How can Revelation 10:10 encourage us to share God's Word with others? Setting the Scene “So I took the small scroll from the angel’s hand and ate it, and in my mouth it was as sweet as honey; but after I had eaten it, my stomach turned bitter.” John’s strange meal pictures a timeless reality: when God’s people truly “eat” His Word—take it deep within—the result is a blend of sweetness and bitterness that propels us to speak up. Why the Word Tastes Sweet • It reveals God’s heart—His mercy, grace, and salvation (Jeremiah 15:16; Psalm 119:103). • It assures us of forgiveness and eternal life (John 3:16; 1 John 5:13). • It brings wisdom more precious than gold, “sweeter than honey” (Psalm 19:9-10). Sweetness produces joy, confidence, and gratitude—natural fuel for sharing good news. Why the Word Turns Bitter • It confronts sin and announces judgment (Revelation 14:10; John 16:8). • It warns of eternal separation for those who reject Christ (Revelation 20:11-15). • It exposes the cost of discipleship—persecution, rejection, self-denial (Luke 9:23). Bitterness stirs holy urgency. We cannot stay silent when souls are at stake. How the Two Tastes Work Together 1. Sweetness draws us closer to Christ; bitterness drives us outward to others. 2. Joy in the gospel gives a winsome tone; sobriety about judgment gives weight. 3. Experiencing both communicates the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). Echoes in Other Passages • Ezekiel 3:1-3—The prophet eats a honey-sweet scroll before speaking. • Ezekiel 3:4-9—Immediately afterward, he is sent to a hard-hearted audience. • 2 Corinthians 5:14—“For Christ’s love compels us” (sweet), paired with verse 11, “Since we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men” (bitter). • Matthew 28:19-20; Romans 10:14-15—The mandate to proclaim. Practical Takeaways for Today • Internalize Scripture daily; let it reach beyond the intellect into the heart. • Expect mixed emotions—delight and burden—and let both motivate witness. • Share the Word whole: grace and truth, promise and warning (John 1:14). • Speak from overflow, not obligation. People sense authenticity born of experience. • Trust the Spirit to turn personal tasting into persuasive testimony (Acts 1:8). Steps to Internalize Before You Evangelize 1. Read slowly—linger over phrases until they register. 2. Memorize key verses; taste their sweetness repeatedly. 3. Meditate—ask, “What does this reveal about God and people?” 4. Apply—repent, rejoice, obey. 5. Then speak—what has touched you will touch others. Encouragement to Press On “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage, with great patience and careful instruction.” When Scripture tastes sweet, celebrate it. When it turns bitter, don’t retreat—let that weight drive compassionate proclamation. The scroll was given to be eaten, but also to be declared. So gratefully savor God’s Word—and then pass the plate. |
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