Revelation Realities
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Revelation Realities
1. Revelation Uses Unusual Means to Reveal an Unusual Message
Revelation 1:1 tells us this is "the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place." This is an unveiling—an apocalypse. While the word "apocalypse" often conjures images of destruction, its original meaning is "to uncover" or "to reveal." This book is meant to make things clear, not obscure.
It is also a prophecy (Revelation 1:3), not just foretelling future events but also declaring what is true now. Revelation describes the kingdom of God not only as something to come but something present.
Finally, it is a letter (Revelation 1:4), written by John to real churches in Asia. These weren’t scholars or elites; they were everyday believers hearing the message read aloud in their gatherings. The book was written with the expectation that they could understand it.
2. Revelation Requires Us to Look to Context
Historical Context
To rightly understand Revelation, we must first ask: what did it mean to its original audience? Only then can we bridge to our own application. A text cannot mean what it never meant. Revelation was written to first-century believers facing persecution, compromise, and confusion. We interpret it best when we start there.
Biblical Context
Revelation contains over 500 allusions to other scriptures, especially in the Old Testament. Understanding those connections is crucial. First-century Christians knew their Bibles well and could recognize these references. We must let scripture interpret scripture.
3. Revelation Expands the Way We Read the Bible
Revelation belongs to a genre called apocalyptic literature. This style uses vivid symbols, numbers, and images to convey truth. Sometimes those elements are literal, sometimes symbolic. Discerning which is which contributes to the variety of interpretive views:
Major Interpretive Approaches
Preterist: Everything in Revelation was fulfilled in the early centuries.
Historicist: The events are fulfilled progressively through church history.
Futurist: Most of Revelation (especially chapters 4 onward) describes future events.
Idealist: Revelation symbolically depicts the ongoing struggle between good and evil.
Eclectic: Combines elements from multiple views, with discernment.
These views influence how one reads and applies the text. While debate exists, Revelation was never meant to divide God’s people. Humility and grace should define our approach.
4. Revelation Encourages Humble Engagement
We live in a culture that struggles to disagree well. Revelation invites discussion, not division. Some Christians were taught only one view as absolute truth. But studying scripture with an open heart may reveal more nuance than previously understood. Believers with different interpretations will worship side by side in eternity. Our unity in Christ is greater than our eschatological differences.
Understanding what you believe and why it matters is important, but holding that belief humbly is essential. This series seeks to equip and encourage without arrogance.
5. Revelation Exalts God and His Purposes
Revelation 1:4–8 shows us a God who is eternal and sovereign:
He is "him who is and who was and who is to come."
Jesus is "the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on Earth."
The Holy Spirit is described as "the seven spirits before his throne," a symbolic picture of perfection and completeness.
Revelation is rich with praise for God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jesus is glorified and exalted throughout. He is not just the baby in a manger but the ruling, reigning King.
6. Revelation Anticipates Jesus' Return
Revelation 1:7 declares, "Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him." This is a foundational truth of the Christian hope. While details about timing and sequence may differ among views, we must not lose sight of the core promise: Jesus is coming back.
We can easily get distracted by trying to fit everything into charts and timelines. But the main point is not when or how—it's who. Jesus will return in glory. Let that truth stir worship more than speculation.
7. Revelation Brings Blessing
Revelation 1:3 promises blessing to those who read, hear, and keep what is written. And it’s not the only beatitude in the book—there are seven such blessings, a number symbolizing perfection.
One of the overarching blessings is hope. Revelation reminds believers that God is on the throne—not one day, but now. For those facing persecution, hardship, or confusion, this truth brings strength. For us today, amid our own trials, it offers the same encouragement: God reigns, and he is working out his purposes.
Revelation is not just about the future. It speaks to today. It prepares us for what's ahead while strengthening us where we are. And as we study it together, may it lead us to worship, to clarity, and to deeper trust in the one who is, who was, and who is to come.
SERMON DETAILS
Speaker: Jeff McNicol
Series: Revelation
Sermon Title: Revelation Realities
Date: Jan 21, 2024
SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
Revelation 1:1–8
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