December 14-December 20

History Repeating Itself
Brian Magnuson, PhD
Dothan, Alabama

It is unfortunate that when many people come to the Book of Revelation, they simply throw up their hands and surrender to the fact that the book can not be understood. This is in fact unbiblical for Jesus promises a blessing to anyone who would, “read…hear…and take to heart what is written” (Rev. 1:3). The Book of Revelation is the best commentary on the history of this fallen world. Its message is filled with hope and certainty. God reveals that He sees the suffering of His people, hears their prayers and is deeply moved when Christians suffer for their faith. He further reveals that He is prepared to step in and stop those harming the Christian community. But He also gives clear instructions to all Christ followers, “Be faithful even to the point of death” (Rev. 2:10); that is, a Christian must not assimilate into his culture no matter what the cost.

With this strong warning given to the churches that are experiencing such persecution (i.e. seven churches located in Asia Minor, ch. 2-3); God reveals His majesty and power through a frail messenger, John. John has been banished to an Island in the Aegean Sea called Patmos. There, he will be invited to see the plight of sinful rebellious man and the hope and security of those who choose to follow Jesus Christ.

In ch. 4 a glimpse of the Presence of God is given to the world. His Presence is pictured with bright lights, precious stones and host of worshippers celebrating God’s holiness and power. Persecuted Christians are not looking for a gentle Savior but a triumphant warrior able to avenge, restore and deliver. Such is the appearance of Jesus the Son (ch 1:12-18) and God the Father (ch. 4).

In chapter 5, the worshippers in heaven sing a song of praise to the Father for the triumph of His beloved Son. The words to describe Jesus are endless but so appropriate, “worthy, power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, praise, for ever and ever…” (12-13).

Beginning in chapter 6, the sad history of mankind is revealed complete with wars (2), bloodshed (3), famine (6) and death (8). A martyred saint asks how long these types of things must continue to happen to the people of God (10)? At this point a glimpse into what God is prepared to do is given; a scene of the Roman Empire coming to an end (which ultimately took place in 476 AD.) The picture of God’s anger and wrath against this proud nation is so horrific the question is asked, “Who can stand” (17)?

At this point a pause in the unveiling of God’s punishment against Rome is offered. A chance for the saved to be reassured that their salvation is safe and their future is certain. Chapter 7 reveals that God knows who His people are, for they have been marked or sealed. A similar word play is used in Ezekiel 9 to say that God knows those who have not assimilated into their cultures but have remained faithful, even to the point of death. This is not a literal mark, but simply a way for God’s people to know that the Father has not forgotten them, in fact, he knows them by name. They are the Israel of God, the church (Rom. 2:28-29, Gal. 6:13-16).

[Dr. Brian Magnuson is the Senior Minister for the Westgate Church of Christ in Dothan, Alabama.]