Hello! I am Jon Paulien and I’m glad you came to this page to check out my work. I am a New Testament scholar and Professor of Religion at Loma Linda University. On this website you will find a collection of my articles, commentary on Revelation, and links to my blog, videos, and other resources. Make sure you check the articles link above regularly to see the latest postings. In my hand above is an exact replica of p52, the earliest extant New Testament manuscript fragment, containing portions of John, chapter 18. Centered above my head is a replica of ancient Greek pottery. At either end above are two sets of books from, and about, my favorite spiritual author, Ellen G. White. I hope you enjoy the site.

Daily Devotional For September 6, 2026

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And another angel, a second one, followed, saying, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the Great, who has forced all the nations to drink from the wine of the wrath of her fornication. Rev 14:8.

           The Chinese people, being Northern Asian, are very efficient, business-like people. At Chinese airports the planes leave and arrive early and the service is always quick and efficient. Chinese people tend to be quiet in public and do not usually approach or talk to people they do not know. Once “the ice is broken,” though, the Chinese people are friendly and very eager to talk to foreigners.
           In contrast to Northern Asians, the Southern Asians tend to be more relaxed and always ready with a quick smile and pleasant hello. They are not so time conscious but are more relationship oriented. Despite living in deprived circumstances most of the time, they almost always convey a sweet and tender spirit.¹
           An exception to this general rule is Singapore, a steamily tropical place with several million transplanted Chinese people. Although most Singaporean Chinese were born and raised in the country, they retain the businesslike efficiency of their northern relatives.
           While it may take centuries, it does seem that the latitude people live in deeply affects their culture. The colder latitudes produce a more reserved people while the warmer southern latitudes have nurtured the development of a more relaxed culture. Circumstances alter cases.
           There are two sides to the God of the Bible. In the Old Testament climate we find at times the stern God of Uzzah and the Gibeonites. In the climate of New Testament times God comes as a gentle lamb. But in Revelation both pictures of God are portrayed together. The Lamb is also a Lion (Rev 5:5-6). The gospel of Jesus Christ has two sides to it. On the one hand is the free offer of full acceptance with God. On the other hand, there is a penetrating analysis of human depravity and its consequences. While God desires the salvation of all, the climate of the End will require corrective action.
           The message of our text goes against the grain. The whole world worships the beast (Rev 13:8). The message of God’s angels (Rev 14:6-12) will counter the voices of Hollywood, CNN and the major universities. The good news is that judgment is proclaimed before it is completed (Rev 14:7). There is still an opportunity to avoid its personal consequences. The condemnation of Babylon is not so much bad news as a last opportunity to hear and follow the good news! God cares enough to give us every opportunity to repent before it is too late.

           Lord, help me to lay aside everything that keeps me from hearing Your voice today. I choose to submit to Your will without reservation.

¹ Inspired by an email from Jim Park, November 7, 2004.