By Eric Spears
John’s symbolic language makes the interpretation and application of Revelation difficult to apply in daily Christian life. For this reason many Christians find their practical inspiration in other books (e.g., Proverbs, Psalms, James, etc.). Placing Revelation in proper context, however, provides meaningful insight and spiritual relevance for our everyday faith.
These chapters are a response to the early Christians facing opposition by the Roman imperial cult, a form of state religion in which the emperor was given exclusive allegiance. Historical analyses have shown that even the Christian Ephesians were influenced by this imperial rhetoric, which diluted their faithful practice.
This perspective on Revelation 16–22 enables us to make connections between the first Christians threatened by the imperial cult and the challenges present-day Christians face. We in the First World live in a “developed” society that embraces technological innovation, puts financial profit over social justice, and devalues faith as something antiquated. Twenty-first century globalism is arguably our version of the imperial cult, and the never-ending distractions found in our jobs, social life, and entertainment challenge our allegiance to the Holy Trinity (please refer to Doug Thompson’s insightful discussion on March 10th that focused on “Practicing the Sabbath”).
We need to reflect on the many different ways this contemporary version of the “imperial cult” challenges our faith and integrity. More important, we need to pray as individuals and a community for daily strength and focus.
Welcome!This Lenten season, the First Baptist Church of Christ will take the time to listen to the entire New Testament (days and passages are listed on the right column). Through our partnership with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, every member of the church will be offered a free MP3 recording of the New Testament. By listening to this recording for less than half an hour each day, one can hear the entire New Testament in forty days.
At this blog, you’ll be able to read some of our members’ thoughts about what they are hearing. Our contributors reflect the great diversity of our congregation. They are male and female, older and younger, some with a seminary background and some without. As you read their questions, reflections, and observations, I invite you to join the conversation by posting a comment.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
April 3: Revelation 16–22
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