Along The Shore

Revelation 6 & 7     Kathy Carlson

The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. 1 Corinthians 2:14 NIV

As we begin to wade into the deeper waters of the book of Revelation, I find myself more and more dependent on prayer for understanding and discernment.  Like a child stepping forward with trepidation into the shallow lick of water along the border where the shore surrenders and recedes into the depths of the waters of the brackish, beckoning ocean, I find myself moving forward along the shore of the book of Revelation carefully.  In a moment, I realize I am in the midst of the deep waters of the story of how the story ends.  The safety of the shore, of things I can grasp and understand, has pulled away.  I am in over my head.

In this place I find my pride is on the line.  What if I get it wrong?  What if I comment on something and it turns out I am entirely off-base?  How deeply do I need to delve into commentaries and other sources to “get it right”?  How do I handle the Word of God with the utmost respect (it’s ALIVE and ACTIVE!) and where do I surrender in humble recognition that some knots of understanding will only be untied in the presence of the Lamb?  

This I know.  I adore the Word of God.  I love every confusing, mysterious, comforting and dividing word - straight down into the very punctuation that helps this stumbling reader pause and stop all together to meditate on a smaller thing, a lesser point.  I love delving into various translations that represent years of dedicated mining of this treasure given to us by God through the Holy Spirit.

It’s a rich comfort to me that each time the Word of God rises up in my heart, comes to mind or is opened before me, the Holy Spirit is present as well.  Any insight, any understanding is a gift offered by God’s Spirit.  So my prayer today as I swim in the sea of the opening of the seven seals is that I would be lovingly led to understand the things I am meant to understand and to humbly surrender to the depths the things that belong to the mind of God alone.  No matter how deep the water seems, the shore is ever below, undergirding, ever below. 

Finally

Revelation 4 & 5     Eric Boberg

I'm often amazed at advertising's over-use of the word "finally." They will imply that we, along with all our friends and neighbors, long for some little nuanced product that until now has not been available. This could be a special car, a new form of cream cheese, a razor with one more blade, or organic cat litter. The actual modification to existing products is always surprisingly small. It's not like they are touting something equivalent to the first light bulb, micro chip or even velcro. Watching such an ad, I often find myself talking back to the TV, at least in my mind. No I have not been anxiously waiting for product XZY that is now "finally" here; a cure for cancer sure, world peace yes, but not something that's slightly easier to spread on my toast. I just don't care.

But here in Revelation 5 is something that the whole world has been waiting for as long as men and women have walked the earth. Not only that, but it has been God's intention to give them exactly what they need - something they could never provide for themselves. And He intends to do it free of charge.

In this part of Revelation there is great concern in heaven. Great concern for the entire human race. No one is able to open the most sacred of all writings.

 2 And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?” 3 But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth could open the scroll or even look inside it. 4 I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside.

But then there is this blast or hope.

5 Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.”

And later there is this:

And they sang a new song, saying:

“You are worthy to take the scroll
    and to open its seals,
because you were slain,
    and with your blood you purchased for God
    persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.

This whole passage is amazing in so many ways, but what really stands out to me is the inclusiveness of God's love and his plan. I have found myself saying just part of that verse over and over to myself this week: "persons from every tribe and language and people and nation." The family that God calls to himself is incredibly different. They don't look the same or speak the same or have the same form of government. They don't live in the same types of houses and towns or villages. They eat different food and wear different clothes. If you put them all in a room, and somehow they could communicate, someone looking on might think they would have nothing in common, nothing to talk about. But that is so far from the reality. They have something larger that transcends all other things. They have the same Father. They have Jesus the Lamb of God. And we know that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. It's all because of Jesus, the only one in the world who was worthy. The only sinless man. The only one with enough love to die for people who didn't deserve it; that's us, you and me along with all the other tribes languages, peoples and nations. Not only that but Rev 5 states that eventually, when the totality of who Jesus is and what he has done is made known, every creature in heaven and earth and under the earth will worship him. It will not be worship by compulsion, I think, but from revelation.

Jesus, finally - yes finally - Jesus, a Savior for the whole world!

Worthy Is The Lamb

Revelation 4 & 5     Peter Nordell

Many scholars have searched the meanings of the creatures which John saw in his vision. However, I am not going to pretend I can give any insight.

As God holds the book of life, a mighty angel is searching for one worthy to open it. "Weep no more; behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah...he can open the scroll."  He, Jesus, picked up the scroll and the living creatures, along with thousands of thousands, sang a new song: "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain."

Jesus, the Lamb of God, is the only one worthy to open the scroll and everyone for eternity will fall down and worship him. Praise God.

It's Gonna Be Good!

Revelation 4 & 5     Tim Anderson

Mind conjures questions; Heart reveals response.

As I read the text for this week, my mind is filled with more questions than responses.  Honestly, it is too easy for me to get caught up in thoughts like: what is the significance of all the eyes; the number of elders; the four creatures and what they look like; the number of wings they have?  So, I will choose to put that aside and give Uncle Bob a chance to explain if he wants. J

Meanwhile, I must recognize that the most important part of this passage (for me) is captured in the atmosphere that John finds himself in – an atmosphere of praise, worship, reverence, beauty, and love.  These are not things of the mind; they are things of the heart.  I’ve found myself in this atmosphere at times here on earth; it’s a wonderful place to be – but it is typically fleeting.  So what will it be like to remain in that atmosphere for all of eternity?

Again, in all honesty, there is something in my human nature that asks questions: is this what Jesus wants – to sit on the throne and be worshipped by everyone and everything for all of eternity? Really? Don’t get me wrong – there’s no doubt that He deserves it; the hard part for me is imagining someone wanting that.  There must be something more?

In my humanness, I know I can’t worship 24/7.  I’m a busy dude.  I have lots of distractions. I get tired.  Part of me wants there to be something else going on, because I love life, people, and all of God’s creation.  Perhaps the hang-up is that I can’t imagine my spirit in the heavenly sense – not yet anyway. Maybe that will come with time.  Truth is, I love all of what He has given me here on earth.  It’s hard to imagine all of that coming to an abrupt end.  I want the good things that we have here on earth to be in heaven as well.  For instance, I imagine Bob, PJ and I experiencing the best fishing we have ever seen – and Jesus is with us, all the while! 

Oops… my mind has gotten busy again.  See how easily that happens?  Time to get back to matters of the heart….

John has given us a glimpse of what heaven might be like.  It’s a splendid picture of a wonderful, beautiful place – that place where we remain in the presence of Jesus forever.  Despite any confusing thoughts or personal selfish desires, my heart knows that heaven will be infinitely better than earth.  And maybe that’s an aspect of John’s heavenly vision that I need to come to grips with – that there isn’t anything earthly about it.

I doubt if I (or any of us, for that matter) will ever really know for sure what heaven will be like - until I (we) am there, but my heart will yearn, and wait expectantly for that day. It’s gonna be good!

Ransom

Revelation 4 & 5     Joel Keller

"Worthy are You to take the scroll and to open its seals, for You were slain, and by Your blood You ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and You have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth."  Rev.5: 9,10

Ransom (noun): 1. a consideration paid or demanded for the release of someone or something from captivity; 2. the act of ransoming.

Ransom (transitive verb): 1. to deliver especially from sin or its penalty; 2. to free from captivity or punishment by paying the price.    [Merriam-Webster iPhone application]

The word ransom always stops me in my tracks.   To me, the word is the absolute embodiment of Jesus.  He was born to die - for us.  He came to defeat the works of the devil, namely to take us back from our enemy.  He triumphed over death, on the Cross.  His death was the price demanded by the Father; Jesus Himself was the perfect Lamb of God - the perfect sacrifice.  Old Testament history now made sense (the sacrificial system); it was the ultimate synergy on a cosmic level.  Yet, the Father didn't stop there: He raised His Son from the dead, annihilating death once and for all.  He paid the price and gifted us with real life; the eternal type.  Now, I can live a new life - empowered daily by You, Holy Spirit - all because the blood of Jesus paid the ransom.  He was the Ransom.  Truly amazing.  I am forever grateful.

I Wept With Disappointment

Revelation 4 & 5    Sue Brennan

"I wept with disappointment because no one anywhere could tell us what the scroll said." Rev 5:4

Watching Rick and Kay Warren on CNN earlier this week, and hearing them weep with agonizing heartache of losing their son to suicide, I was struck with Kay's testimony of how she coped with her unanswered questions. She keeps a box of comforting scriptures and reads them daily, and she also keeps a jar of questions to which she has not received answers. We are instructed to "Put on the whole armor of God so we may stand against all the strategies of the devil...and above all, put on the shield of faith to quench the fiery darts of the adversary." Eph 6:11, 16

Disappointment is part of the normal Christian experience, but left unguarded and unchallenged, it can lead to despair and doubt. John was instructed by one of the elders to stop weeping and then saw the Lion of Judah step forward to open the scroll and break the seals.  By faith, Jesus puts a New Song in our hearts.... "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain.... Blessing and honor and power belong to the One sitting on the throne and to the Lamb for ever and ever." Amen.

Woohoo!

Revelation 4 & 5     Karen Downing

Every morning I wake up with the same song in my head; over and over I hear, “People get ready, Jesus is coming." This has been going on for over a week now and I want to run down the driveway and look up to see if Jesus the Warrior is riding a white horse and coming out of the sky!

So what is this about? 
I ask the Lord every day, “Are you coming Lord?” And I know what the answer is. Yes. He is.
 I feel like He could come any day, and now I realize that this is what He has in mind. He wants me to believe He is coming back.
 Searching my past spiritual life I find that I really was not comfortable with that. I heard people saying things like, “I don’t care about pollution or famine or moral decline, because Jesus is coming back." Or watched movies that were meant to scare me into salvation about
 Armageddon or “being left behind." It left me jaded.
 Jesus is the Truth and He has been speaking to me. In a big blanket of peace I now find joy in the reality that He is coming back. I am jubilant with this news!
 We have so much to do before He gets here, so many people who need to hear the Gospel. In my spirit I cry out with exaltation, “Come on people! Get ready! Jesus is coming!” Woohoo!

Angels Gather 'Round the Throne

Revelation 4 & 5     George Badeaux

Angels Gather 'Round the Throne
 
Angels gather 'round the throne
Exclaiming praises to their Lord
And we gather here below
Join in one accord
 
We sing...
 
Blessing, honor, glory and power
Be unto Him who sits on the throne
And...
Blessing, honor, glory and power
Unto the Lamb forever and ever.
 
Were we to stand before the Lord
To our knees and face we'd fall
Trembling in awe, in fear yet love
We praise Him with our all
 
We sing...
 
Blessing, honor, glory and power
Be unto Him who sits on the throne
And...
Blessing, honor, glory and power
Unto the Lamb forever and ever
 
Amen
Amen
Amen
Amen

A Crown

Revelation 4 & 5     Kathy Carlson

Revelation 4 opens with an invitation.  John is invited to walk through a door directly into heaven, into the very throne room of Christ.  He describes a stunning scene of splendor and worship with Christ seated at the center, radiating light and color in a singular fashion set apart only for Him.  I can’t help but wonder how long it took John to tear his eyes away from his beloved Jesus to consider the entire scene that was unfolding before him. 

John describes the presence of others seated around the exalted throne of Christ.  Each of the 24 elders is seated on a throne and each bestowed with a crown of gold.  I long to know how they received such a rich honor- to be seated so near the Lamb of God as to reach out and touch Him.  How did they receive their golden crowns? 

Scripture reveals that there are crowns being stored up in heaven for believers…a crown of righteousness (2 Tim 4:8), a crown of glory (1 Peter 5:4), the crown of life (James 1:12) among others.  The crowns represent a glorious prize, recognition for deeds, decisions and suffering endured for the sake of Christ.  What are we to do with our crowns - with something so precious, so hard won? 

The 24 elders respond by…fall[ing] down before Him…and lay[ing] their crowns before the throne (Rev 4:10 b).  They go on to offer words of worship to the Lamb who is worthy of all honor.  What a beautiful reminder that everything, everything is about Christ.  He is in the center of it all.  Anything we gain for His namesake, any good deed and race well run that results in a prize, a crown, is given back to Him in praise and humble recognition.  How I long for heaven, for Christ, for the honor of laying down everything I have before His throne in His presence.  The elders' response to Jesus serves as a reminder to hold loosely to the lesser prize of a crown so that our hands and hearts might be open to the greater prize at the center of it all, Christ Himself.

The Character of God

Revelation 2 & 3     Joel Keller

As I've pondered these chapters this week, I notice a pattern in God's messages to the churches.  As Eric shared yesterday, God points out some shortfalls...and then exhorts them to do such & such.  And often, if they don't do what He encourages them to do, there is a negative consequence as a result.  That is so like God: He pulls no punches. He shows us His observations about our lives - the decisions we make, our priorities, our aspirations, our affections - and He comments on them.  Often He will begin with the positive (He's like that!).  Then He points out areas that need improvement...or a complete change of direction (repentance).  And He's so what you see is what you get, that He will tell us the result of our decision before we make it.  He wants us to thrive, folks; He's for us!

This pattern, which is consistent throughout the Scriptures, shows us the character of God. He is good.  He pulls no punches (I know I already said that, but it's worth repeating).  He is the same yesterday, today & forever.  He set the moon & the stars in their places; He knows what He's doing.  And we have the opportunity to follow this knowable God of the universe, through His Son.  The Holy Spirit is with us, provoking us to listen to Him - that still, small voice - as we wrestle with decisions in our daily lives.  [OK; land the plane, JK].  Here's the bottom line for me: I am constantly thrown back on the character of God.  When He tells me to do something (through the Word, through a book or a friend or His still, small voice), I have utter confidence that it is for my good (Rom.8:28, 29)...because I know He wants me to be like His Son.  So, little ones, follow your Daddy.  He won't lead you astray.  Listen to all He says, and be bent on obedience.  It's for your own good.

Correction from God

Revelation 2 and 3     Eric Boberg

When I read the list of the Churches along with their strengths and faults it somehow feels very current.

We can all probably think of Christian churches we have visited, where we say, "I like much of their ministry and what they are doing but I think they are really missing it on these particular points." We might make a similar statement about our friends and family. "Yes they have many good qualities but I think they might be limited by such and such flaws." We should hope it's not just a matter of being critical of others to elevate our own positions or doctrines. That would be the wrong track. But if  we truly have no axe to grind and we measure ministries and lifestyles by scripture and not the culture or our own personal preferences, we might get somewhat close to the truth. Sadly even if we arrive at that informed position of understanding about others and other churches, there is still little room for big improvement. We probably can't improve the churches we visit or are part of all that much (unless it is by leaving...Ha!). And if we are wise, we won't try to improve our friends or spouses without laying a foundation of prayer and love as led by the Holy Spirit.

But in one area of our lives there is still much room for improvement. It has to do with us and our personal interaction with God. Try writing your own letter from God to yourself in the same type of voice that the Spirit addresses these Churches in Revelation. Start with 4 or 5 areas where you think you have been doing ok. Things you have felt the blessing of God on and where you have felt His love and encouragement. Doctrines you hold to that you know are good and true and pure. And make sure to thank God for these things, because if you arrived at these good and happy positions, it was by the Spirit of God and his grace. Then go to those areas where you know you are needing improvement or repentance. If you have been paying attention, the Spirit of God has been pointing out these areas over the years. If we are truly honest with ourselves this could potentially be depressing. But take heart when you consider the Laodician church. Some of the most convicting words in all of scripture are directed to the church at Laodicea. He doesn't even bother to mention their good points. He gets right to the bad stuff.

15  I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I am about to spit you out of my mouth.

But what I find very encouraging is this, a few sentences later:

19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.

This thought is also echoed in Hebrews, 12:6:

"For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he punishes every son he accepts."

So here at the end of Revelation 3, the strongest rebuke is also paired with the strongest encouragement. Don't be disheartened if you feel God is being hard on you; it simply proves that he loves you. Repent and walk in the sunshine. It always seems to me that my friends who are growing the most in Christ are those who are the most sensitive to their own flaws and to God's discipline. May we all be of that mind - if not now, then eventually.

Come and Have Dinner

Revelation 2 & 3     Peter Nordell

These are the very words of God.  John is writing as he is given these words.  As we have seen, this book is about Jesus and I am thinking that Jesus is saying this as John is writing.  I see the seven churches in these chapters as you and me, followers of Christ, and Jesus is talking to us. I am not going to review each church, but look at some of the comments Jesus makes regarding our lives.

"I know"  is repeated many times.  Jesus knows who we are, he knows us and loves us and is wanting to guide us as we walk with him. He says, "I see your hard work, your perseverance, your suffering, poverty and afflictions."  "Yet, you have forsaken your first love."  "Repent and do the things you did at first."  This is Jesus talking to me in September 2013.  I hear Jesus telling me to daily remember who I am: his child; and who he is: My Savior ... and to come to the foot of the cross and renew my first love with him.

These passages are so rich with ideas, books have been written about them.  All I am doing is giving a tiny glimpse of what is here and my own reaction to them. However, I want to end with "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me."  What a promise and joy to hear the invitation of the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe to come and have dinner.  Praise God!  

Love That Is Not Lukewarm

Revelation 2 & 3      George Badeaux

In Revelation chapters 2 and 3 Jesus speaks about problems to seven churches.   The first church and the last church have a very similar problem.  To the church at Ephesus He says, "You have lost your first love."  And to the church at Laodicea He says, "You are neither hot nor cold.  I wish you were either one or the other...you are lukewarm."  When we have this heart for the Lord, it is likely that we have fallen victim to the oldest lie on the planet.

Satan said to Eve (and Adam?), "You will not surely die."  In addition to this lie, there are at least 3 other lies that might be believed from this one statement.  First he claimed God lied.  Second, if God lied then He is not good like He claims.  And third, Adam and Eve tell themselves (as we also do), "I don't believe God really has my best in mind.  I don't trust Him.  I will decide what is best for me, not God."  

 

In other words...

1. "God is not good."

2. "I have good in me that allows me to choose my way over God's."

Both are lies.

In Mk 10:18 Jesus said, "Why do you call me good?  No one is good, except God alone."  Rom 3:10,11 says, "There is no one righteous, not even one...there is no one who does good, not even one."  And in Psalm 16:2 David says, "I said to the LORD, "You are my Lord ; I have no good besides You."  These are truths.  However, it is possible (I know this from personal experience) to believe them in our head, but not in our heart.  This head-but-not-heart belief is common among believers.  The result is we are burdened with weights we are not meant to bear.  It keeps us from walking in the freedom and grace and love that God intends for us to enjoy.  Are you trying to be good enough?  Are you comparing yourself to others to see if you are good enough?  Please stop worrying about whether you are good enough to be close to God.  You are not.  In fact it is impossible.  Only Jesus could do that.  Please meditate on this until it moves from head knowledge to heart knowledge.  Know the truth in your heart and you will feel the freedom of the weight of the burden being cast aside.  Trust Jesus.  He IS your only goodness and righteousness.

If we believe the lies, even just a little, our love can grow lukewarm.  But when we start to really comprehend the truth of how great God's goodness, and glory, and love for us are, especially in comparison to our own, the vastness of the difference produces in us love and trust and worship and zeal that are deep and enduring, not lukewarm. 

 

Reject the oldest lie.  Walk in the full knowledge of this truth.  God is the greatest good, and He is completely good!   Any good that is in me is not from me.  It is from God.  And His good desire is "God with us!"  His DESIRE is "God with you!  God in you!"...today, tomorrow, and forever.  Trust Him--He is worthy.   

Hear and Overcome

Revelation 2 & 3     Sue Brennan

"He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches; he that overcomes.…"
While each of the seven churches is given some particular acknowledgments and exhortations, all conclude with these familiar words - Hear and Overcome. Do you remember the first time you heard Jesus speak to you? Can you recall that first victory ... that first triumph ... that first love?

"But we are not people who timidly drawback and end up being destroyed. But we are people who believe and are saved." Hebrews 10:39

Overcome

Revelation 2 & 3     Kathy Carlson

I am stuck by a word that John uses repeatedly as he encourages and admonishes the seven churches in Revelation: overcome.  It’s a word embedded in seven promises of reward as he closes his letter to each church.  The seven promises of reward reveal a facet of our God - He prizes and gives reward for perseverance, for pressing on through impossible odds and circumstances.  He offers rewards of the highest worth for the ability to overcome, each one glinting as a golden medal prize.  Among them: a crown of life, authority over nations, a new name, The Morning Star (Jesus Himself). 

Think of a runner preparing for a marathon - the required hours of dedicated training and thoughtful preparation.  We know in order to run the race and win the runner is called on to press on through rainy mornings, hunger, sickness, sore muscles and the desire to simply give up and rest.  Who hasn’t been emotionally moved by seeing an athlete who has given a race their all, spending themselves beyond anything they ever dreamed they could bear, cross the finish line with elation, weeping tears of joy, grabbing a hold of loved ones in celebration? 

Imagine then, if the runner was handed his prize at the beginning of the race before even setting foot on the course. The prize would be meaningless.  It would have cost the runner nothing at all to gain.  What need would there be to celebrate? 

As believers we are called on to participate in the continual overcoming of the enemy, the world and our own weaknesses.  We are called to train and prepare and dedicate ourselves to the act of overcoming.  There are some prizes that will only be realized as we participate with God to overcome evil over time and through trial.  We are called to hold fast, persevere through to the very end no matter the cost.  It’s the place of testing where our truest selves are revealed.  Are you an overcomer?  Are you willing to work towards the prize?  Are you trusting in Christ alone to equip you for the battle?  

Press on beloved; there is a prize, a crown, a promise yet to be revealed. The Father who loves you does not foolishly hand out a prize before it’s time.  He lovingly sets it aside for you, for the overcoming, for the celebration of a victory hard won. It’s a prize of such value that it must be celebrated in the company of Christ Himself.  What a glorious day to come.

    

Whole Lot of Shaking Going On!

Revelation 2 & 3      Karen Downing 

He who has an ear hear what the Spirit says to the churches....

In Revelation 2 & 3 there’s a “whole lot of shaking going on”. Encouragements, admonitions, promises and a bunch of house cleaning. And it’s all going on in the seven churches. I know this is significant. We as the Body Of Christ are going through this house cleaning. Why? We’ll see the whole picture as the rest of Revelation plays out, but one thing is for certain: Jesus is coming back!

Misty Edwards is a prophetic worshipper and this is the message she sang out as I listened this morning: 

Once again I’m (the Lord) going to shake everything that can’t be shaken 

Once again I’m going to break everything that can’t be broken

I can hear the rhythm of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah 

He’s not a baby in a manger anymore 

He’s not a broken man on a cross 

He didn’t stay in the Grave and

He’s not staying in heaven forever 

Because He’s alive! Do you believe it? 

People be ready! Jesus is coming! 

We want to build our house on the Rock 

Because He’s going to shake everything 

Are you ready for this?

People be ready! Jesus is coming!

"The First and The Last"

Revelation 1:9-20    Joel Keller

Song by Hillsong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVlPoozmyzw

I have the keys of Death & Hades

Revelation 1:9-20     Joel Keller

This is an excerpt from my journal earlier in the week.  I try to make my daily journaling a time with God, not about Him.  Thus, it's written to Him, not about Him.

In verses 17 & 18 You cut to the chase.  You are the Eternal One.  You died, but are alive forevermore.  And, by the way, You hold the keys of Death & Hades.  This is what sets You apart from the other prophets / other religions.  For me, to know that my eternity is settled, allows me to live my life in freedom - without fear having a stranglehold on me.  That truth focuses me on eternal things, not on things here on earth (Col. 3:1,2).  

I am so excited about the Book of Revelation & how its truths will impact us as a body. This puts life in perspective for me - knowing my earthly life is a vapor, a handbreadth. You have blazed the path for us, Lord Jesus.  You have gone through death & come out smelling like a Rose (Song of Songs 2:1).  Our "natural" response to death is pre-empted by Your declarations: "Fear not!"  You are so kind, Daddy; You know us inside & out.  You know each hair on my head, even the few remaining dark ones.  So, I come back to the beginning - You are the Eternal One.  My hope is in You.  The cards have been dealt; I'm "all in" with You, Lord Jesus.  You hold the keys to life & death ... and everything in between.  You are Emmanuel, God with us.  And I am forever grateful.  

"I was in the Spirit"

Revelation 1:9-20    David Downing

I’ve had one of those overwhelming, exhausting days at work that just takes all the life and energy out of you. But I forced myself to read this week's passage and five words jumped off the page “I was in the Spirit”.
John received the revelation because he was “in the Spirit”. What did John do to set the stage? For me its almost impossible to drown out the distractions of life, the noise, the to do lists, and more importantly my intellect so I can hear His voice. Do I need to be imprisoned, isolated on an island?

Today I cry out something similar to the song “How can I be satisfied?” ­ by Kevin Prosch. 
Oh Lord hear my prayer and my argument; I come with dust on my face.
Who could have need of anything else, once they have felt your embrace?
I as a son present my complaint, won't you bend down your ears and hear me? I’ve cried out for more, there has to be more. Enlarge my portion, come near me.
Oh lord break me open with your loving grace, like the five loaves of bread. Place in my heart a passion for you, like none that I've ever had.
My eyes fill with longing for your words of life, I'm hungry for all that you have. Don't let my mind deceive my heart, give me the strength to press in.
Should I build an altar and stay here? And grow old and say I’m content?
When will we meet again? I must have more more, I know there is more, there has to be more!
And how can I be satisfied unless you come near and stay by my side. Call me your friend count me in for life, oh how can I be satisfied. 

The Island of Patmos

Revelation 1:9-20   Kathy Carlson

I, John, with you all the way in the trial and the Kingdom and the passion of patience in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of God’s Word, the witness of Jesus. It was Sunday and I was in the Spirit, praying. I heard a loud voice behind me, trumpet-clear and piercing: “Write what you see into a book. Send it to the seven churches . . .” Rev 1:9-10(the Message)

God’s ways are mysterious, glorious and all His own.  It’s most likely that the writer of Revelation was John, the disciple of Jesus.  John would have been in his 90’s, having witnessed for himself Jesus in the flesh, Jesus on the cross, Jesus’ resurrected body.  His gospel and letters reveal a certain tender-hearted sweetness in both the way he addresses his listeners and his own view of his position in Christ.  He refers to others repeatedly as dear ones and little children and himself as the disciple Jesus loved:  “the beloved of Jesus”.  

How could it be then that we encounter John, the beloved of Jesus, exiled, alone and suffering for his witness for Christ on a tiny, sterile island called Patmos (which is translated as “my killing”)?  Why would God allow such a thing to happen to a faithful follower who clearly loved Jesus and was clearly loved by Jesus?  

Are you suffering your own “island of Patmos” experience?  Are your circumstances pressing you into isolation and suffering?  Do you wonder as John must have wondered at times, is God truly in control?  And if He is why would he allow such a thing? 

What was it in John even at the age of 90 that needed to be “killed”, eradicated, and exiled from his life?  The good news is that God does not allow a period of exile to leave us abandoned and suffering for all time.  An island experience is a part of the refining fire our fearsome God has every right to allow to burn.  It’s not punishment; it’s a glorious opportunity to know Jesus in a deeper way.

The truth that arises from the ashes of John’s island experience is that he listened for God’s voice.  We find him in prayer, observing the Sabbath.  He trusted, somehow, that he could and would hear from the same God who allowed him to suffer for his faith.  His suffering not only came to an end but he was gifted a revelation, a spectacular vision of the LIVING CHRIST and the Christ to come.

Press on, beloved.  No matter what your circumstances might say, God has the final word.  It’s the very theme of Revelation.  Our God speaks to us in our dark nights and brings His own presence, His sweet company in our isolation.  Listen for Him.  Trust that He alone has the final word.  And you and I, like John, will emerge from the island free and with a very personal and powerful testimony to share of the greatness of our God and the faithfulness of Christ Jesus.

Jesus Speaks

Revelation 1:9-20    Peter Nordell

 

Yes, this is about Jesus. He is speaking to John, suffering as a prisoner on the island of Patmos, "Write what you see" - a visual document to be sent to the seven churches.

 

Jesus, like the son of man, speaks one of the most meaningful themes in all of scripture, "Do not be afraid." This is an admonition to John and to me. He is our creator, savior and holds us in his hand. I am to live with confidence and without fear.  He then reminds John that he is the "I am" which goes back to Moses, Jesus and now the risen savior, who is alive and will live for ever and ever.

 

John is commanded to become a scribe, "Write what you have seen, what is now and what will take place." The scripture is God-ordained for us all and we should read and love it in every way.  

 

"Fear" and "Fear Not"

Revelation 1:9-20      George Badeaux

 

In Rev 1:9-20 John tells us of an experience he had "in the Spirit."  I would like to focus on verse 17 here.  When John encounters Jesus in a glorified state in Revelation (his eyes were like a flaming fire, and His face was like the sun shining in full strength), John falls to the ground as though dead.  A very similar thing happened to James, Peter and John at the transfiguration in Matthew chapter 17.  When the Father spoke from the bright cloud that had enveloped them, they "fell facedown to the ground, terrified."  In both cases Jesus reached down and touched them and said, "Fear not."  This teaches us something very important about the fear of the Lord.

 

Scripture clearly teaches us to fear the Lord.  I have heard many teach that the word fear here does not mean the kind of fear that first comes to our mind.  They speak of awe and respect, but either imply or plainly state that it is not being afraid.  I think they are missing something (e.g. "fell facedown to the ground terrified").  Some quote the scripture  "perfect love casts out fear" (1 Jn 4:28).  But remember the one who wrote those words, the apostle of love, in both of the cases above fell to the ground in fear.

 

Multiple places in scripture tell us that God's glory is so great that, on our own, we would not be able to survive if exposed to it closely.  We would die.   And God has the ability and sovereignty and righteousness and justice to cast us into the lake of fire, or to bring His wrath down upon us here and now.  Our fear of Him should include an abundant understanding of this aspect of His nature, knowing that on our own, "Woe to me! ... I am ruined!"  (Isaiah 6:5)  But that understanding alone would be incomplete.  In His love Jesus reaches down and touches us and says, "Fear not!"  If we stood in the presence of God without Jesus we would die.  But with Jesus we are invited to come near to the Father, so near that God would actually live inside us, expressing His love in bountiful ways.  Let us draw near to Him, enthralled by His love and grace and glory, with appropriate fear in its appropriate place.  He is worthy of our all.

One of Those Great Mysteries

Revelation 1:1-8    Eric Boberg

This such a grand passage, everything is on a large scale. It's bigger than Texas. Bigger than the West. Bigger than the whole world.

"Grace and peace to you from Him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits [a] before His throne, [5] and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth."

We are being addressed and offered peace from Jesus Christ Himself, the very ruler of all the kings on earth. But to me the astonishing part is how we are so matter-of-factly, we, yes we, are made a part of this grand story.

"To Him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve His God and Father."

A kingdom of priests, and not in the future some time down the road but right now, present tense. We are granted priesthood.

This has to be one of those great mysteries like in 1 Peter...that the angels long to look into.

It is in one sense, unbelievable; but I think we must believe it and hold onto it if we are to ever know the truth of it. And I think it is one of those truths that must be acted out before we can deeply know it.

The Kingdom

Revelation 1:1-8     Joel Keller

The word kingdom, again, jumped out at me today.  It brings me back to the studies I've done over the years about the word. When Jesus began His public ministry, He came preaching the gospel of the kingdom.  The word kingdom conjures up for me ... well, a King and His servants.  The word of the King was weighty; an edict from the King meant something.  Whatever the King said, the people followed.  In this day of "everyone doing what is right in their own eyes" (Judges), we would be wise to return to the perspective of the King and His kingdom. 

I learned much of the teaching on the kingdom from John Wimber, who learned it from George Eldon Ladd.  I can highly recommend Ladd's books: The Gospel of the Kingdom and New Testament Theology. Ladd defines the word kingdom as the reign, the rule or authority.  So when we pray 'let Your kingdom come' we are asking for the reign, rule & authority of God to come into our situation/our life.  Isn't that what we need today - the reign, rule & authority of God to come into every aspect of our lives?  That is certainly a deep need in my own life. 

As we begin our studies in the Book of Revelation, let's keep in mind that we serve the King.  The Kingdom of God is at hand, and is to come; the now, but the not yet.  In what specific areas of your life do you desire God's reign, rule & authority? 

Oh the Joy of Grace and Peace!

Revelation 1:1-8     George Badeaux

When I think of the book of Revelation I think of God’s greatness.  His magesty, His power, His sovereign rule over all things, the importance of His goodness, and the horror and ugly fate of evil.  Sometimes the first thing I think of is, “We win!!!”  It is a letter bursting with the encouraging foretelling of God’s triumph over evil…and…the culmination of God’s plan for mankind…the marriage supper of the lamb.  God’s great heart for us is “God with us.”  It always has been and forever more will be.

In the first section of the letter (Rev. 1:1-8) I am moved by several important points.  The first is the ongoing relating between the Father and the Son, and how they together relate to us.  This is partly expressed when John says to the seven churches, “Grace and peace from…”  Oh the joy of grace and peace!  And this is grace and peace from a glorious, loving, triune, all-powerful God.  Soak it in, and abide in it.  It is for you.

In verse 5, two other important points are proclaimed.  “To Him who loves us and released (or bathed) us from our sins by His blood.”  He loved us, He loves us now, and He will love us forever.  And this is a love greater than any we could ever imagine.  He loves you, right now, and will never stop!  Then there is His blood which accomplishes THE CLEANSING.  I hesitated to make that all capital letters.  God and His love are greater.  But this cleansing is so important to us.  It however is not the end.  It is the beginning.  It is the beginning of an ever-deepening love relationship where that blood continues to cleanse us and release us from the bondages of sin that entangle us.  The way to be released from those chains that still hang on is not to try harder, but rather to submit…submit to the one whose blood gives you the power to break free from the chains.  Trust Him!  He loves you!  We win!