The Book of Revelation - Part 1 by Ps Michael Podhaczky

Over the next few weeks, we will take a brief journey regarding the Book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ as John called it.

“The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John” (Rev 1:1 ESV).

We may have experienced that, whenever the book of Revelation is mentioned controversy seems to be just around the corner. It is just that kind of book, which has been controversially provocative. However, regardless of the theories, controversies and mysteries, one thing is true; these will all fall away into insignificance when Jesus Christ comes again. Jesus and His second coming are far more important than theories, controversies and mysteries, as John declared in the introduction,

“Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of Him. Even so. Amen” (Rev 1:7 ESV).

When it comes to the book, one thing stands out; it has been used for all sorts of opinions and ideas, some crazy others deceitful and some more helpful and biblical. It has constantly been misused down through history by individuals and groups. As it has been said,

“The Revelation-inspired end-times antics among some Christian groups make those in the mainline wince. While not willing to deny all connection with the book, many in the mainline treat revelation like the distant cousin who does not quite fit in with the rest of the family. They prefer not to talk too much about it or invite it to family gatherings more often than necessary.”[1]

The aim of these few blogs is to, seek to try to demystify the book. in doing this, the reader will be encouraged to be more contextual, responsible and holistic in their reading and rereading of the Revelation. On this matter let us heed a helpful piece of advice. Where it makes sense for the passage or illustration to be interpreted as literal, then it probably is literal. However, when it does not make sense for the passage or illustration to be interpreted as literal, then it possibly is figurative or symbolic. There are those who are sceptical, or demeaning of the book, while there are others who are fearful of its contents. So, be encouraged to prayerfully and thoughtfully read and study it to lessen any biblical illiteracy and bring better illumination as you read it.

·         So, if someone were to ask you, as a Christ-follower, what you believe concerning the Revelation, what would you say to them?

·         Have you read Revelation? Would you know where to start and what to look for in it?

·         Maybe you have heard somethings regarding the Revelation how would you know if it is a fact or fiction?

Pause in His presence for a moment and think this over…

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[1] Koester, Craig. Revelation and the End of All Things. (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2001), 32.