Background and Overview Cosmic warfare Anti-Roman Written by John Resurrected Christ appears to John God is going to wage war on the forces of evil

Main Body Two major parts First part Seven letters to seven Churches – Ephesus – Smyrna – Pergamum – Thyatira – Sardis – Philadephia – Laodicea

Parousia Return of Christ to the earth Persecution increasing Christians realizing Jesus’ return not imminent Reaffirmation, Christ will return Feast of Christ the King

Red Dragon Red dragon tries to devour Christ Dragon summons fallen angels and makes war against Heaven’s forces led by Michael Dragon defeated and goes to earth to wage war

In-Direct Warfare against God: Using Us Dragon summons two beasts to wage war against God Lead the people away from God Blasphemes against God

Beast Red Dragon summons 2 powerful beasts Foreign nations will rule The Beast’s power will penetrate the rank and file of the believers Ultimately God and those loyal will wage war and defeat 666 John hints could apply to many rulers

The Lamb The Lamb (Jesus) Clear distinction between those who follow the Jesus And those who are led astray by the Beast

Whore of Babylon Referring to the corruption in Pagan Roman society Like Ancient Babylon, Rome known for luxury, corruption, and power Also referred to Jews who cooperated with Romans Later the Romans will reinterpret this term

Justice will Prevail Satan’s defeat 20:7 All death undone Judgment by God Death can mean two things Bodily death Complete separation from God

New Heaven and New Earth Passing away of the old Order God is in full communion with creation