Lesson 4 January 5, 2003
Then follows some descriptive characteristics of the ministry of Jesus Christ.
* First characteristic: "faithful witness"
- The book of Revelation is marked by end time events; and during that time many of the faithful, holding to the truth will die. Martyrs for the faith.
- For Christ, a faithful witness to what??
- The book of Revelation is marked by end time events; and during that time many of the faithful, holding to the truth will die. Will become Martyrs for the faith.
* Second characteristic = "first born of the dead"
- word firstborn has nothing to do with time;
prwto,tokoj has to do with rank, pre-imminence.- Look at some passages that teach the principle:
most basic Ps 89:27 (LXX); Rom 8:29; Col 1:15,18
* Third, The perfect king; "ruler of the kings of the earth" is yet future!
- One of the questions that Revelation deals with is "Who will rule??" Satan through man or God by Christ.
d. Doxology 1:5b
Having focused on the Person of Christ and His 3-fold office as Prophet, Priest and King; John abruptly breaks into a burst of praise!
"To Him who loves us, and released us from our sins by His blood."