|
|
This Bible study will be a "serendipity" in which we will take samples from throughout the book of Revelation to get a handle on its writing style and appropriate interpretation. Once we've laid the ground-work, we will be able to apply these study principles to the entire book. |
|
|
We've discussed how Revelation is sometimes literal. Actually these incidents are more easily identified then you may think. First, a literal interpretation, simply put, makes sense as such. For example, Revelation is literal in telling us John's location when he received these visions. Where was John at the time?
Revelation 1:9 |
|
|
|
|
|
When a literal interpretation of the text does not make sense, we begin to study for a symbolic explanation. For example, let's look at the characteristics of a beast that John saw "rising up out of the sea". What characteristics of this beast tell us that a literal interpretation of this text makes no sense?
Revelation 13:1-2 |
|
|
|
|
|
Okay, so we can recognize when Revelation is using symbols and when its meaning is literal… How, exactly, do we interpret the symbols (without using "private interpretation")? Actually there are two ways. First, in many cases Revelation will explain itself.
Lets look at some examples where Revelation can be used to explain its own symbols. Read the following text.
Revelation 1:13, 16-18 |
|
Already it is easy to see that these verses are written in symbols. Now, let's look a little deeper into Revelation and we will find a clear interpretation. First, the context and description of the Person John sees lets us know that this is Jesus Christ ("Son of man", "He that liveth and was dead")
Now, what do the "stars" in Jesus' hand symbolize?
Revelation 1:20 |
|
|
|
|
|
The second method for correctly interpreting Revelation's symbols is to use the other parts of the Bible. This method is employed whenever Revelation is silent about a meaning. For example, in Revelation 1:16 (which you've already read), Jesus is described as having a "sharp two-edged sword" coming out of His mouth. This is an obvious symbol of something… But what? Using another Scripture reference to this metaphor, we find the answer. What is the two-edged sword?
Hebrews 4:12 |
|
|
|
|
|
In Part I of this Apocalypse study, we saw that a blessing is given to the reader, hearer and keeper of these words. But Revelation does not stop there, God EXPECTS us to study it carefully so that His ONE truth will be made plain. For if we DO NOT find the truth in this book through using Scripture to interpret Scripture, we instead receive a terrible curse.
What is the fate of those who add (or make up) doctrine to the teachings of Revelation?
Revelation 22:18 |
|
|
|
|
|
What is taken from the one who "takes away" (or loses the meaning from) the words of this book?
Revelation 22:19 |
|
|
|
|
|
Perhaps now you can see that the study of the book of Revelation is THE MOST IMPORTANT BIBLE STUDY of all. You MUST find the truth (through studying to let the Bible interpret itself). For the doctrine you embrace from studying this book will determine your ETERNAL DESTINY.
Let's seek the blessing of Revelation 1:3! |
|
|
|
|