In addition to John’s emphasis on saints following Christ’s lead in bearing testimony and serving as witness, John connects the church with an Old Testament image that emphasizes her missional nature. In Revelation 1:12, John turns to find the voice speaking to him and sees Jesus standing among seven golden lampstands. Jesus identifies the seven … Continue reading Lampstands and the Mission of the Church
bible
Witness & Testimony in the Book of Revelation
In the last post a made the case the the placement of Revelation at the close of the canon and it's role in bringing the grand narrative of Scripture to a close highlights the theme of mission in and of itself. But, it is not only Revelation’s place in the canon that alerts the reader … Continue reading Witness & Testimony in the Book of Revelation
Mission in the Book of Revelation, Part 2
When we come to the book of Revelation, we cannot neglect its place in the canon. Of course this is true of every book of the Bible, but especially true of the book that brings the grand narrative of redemption to its completion. Considered canonically, the book of Revelation unfolds for the reader the culmination … Continue reading Mission in the Book of Revelation, Part 2
To Be Seen or Not to Be Seen
Yesterday I was reading through the Sermon on the Mount in my personal devotions. I'm sure I've noticed this before, but I was struck by two apparently conflicting statements and have been pondering how to reconcile them. In Matthew 5:13-16 Jesus calls his followers to let their light shine before the watching world. In v. … Continue reading To Be Seen or Not to Be Seen
Literal Hermeneutic
I have a friend who isn't a believer but reads the Bible. At times he's frustrated by the fact that I don't always employ a literal hermeneutic. It's actually kind of fun to frustrate him with my non-literal understanding of certain parts of the Bible...but is it a responsible fun? In other words, should we … Continue reading Literal Hermeneutic
God Entranced 