Finally, we get to jump feet first into Revelation! In chapter 1, we see the beginning of John’s vision from God.
God gave this revelation to John through an angel. God explained that the purpose of His vision, and thus the book of Revelation, is that its readers would know what would soon take place and that they would be blessed for reading and applying the truth in the book. Blessings come from reading, hearing, and applying God’s Word to our daily lives.
The message of the prophecy is found in verse 7 – Jesus will come in the clouds. Because we know Jesus will return to take us home to heaven, we don’t need to fear today. Our future is secure in God.
In verse 9, John describes when and where he was when he received the vision. John was exiled on the island of Patmos because he shared the Gospel. John received this vision from God on the Sabbath Day. He would have been praying, worshipping, and thinking about God. He would have been in a position of being ready to hear from God. John heard a voice like a trumpet behind him. He turned around and saw Jesus as the glorified Messiah. John immediately fell to his face in worship.
The first part of John’s vision is seven golden lampstands, which represent the seven churches. Jesus was standing among the lampstands holding seven stars that represent the church leaders. This shows that Jesus is with His church and knows exactly what is happening to it. He held the church and its leaders in His hands. He also holds us in His hands!
Things to Think About
- When considering the end times, we must be anchored in biblical truth not our own opinions and conjecture.
- Do I read God’s Word? Do I listen to God’s Word? Do I apply God’s Word?
- Is the return of Christ good news for you? Are you ready and watching for Jesus’ return? Are you living in obedience to God as you wait for Jesus’ return?
- How often do we put ourselves in a position of being ready to hear from God?
- I cannot slip through a crack or be overlooked because God knows me and sees me.
This Week’s Memory Verse
“Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all peoples on earth will mourn because of him. So shall it be! Amen.” Revelation 1:7 NIV
Which one do you go to?