Reading for July 7th

 Read Revaluation 14.1-5. In 14.1-5: The Lamb and the 144,000. Now we see the Lamb's battle preparation. Mount Zion is the place from which deliverance comes (Ps 14.7; Isa 59.20). For the one hundred forty-four thousand, see 7.4; on the meaning of forehead, see 13.16. In verses 2-3:The voice evokes the opening vision (1.15); the throne scene recalls the second vision (4.2), It is a new song because it belongs the new age. In verse 4: The characterization of these warriors as those who have not defiled themselves with women, for they are virgins is primarily a spiritual description, (contrast 2.20; 14.8). Holy war demanded ceremonial purity (Lev 15.16-32). Still, the idea shares in the ancient notion that women are corrupt and corrupting. First fruits was an offering (Lev2.14). In verse 5: Blameless is literally without blemish--the requirement for sacrificial animal (Lev 1.3). Comments or Questions..