An interlude is something that is performed during a theater intermission. It is a pause between acts of a play.  In ancient Greek theater, in the Apostle John’s day, interludes were very common. Most dramas back then usually had one or two performers in a production. It would be a small group. Since the group was small, actors would need time to change clothes and props between each scene. Also, the small cast played multiple characters and it could be challenging for the audience to follow the story. The audience needed a narrator. During an interlude, a narrator would come out and explain to the audience the transitions between the two acts. The narrator would give the back story and it was designed to help the audience follow the continuity of the play. Without the explanation from the narrator, the audience would be confused and lost.

In the same way, John points out the interlude in God’s drama. The interlude between scene one and two can be found in Rev. 4:1.  When John says, “after these things”, he is referring to the end of the Church Age and God’s Tribulation Judgment for the sins of the world. Without knowing what happens between the two acts, readers of Revelation could get lost and unable to follow the story.

Now, in our current time, we are living in the Church Age. The Church Age is the time where salvation can be received as a gift. It is a time of grace, which is freely given to all who have faith in Jesus. We are in a period where God is calling His special people out of the world and into the church. The narration in Revelation 4:1 marks a transition into a new scene where the Church Age has ended. That is an important backstory. That is why it is significant to receive Christ today. One day the Church Age will end. God will transition into a new act.  A stage is coming where God will judge the world for its sin. It will be a hard period. Words can hardly explain the tribulation that is going to come. God is giving people opportunity to repent and to walk with Him now, so we can escape His wrath later. Today is the day to come to Jesus. May we not take this time for granted!

Questions: How often do you think about the end of this world? How would you live your life today, if you knew the end was nearer than you think?

Prayer: Lord, we do not want to miss the backstory given to us in Revelation 4:1. We know that one day you will call your church to be with you. Thank you for giving us ample time to be ready for that day. In Jesus name we pray and say thank you, Amen.