Read Revelation 1-3
While the book of Revelation might be difficult to understand in places, one truth shines forth beginning in chapter one and continuing until the end of the book. Jesus is going to be victorious and those who remain faithful to the end will reign with him forever! I want to be part of the winning team. While persecutions and troubles may come and threaten to dishearten us, remaining faithful to Jesus will see us through.
The first three chapters of Revelation tell us sobering good news. Seven churches are mentioned who are in danger of losing their place in the heavenly candelabra. While there are a variety of reasons, “faith drift” can affect anyone of us or any church. It is sobering that none of the churches mentioned in this section have survived as they were.
The great news is, at the end of every warning to each church, there is promised a reward for those who remain faithful to Jesus. Some of the rewards you can expect to receive if you remain faithful: eating from the tree of life, receiving the crown of life, receiving a new name from Jesus, authority over the nations, receiving the right to rule with Jesus, receiving a white robe along with the martyred saints, receiving the name of God on your life, and permission to sit on the throne with Jesus in His Kingdom.
Even more, Jesus promises us the Spirit to help us remain faithful to the end. I’m looking forward to sitting next to your throne in heaven.
- Marcus Bigelow is the Northern California Representative for Convene
