Revelation—A Simple Book With A Simple MessageSample

Winning at Life

The first three chapters of Revelation are addressed to seven churches that existed during John’s time. These churches were Greek colonies that became Roman cities located in what is now western Turkey. Each letter focuses on things each church needs to continue or correct. Why? Because Jesus wants every person in every church to win great rewards.

Each letter ends with a promise, “To him who overcomes I will give a reward.” The rewards vary for each church. What does not vary is the exhortation to “overcome.”

Perhaps the most informative exhortation to “overcome” is in Rev 3:21, where Jesus exhorts the Laodicean believers to overcome as, “I also overcame and sat down with my Father on His throne.” Jesus was a faithful servant, and faithful servants “overcome.” 

What does it mean to “overcome” and how and what did Jesus “overcome?”

The Greek word translated ‘overcome’ is nikao which is derived from the Greek god Nike, goddess of victory. It is translated as overcome, conquer, prevail, defeat and get the victory. It means to come out on top, to win. Jesus overcame temptation. Philippians 2:8 tells us that Jesus had to learn obedience through difficulties and trials. He overcame a desire to avoid the cross and endured the cross. 

Philippians 2:9 tells us that because Jesus overcame, the Father elevated Him above every name. Just as Jesus says in Revelation 3:21, He ascended to the throne of the Father because He overcame, and learned obedience. Jesus became a faithful witness, a faithful servant. His reward was to reign over the earth. He was granted all authority.

What does Jesus desire to do with the authority He won to reign over all the earth? He desires to share it with His servants who prove themselves faithful. Jesus desires His servants to enter His joy, but they must first prove themselves faithful. 

God’s original design was for humanity to dwell with Him and rule over the earth in harmony with God, man, and nature. God’s plan is to fulfill that design. But not all will reign. Those who have proven through a life of faithful obedience, they are equipped to reign as servant kings and will share Jesus’ throne.

Lasting happiness, the greatest fulfillment available to any human is to function as we were created and accomplish what we were made to do. Jesus redeemed us by His grace and sent the Spirit to dwell within us, filling us with His power, that we might be restored to the glory He intended for us. The best and truest happiness possible is available and will be given to all believers who are faithful servants. Those who serve others in love. Who continue to trust that God is on His throne, and seeks our best, even when circumstances are dark, and it does not seem possible. 

Revelation is a simple book with a simple message. If we are willing to read, understand, and do the exhortation of Revelation, we will be a faithful witness. We will not shirk from fear of rejection, loss or even death. We will be faithful to serve others even when it costs us dearly. Why? Because we know that Jesus is on His throne. And soon He will return, with rewards in His hand, to give to His servants. The greatest and most lasting happiness will be given to the faithful servants of Jesus. 

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