Darrell Johnson and Tim Hughes: Q&R on the Book of Revelation
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In this episode Tim Hughes discusses the book of Revelation with Darrell Johnson. For many the book of Revelation is a confusing blend of grotesque and strange images — page after page of bizarre characters that often baffle the minds of 21st century Bible readers.
For all those who approach the book of Revelation with a degree of trepidation, this conversation is a gift. John writes this book while isolated on the Isle of Patmos, and Darrell reminds us that great intimacy with God and creativity for God often result from times of exile and isolation; it was true for David, it was true for Paul and it was true for John — may it be true for us as well.
More than that, Darrell unpacks the central themes of the Apocalypse, drawing our attention to the person of Jesus. He points out that the book is an unveiling of Jesus, by Jesus, about Jesus. Therefore, anyone who doesn't finish the book more in love with, and in awe of, Jesus is not reading it rightly.
When we behold Him, we need not be afraid.
Even though the book brims with striking scenes of judgment, more fundamentally John’s Revelation is a love story that comes with an invitation from God to us to remember our first love and be fully committed to Him.
The conversation ends on a note of profound hope as Tim and Darrell appreciate the ways in which God has chosen to turn the wheels of history through the faithful prayers of His people. And the glorious future — the marrying of heaven and earth and the wedding feast of the lamb — that awaits those who trust in Christ acts as powerful encouragement in the midst of our broken world.
A Bit About Darrell & Tim
Darrell Johnson has been preaching Jesus Christ and His gospel for over 50 years. He has served a number of Presbyterian congregations in California, Union Church of Manila in the Philippines, and the historic First Baptist Church in the heart of Vancouver, Canada. Darrell has also taught preaching for Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California, Regent College and Carey Theological College in Vancouver, British Columbia, and is now serving as Teaching Fellow at Regent.
Tim Hughes is the lead pastor of St Luke’s Gas Street Birmingham, which he leads alongside his wife, Rachel. He is a worship leader and song writer known for songs such as “Here I Am to Worship”, “Happy Day”, “The Way”, and “Hope and Glory”. He also pioneered Worship Central, a movement of worship leaders and musicians with a desire to see people encounter God, be equipped as worship leaders so that the local church can be empowered.
“Revelation calls us to radical discipleship, to all out courageous loyalty to the lamb in a world feverishly worshipping the beast.”
Order Darrell’s Book Today
Discipleship on the Edge - Few books intimidate and intrigue Christians more than the book of Revelation. The frightening images and the plethora of interpretations throughout church history repel all but the bravest of Bible readers. Despite these challenges, is it possible that the book of Revelation speaks powerfully and practically to the Christian in the 21st century?
In Discipleship on the Edge, Darrell W. Johnson expounds the message of Revelation, paying close attention to the original context of the letter, including its genre and the historical situation in which it was written. Johnson shows us that the book of Revelation is a discipleship manual for the follower of Jesus in the 21st century. Discipleship on the Edge is well-researched, relevant, accessible and an invaluable resource for pastors, small group leaders and every day Christians looking for insight into the meaning of this enigmatic book.
Subscribe to The Darrell Johnson Podcast
The Darrell Johnson Podcast - With over 50 years of experience preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the sermons of Darrell Johnson have served hundreds of thousands. Here at this podcast, you get access to Darrell's messages dating as far back as the 1990's to the present day. One sermon, once a week. It’s that simple.
“In Revelation, we don’t learn anything brand new or exclusive from the previous 65 books of the Bible. It’s just that in this letter, we learn it in a new way.”
Youtube Links
We have also posted some of our favourite sections of this interview on our Youtube Channel - here is one of them:
This episode was brought to you by Briercrest.
Briercrest College & Seminary will be returning to campus this fall, in person! If you know someone who’d rather be on-campus then on-line this fall, Briercrest is a great option. With courses that are highly transferable to Canadian universities, and a community focused on discipleship, it could be a life-changing year for you or someone you know. Check out their Return To Campus eBook and webinar dates on their website today!
Coming Up Next
Glenn Packiam
Glenn Packiam is one of the associate senior pastors at New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the lead pastor of New Life Downtown, a congregation of New Life Church. Glenn earned a Doctorate in Theology and Ministry from Durham University in the UK, and is a Visiting Fellow at St. John's College at Durham University as well as an adjunct professor at Denver Seminary. He also holds BA in Theological/Historical Studies and Masters in Management from Oral Roberts University, and a Graduate Certificate in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary. He is an ordained priest with the Anglican Church of North America (ACNA). Glenn, his wife, Holly, their four children are enjoying life by the Rocky Mountains.
