WHAT’S THE ATTRACTION? (VC-11) Despite all the talk about the end of time, the “beast” in Bible prophecy, Armageddon, and the 144,000, MOST CHRISTIANS have NEVER READ the entire book of REVELATION! Most do not know what is contained in its 22 chapters. And yet, so many speak as though they are dead-sure about the meaning of the “bits and pieces” that they have read. That’s quite amazing! So, to begin the New Year, I have decided to share excerpts from my new book “Victory in Christ: A Christ-centered Approach to the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.” This work takes a close look at Revelation’s “opening story” (chapters 1-7), which is the foundation of Revelation’s visions. It’s my goal this year is to make Revelation more personal and relevant for you and me. After all, it is the “revelation of Jesus Christ,” and it was given to us so that we may prepare to see Him! Let’s begin. *** “I have always been captivated with the book of Revelation. Perhaps it’s the bizarre symbols and puzzle-like character that first captured my interest.” (Victory in Christ, p. 11) I like puzzles, which may explain why I like to watch a magic trick (it’s a puzzle without the explanation or “secret”). Likewise, many of us are intrigued with a “mystery”—a “Who done it?” in the news or on a television program. I think we’re all interested in puzzles, in one form or another. And this may explain why the Revelation was written the way it is. Bear in mind, Revelation was NOT written for Bible scholars. It was given to the church to be read to the common people—tent-makers, mothers, street food vendors, farmers, etc. (Rev. 1:3-4; cf. 2:7). Revelation’s poetic style and symbols, then, was not intended to make the visions difficult to understand. Rather, these add to and compliment the letters straight-forward messages. Let’s be honest, even a child can read Revelation and understand the gist of it—it’s from Jesus, to His churches, describing the trials that will come, how Jesus will intervene in the end and sin will be destroyed, and that we will live with Him forever! How difficult is that? So here are a few questions for you, as we begin a new year: *How would you rate your interest in Bible prophecy, on a scale from 1 to 10? *What about the book of Revelation, in particular? *Could or should your interest be stronger? Explain. It’s my prayer that each post will give you reason to reflect more deeply on your relationship with Jesus Christ this coming year. Revelation is His revelation. He already knows you—He wants you to know Him better! May you have a most blessed 2015!
Posted on: Thu, 01 Jan 2015 13:55:51 +0000
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