4. (a) Since it is more than 1,900 years ago that John wrote Revelation, how could he speak of “things that must shortly take place”? (b) What does the evidence now indicate about the things foretold?

⁴ How could John say, though, that these “slaves” would be shown “things that must shortly take place”? Were not those words spoken more than 1,900 years ago? From the viewpoint of Jehovah, in whose eyes a thousand years are but “as yesterday,” 1,900 years is a short time when compared with the aeons of time that he spent in creating and preparing the earth for human habitation. (Psalm 90:4) The apostle Paul wrote of his own “eager expectation and hope,” for no doubt the reality of his reward seemed close at hand to him. (Philippians 1:20) Today, however, the evidence abounds that all the things foretold will take place on schedule. Never before in history has the very survival of mankind been at stake. Only God has the solution!​—Isaiah 45:21.

11. (a) Why is it urgent that we observe the words of the prophecy? (b) What time must now be perilously close?

¹¹ It is urgent that we observe the words of the prophecy, “for the appointed time is near.” The appointed time for what? For the fulfillment of the prophecies of Revelation, including God’s judgments. The time is near for God and Jesus Christ to execute final judgment on Satan’s world system. When Jesus was here on earth, he stated that only his Father knew “that day or the hour.” Looking ahead to the troubles that have multiplied on earth in our day, Jesus also said: “This generation will by no means pass away until all these things happen.” So the appointed time for executing God’s decision must be drawing perilously close. (Mark 13:8, 30-32) As Habakkuk 2:3 states: “The vision is yet for the appointed time, and it keeps panting on to the end, and it will not tell a lie. Even if it should delay, keep in expectation of it; for it will without fail come true. It will not be late.” Our salvation through the great tribulation depends on our observing God’s prophetic Word.​—Matthew 24:20-22.

“A revelation by Jesus Christ, which God gave him, to show his slaves the things that must shortly take place.” (Revelation 1:1a)

1. To whom does John now write, and who today should find his message to be of absorbing interest?

WHAT follows next should be of absorbing interest to everyone associated with the congregations of God’s people today. Here is a series of messages. They have particular application as “the appointed time” draws near. (Revelation 1:3)