And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. Col 1:20
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Things you will notice about Revelation.Central ThemeThe opening verse of Revelation introduces immediately the central theme of the book of Revelation, namely, Jesus Christ in His present and future glory. Number of Verses.The book of Revelation is not only Scripture, but is saturated with Old Testament references. Of the 404 verses of the Apocalypse, there are 278 which contain references to the Jewish scriptures. The fact that the Apocalypse is saturated with Old Testament references in itself tends to tie the book to the rest of Scripture. NumbersVery prominent in the book of Revelation is the use of numbers. You will notice the numbers of: 2,3,31/2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 12, 24, 144, 666, 1,000, 1,260, 1,600, 7,000, 12,000, 144,000, 100,000,000, and 200,000,000. These numbers may be understood literally, but even when understood in this way, the often carry with them a symbolic meaning. From the indications, it is clear that the use of these numbers is not accidental. Though symbolism is not always obvious, the general rule should be followed to interpret numbers literally unless there is clear evidence to the contrary. SymbolsThe wide use of symbols is attended, by frequent interpretations in the book of Revelation itself by direct reference or by implication. Symbols can often be explained also by usage elsewhere in scripture. The following list my be helpful:The seven stars (1:16) represent seven angels (1:20). The seven lampstands (1:13) represent the seven churches (1:20). The hidden manna (2:17) speaks of Christ in glory (cf. Exodus 16:33-34; Heb 9:4). The morning star (2:28) refers to Christ returning before the dawn, suggesting the rapture of the church before the establishment of the Kingdom (cf. Rev 22:16; II Peter 1:19). The Key of David (3:7) represents the power to open and close doors (Isa 22:22). The seven lamps of fire represent the sevenfold Spirit of God (4:5). The living creatures (4:7) portray the attributes of God. The seven eyes represent the sevenfold Spirit of God (5:6). The odors of the golden vials symbolize the prayers of the saints (5:8). The four horses and their riders (6:1 ff.) represent successive events in the developing tribulation. The fallen star (9:1) is the angel of the abyss, probably Satan (9:11). The stars of heaven (12:4) refer to the fallen angels (12:9). The woman and the child (12:1-2) seem to represent Israel and Christ (12:5-6). Satan is variously described as the great dragon, the old serpent, and the devil (12:9, 20:2). The time, times, and half a time (12:14) are the same as 1,260 days (12:6). The beast out of the sea (13:1-10) is the future world ruler and his empire. The beast out of the earth (13:11-17) is the false prophet (19:20). The harlot (17:1) variously described as the great city (17:18), as Babylon the great (17:5), as the one who sits on seven hills (17:9), is usually interpreted as apostate Christendom. The waters (17:1) on which the woman sits represent the peoples of the world (17:15). The ten horns (17:12) are ten kings associated with the beast (13:1; 17:3, 7, 8, 11-13, 16-17). The Lamb is Lord of lords and King of kings (17:14). Fine linen is symbolic of the righteous deeds of the saints (19:8). The rider of the white horse (19:11-16, 19) is clearly identified as Christ, the King of kings. The lake of fire is described as the second death (20:14). Jesus Christ is the Root and Offspring of David (22:16). In many instances, where symbols are explained in the book of Revelation, they establish a pattern of interpretation which casts a great deal of light upon the meaning of the book as a whole. Please continue on to Part 2 of Things about Revelation |
Thou art worthy, O Lord Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. Rev 4:11 Are You Ready Links • Are You Ready • How to Get to Heaven • Forgiveness • Understand the Scriptures Part 1 • Understand the Scriptures Part 2 • Salvation by Baptism? Part 1 • Salvation by Baptism? Part 2 • Salvation by Baptism? Part 3 • What Happens When You Die • Things about Revelation Part 1 • Things about Revelation Part 2 The Rapture The Tribulation • The Tribulation • Tribulation Purpose --The Seals --The Trumpets |
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