The mere thought of the biblical book of Revelation conjures up feelings of fear, dread, anxiety and apprehension in the minds of many readers. The depictions of apocalyptic plagues, scary beasts and cataclysmic natural disasters tend to frighten a lot of people.

Another reason that some might avoid reading Revelation is that they perceive it as being difficult to understand. Its symbolism can come across as a code that is too hard to decipher, so why even try.

However, the book of Revelation is not intended to scare or confuse people. Its purpose is to provide comfort and encouragement to an embattled church that is always facing extreme hardships and challenges. Its message—both to the original recipients and modern-day readers—promises blessings to those who persevere in their faith in Jesus Christ despite any adversity we may face. Revelation 1:3 promises, “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it…”

The most comforting part of Revelation is the good news of the salvation that is available to mankind through their faith in the crucified and risen Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It might surprise some to find that the gospel message is present throughout the book of Revelation, and it is revealed early in the text. Revelation 1:5-6 says, “…Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.”

This is the essence of the gospel message, right here in Revelation! Jesus Christ died to set us free from our sins. He rose from the dead and has enabled us to be a part of his kingdom. Because of that, he deserves our devotion and our worship.

The gospel not only sets us free from our sins, but it also sets us free to live boldly and confidently for the Lord, even in the most trying of circumstances. The gospel message equips us to be witnesses for Jesus, spreading the good news of the salvation that he freely offers to a lost and dying world. The gospel message in Revelation not only gives us hope and comfort, but it also inspires us to be actively sharing our faith with others. Thank God for the gospel in Revelation!