Why Study Revelation?

 

Current Thinking and Encouragement

Setting aside those who love to study and teach biblical prophecy, here is the thinking of most pastors. Revelation and end-times prophecy is just too confusing and tends to cause arguments and divisions. So, it is best to just avoid it and trust that god will work out everything in due time. While I understand these concerns I disagree with their conclusions.

It is important to read and study Revelation. God would not have included it in the Bible and all scripture is important and profitable to us all. Enough said, let's proceed.

One additional thought. While I certainly do not understand everything in Revelation, I personally believe that it is not as complicated as people make it out to be. There are some reasons for this that we will deal with later. I wanted to say this now to encourage you and promote your courage to dive in head first. The journey will be rewarding and inspiring.

Why Study Prophecy?

Consider these reasons.

• All of God's Word is to be understood. (2 Timothy 3:16) All scripture is inspired and profitable. Enough said.

• We are challenged to live Godly lives until Christ’s return. (1 Peter 1:13-16; 1 Peter 4:7-11) There is so much more to the study of end-times prophecy than getting the timeline right. Get ready to be blessed.

• We are challenged to prepare for persecution and even martyrdom. (John 15:18-25; Matthew 24:9) Most Christians (especially in the USA) don't want to consider this possibility. Jesus did not promise to spare us from persecution, hatred, and death. In fact, he promised ust the opposite. we need to move past this fear.

• Christ may return soon, and we need to be ready. (1 Thessalonians 5:2,4) Amen.

• It gives us hope for the future. (Titus 2:13) Eternal hope is what sets followers of Jesus from the rest of the world. And Revelation is pumped full of eternal hope. Buckle up.

Why Study the Book of Revelation?

So let's get more specific. There are many wonderful passages about what is coming. Need we set foot inside Revelation? Yes indeed. here is why.

• It explains how God will conclude history.

• It prepares us for Christ’s return.

• We learn about the hope of heaven.

• It leads people to Christ.

• It leads us into worship.

• We will be blessed.

Michael Card is a well-known song writer and musician. He has written and recorded albums focused on books of the Bible. One of them draws it's inspiration from Revelation. It is called, "Unveiled Hope." I encourage you to listen to his songs. Before writing one note, Michael will study the book for up to two years. After spending this time in Revelation his conclusion was that it was a book of worship. I agree!

Our Blessed Hope: The Return of Jesus Christ

In my thinking, the main reason to read and study Revelation is that it provides us with a blessed hope the world does not have and desperately needs. I conclude this installment with these passages. Read them prayerfully.

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, instructing us to deny godlessness and worldly lusts and to live in a sensible, righteous, and godly way in the present age, while we wait for the blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:11-13 CSB)

“Don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if not, I would have told you. I am going away to prepare a place for you. If I go away and prepare a place for you, I will come again and take you to myself, so that where I am you may be also.” (John 14:1-3 CSB)

“So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” (Col 3:1-4 CSB)

Blessings, my friends. During our next time together, we will discuss overcoming challenges that get in our way of understanding this great book. Peace.

Jim Warner