Read Revelation 1:1-3
What authority John points to as he opens this final book in the New Testament! We can find peace knowing these words have been prepared by God himself for Jesus to share with us! “This is a revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants the events that must soon take place.” Jesus knew our inquiring minds would be better equipped for life if we had the assurances we’ll find in Revelation. Considering the source of the revelation, we can trust what John is about to reveal to us.
Jesus had told his followers he would return one day. Many times in Jesus’ teachings he shared glimpses into the future. Like us, the disciples were so caught up in the present, looking to the future wasn’t easy. Revelation is an entire book, a gift from God himself, full of messages and revelations of the future involving our King Jesus.
As with all Scripture, it is helpful to understand its purpose, its style, and the audience. For Revelation, we are going to need to use our imaginations in a disciplined way. It would be easy for us to read the texts literally, trying to figure out every detail. That is not the approach we will be taking as we reflect on these passages. John’s visions will intrigue us and even be a bit disturbing. That’s okay. Pray before you read each passage that God will open your eyes to fresh understanding.
As we walk through the Book of Revelation together, David, my pastor husband, has given me some additional resources to use for reference. These are books David has found helpful over the years when teaching about the Book of Revelation to his congregations. They are: Breaking the Code by Bruce Metzger, Joy in our Weakness, by Marva Dawn (our copy is personally autographed by the author), and Revelation and the End of All Things by Craig R. Koester. Have you read any of these books?
It’s no secret the book of Revelation will challenge us. It’s considered apocalyptic literature, meaning it foretells events of the end times. We’ll encounter all sorts of imagery and word pictures that don’t make sense. We’ll tackle the symbolism as we encounter it, seeking God’s message to us. We’ll avoid any “hype” or attempts to add anything to the passages we read based on bad theology floating around the world these days.
I love the promise that opens this book. “God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near.” The LORD wants us to be prepared for what is to come. This is a message we should be sharing with other believers. Many people fear the book of Revelation because it can be confusing. Knowing God wants to bless us for listening and obeying is encouragement for us all.
Let’s pray. LORD, I feel blessed each time I open your word and hear the message you have for me. I know this journey through the book of Revelation will be challenging, but I am invigorated to know you more through each new revelation. Open my eyes so I don’t miss any message you may have for me. I want to be ready when the end time comes. Help me grow closer to you each day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
