Christ Is Worthy of Our Devotion

Dr. Michael Youssef, Ph.D. Leading the Way

Read Revelation 1:10-3:22.

Christ Jesus is the focal point of all history. That’s why, in Revelation, He is called “the Beginning and the End” (Revelation 22:13). Glory, honor, majesty, and praise belong to Him alone. He is the head of His Church. Indeed, when John first sees the glorified Christ, He is standing among seven golden lampstands, representing seven churches. The number seven, a symbol of completion, indicates they represent all churches throughout history. The purpose of these lampstands is to faithfully shine the light of Jesus into this dark world. A faithful church must serve as His lampstand.

Standing amid the seven lampstands, Jesus is wearing the robes of the high priest, who intercedes on behalf of all believers. At His waist is the golden belt of Truth. His hair is white as wool, representing His holiness and righteousness. His eyes are like blazing fire, which means He sees all things. His feet are like fine brass, prepared to judge. His voice sounds like rushing water, indicating His supreme power and authority. He holds seven stars in His right hand—the seven messages to the seven churches. Out of Jesus’ mouth comes a sharp, double-edged sword, revealing that He “judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). Finally, His face shines like the sun, awesome in glory. Indeed, in light of His majesty and power, we should live every day as if He is coming back today!

That’s why our Lord comes with urgent messages to seven churches in Asia Minor, which are also for us today. In every age and in every part of the world, the Church needs to hear Christ’s call to order our lives today in light of the life to come.

From Ephesus to Laodicea, Jesus offers a variety of warnings, convictions, admonitions, encouragements, exhortations, and a powerful invitation. You see, we may be people who believe the Scripture with accurate interpretation. But it means nothing if we love our accurate Biblical interpretations more than our Savior. We must not love our good works more than Jesus. If your love for Jesus grows cold, sooner or later your affection will be placed on someone or something else. If you see evidence that your love for Christ has waned, today, you can confess, repent, and renew your love for Jesus.   

Prayer: Lord, forgive me for setting my eyes on the things of this world rather than You, my Redeemer. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.  

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne” (Revelation 3:20-21).

Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef’s sermon An End-Times Warning for the Modern-Day Church – Compromise in the Last Days: WATCH NOW

Check out more from Dr. Michael Youssef, here!

About The Author

Dr. Michael Youssef, Ph.D.

Even before he was born, it is clear that God had a vision for Michael Youssef. His mother was in poor health when she became pregnant with Michael, and because his life was in danger at the time of birth, the doctor recommended terminating the pregnancy. An abortion was scheduled. But God intervened and sent the family pastor to reassure them that God was involved in this pregnancy. He told them not to be afraid and that the child would be "born to serve the Lord." Michael's parents accepted the pastor's message as a message from God and obeyed. His mother gave birth, and lived to see him give his life to the Lord at the age of sixteen.


Believing that God had called him out of Egypt, Michael sought an exit visa in a time in which no university student was allowed to have a passport or leave the country. God intervened again, and miraculously he managed to acquire a visa. He immigrated to Australia, where he studied at Moore Theological College in Sydney, was ordained as a pastor, and met Elizabeth who became his wife.


The Youssefs came to America in 1977, and in 1978 Michael received a master's degree in theology at Fuller Theological Seminary in California. Then he earned a doctorate in social anthropology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Michael served nearly ten years in the Haggai Institute, traveling around the world more than 32 times, teaching courses in evangelism and leadership. He rose to the position of Managing Director at the age of 31 years. The family settled in Atlanta, and in 1984, Michael became a citizen of the United States, making his dream of many years come true.


He founded The Church of The Apostles in 1987 with fewer than 40 adults with the mission of "Equipping the Saints and Searching for the Lost". The church has since grown to be a congregation of over 3,000 people today. This church has driven the international ministry of Leading the Way. While it is heard by millions at home and abroad, behind every message preached through radio waves, is the heart of a pastor, willing to nurture and care for these people. Clearly God has uniquely equipped Dr. Youssef to speak to a global audience. The path he has taken has given him an understanding and firm grasp of the Scriptures that transcend cultures. He preaches, teaches and calls with a sincere, based on the authority of the inerrant, inspired Word of God. With his personal knowledge of the Holy Land, its history and culture, Dr. Michael Youssef transmits life to listeners all over the world.

More Posts by Dr. Michael Youssef, Ph.D.:

  1. Asking for God’s Vision
  2. Praying the Will of God
  3. He Can Open Your Eyes
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