“A Call For Endurance”

Friday, August 06, 2021

BIBLE READING: Revelation 13-14

Revelation depicts the dichotomy of good and evil. There is no gray area where some ride the fence and swing their loyalty just enough at the end. Those who realize victory and vindication from Jesus are those who have committed themselves to the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus (12.17; 14.1-5). They have struggled against Satan and his forces, even to death (6.9-11). Everyone else, whether deliberate or deceived, will incur the wrath of God (11.10; 13.4, 14; 14.9-11).

The stark contrast represents true reality. The world will say truth is subjective and enlightenment comes through many paths. Philosophy and psychology always seem to come up with new explanations for what life is about and how to do it right. Like the early believers John wrote to, we are influenced by cultural bias and sometimes become lax or discouraged in our faith. John’s vivid language is intended to wake us up to reality and prompt urgency. In fact, John makes a point to step aside from his apocalyptic language to offer clear calls to action:

“Here is a call for the endurance and faith of the saints… “those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus.” (Revelation 13.10b; 14.12)

“This calls for a mind with wisdom…” (Revelation 13.18; 17.9)

Some of these calls are for the immediate readers, as they would soon experience these things (Revelation 13.9-10). But these are also for believers of all time. We too will be confronted by a world that is still subject to the power and deception of Satan. Until Christ returns, Satan’s focus is to destroy those loyal to Jesus. What this means is Revelation must be considered and acted upon. Its goal is to motivate faithfulness, in our lives, until the very end (Revelation 14.13).

Trials cause frustration and distress. Life causes apathy and discouragement. Some of this is the nature of the world, but some of these are Satan’s tactics to distract our loyalty to Jesus. Here is a call for endurance. We need to make the best use of our time and commit ourselves to Jesus in every way. In our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. In our relationships, work, and families. Following Jesus is all in, all the time. We must be sober minded about this reality and live today with purpose and conviction.

“…you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.” (Hebrews 10.36)

""...blessed are those who die in the Lord from now on." "Blessed indeed," says the Spirit, "that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!" (Revelation 14.13)

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