“Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.” —Revelation 1:3
The word ‘Revelation’ is the English equivalent for the original word ‘Apocalypse’ which means to uncover or unveil. As its name suggests, this book reveals things previously hidden or concealed. Revelation 1:1–3 is the prologue to the book. It establishes the authority for the entire writing by stating that this uncovering—this revelation—is from Jesus Christ. The author, John, testifies that what he saw and heard was a message from and about Jesus Christ. This message was given to John by God “to show his servants what must soon take place.” He promises that all who read and obey the words of this prophecy will be blessed.
A prophetic masterpiece, Revelation weaves together three literary types: prophetic, letter, and apocalyptic. It unveils a tapestry of mysteries about the future; about events that “must soon take place” and “will take place later” for “the time is near.” It serves as a solemn warning of the world’s impending end and the certainty of divine judgment. Yet, amidst the gloom, a radiant beam of hope shines through—heaven’s eternal glories await the faithful.
This book leads us through the tumultuous Great Tribulation, the fiery judgment awaiting unbelievers, and the ultimate defeat of Satan and his demonic forces. It outlines the roles of heavenly beings, and the promises made to the saints. Like John, we may struggle to fully comprehend Revelation’s depths. However, the promise of blessing for those who read and heed its message remains a source of inspiration and comfort.
Revelation is a last call to salvation. It is a call to repent and to put one’s trust in Christ alone. The writings of the ‘Apocalypse’ blaze a testimony of God’s goodness, power, and authority that brings hope and assurance, and is a source of comfort for all who follow Jesus, the Lamb upon the throne.
Message Links:
Introduction | Watch the message and use the study guide to learn what the Bible says about it. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Chapter One | Watch the message and use the study guide to learn what the Bible says about it. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Message to the Churches | Watch the message and use the study guide to learn what the Bible says about it. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Message to the Church in Ephesus | Watch the message and use the study guide to learn what the Bible says about it. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Message to the Church in Smyrna | Watch the message and use the study guide to learn what the Bible says about it. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Message to the Church in Pergamum | Watch the message and use the study guide to learn what the Bible says about it. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Message to the Church in Thyatira | Watch the message and use the study guide to learn what the Bible says about it. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Message to the Church in Sardis | Watch the message and use the study guide to learn what the Bible says about it. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Message to the Church in Philadelphia | Watch the message and use the study guide to learn what the Bible says about it. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Message to the Church in Laodicea | Watch the message and use the study guide to learn what the Bible says about it. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
The Rock Church 