Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ our Lord,
“. . . I saw seven golden lampstands; and in the middle of the lampstands one like a son of man. . . . .”Revelation 1:1-2
Let me first apologize for being a day late with this week’s Monday Encouragement from the Word. Persistent internet difficulties at our home have plagued us for some time now. So while a day late, perhaps we’re not a dollar short!
The mere mention of the Book of Revelation brings to the surface a number of thoughts, opinions, and even emotions. Despite the Epistle’s apparent popularity, it remains a New Testament letter that many believers are intimidated by and, as a result, largely stay away from.
On the surface, it seems much too complicated as it is an apocalyptic book, filled with graphic images, perplexing symbols, and enigmatic references to the Old Testament. To be sure, it is a difficult book to understand, if only because it is written in the language of the Old Testament. John, the inspired author, shrouded his letter to the seven churches of ancient Asia-Minor in the clothing of the Old Covenant Scriptures. He did so in order to protect his readers from imperial persecution.
Aside from the amazing visual imagery discovered in this Epistle, there is one central theme that should never be lost as we navigate its pages. That theme is expressed in the words from chapter one quoted above.
As you know, the letter was addressed to seven local churches in the Roman empire. Each congregation was unique in many ways, for they existed in different imperial cities, had different needs and problems, were at various stages of spiritual maturity, and required a specific message from Jesus through the Apostle John.
But one thing they all had in common was their need for encouragement.Each of the little churches was under the threat of persecution from the hostile powers around them, both local and national.Harassment, if not persecution, was a daily threat, and with it the temptation to compromise their commitment to the Lordship of the one and only true King there is, our exalted Lord Jesus. So the Epistle commences with a most uplifting vision, which John describes in chapter one.
He sees “ seven golden lampstands,” which represent each of the seven churches (see v. 20). Then he observes someone whose appearance is like that of “ a son of man.” This phrase identifies the mysterious figure as no other than Jesus Himself (see the further descriptions of Him in vv. 13-16). But then he reports that in this vison, the exalted Son of God is “ in the middle of the lampstands” (v. 13).This image is repeated in 2:1 where Jesus is said to be “ the One who walks among the seven golden lampstands.” Here we find the central message of the letter, and our encouragement for this week.
Where is Jesus now?
Well, we know that He reigning from heaven as the Lord and King of all. We also know that He is ever before the Father’s throne, serving as our Intercessor, Advocate, and High Priest.
But this is not all! While this fact defies our limited knowledge and understanding, it is also true that He is in the middle of His churches even now!It is here, with us, that He walks!
This means that when we gather together, bound by His love, by our common confession of His Lordship, and by our vows of membership, He is with us, right in the very middle of our fellowship!
- He is with Christ Presbyterian Church as we worship Him together.
- He is with us as we serve Him, and declare His Word.
- He is with us as we bear witness to Him in our community.
- He is with us through all of the hills and valleys of life together as His redeemed Bride.
But, He is also with each of us as individual members of His body.
- He walks with us everywhere, always.
- He is in the middle of everything we do and experience.
- He sees and knows everything about us.
- He never leaves us alone, not even for a second!
- He is with us in our pains and sorrows, just as He is in all of our joys.
- He is with us as we are tempted, and as we fight the fight of faith.
He has permanently stationed Himself in the midst of those whom He loves with a love inexpressible!
There is nothing more encouraging than this!
So be of good courage today and this week. You are loved. You are protected. You are treasured. And you are never alone!And the same goes for His little church here in Hampton Cove! The Son of God walks among us, and that’s really all we need to know!
I love you so very much, each and every one!
Mike