Demystifying Revelation — a comfort for today
In “Winning In Christ,” author Robert Blair unpacks illuminating biblical insights in the exploration of the New Testament book of Revelation.
Blair aims to demystify the complex symbolism of Revelation and debunk several popular interpretations. He provides hope and encouragement to modern Christians facing opposition in their faith journey, urging them to win the victory in Christ — just as the apostle John did when he wrote the letter to believers in his day who were persecuted.
Robert Blair. “Winning In Christ: Seeing Through Revelation.” Fairway Press. 2024. 287 pages. $29.95.
Blair highlights the original meaning of the Greek word “apocalypse,” which means “to reveal” or “unveil.” He contends that the key to grasping Revelation is having a keen understanding of both Old and New Testament writings.
Briefly ponder every win you’ve had in life, big or small, and what it took for victory. For everyone, there are endless setbacks, challenges, issues and obstacles that appear to leave no option but to give up on the Christian race.
But Blair argues that winning in Christ for believers lies not in retreat under attack, but in God’s promises and power over the enemy — a promise of victory to all Christians who faithfully follow Jesus.
A highlight of the book is its emphasis on decoding Revelation’s “secret language.” The author posits that the Holy Spirit intentionally employed covert terms and illustrations, using a “complex symbolic structure.”
Blair says that the Holy Spirit coded communications with challenging signs and symbols to comfort and convict believers yet confuse the Lamb’s enemies. He argues the message contained in Revelation is not a composition written to frighten the faithful.
The author draws comparisons between modern and first-century Christians who suffered and endured severe persecution, exploring how Revelation has served as a timeless manual for encouragement, perseverance and victory for all believers rather than a picture of terror.
One of Blair’s interpretations warrants closer examination. The author proposes that Jesus’ advice to “go the second mile and agree quickly with your adversary” signifies that disciples should not engage in efforts to change national governments but rather prioritize loving others and sharing the Good News.
However, the historical meaning of Jesus’ instruction to “go the second mile” followed the Roman Empire’s practice of angareuō — “to press into service” — which required civilians to travel one mile and carry messages, equipment and other items.
Christ told his disciples in Matthew 5:41 to go not one mile but two, urging a radical response: to willingly turn coercion from authorities into a witness of grace.
The central theme of “Winning in Christ” emphasizes that the book of Revelation offers guidance to believers as they navigate the trials, troubles and uncertainties of life.
It assures them of ultimate triumph and the reward of everlasting life, encouraging faithful living in a present-day world while they await the final trumpet for the promised resurrection to a victorious life everlasting.
CHARLES E. TEDDINGTON preaches for the Vintage Park Church of Christ in Elk Grove, Calif. He holds Bible degrees from Amridge University and Midwestern Christian Institute and has dedicated over 38 years of his life to proclaiming the Gospel.
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