Continuing a short study on the blessings, pitfalls and challenges of studying the Book of Revelation. This morning we focus on how Revelation develops our understanding and perception of Jesus.
Revelation brings an unveiling of the complete nature of Christ.
Many of us who have homed in on the gospels will have understandably developed an image of Christ as being the gentle Lamb, the loving Messiah. It is true that there are moments in the gospels when Jesus whips the money-lenders out of the temple courts or when he mercilessly berates the falsehoods of the Pharisees, but otherwise he is seen as the gentle healer bringing salvation through surrender to the cross.
Revelation portrays Jesus as the warrior King, his robe dipped in blood, treading the wine-press of God’s wrath.
Revelation 19:15 ‘Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. He will rule them with an iron sceptre. He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty.’
This description of Jesus is too much to bear for some people who hastily retreat to more comforting verses in the gospels. Sadly though, they miss out on the true nature of Christ and the glory of the Kingdom that is to come.
Indeed, one could argue that many will actually reject Jesus because he does not comply with their ‘cuddly teddy bear’ perception of Jesus.
Revelation will take us into a deeper vision of Christ if we allow it to. By studying its verses and allowing them to minister to our hearts, we will grow in our understanding of Jesus and be more fully prepared to embrace the warrior King when we stand before him.
Tomorrow: a simple understanding is essential!
To read my short e-book on Revelation chapter one please push the blue button!
And my previous posts:
- Revelation 22:20 Our cherished hope
There will be a unity of heart when everyone calls out for his glorious return. There will be a spirit of grace upon God’s people that will bring us all together in unity and brotherhood. - Revelation 22:16 God’s Word
No-one has a monopoly on the truths of this magnificent book, and we will all have our struggles and misunderstandings on our journey, but God is demanding that we treat Revelation with the utmost respect that it deserves. The truths that were sealed in Daniel’s time will be opened up according to God’s direction. This will need purified and refined souls to understand and teach, in the midst of immense confusion and mistruths. Please pray for those who are called to understand and teach. - Revelation 22:11 In or Out…
Even at this late stage, a reference to the polarity of mankind, between the righteous and the unrighteous. One thinks of Noah’s Ark, and the obedient who were safe inside and those who chose to ignore Noah’s call for righteousness and stayed outside. - Revelation 22:7 The time is near indeed
Having taken us to the very highest of heights, surveying the Holy City that is beautiful beyond words, John brings us back to our ordinary lives, waiting with a cherished expectation for our Lord to return and keeping the words of this prophecy, with all its encouragements, admonishments and warnings. - Revelation 22:3 No longer any curse
Peter praised his contemporaries for their faith in Christ Jesus although they had never met him in real life and had only heard of him through Peter. Imagine though, what it will feel like, approaching the throne and gazing into the eyes of the Divine, to reach out and touch the very hem of his garment. It will be beyond belief…
Revelation 34 