And I, John, both your brother and companion in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the island that is called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. (Revelation 1:9)
The apostle John, now aged and exiled, was a co-participant with his Asian brethren in three important things. First, they were partners in the tribulation of Jesus Christ. They were under persecution, and so was John. Second, they were companions in the kingdom of Jesus Christ. John and his brethren were not looking for a future kingdom; they were in the kingdom of Christ at that very moment. Third, they shared in the patience of Jesus Christ. As Jesus endured “hostility from sinners”, so did they (Heb. 12:3). When you are faithful to “the testimony of Jesus Christ” you, too “will suffer persecution” (2 Tim. 3:12). But, take courage and patiently endure. You are a citizen of the kingdom of Christ. Your king and His kingdom is greater than every kingdom on earth (Dan. 2:44; Mk. 9:1; Col. 1:13).
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