Last Things
An important principle of Bible interpretation stands out in the first book of the Bible, Genesis. It is the principle of “First Mention.” The first time any doctrine is mentioned in the Bible is significant because it sets the foundation for the further mentions of that doctrine later in Scripture.
In a similar manner, an important principle of Bible interpretation stands out in the last book of the Bible, Revelation. It is the principle of “Final Mention.” The last time a particular doctrine is mentioned in Scripture is significant because it provides the final Divine revelation concerning that doctrine. These “final mentions” of previously revealed truths ought to be studied carefully so as to fully understand them. Following are examples of “final mentions” in the book of Revelation.
The Devil (20:10)- The final mention of the devil reveals that he will be cast into the Lake of Fire and Brimstone, and tormented there day and night for ever and ever.
Night (21:25; 22:5)- The final mention of night in Scripture reveals that there shall be no night in the New Jerusalem…Heaven.
Death and Hell (20:14)- The last mention of death and hell reveals that they will also be cast into the Lake of Fire.
David (22:16)- This last mention of the beloved king of Israel is associated with a title for the Lord Jesus Christ. He is spoken of as the Root and the Offspring of David.
Pain (21:4)- The last mention of pain, tears, sorrow and crying reveals that for the redeemed these will be gone forever.
Angels
Angelic beings are mentioned in this book probably more than in all the rest of the Bible taken together. Holy angels of God are very prominent in this book, and the fallen angels who are allied with Satan are spoken of numerous times as well.
The Holy Angels
1) Millions of them worshipping the Lord 5:11 ff.
2) Sealing and protecting the people of God 7:3
3) Sounding the Trumpets of God’s judgments 8:7 ff.
4) Engaged in War in Heaven 12:7
5) Preaching the everlasting Gospel 14:6 ff.
6) Pouring out the last plagues on the earth 16:2 ff.
7) Ushering the apostle through the various revelations granted to him 17:1-3, etc.
8) Binding Satan 20:1-3
9) Giving the book of Revelation to John 1:1; 22:6-8
The Fallen Angels
1) Millions of them set free to torment men on the earth 9:1 ff.
2) Engaged in War in Heaven 12:7
3) Being cast out of heaven 12:9
4) Working miracles 16:14
5) Inhabiting Babylon 18:2
It is interesting to note that prior to the events revealed in the book of Revelation, the last time angels were so prominent was during the days of the first advent of Christ. It is evident that the first and the second comings of the Lord Jesus Christ are times of great activity in the realm of spirit beings. Jesus Christ is, after all, the Lord of Hosts.