The Writers of Revelation

Have you noticed how often the word ‘write’ is used in the Book of Revelation?

We tend to think of prophets as speakers, and yet John was also a writer. He was told, “…Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea…” (Revelation 1:11).

But why, how, and what was John required to write?

Evidently, his writing enabled his prophecy to be passed on more effectively. As the prophet Habakkuk was told, “…Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it…” (Habakkuk 2:2).

And what did John write?

He was instructed to, “…Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later…” (Revelation 1:19).

His writing was birthed in a personal unveiling of Christ. It was authentic, relevant, and challenging.

And then, how did John write?

He wrote personal letters to each of the churches. As it says, “…To the angel of the church in Ephesus write…” (Revelation 2:1).

John’s command to write gives us some clear guidelines for our communication.

It should be clear, authentic, and personally applicable.

Does this describe our teaching?

Are we good stewards of divine revelation?

Are we speakers and writers of truth?

Robert