The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. – Revelation 1:1 NIV
The Book of Revelation is God’s exclamation point! In it, He reminds us of His Sovereignty and that Satan’s power in this world is only temporary. God is in control and victory is His! He also reminds us that Jesus Christ is coming back to judge the world. This is wonderful news for those that have put their faith in Him alone for salvation, but frightening news for those that choose to deny Him. The Book of Revelation gives us instructions for life while we wait and the hope and assurance that one day God will make everything right. It is the only book in the Bible that promises a blessing to those who read it and take it to heart. (Revelation 1:3)
As we read Revelation, we will learn things that will make us better followers of Christ and inspire us to fulfill our marching orders to share the gospel. Believers should be encouraged by the promises God makes for his children and be ready for Jesus’ return because it could happen at any time. No one knows the day or the hour! (Mark 13:32) We must remember that the fight between good and evil has existed since the serpent’s first temptation in the Garden of Eden and it will continue until Jesus finally establishes His Kingdom. We must tell others about Salvation in Jesus alone because although the words of this book are an encouragement for us, they are a terrifying warning for nonbelievers.
Look, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen. – Revelations 1:7 NIV
When Jesus stood before John with the words of this Revelation, His appearance caused John to fall at his feet. Jesus didn’t look like the images we see on stained glass windows or the portrayals we see in the movies. He stood before John as the mighty and powerful King with a thundering voice and a powerful message. (Revelation 1:12-18) Reading the book of Revelation will transform the way we see our Lord and Savior!
We should not avoid the book of Revelation because it can be hard to understand. There are study Bibles, commentaries and other resources that can help you wade through it. Ask the Holy Spirit to be your guide as you study the Bible. To know the Word of God and the eternal plan revealed in it, you need to read it from beginning to end. The Old Testament and the New Testament. From Genesis to Revelation and everything in between!
