“God Wins”


BIBLE READING:  Revelation 1
                                                                                                                                                               
                Revelation is the book of the Bible that seems to be the most intimidating to Christians.  Remember, though, if it wasn’t important for us to understand, God would not have given it to us.  In fact, it is quite important to us.  Revelation is the reminder at the end of God’s Word of one thing, and one thing only…God wins! That’s it.  That’s the entire theme.  I could stop the devo here, but there’s a few other things to notice in chapter 1.
                Chapter 1 sets the scene.  John addresses the seven churches of Asia (Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodices -v.11).  We know who his audience is.  It also tells us the main personalities in Revelation.  God is the deliverer of the message being described as “Him who is and who was and who is to come,” (v4) as well as the Holy Spirit described as “the seven Spirits who are before His throne.” (v4)  We’re also told that this is sent from Jesus, “the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.” (v4).  John also explains his role as author that he was “both your brother and companion in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the island that is called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.” (v9).
                Then, in his vision, John turns and sees Jesus, “the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last,” (v11) and is instructed to write what he sees in his vision.  In the first chapter, we are reminded of the power of Jesus Christ…the power He has over death…and a reminder that in the end…God wins!”  “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last.  I am he who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore.  Amen.” (v17-18) What a powerful opening chapter to the book of Revelation!  And remember, ultimately…. God wins!

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