A Revelation Invitation

(The “How to Read Revelation” series begins here.)

Principle #2: The Purpose of Revelation

Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus. (Revelation 14:12 ESV)

In my previous post I described the theme of Revelation: the sovereignty of the one who sits on the throne and of the Lamb. It follows that God’s sovereignty over heaven and earth enables us his children to trust him no matter how difficult our circumstances. That theme clues us in to the purpose of the book of Revelation: to urge believers to persevere.

In urging perseverance Revelation calls us to action, or more specifically, it implores us to hold to what’s written in the book even in the midst of persecution, to endure hardship with hope, to face tribulation courageously. Christians in John’s day (including the imprisoned prophet himself) were experiencing much persecution. From social ostracization to economic boycotts to martyrdom, their lives were made difficult. Revelation applies what we believe about God (his sovereignty and his promises) to our lived experiences (difficulties of many kinds). Revelation is meant to provide God’s people with confirmation that persevering through our trials to the end really will be worth it!

One way that perseverance is encouraged is through the many promises and blessings extended to the believers throughout Revelation. For example, each of the letters to the seven churches ends with a promise to “the one who conquers.” Another way is through the narrative rhythm in the text. Depictions of troubling times are followed by scenes of joyful reward. The tribulations revealed in the opening of the first six seals (chapter 6) are followed by a scene of celebration (chapter 7)! The martyrdom of the two witness is followed by their resurrection from the dead (chapter 11)! Following the emergence of the two beasts (chapter 13), the 144,000 are heard singing a new song (chapter 14)! You’ll find more examples. The scenes of jubilation are answers to questions believers will naturally ask during difficult times: When God seems unresponsive to my trials, how do I make sense of it? And, in light of my suffering, is it really worth it to persevere? The Spirit answers the latter question with an emphatic YES! This answer is not presented as a proposition, but is beautifully portrayed in pictures or described in narrative/story form.

As in the previous post, I again encourage you to read Revelation with highlighter (of a different color) in hand. This time note the ways the Spirit encourages the Christians to persevere whether through admonitions or promised rewards. Again, you don’t have to interpret any of the symbolic language to see this purpose portrayed. Whether doing this alone or in a group, you will be encouraged by this exercise and well on your way to grasping the message of Revelation as never before.

Father in heaven, your own son persevered unto death for my sake. Show me through the pages of Revelation how you cherish your people, how you strengthen your servants and how you reward your saints. Give me the power I need to persevere in difficult circumstances. Fill me with a steadfast hope in your eternal reward. Amen.

(Part 4 of “How to Read Revelation” is here.)