Read These Chapter
Chapter
1: Introduction and the Vision of the Son of Man:
The Book of
Revelation starts with John introducing the work as a revelation from Jesus
Christ, meant to show servants what must soon take place. Blessed are those who
heed its prophecies. John addresses the seven churches in the province of Asia,
extending grace and peace from God, the Holy Spirit, and Jesus Christ, the
faithful witness and ruler of earth's kings. John offers praise to Jesus for
freeing us from our sins through His sacrifice and declares Him the returning
King.
While in exile on the
island of Patmos, John receives a vision on the Lord's Day. He hears a loud
voice, instructing him to write down what he sees and send it to the seven
churches. Turning around, John beholds seven golden lampstands and among them,
the Son of Man—Jesus—in a majestic form, with white hair, blazing eyes, and
feet like glowing bronze. Jesus holds seven stars in His hand, and from His
mouth comes a sharp double-edged sword. His face is as radiant as the sun.
Jesus reassures John and identifies the stars as the angels of the seven
churches, and the lampstands as the churches themselves.
Chapter
2: Letters to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira:
John transcribes
Jesus' messages to four of the seven churches:
Ephesus: Jesus commends them for their
deeds, hard work, and perseverance, and for rejecting wicked individuals
and false apostles. However, He rebukes them for forsaking their first
love. They are called to repent and return to their early deeds. To those
who overcome, they'll be granted the right to eat from the tree of life.
Smyrna: They receive praise for their
suffering and poverty (though they are spiritually rich) and are
forewarned about impending persecution. They're encouraged to remain
faithful, even in the face of death, to earn the crown of life.
Pergamum: This church is lauded for
holding onto their faith, even where Satan's throne resides, and not
renouncing Christ. However, some in the church followed the teachings of
Balaam and the Nicolaitans, which led believers astray. They are urged to
repent, and overcomers are promised hidden manna and a white stone with a
new name.
Thyatira: Jesus acknowledges their love,
faith, service, and perseverance, noting that their deeds now surpass
their earlier ones. Yet, He reproves them for tolerating Jezebel, a
prophetess leading believers into sexual immorality and the eating of food
sacrificed to idols. She and her followers are warned of imminent
suffering, while others are encouraged to hold onto what they have.
Chapter
3: Letters to Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea:
The remaining three
churches receive their messages: Sardis: This church has a reputation for
being alive, but Jesus declares them dead, with unfinished deeds. They are
called to wake up, strengthen what remains, and repent. Those who haven't
soiled their clothes will walk with Jesus, dressed in white.
Philadelphia: Jesus commends them for keeping
His word and not denying His name despite having little strength. They are
promised protection from the trial coming upon the whole world. As they've
persevered, they're urged to hold on to what they have to secure their
crown. Overcomers will be pillars in God's temple, bearing the name of
God, the New Jerusalem, and Jesus' new name.
Laodicea: This church is chastised for
being neither cold nor hot, but lukewarm, leading to Jesus threatening to
spit them out. Their material wealth has made them complacent, not
realizing their spiritual wretchedness. Jesus counsels them to buy refined
gold, white clothes, and salve for their eyes from Him. Those whom He
loves, He rebukes and disciplines. Jesus stands at the door, knocking,
waiting for anyone to hear His voice and open the door. Overcomers will
sit with Him on His throne.