Revelation

666. "Revelation"               January 3, 2013
Introduction to Revelation-Part 1

LET IT GLOW

In our local paper this week was a front page feature of a man who served in the U.S. House of Representatives and various committees. He has done many things throughout his political career and his name is well-known in our country. This man was born and raised within twenty miles of my home. He has  a degree from a Christian university and our state law school. Throughout the years, he has maintained his integrity and values while developing an influence within our nation. As I read about this local man, I realized John, who wrote Revelation, had many similiar experiences, was influential in public life, and in his service for his Lord Jesus.

Who is John?
John, nickednamed the "Sons of Thunder," (Mark 3:17) was one of Jesus' disciples and the author of the Gospel of John, as well as 1, 2, and 3 John. 

Where was John?
When John recorded what he saw, he was in exile for his faith on the tiny island of Patmos, which was located about 40 miles off the coast of Asia Minor. Patmos was a small rocky island in the Mediterranean Sea, about 35 miles southwest of Miletus.During the time of the Roman Empire, it was used as a place of banishment.

When did John write Revelation?
About AD 95 or 96, making Revelation one of the last books of the Bible to be written. This was during the reign of the Roman emperor Domitian

What is Revelation?
It is a written record of messages, prophecies, and visions that John personally saw and heard.
(It was through divine inspiration that John wrote.) Revelation is considered a part of the canon of the Bible, since it carries divine authority and is normative for Christian abeliefs and behavior. Although it doesn't quote directly, its 404 verses contain about 550 references to the Old Testament.

Why was Revelation written?
It was written to show believers the things that will take place in the end times, with a view toward exhorting them to repentance and faithfulness. It was written for certain churches in Asia, but intended for other churches of that day and the church universal of all ages. It assurred final victory of Christ as the early church during Roman times experienced much persecution.

[Reference: Swindoll's New Testament Insights on Revelation, Liberty Bible Commentary]

What kind of influence do I have in my community?

LET IT GROW

Unlike most books of the Bible, Revelation contains its own title: The Revelation of Jesus Christ.

In verse 1, we have the fivefold avenue of transmission of the Word is:
the Father to the son to the mediating angel to John the apostle/prophet to God's servants. (Falwell)

LET IT GO

Care, share, declare the Word of God and Jesus.

Tell what Jesus is doing in my life.