4 - Heavenly Counterparts

In many instances in Bible prophecy there is a principle operating which many do not recognize but that is very important.

Principle:  For certain earthly events or objects there is also a corresponding heavenly reality.

The heavenly object or activity is the truest and highest figure while the earthly object or activity is a shadow.

“What is bound on earth is also bound in heaven. .  . .”

There is a heavenly sanctuary after which was designed an earthly sanctuary which was built in the wilderness of Sinai.

• Earthly “messengers” give the messages
• These people have been described in the preceding verses (144,000; Rev. 14:1)‏
• Pictured are “angel actors;” counterparts to the people on earth who proclaim the messages

It is clear when the principle of heavenly counterparts is used:

Satan, the dragon (a heavenly being) works and speaks through the Roman empire (an earthly power) to persecute and tempt just as he spoke through a literal serpent in Eden.

Angels to the Seven Churches

Sometimes pictured as heavenly angels but in each message they are related to the ministers of the churches

Says one Bible writer: 

“God’s ministers are symbolized by the seven stars, which he. . . has under his special care and protection.”  -- E.G. White in Acts of the Apostles, p. 581