Lightning is linked to prophecy several times in the New Testament.
Jesus used lightning in his famous Mount Olivet prophecies to underscore the suddenness and universality of his return. He also used it to help those in the end time combat the many false prophets who will profess a unique prophetic understanding.
"So if anyone tells you, 'There he is, out in the desert,' do not go out; or, 'Here he is, in the inner rooms,' do not believe it. For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man" (Matthew 24:26 - 27).
* Before the Throne *
The Apostle John, after conveying Jesus' message to Revelation's seven churches, is transported in spirit to God's throne. He then witnesses lightning which is symbolic of God's power and majesty.
"And proceeding from the throne were lightnings and thunders and voices; and seven lamps of fire, which are the seven spirits of God . . ." (Revelation 4:5).
* Day of the Lord *
Prophecy's seventh seal, when opened, causes a deafening silence in heaven for a short period of time (Revelation 8:1). This seal symbolizes the start of the dreaded Day of the Lord!
Seven angels are then given a trumpet which, when sounded, heralds various punishments upon mankind. Just before the first trumpet plays, however, an angel performs an usual ceremony that involves lightning.
"And the angel took the censer, and filled it with fire from the altar, and cast it into the earth; and there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings, and an earthquake" (Revelation 8:5).
* It Is Finished! *
Lightning will play an active role in drawing attention to a major part of prophecy being fulfilled by God.
"Then the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and a loud voice came out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, "IT IS FINISHED." And there were voices and thunders and lightnings . . ." (Revelation 16:17 - 18).
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