When I say the word Apocalypse to you what image do you have in your head? Doom? Destruction? Nuclear devastation?
The title of the last book of the Bible is “The Apokalupsis of Jesus Christ.” “Revelation” is the translation of the Greek noun, apokalupsis, meaning not disastrous death but a disclosure, an unveiling.” The term “revelation” itself means “to reveal or unveil that which has previously been hidden”. Like the pulling back of the curtain to see the real wizard of OZ.
The Book of Revelation is THE BOOK of HOPE for the believer which offers a promise, a plan and a value to reading it.
“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near” Revelation 1:3
The Promise—Blessing
“Blessed” means more than happy. This is a promise of the happiness, spiritual blessing, and joy that will come from knowing and responding to the truth of the book. There are seven beatitudes in Matt. 5:3, the word “blessed” appearing 7 times in the book of Revelation.
“Blessed” means more than happy. This is a promise of the happiness, spiritual blessing, and joy that will come from knowing and responding to the truth of the book. There are seven beatitudes in Matt. 5:3, the word “blessed” appearing 7 times in the book of Revelation.
The Plan—Study and Application
“He who reads.” Note that this is singular while the next clause, “those who hear,” is plural. This reflects the early form of worship and one of God’s primary plans for taking in the Word. The Scripture was publicly read to the congregation. The early church didn’t have a large number of copies of the Scripture nor any books of the New Testament when they were received, so they would be read and undoubtedly also, expounded on by the pastor and teachers given to the body.
“He who reads.” Note that this is singular while the next clause, “those who hear,” is plural. This reflects the early form of worship and one of God’s primary plans for taking in the Word. The Scripture was publicly read to the congregation. The early church didn’t have a large number of copies of the Scripture nor any books of the New Testament when they were received, so they would be read and undoubtedly also, expounded on by the pastor and teachers given to the body.
“And those who hear.” In this we see the responsibility of the flock to hear and respond.
“And heed the things …” “Heed” is to apply, obey.” In this context, the main idea is that of personal application with obedience. The book of James warns us to be not just hearers of the word but doers of it. (James 1:22)
The Value—Its Timeliness
“For the time is near.” “Time” is kairos and refers to a definite season or period of time, but one that is marked out by its contents or characteristics. The time in mind is the time of Christ’s return marked out by all that will happen just before, during, and after His return. The value of this book is that it provides orientation to the times, motivation to ministry, godliness, comfort, instruction and sharing the good news with others.
“For the time is near.” “Time” is kairos and refers to a definite season or period of time, but one that is marked out by its contents or characteristics. The time in mind is the time of Christ’s return marked out by all that will happen just before, during, and after His return. The value of this book is that it provides orientation to the times, motivation to ministry, godliness, comfort, instruction and sharing the good news with others.
Beginning TONIGHT I will be teaching a study on God’s final chapter of His Word. Join us at C3 for Worship at 6:30 and Study/Discussion starting at 7pm, Child care is available.
I hope to see you at C3 tonight.
Your pastor and partner in ministry,
Kyle
A Study of Revelation with PK
Thursdays (TONIGHT)
Worship 6:30
Study/Discussion 7pm
Child care available
Worship 6:30
Study/Discussion 7pm
Child care available
Want to play and help C3 regain the traveling trophy for having the most golfers among churches? Email me TODAY at kyle@celebratejesus.org
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