Revelation 1:1-3

The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw.  Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near.

As we embark on the study of this final book of the New Testament, we do so with the recognition that this is not an easy or uncontroversial task.  There are many ways this book has been interpreted throughout the history of the church.  I’m certain this will not be any sort of definitive work and that it will disappoint those who would interpret the text differently.  My hope is that we will all learn and grow through the process.  We can always learn from those with who we disagree.  That being said, here are some truths about this Revelation from God.

A REVELATION OF CHRIST: The book of Revelation is truly a revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ.  The comings of Christ revealed in the Old Testament were generally understood as the coming of Messiah.  Clearly, upon closer examination there were prophecies about Christ in the Old Testament that revealed a suffering Servant as well as a conquering King.  The latter was certainly more attractive than the former to a nation that was suffering under oppression.  In the incarnation, Christ came to pay the price for our sin through His crucifixion.  We now look forward to the second coming of Christ which will reveal Him as King of kings and Lord of lords.  The purpose of this book is to give us information about how this revelation of Christ will take place.  

A REVELATION TO JOHN: This revelation of Christ was made known to the Apostle John who walked with Jesus on this earth and gave witness of Him wherever he went.  God sent an angel to reveal these truths to John and clarify his understanding of what the plans of God are concerning the return of Jesus.  John is a man with an established record of faithfulness to the Word of God and to Jesus.  He was the only disciple who was at the crucifixion.  His message can be trusted as he was chosen by God for this purpose.

A REVELATION FOR BLESSING: There is a promised blessing for all who read, hear, and keep this prophecy.  It truly is a blessing to understand the Word of God.  This is not an easy book to comprehend, but we must do our best.  We should read it carefully, listen closely to what is being said, and then make application to our lives.  This attitude before the Scriptures provides a source of great blessing to us.  Understanding this book should cause us to worship the Lord in humility, not become arrogant in our knowledge.

APPLICATION: Seek to understand Christ and learn about His return to reign as King.  Follow the example of John as a faithful witness of the Lord Jesus Christ.  Read, hear, and obey the message of Scripture in general but Revelation specifically as a means of experiencing the blessing of God.

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