Adult Class
March-June 2006
Revelation
Lesson 3
The book of Revelation must be read differently from other Bible books because it is a different kind of literature. We have looked at several things that will help us understand the book correctly and now we are ready to approach the text of the book.
The very first word of the book is "revelation," which warns us that this is not supposed to be an obscure mystery. The book pronounces a blessing on both the reader of the book and the hearer! We are reminded that the "time is near." The book is written primarily about events that will soon take place. We must not lose sight of that fact as we survey the splendid visions in this work.
The book is written in the form of an epistle, with a rather standard opening that contains an author (John), an addressee (the seven churches in Asia that are listed here), and a greeting. Then there follows a doxology (a praise) and a declaration of Jesus' authority over the entire world. This serves to preview the whole purpose of the book-the world will indeed bow before the Lord.
The rest of the first chapter is devoted to the background of John's writing. He is in distress, exiled because of the testimony about Jesus. On Sunday he is "in the Spirit" when he hears a dramatic message: "Write what you see." He is commanded to write to seven churches listed for him. When he turned, he saw a splendid character that glows like the sun, dressed in glorious clothing, moving among seven lampstands, with seven stars in His hand. He identifies Himself as: the first and the last, the one who was dead yet lives forever and ever, and the one who holds the keys of death and Hades (the realm of the dead). The identification can only apply to Jesus. John is then commanded to write what he has seen (what was), what is now, and what is to be.
Letters to the churches:
The letters to the seven churches follow a standard pattern. They begin with a salutation, they refer to the good characteristics of the church (if any), they refer to the bad characteristics of the church (if any) and then close with an exhortation and promise. Watch for distress and persecution in the letters-that is the situation that calls forth this revelation from God!
Ephesus is commended for its work, perseverance and faithfulness to God. Further, the church is honored for its endurance in hardship. However, there is a problem. The church had forsaken the love it had at the beginning. We may remember that a generation earlier, Paul had warned the elders of this church to be on their guard against false teachers (Acts 20:17-35). Apparently, they had taken that message to heart and had become somewhat harsh and judgmental. They were commanded by Christ to remember their former height and repent. Otherwise, their lampstand (church) will be removed. The exhortation is to heed what is said and the promise is one of eternal life in heaven.
Smyrna is reassured that the Lord knows their problems: afflictions, poverty and slander. Their enemies gathered in an assembly of evil, not a true synagogue. Here there is a plain prediction of a brief, but violent, persecution of the church. The Christians are urged to remain faithful even to the point of death and they are promised a crown (symbol of victory) of life. Those who overcome are further promised that they will not participate in the second death (Hell). Smyrna was important as an emperor shrine. The city officials first built a shrine to "ROMA" in 195 B.C.! They deified Julius Caesar four months after his murder, dedicated a temple to Augustus and won a contest (!) to build a temple to Tiberius. Emperor worship practically began at Smyrna.
Pergamum is reminded that Jesus has the power of life and death-the sword. He commends the church for their faithfulness and steadfastness even when a member of the church was killed. They are truly on enemy territory-and they have some problems as a result. They have some who disregard the example of eating food sacrificed to idols, and who indulge in sexual immorality. Jesus likens their influence to that of Balaam-who brought incredible destruction upon Israel in the Exodus. Those who persist in that sin will be judged by Christ, but those who overcome will gain life everlasting. It is worth noting that Pergamum was also a center of emperor worship.
Thyatira was well known for its metal work, with foundries and forges-and Jesus appears as fire and bronze. He commends the church for its work, its love, its perseverance and its growth. However, the church is infected with the influence of a woman who taught the servants of God to eat what was offered to idols and also to consider sexual immorality of no consequence. Jesus promises to judge her and those who consort with her. Those who reject her teaching Jesus urges to "hold on." Those who overcome will gain great authority.
Sardis was an ancient fortress city that was practically impossible to invade. It had only happened twice in its history-and both times came at night when the watchmen were all asleep! Jesus points out that their reputation is not matched by their substance. They are urged to remember and repent. He further notes that some have remained pure. If anyone else will overcome, he also will be found in the book of life.
Philadelphia is commended as a mighty small church. They had little to work with but they kept the Lord's word and did not deny Him. The Lord promises to protect them from the trial which is coming over the world. They are urged to hold on and they are promised to be included in the Temple of God-which is in heaven. This church is blessed and the Lord reveals no negative characteristics about it.
Laodicea was a city near mineral springs that were very hot and very cold. The Lord characterized this church as nauseating. He knew their deeds and they were all bad. The city was rich economically, but the church was in complete spiritual poverty. Jesus demands that they repent and offers to invite victorious saints to come and reign with Him on His heavenly throne. This church is clearly in serious trouble as they became too cozy with the culture and left the testimony of Christ behind.
Each of the churches was exhorted to be faithful to Jesus, no matter what might come in the future. He knew that persecution was imminent and that His people needed to be encouraged to steadfastness. The first part of the revelation is a pointed call for all disciples to be immovable in their commitment to Jesus Christ. Things are about to become more difficult.