There are Christians who shy away from the book of Revelation. They don’t see the need to read the book. Their reasoning is that the strange symbols and fearsome images of the book are not understandable. Then there are those who combine that excuse with self-satisfaction. They say that it is enough that they simply have accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior. That – accepting Jesus – is certainly a legitimate enough claim. But if one has faith enough to follow Jesus, why wouldn’t one want to know all that Jesus has to offer in terms of guidance.

We are told that the book of Revelation is the Apostle John testifying about what God showed him. What John saw, according to Rev. 1: 2, was the “word of God (the Father as the author) and the testimony of Jesus Christ” (the communicator of the word).

Rev. 19: 10 tells us that Jesus’ testimony is “the spirit of prophecy.” That makes Revelation a prophetic book. It opens the curtains so that we may see the spiritual workings behind the unfolding present and future events on earth and in heaven.

Jesus’ testimony is eagerly given in order to make and keep us aware of the war between good and evil. It’s also a reminder of the war’s outcome – eternal victory for His people. His testimony is a way of comforting us while helping us overcome. He testifies in order to lead and direct us away from the enemy’s deceptive schemes; from the world’s spiritual and culturally corrupt landmines scattered across the battlefield. He testifies because it is a war that shouldn’t be ignored, for everyone on earth – believers and unbelievers; willingly and unwillingly – is a participant in it, every day, every night. Neutrality is impossible.

So there is no need to be afraid of Revelation. For heaven’s sake, it comes from God. It is given as help for our growth and peace in Christ Jesus. God wants all His people to be engaged in the book. That’s why it was delivered firstly to be read to the congregations as a whole. (Rev. 1: 3 says “blessed is the one who reads [the book] and the ones listening.” That indicates a church setting; for in context, “he who reads” would be doing it publicly, meaning the preacher. “The ones listening,” at the same time it’s read, would be those hearing the preacher.)

Of course, one can read the book on his or her own time too. In those cases, Bible dictionaries and concordances, and maybe even group Bible study can be useful tools. However it’s done, always pray that the mind will be open to hear Jesus’ testimony with understanding.

And lastly, act accordingly to that which is understood. For God says there is a blessing for those who read, hear, and keep what is written in the book.

Revelation is not a book to be feared and shunned. Instead, the book is a blessing to be sought. After all, to be blessed by God means to receive happiness from God.

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So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. 2 Peter 1:19