Kingdoms Of The World

Matthew 4:8-9 – Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to him, "All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me." (ESV)

Revelation 5:2 – And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming with a loud voice, "Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?" (ESV)

Revelation 10:1-2 – Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven, wrapped in a cloud, with a rainbow over his head, and his face was like the sun, and his legs like pillars of fire. He had a little scroll open in his hand. And he set his right foot on the sea, and his left foot on the land. (ESV)

My Thursday evening Bible group is studying the Book of Revelation. Recently, we discussed the incredible actions of the angelic being in chapter ten. While this messenger is identified as a "mighty angel", some believe that the amazing description of him is befitting of Christ Himself. Regardless, everyone agreed that it is a powerful image, reminding us that the earth is the Lord's — every drop of water, every grain of sand.

In contrast, the Bible tells us that although "Satan, who is the god of this world" (2 Corinthians 4:4a NLT), was defeated at the cross, nevertheless, "the whole world lies in the power of the evil one" (1 John 5:19b ESV). For that reason, the enemy took Jesus to a very high mountain and showed Him all the beautiful lands, municipalities, and glorious kingdoms. He attempted to entice the Lord into worshipping him, coaxing Him to take authority, and to seek the glory of political power, bypassing the cross.

Thankfully, because of Jesus' great love for us, He rejected Satan's offer, being obedient to His Father's will. Even so, people from every nation and tongue continue to pray, "Thy kingdom come." Believers know that the day will come when the Lamb of God opens the scroll, and the angel steps foot on land and sea to announce the One Who will take back what rightfully belongs to Him.

Reflecting on the temptations of Christ, how much more will the devil tempt us with the ways of the world! Yet, the victory has already been won. Therefore, while we prepare to celebrate Easter, let us offer a sacrifice of praise to God — praise for all that Jesus has accomplished and all that He will accomplish as we await the hope of His glorious kingdom.

Prayer: Lord, we give You praise, for You have defeated our most dangerous enemy, the devil. Through Your death and victory over the grave, You have won our freedom, our peace, and our hope. We look forward to the day when "the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever." (Revelation 11:15b ESV). In Jesus' mighty name, we pray. Amen.

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