[Q2. Father and the Son]

What does 1:8 and 21:6 (the Father speaking) and verses 1:17 and 21:6 (Jesus speaking) tell us. It is God himself speaking. Jesus confirms He is God as His Father's words "I AM the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, who is, who was, and who is to come." One and the same. Jesus is God Almighty! Praise You Lord!

[Q1. Faithful Witnesses]

Verse 5 Jesus is the faithful witness (the Prophet), the firstborn from the dead (the Priest) the ruler over kings of the earth (the King). He is also our Saviour.

Question 1 reassures us that good will truimph over evil, gives hope as we face difficult times, gives guidance when wavering in faith. Christ's message to the church is a message of hope for all believer's in every generation.

How is Jesus the faithful witness supposed to encourage us?

He is God. He is sovereign, greater than any power in the universe. He is in control! He is the Alpha and Omega - the First and the Last - the end of all existence, wisdom and power.

We have all read the end of the Book and we WIN! How's that for encouragement!

Why are we afraid to be clear witnesses in a culture where we aren't persecuted?

Lethargy. Too comfortable. We should shine as witnesses in this dark world but have become complacent. Our times of peace and prosperity can lull us to sleep. As in Rev. 3:16 we have grown lukewarm. Indifference led to idleness. The church can become hardened and self-satisfied. There is great danger in this.