INTRODUCTION
Among the most significant writings in the Bible is the book of Revelation. For those who dare to delve within its pages, it contains mysteries, blessings, and cautions. However, it is a difficult book to understand. It calls for perseverance, modesty, and a desire to know the truth.
1. BLESSINGS AWAIT THE READER
Revelation 1:3 declares a blessing for those who read, hear, and keep the words written in it. It’s not enough to skim through; you must meditate and act on its truths.
2. GRAVE WARNINGS FOR MISINTERPRETATION
Revelation 22:18-19 warns against tampering with the prophecy:
+Adding to it results in the removal of your share in the tree of life.
-Removing from it invites plagues upon you.
WHO GAVE THIS REVELATION?
The protocol is clear in Revelation 1:1:
1. The Almighty Heavenly Father gave it to
2. the Son of Man. The Son of Man sent it through
3. an angel to
4. His servant, John.
5. John then delivered it to Elohim’s servants.
WHEN WAS REVELATION GIVEN?
Scholars generally date it around AD 95-96, during John’s exile on the Isle of Patmos.
ADDRESSED TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES
Revelation 1:4 and 1:11 mention seven churches in Asia:
1. Ephesus
2. Smyrna
3. Pergamos
4. Thyatira
5. Sardis
6. Philadelphia
7. Laodicea
Revelation 1:13 and 20 explain that the seven candlesticks represent these seven churches.
THE CONTEXT OF THE SEVEN CHURCHES
The seven churches were situated in what is now Turkey, in the Roman province of Asia. According to Revelation 1:4–7, the churches were in Asia, one of the seven continents of the world: 1. Africa; 2. Antarctica; 3. Asia; 4. Australia (Oceania); 5. Europe; 6. North America, and 7. South America.
DO WE HAVE EVIDENCE THAT AT THAT TIME THOSE CHURCHES EXISTED IN ASIA?
Yes, three of those churches are supported by the Bible. The Bible does not specifically name the other four, although they did exist, and the apostle Paul founded the majority of them.
1. EPHESUS: Started by Paul during his third missionary journey (Acts 19:1-10).
2. THYATIRA: Likely influenced by Paul’s ministry; Lydia, a woman from Thyatira, was converted (Acts 16:14-15).
3. LAODICEA: Mentioned as a church Paul cared for (Colossians 4:13-16).
THE BIG QUESTION: SYMBOLISM OR REALITY?
1. SYMBOLISM. We interpret the seven churches as representing SEVEN ERAS of the Church from EPHESUS (DESIRABLE) to LAODICEA (PEOPLE AND JUDGMENT).
2. REALITY. Others see it as a message to the literal seven congregations in Asia with principles applicable to the global Church.
THE QUESTION. The question remains: was the message for those congregations alone, or does it extend through time to all believers?
A CALL TO ACTION
This has nothing to do with impressing people with your knowledge or memorizing prophesies. It’s about discovering the truth, developing one’s faith, and getting ready for the future. Will you accompany me as we explore the depths of Revelation?
Be blessed as we walk this path together.
END OF PART 1.
Part 2 PREVIEW: EXPLORING THE SEVEN CHURCHES
In part 2, we will delve into chapters 2 and 3 of Revelation, examining each church individually. Using the insights of Elder A.N. Dugger and comparing them with the Scriptures, we will seek clarity beyond surface-level interpretations.
SHALOM.
Prepared by Bro Mutonga
babakevi@gmail.com
+254722808047
Permission granted to freely share it widely in whatever form.