The book of Revelation contains signs and symbols that may seem strange and difficult to understand. That is why, when looking at this book, there are three things that you need to know. These ideas will help you grasp this mysterious letter. First, the book is all about prophecy. Secondly, the book is an eye witness account from the Apostle John, concerning what is about to happen. That is right-John testifies to us of everything that he saw and heard from an angel in heaven. John was caught up into heaven by the Spirit and instructed to write down everything that he witnessed. What he saw and heard was about the end of the world. He was given inside information about the future and a warning of how time is running short.

Since John warns us that time is about up, one should sense an urgency to live right. This revelation is from Jesus. He sent an angel to John to tell him all of what must soon take place. John’s testimony was not fabricated but it is true and can be trusted. Jesus’ return is eminent, which means that it can happen at any time. That is why it is a call of urgency. It is a call not to live a passive life and thinking you have forever to get right with God. When we read the book of Revelation it helps to read it as John’s eye witness account of what he saw and heard from an angel. We must read it as an urgent warning that time is about up.

Questions: Can you see what John saw?  When you are reading Revelation, do you sense the urgency contained in John’s letter?  How?

Prayer: Lord, we ask You to open our eyes that we can see, open our ears that we may hear, and gives us a heart to receive Your Word. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.