Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.
John, the last living of the twelve original disciples of Christ, is the writer of Revelation. He was exiled to the island of Patmos by the Romans because of his witness to Christ. He is all alone waiting and wondering what should happen to him. And finally the Word comes to him. He is called to write what he is told and what he sees. John was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day when he heard a loud voice like a trumpet saying, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last.” When John turned to see the one speaking, this is what he saw:
Seven golden lampstands
One like the Son of Man
Clothed in a garment to his feet and golden band around his chest
Head and hair like wool, white as snow
Eyes like flames of fire
Feet like fine brass
Voice like rushing waters
Right hand held seven stars
Out of his mouth was a double-edged sword
Shined like the sun
Verse one of Revelation tells us that the things written were sent and signified, meaning we cannot fully comprehend the vision. The things John saw were described by symbols to the best of his ability. This makes me think about some of the dreams I have had that I wake up and try to tell. The words just cannot describe it because it doesn’t make sense. Jesus knows that we are human and have finite minds. Only through a true intentional search for truth can we receive revelation of Him. The word of God is all about revealing himself to people. From the very beginning to the very end, the point is the Revelation of Jesus Christ. John was very intentional on that Lord’s Day when his creator spoke to him.
Chapters 2 and 3 is the message Jesus wanted John to send to the seven churches in Asia: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. To each one Jesus wanted to point out their strong points and/or weaknesses. The main message to Ephesus was “you have forsaken your first love.” They had lost the passion. Christianity had become routine. The good thing was that they did not tolerate false teaching. To Smyrna, do not fear the suffering to come. Be faithful and the crown of life will be given to you. To Pergamos, “Repent!” This church was compromising by holding to doctrine of Balaam. Thyatira is commended for its works, but they had accepted sinful behavior. Those who keep to the work of Christ will be given power of nations. Sardis was a church who had made a great name of itself but was called “dead.” They were called to repent. Those who overcome with be given garments of white. To Philadelphia he recognized their faith and perseverance. He wanted to encourage them. He states that he opens doors that no one can shut. And finally was the church of Laodicea. A very independent church and repulsive to the Lord. They too are called to repent. This church was rich and felt fulfilled. This is a danger we must be aware of in our own lives. Each letter to each church is not just to the churches during the time John was writing. The message is for the whole church, the body of Christ.
"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me."
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
