The Apocalypse was given to this end-that the servants of the Deity, who are keeping their garments, might be able to discern the signs of the times preceding the apocalypse of Christ; and the real nature of things extant in their several generations. No believer understanding this prophecy could be seduced into fellowship with the clerical institutions of the world; because he would see them all in their native deformity and sin.
The reason given why they are blessed who know accurately, give heed to, and observe narrowly, the subject matter of the prophecy, is "because the time is near." The time of the prophecy. When the prophecy was given, that the Seed of the Woman should bruise the serpent's head, the time was not near. But in respect of this prophecy symbolized in the Apocalypse, "the time is near. " It began to be developed soon after it was published; and its development has been progressing onwards to its grand catastrophe ever since. Hence, all this long series of centuries from John to the apocalypse of the Sons of the Deity, and the consummation of their mission in the establishment of the kingdom of their Father, and the overthrow of the enemy, is the time of the prophecy.
(By Dr. John Thomas)