Revelation is a book that we often shy away from. For most, the idea of a movie style apocalypse or something worse, prompts some level of anxiety.
I remember watching televangelists many years ago who spent the majority of their TV ministry preaching about the events that were coming our way. As far as I could tell, I was sure to see the “end times” in my lifetime and it was terrifying.
I’m thankful for growth! This no longer terrifies me. Now, I look through a different lens when reading about end times or the revealing of God’s plan—revelation.
In Revelation chapters 2 and 3, we read of Jesus’ words to seven churches regarding their deeds or works. He’s essentially letting them each know that He knows everything about them and what they have or haven’t done.
Focusing on their deeds here seems a little contradictory to what we read in Ephesians 2: 8-9 which says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one can boast.” Is it contradictory to what Jesus says in Revelation 2 and 3?
Not at all.
Jesus is connecting the beliefs of these churches with their actions or works. Their works are indicators of their belief. If we are a church, or body of believers who claim to believe in Jesus, our desire to be like Him will be put into action. Believing is more than something we say or think, it’s also something we do. Our faith is a verb.
Yes, we are saved by the grace of God, but it doesn’t end there.
Let’s put our faith in action to show the world the one who has saved us.
Blessings
VC Devotionals 