Lesson 1 - December 29 - January 4
Sabbath Afternoon
Read for This Week’s Study: Revelation 1:1-8; John 14:1-3; Deuteronomy 29:29; John 14:29; Romans 1:7; Philippians 3:20; Daniel 7:13-14.
Memory Text: “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near” (Revelation 1:3, NKJV).
The prophecies of Revelation were revealed in vision to the apostle John more than nineteen centuries ago during his exile on a small rocky island known as Patmos in the Aegean Sea (Revelation 1:9). Revelation 1:3 pronounces a blessing on those who read the book and hear and obey the teachings (compare Luke 6:47-48). This verse refers to the congregation assembled in the church to hear the messages. However, they are blessed not only because they read or listen, but also because they obey the words of the book (Revelation 22:7).
The prophecies of Revelation are an expression of God’s care for His people. They point us to the shortness and fragility of this life, to salvation in Jesus, and His work as our heavenly High Priest and King, to our calling to spread the gospel.
Biblical prophecies are like a lamp shining in a dark place (2 Peter 1:19). They are intended to provide guidance for our life today and hope for our future. We will need this prophetic guide until the coming of Christ and the establishment of God’s everlasting kingdom.
Study this week’s lesson to prepare for Sabbath, January 5.
