In John’s prophetic, apocalyptic letter he writes to the seven churches in Asia Minor to comfort them during persecution by encouraging them to remain faithful. Since the Lamb will establish his kingdom, exercise justice, and be the enjoyment of His people, the ones who are afflicted from Satan have the weapons to wage war against the flesh and conquer. Because the truth is firmly held by believers, false teaching loses its appeal and the worship of the transient world pales in comparison to the worship of the everlasting King.
The author uses vivid imagery to have a plot which points
to the final end of believers and unbelievers and the culmination of
history. His first image (1:9-3:22),
describes the glorified Christ who visits the seven churches. Christ calls them to not fear suffering
(2:10) and to conquer immorality by holding fast to his words, promising the
morning star for those who do (2:18-26).
John next sees the judgment of the nations before the throne of heaven
(4:1-16:21). Amidst the backdrop of
worshipers from every tribe and tongue John shows that God will eventually
avenge the blood of his servants (6:9-17). Indeed, when Babylon is destroyed
and Christ returns (17:1-21:8), the rejoicing of heaven comes as the marriage
of the Lamb draws near (19:7-8). The
immoral ones are not found in the book of life and are destroyed and the ones
who share in the resurrection and who conquer rejoice, for God makes His
dwelling with man (20:12-21:8). Finally,
John describes the fourth vision of the Christ being the reward of His people,
and creation being renewed (21:9-22:5).
The lamp of the city is the Lamb and the radiance of the dwelling is the
glory of God which tolerates no evil.
The descendent of David is worshiped and satisfies His people forever
(22:6-21).[1]
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