Revelation 1:3

Those who read, hear, and obey this prophecy will receive a special blessing from God. John put himself on a par with the Old Testament prophets (cf. Revelation 10:8-11) and distinguished this book from Jewish apocalyptic literature. [Note: See Hall W. Harris, "A Theology of John’s Writings," in A Biblical Theology of the New Testament, p. 174; and David Hill, "Prophecy and Prophets in the Revelation of St. John," New Testament Studies 18 (1971-72):401-18.] This is the first of seven blessings that John mentioned in Revelation (Revelation 14:13; Revelation 16:15; Revelation 19:9; Revelation 20:6; Revelation 22:7; Revelation 22:14; cf. Luke 11:28). John used the number seven, which commonly signified completeness and a work of God, 54 times. The Greek word translated "time" (kairos) describes a period of time rather than a point in time. The time when God will fulfill these prophecies was "near" when John wrote this book. "Near" is the translation of the Greek word eggus meaning at hand, imminent. The fulfillment could begin at any time. [Note: Mounce, p. 65; Johnson, pp. 416-17; Ladd, p. 22.]

". . . the Apocalyptist claims for his book that it shall take rank with the prophetic books of the O.T. . . ." [Note: Swete, p. 3.]

"A ’revelation’ of the end of history is given not for the satisfaction of curiosity, but to inspire living in accordance with the reality unveiled." [Note: G. R. Beasley-Murray, The Book of Revelation, p. 52.]