Revelation 1 - 7.25.23
SCRIPTURE: Revelation 1:11a “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches…”
OBSERVATION: This book was written to the seven churches that were located on a major Roman road in Asia. They were facing severe persecution. John was exiled to the island of Patmos because he refused to stop preaching the gospel. In John’s vision Jesus revealed His mighty power as He appeared in glory and splendor, and John was reassured that even in the severe times of persecution, God’s strength was more powerful than the opposition. God’s power was not only more powerful, it was accessible!
Verse 16b is a powerful Scripture as it shows a sharp, double-edged sword coming out of His mouth. That sword is the Word of God; Jesus! This is the Word that God has hidden in every believers heart! This is the Word that lights every believers path! This is the Word that gives us eternal life! This is the Word that is powerful, active, and alive, and is THE WAY, the Truth, and the LIFE! This is the Word that goes out from His mouth that does not return empty, but accomplishes what He desires, and achieves the purpose for which He sent it! Near the end of Joh’s life, he saw this vision, and was told by God to write it down for the 7 churches, AND for Christians throughout history.
APPLICATION: How blessed we are to have the reassurance, like John, that no matter what comes our way, we have continual access to God’s presence and mighty power! No matter how violent or scandalous or depressing our world becomes, we have the hope of God’s Word! He is working out His plans and purposes, and NOTHING will be able to stop Him from accomplishing what He has set out to do!
PRAYER: Thank You Lord for Your Word that brings us such encouragement, even when we see such evil, crime, and chaos all around us, You are still very much in control, and we can be comforted in knowing that You are the infinite, powerful God Who is full of mercy, love, and justice, and are victorious over ALL!
- Robin Orefice
