The Book of Revelation already has many interpretations, often tied to end time predictions. But Revelation was not given to create fear, it was given to reveal Jesus in glory.
Rather than treating it as a puzzle about the future, we look at its literary devices such as chiasmus, parallelism, and imagery, and connect them with the rest of Scripture and history. In this way the Bible explains itself, showing us the Lamb who reigns at the center, a book of hope shining in the midst of uncertainty and brokenness.
The Book of Revelation is one of the most talked about writings in the Bible. For centuries people have tried to explain it, and many interpretations already exist. Most of the time, when people hear about Revelation or the word “Apocalypse,” they think about predictions of the end of the world, the rise of an antichrist, or the second coming of Jesus.
But for the first Christians, Revelation was not mainly about predicting the future. It was written as a book of hope during a time of suffering. They lived under the power of Rome, much like their ancestors once lived under Babylon. Just as Daniel, Ezekiel, and Zechariah used visions and symbols to encourage people during exile, John used the same kind of language to help Christians stay strong in faith.
Revelation is filled with images, numbers, and patterns that work like pictures or even like a political cartoon. Beasts, dragons, prostitutes, and cities all had meanings that the people of that time understood. The message was clear: empires rise and fall, but Jesus is at the center. The Lamb who was slain is the one who reigns.
Instead of reading it only as a map of future events, we can see it as a message of courage and trust in God. The book uses literary devices like chiasmus, parallelism, and symbolism, linking back to the Old Testament and forward to the hope of new creation. It shows us that God’s people may face trials, but their story ends in victory, not defeat.
Revelation is not a book of fear. It is the revelation of Jesus Christ in glory. It is a reminder that in a world filled with uncertainty and brokenness, hope shines brighter than fear, and Christ remains at the center.