The Apostle John was called by the Lord Jesus to write the Book of Revelation. It is a Christ-centered book. John (and us) was to “fear not”. “It is the scariest book in the Bible. Yet it is also one of the most comforting, reassuring, and exhilarating.” – Ray Stedman.
Muck like the dark and dismal Friday when Jesus was crucified and buried. Faith fled, joy turned to sorrow, and all hope seemed to be lost. But in just three short days, “upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning”, “as it began to dawn”, “when it was yet dark”, everything changed. Because Jesus Christ, The Lord of Glory arose from the grave on “Resurrection Sunday”!
Matthew 28:5-6:
[5] And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
[6] He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
Revelation 1:17-20:
[17] And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:
[18] I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
Because of Good Friday (crucifixion) you can look back and not be afraid.
Because of Easter (Resurrection Sunday) you can look ahead and not be afraid.
Because of Ascension Day you can look up and not be afraid.
Because of Pentecost you can look inward and not be afraid.
