Sermon 216

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📖 SERMON 216 — THE INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF REVELATION

Text: Revelation 1:1–8 (read vv. 1–11)
Dates referenced: June 28, 1970; January 8, 1950; February 16, 1964
Preacher: G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

This sermon introduces a series on the opening chapters of Revelation. The opening verses form a rich and authoritative entrance into this sacred prophecy.

SUBJECT: THE INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF REVELATION

I. THE INFORMATION IT GIVES ABOUT ITS CONTENT

A. The title: “The Revelation of Jesus Christ”

1. It comes from Him and concerns Him.
2. It is a prophecy (v. 3).
3. It is given by God — the triune God.
4. It is addressed to the servants of Christ.
5. It is communicated by an angel.
6. It is shown to John, who faithfully bore witness to the Word of God.

B. It reveals “things which must shortly come to pass”

1. “Must” means nothing can prevent their fulfillment.
2. They begin soon — the last days have already begun.
3. The prophecy unfolds God’s sovereign plan for the future.

II. IT OFFERS ENCOURAGEMENT TO THOSE WHO STUDY IT

A. The first of seven beatitudes

1. A blessing is pronounced.
2. Promised directly by God.
3. Assurance that study of this book will be fruitful.

B. A blessing to the reader

1. The one who publicly reads the book.
2. The one who expounds it.
3. Encouragement is needed due to the difficulty of the book.

C. A blessing to the hearers

1. To those who listen attentively.
2. Especially to those who keep the things written.
3. Such people find blessing greater than great earthly treasure.

III. IT BRINGS THE SALUTATION OF JOHN

A. Addressed to the seven churches of Asia

1. Representative of the whole Christian Church.
2. The greeting applies to all believers everywhere.

B. The blessings of “Grace and Peace”

1. Grace — undeserved favor and all blessings in Christ.
2. Peace — reconciliation with God.

These come from the Triune God:

1. From the Eternal Father — “the One who is, and who was, and who is to come.”
2. From the Seven Spirits — the Holy Spirit in His fullness.
3. From Jesus Christ —
   a. The Faithful Witness
   b. The Firstborn of the Dead
   c. The Ruler of the Kings of the Earth

IV. IT RAISES A SONG OF PRAISE TO CHRIST

A. Praise to Him who loves us

1. A present and continuous love.
2. Known by every believer.

B. Praise to Him who loosed us from our sins

1. Delivered from guilt and power.
2. Freed from the curse.
3. By His blood.

C. Praise to Him who made us a kingdom and priests

1. We belong to His kingdom.
2. We serve the Father as priests.
3. This is the dignity of the redeemed.

D. The doxology

“To Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
1. The desire of all true saints.
2. All glory belongs to Christ.
3. “Amen” is our joyful assent.

CONCLUSION

Revelation begins not with fear but with blessing, grace, and praise. It reveals Christ — faithful witness, risen Lord, and ruler of kings. As we continue into this great book, let us receive its message, keep its words, and join in praising the Lamb who loves us.

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