March 19: DEAR CHURCH, BE OF GOOD CHEER!

Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands. Revelation 1:12

In verse 7, John had caught a glimpse of the Lord’s approach from heaven when He returns to earth in glory, the central theme of Revelation. But now, John turns around and the scene is an earthly one. The seven golden lampstands that he saw are the seven churches (v.20). This sight is distinctly reminiscent of the seven-branch candlestick of the earthly tabernacle which had symbolized to the Jews the obedience of Israel to God for the purpose of being light in the world. “I, the LORD, have called You in righteousness, and will hold Your hand; I will keep You and give You as a covenant to the people, as a light to the Gentiles, to open blind eyes, to bring out prisoners from the prison, those who sit in darkness from the prison house. (Isaiah 42:6-7, see also Isaiah 49:6-7) In the Old Testament, Israel was appointed to be God’s light-bearing witness to the world. After their disobedience, Jesus Himself came onto the scene and became the perfect representative of God upon the earth; as a man, He perfectly and completely fulfilled the role of Overcomer, for this is what the name Israel means. He is our Example for every situation.

In this earthly scene, John saw seven golden lampstands that were separate—not all in one piece on a single stand as in the tabernacle—with Jesus walking among them (v.13). Israel’s role as light-bearing witnesses was to be continued in the church’s role. Jesus transferred this assignment directly: “You are the light of the world . . .” (Matthew 5:14). The lampstands signify spiritual Israel and succinctly define the essential role of the church: God’s witness in the world!

As world events steadily escalate toward more intense controversy and confrontation, those who follow the Ultimate Overcomer have the assurance of true peace. The peace that the world attempts to offer is artificial and short-lived. In fact, it is a counterfeit peace. (See Jeremiah 6:14, 8:11, Ezekiel 13:10, 1 Thessalonians 5:3)

Jesus said: “He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 8:12; 16:33