5 Very Important Life Lessons from Revelation

The Revelation to John, sometimes just called Revelation, is the last book in the Bible. We have drawn life lessons from every book starting in Genesis and now will finish in Revelation. This is a bit of a mysterious book and has inspired a variety of approaches in interpreting and understanding it. There is no clear consensus on what it all means. We know that it points to the future but we don’t really know how much of what was revealed two thousand years has already been accomplished.

However, not knowing all the details of the prophecy doesn’t mean we can’t learn from it! So here are some lessons to help you follow Jesus!

Don’t Forget Your First Love

Remember when you first gave your life to Jesus? It was a special moment that felt so good! It was like the weight of the world was lifted off your shoulders. There was profound love at that moment. We were so motivated to do all we could to demonstrate our love to God for what he did in our lives. We must continue to be guided by that moment and time in our lives.

But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.

Revelation 2:4–5 (ESV)

To repent means to change our minds. The remedy for a lost love is to simply decide to love and serve again just as you have in the past. It’s easy to get sidetracked or overwhelmed by the things in the world. Renew your love for God and then continue to grow in your spiritual life.

Don’t be Afraid

No matter what happens, you will never be abandoned! God’s love is always with you. Life is full of trials and difficulties. For some who read this, persecution is close at hand. Hear the words written for you.

Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.

Revelation 2:10 (ESV)

This sounds rather bleak, but the reality is that we will be finally and eternally saved from this evil world. We can live without fear and God will strengthen our faith so we can endure.

Don’t be Dead

It’s dangerous to have a dead faith!

When we only go through the motions, when we rely on our reputation (as individuals and especially as a church) we may think we are okay, but we may simply be dead!

I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God.

Revelation 3:1-2 (ESV)

We don’t coast in following Jesus. It is an active life of pursuing a high call and living an abundant life! Jesus is all about life and hope and goodness! Don’t be dead – be alive!

The Sad State of the Church

While we may not be in real bad shape, the western church is not as healthy as it could be. Even where it appears to be thriving, there may be real problems. While it is not always the case, this scripture is an apt description of many churches.

I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see.

Revelation 3:15–18 (ESV)

Remember, these words are from letters addressed to churches. We have many lukewarm churches attended by lukewarm Christians. So many who call themselves Christian today make a good confession, read their Bibles occasionally, pray (especially when they’re in trouble) and attend church several times a year. They enjoy the security of faith without the commitment that Jesus calls for. They would not deny the faith (be cold) but neither are they fervent in their commitment (hot).

We must continually guard against our faith being just a security blanket and a warm sentiment. That is not biblical faith!

The remedy to this state of affairs is clearly stated.

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.

Revelation 3:20 (ESV)

Finally, Worship

So much of what we read in Revelation involves hardship and judgment but one of the great themes of Revelation is worship! It is sprinkled throughout the pages of this great book. As the end nears, as described in the final chapters of this book, we see more and more worship taking place. When judgment is pronounced, and punishment is meted out, worship is lifted!

After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying out,

       “Hallelujah!

       Salvation and glory and power belong to our God,

           for his judgments are true and just;

       for he has judged the great prostitute

who corrupted the earth with her immorality,

       and has avenged on her the blood of his servants.”

 Once more they cried out,

       “Hallelujah!

       The smoke from her goes up forever and ever.”

 And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God who was seated on the throne, saying, “Amen. Hallelujah!”

Revelation 19:1–4 (ESV)

What a glorious day that will be when corruption and evil will be totally destroyed. Then unbridled praise and worship will break out!

Your Turn

I challenge you to renew your faith, to spend time in God’s Word, to learn what he has for you. He is faithful to lead you and guide you each step of the way.

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