Back in the day, Christian meant follower of Christ. Those early pioneers often paid a hefty price to wear the label. History says that the Apostle John was boiled in oil because he believed in Jesus as the Messiah.
It is said that he was exiled to the island called Patmos only after the boiling did not take his life. John followed Jesus, and even though he paid a huge price for doing so, he received a powerful revelation known as the New Testament’s last book of Revelation.
In the opening verses of the book, John describes a glorified Jesus shining as bright as the sun. He speaks of seven messages to be given to seven church groups along Asia Minor.
The Apostle conveys the same message within the different instructions for each group,
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
A straightforward statement, 15 words, but what does it mean?
Let the one with the faculty perceive with the mind and understand with the heart what the breath of God is saying to the called out.
Not everyone hears has the faculty to perceive or comprehend what the Spirit of God is saying.
Do you know anyone like that? They hear the words coming from your mouth, but they do not listen with their heart. You can pour out your heart to them, only to have them oblivious to what has happened.
Evidently, the ekklesia (the church, the called out) is full of such people.
The Holy Spirit—the active agent of the Godhead on the earth—has much to say and impart into the hearts and lives of Christ-followers, but many cannot hear the still, small voice of God the Holy Spirit.
A close personal relationship
The book of Revelation speaks to the end of time as humanity knows it. The message of Jesus to each of the church groups is to possess the ability to hear and comprehend the instructions given. A close personal relationship with God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is vital for the end-time Christ-follower.
Such a relationship is built over time; there are no quick fixes to making you attuned to the voice of the Spirit. It is a systematic process, much like courtship with your spouse. You spend increasing amounts of time together before you know little about them.
The hour of Christ’s return is closer than at any time in history. Having such a relationship is more critical today than you can imagine.
“Draw me close to you, Lord,” must be the heart cry of each Christ-follower.
A close personal relationship with God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit is an unexpected journey of discovery.
Join me on the journey; it will be life-altering.