone in the history of the universe.

The Jews therefore came around him and said to him, "How long will you hold us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly." Jesus answered them, "I told you, and you don't believe. The works that I do in my Father's name, these testify about me. But you don't believe, because you are not of my sheep, as I told you. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give eternal life to them. They will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all. No one is able to snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one." (John 10:24-30)

Why do religious experts refuse to believe that this Jesus is the true Christ? Because they refuse to relinquish their cherished desires for a violent, forceful God who uses His power to carry out their agenda to crush enemies and exalt them to favored positions of power so they can subjugate others and be great at the expense of others. We are in the exact same danger of unbelief in the nature of how God will carry out and execute 'vengeance,' for we too are infected with the same spirit of selfishness and false identities as those around us. It is up to each to decide for ourselves if we will let go of our long-held mistaken ideas of God to embrace the meek and humble revelation of God's heart brought to us by His Son who alone is the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world.

Jesus explicitly states here that He and the Father are one. This was the sticking point that was too much for the Jews to accept, and as a result they rejected Jesus and crucified Him because they refused to accept that God was no different than this humble, unassuming man who appeared soft on crime and confused about love from their perspective. We face the same crisis and grapple with the same dichotomy. Will we follow the Lamb wherever He leads, or will we refuse Him who speaks from heaven?

Application

What is my relationship to the sea of glass? Can I trust God to keep me on top of it?

How do my perceptions and fears interact to affect my thinking about the fire of God?

Do I really know the peace that passes all understanding, and can that peace elevate me above the threats and feelings so easily aroused during a sudden storm that may catch me by surprise?

Do I know yet what it really means to overcome the feelings and fears that originate with the counterfeit powers of this world?

How much am I still affected by old paradigms of how and why I need to overcome?

Do I still secretly try to affect God's disposition about me, or am I resting in trust of His heart?

How anchored is my spirit in a settled security that I am already in Christ, already loved, valued and have a secure identity from God not based on anything I do or don't do?

Am I overcoming and renouncing the internal lies, fears and unease that threaten to drown me?

What part can I do to live and remain in Christ with God as my Father and rest secure as His child?

I can choose to embrace these truths being brought to my attention as the Spirit speaks life, warnings and brings guidance to my heart. May each of us choose to take more time to soak in the Word of God mediated and brought into our heart by the Spirit of God so we may know Him and live in true love.