Each of the seven letters ends with a promise to the one who “overcomes.” What does it mean to “overcome” in the book of Revelation? We can go back to the throne room scene in Revelation 5 to get the answer to that question. When John is weeping because no one is worthy of opening the scroll, he is told: “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed (overcome). He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” The word is the same in Revelation 5 as it is in the letters to the seven churches. Christians are being called to overcome as Jesus overcame. And how was that? Through faithful witness, being faithful to the point of dying for his faith. Jesus triumphed through death; the Asian Christians are being called to be willing to do the same. The world calls to them to overcome through military strength or political action. Jesus calls to them to overcome by a willing sacrifice of love for the sake of the kingdom of God.
(Letters From The Lamb, p. 53)
To the Ephesian conquerors, Jesus promised to undo the curse of Eden. He would let them eat of the Tree of Life. Adam and Eve were kicked out of the Garden so that they wouldn’t be able to eat of the Tree of Life. Jesus promises the Ephesians that those willing to face martyrdom will come to have what Adam and Even once had. They will eat of the Tree of Life and live forever.
Love it Sir! Love it! I have enjoyed this series, haven’t made many comments, been just letting it settle in. I am greatly encouraged from this part of the Rev. text. A lot of folks miss out on the nourishment that comes out of a good study of this text. Thanks Sir!
Trent
“Jesus calls to them to overcome by a willing sacrifice of love for the sake of the kingdom of God.”
Tim, I’m not sure most people understand just what a sacrifice is, or for that matter, where God’s earthly Kingdom is. Can you explain what a willing sacrifice is, and why it is made for the Kingdom. Did Jesus go willingly to the cross, or did he say “your will, not mine” ?
I believe most need to rethink just what the scriptures tell us.
Why did Jesus go to the cross ? reluctantly, but he went. If we look back to the commandments, we find out.
“the Asian Christians are being called to be willing to do the same”
Are not all Christians called to give the ultimate sacrifice. “Take up your cross and follow me”