Readers of the Bible rarely, if ever, turn to the book of Revelation for comfort or assurance in hard times. In fact, many popular interpretations of Revelation today focus on predicting a terrifying future that leaves many unsettled and disconnected from John's original message to the seven churches, many of whom were suffering persecution under the Roman Empire. Revelation encouraged its original readers to persevere as they waited for God to eradicate evil, restore justice, and redeem the world. Revelation speaks to the past, present, and future church with the assurance of Christ's victory over evil and the promise that faithfulness will be richly rewarded. This often perplexing book of the Bible reveals good news about the rule of Christ and the future of God's people. Rather than saying, ""Watch out! The Anti-Christ is coming,"" Revelation tells its readers, ""Hold on, Jesus is Lord!""
