1. The Revelation to John

2. The Author probably not the same John as the Gospel
most likely 1 of his disciples
written on the Island of Patmos
written during Emperor Domitian’s reign (81-96)
put ppl to death for not acknowledging he was Lord and God
used apocalyptic writing
a literary style that uses very symbolic language to convey its message…
God is present in ordinary life, even in times of suffering and persecution
used OT’s examples: Daniel, Ezekiel, & Zechariah
audience: 7 communities of faith…

4. Not What You Think: Revelation is not only about…
the end of the world…
…but also about the 1st Christians.
encouraged them (& us) to be faithful in the face of persecution & temptation
God’s anger & wrath…
…but also about His mercy & love.
God’s victory over evil & death in the future…
…but also about victory over evil & death through Jesus’ Resurrection.

5. ANY QUESTIONS?

6. Symbols Cosmic Symbolism Symbolism of Numbers 1 3 4 6 666 7 10 12
alpha
gog & magog
angel
lamb
first beast
omega
beasts
saints
book of life
sea
bride
seals of scroll
dragon
seal of God
eyes
two-edged sword
horns; horse
woman
key 1 3 4 6
666 7 10 12
1260 days
144000

7. ANY QUESTIONS?

8. Depicting the Letters to the Seven Churches of Revelations
On One Side of Your Paper: Create an artistic depiction of the vision described in the letter.
Basically, what did John LITERALLY see?
On One Side of Your Paper: Outline the contents of your letter.
description of the exalted Christ
included what each symbol represents
blame and/or praise for the church addressed
threat and/or caution
final exhortation and promise to all Christians

9. ANY QUESTIONS?

10. Images of the Church People of God covenant #1: the Israelites
covenant #2: EVERYONE!!!
“a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own ppl” (1 Peter 2:9)
prophetic: evangelize & practice God’s word
royal: service
priesthood: sacrifice

11. Images of the Church (continued)
The Body of Christ
head: JC
body: EVERYONE!!!
thru Baptism & Confirmation
Bride of Christ
represents the personal relationship b/w Christ & the Church (YOU!)
The Temple of the Holy Spirit
the soul of the body
Jesus
Christ
EVERYONE
w/ help of HS

12. ANY QUESTIONS?