“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:
Chapter Four: The Throne of Heaven | Use the study guide to read what the Bible says about it and watch the message. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Chapter Five: The Scroll, The Lamb, and The New Song | Use the study guide to read what the Bible says about it and watch the message. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Chapter Six: The Six Seals | Use the study guide to read what the Bible says about it and watch the message. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Chapter Seven: The Sealed and The Saved | Use the study guide to read what the Bible says about it and watch the message. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Chapter Eight: The Seventh Seal | Use the study guide to read what the Bible says about it and watch the message. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Chapter 8-16: Viewer Discretion Advised | Use the study guide to read what the Bible says about it and watch the message. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Chapter 17-19: Babylon and Armageddon | Use the study guide to read what the Bible says about it and watch the message. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
Chapter 20-22: The Good Stuff! | Use the study guide to read what the Bible says about it and watch the message. Share your thoughts and takeaways here!
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