The book of revelation is the pulling back of the curtain so that we can see what the future of God's people will be. This revelation is our glorious hope as we look to Jesus in these days of tribulation and know for sure he is coming back to take us home.

John introduces this book as a prophecy that is to be read aloud. Prophecy is not just future telling, but tells us what our current state is. When you survey the prophecies of the Old Testament you gain an understanding that the prophets spoke more about the people's relationship with God and then warned them of what would happen if they did not repent. So the prophetic message of Revelation 1 v 9-20 is one that tells us the current reality of Jesus and where he is most happy to be. The image is given of Jesus amongst the lampstands, confirmed as the seven churches in Asia Minor. Jesus is in the midst of the midst of the churches and is not abstract from them.

John goes on to see the reality of Jesus and who he is to his people. John knew Jesus well and what he sees is the glorified Christ who has authority and command of all things. But he is also the Christ who puts his right hand on John and says "Fear not". Our Saviour is gracious and loving and wants us to trust in him so that we will know him as our glorious hope.

Glorious Hope is a podcast teaching series from Annalong Presbyterian Church. You can find out more at www.annalongpc.org/sermons.

Get your copy of the ESV Scripture Journal (Revelation) wherever you get your Christian books to help your own study in this series.

A video of this podcast can be viewed at https://youtu.be/GAJc1t9vv0A.