Friday 12 October 2007
- Bible Book:
- Revelation
"To everyone who conquers and who continues to do my works to the end, I will give authority over the nations; to rule them with an iron rod, as when clay pots are shattered- even as I also received authority from my Father. To the one who conquers I will also give the morning star. Let anyone who has an ear listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches." (v.26-29)
Background
These verses contain two of seven 'letters' addressed tochurches in various parts of Asia (present-day Turkey). They areprophecies, written as words from God given in a vision to a mancalled John who was, he tells us in
Each of the seven letters follows a similar pattern. They beginwith a statement from the risen Lord, which echoes an element ofJohn's vision. Then there is praise for the positivecharacteristics of the life of the congregation in that place,criticisms of its deficiencies and a final promise to 'the one whoconquers' (ie who overcomes all challenges to remaining faithful)that they will share at the end of time in the blessings of therisen Christ.
The letters close with the exhortation, "Let anyone who has an earlisten to what the spirit is saying to the churches".
It has been pointed out by scholars that the particular elements ofthe vision that are cited in each letter typically relate tosomething connected with the culture or environment of the cityconcerned. Thus the words would be heard by the recipients as veryrelevant to their circumstances.
It is likely that the book of Revelation was written at a time whenthe Christians faced actual or imminent persecution, even to thepoint of death, somewhere towards the end of the first centuryAD.
Although the visions often contain harsh words of criticism ofparticular practise and individuals, the overall tone is one ofencouragement.
To Ponder
Sometimes a close friend or advisor is able tosee the real you, warts and all. If you know such a person, in whatways do they encourage you, as well as offer constructivecriticism?
Can you think of someone or a situation where youcan offer words of constructive comment? What is to stop you fromdoing it?