Interpreting Revelation: The Main Message
The Main Message of Revelation
When reading the book of Revelation, the modern reader is bombarded with visual images that at first may seem surprising or even terrifying. Beasts emerge from the sea, locusts swarm with the tails of scorpions, the moon turns to blood, and four horsemen are unleashed over all of creation. IS THIS THE APOCALYPSE?!?!!
How could this be holy scripture?
The modern church often has a “love/hate” relationship with the book of Revelation. On one hand, many people obsess over the book, seeking to understand its many symbols. They may want to interpret the visions as correlating to modern-day events. Reading Revelation in this way would be best accomplished with modern news stations and websites in view so that one can watch for signs of Jesus’ second coming. On the other hand, others are tempted to simply ignore the book entirely, perhaps believing the book is not relevant to our lives today. The reality is both groups are missing out on a very important message God has for his people.
The Central Message of Revelation
In the 4th chapter, John (the disciple of Jesus, Apostle to the first-century church, and prophet) is given a vision where he is transported into the heavenly throne room of God. In this marvelous vision, we see that all of the created world is worshiping God on his throne. However, there is also a problem that is introduced.
In chapter 5, Johns sees God holding a scroll with 7 seals. This scroll likely represents God's redemption plan for human history. It is declared that no one “In heaven, or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll”. This is bad news. NO ONE is worthy to enact and bring about God's redemption plan. The people of God would be without hope. John is overcome with dread. Yet, it is in that very moment that he is given hope as he hears the words “Weep no more; behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered, so that he can open the scroll.”
John turns, thinking he will see this victorious lion. Instead, he sees “A lamb standing as though it had been slain.” Jesus, as this slain lamb, is then able to take his seat on the throne and open the scroll. He reveals God's plan for redemption and salvation for his people.
the central image of the book is the Lamb
For the original readers, all of the images that may catch us by surprise (horseman, locust, blood moons etc.) were normal to the genre of literature being utilized. (learn more about the apocalyptic genre here). The image that would have stood out to them the most was the victorious slain lamb as Jesus, the conquering King.
The whole book can be summarized in one verse: Revelation 17:14 “They will make war on the lamb, and the lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called chosen and faithful”. Revelation invites Christians into the victory of the Lamb. In reading this verse, one can be assured of two things: Jesus currently stands in victory and he will return in victory at the end of time.
Looking to learn more about Revelation? Check out our class here.