Overview of the Book of Revelation
I. the Book of Revelation is for everyone to understand
A. Revelation gives us more information on the End-Times than any other book in Scripture. It was written to help God’s people endure and overcome in victory throughout history but especially in the Great Tribulation. It will be the “prophetic prayer manual” for the End-Time Church.
B. Think for yourself. Truth is never hurt by scrutiny but rather it is confirmed. You must boldly challenge all ideas that you hear. Refuse any that you cannot clearly see in Scripture for yourself. The Bereans searched the Scriptures to see if the things that Paul said were so (Acts 17:10-11).
11 These were more fair-minded…in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. (Acts 17:11)
C. The most controversial point is found in the conviction that Church will go through the Tribulation (in great victory and power). This differs from the popular pre-tribulation Rapture view that teaches that the Church will be raptured at any minute and will therefore, miss the End-Time revival and crisis. The Bible teaches that the Church will be raptured. The issue is one of timing. The Church will be raptured at the end of the Tribulation, rather than at its beginning. I honor the godliness and wisdom of many who hold the pre-tribulation Rapture view, but I see it as a serious mistake that will leave many unprepared. We can disagree in a spirit of meekness without a spirit of debate. The reality of the Tribulation is too weighty to reduce it to arguments.
D. Common lies related to the Book of Revelation:
1. Lie #1: It is not relevant for today because every generation has believed they were the final generation. (It is possible that each generation has had 1% or less who believed this, yet only two generations have had a universal conviction about it).
2. Lie #2: Revelation is to be interpreted symbolically. The events and numbers in Revelation are to be understood in their plain meaning (literal) unless the Scripture specifically indicates that they are symbolic (Rev. 1:20; 5:6; 11:8; 12:1, 3, 9; 17:7, 9).
3. Lie #3: Revelation is impossible to understand except by scholars. (It was written to be understood by all. The majority of the people through history were uneducated).
E. It is unique in being the only book in the Bible that God promises a special blessing to anyone who reads or hears it (Rev. 1:3) as well as cursed if anyone adds or subtracts from it.
7 Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book…18 If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues…in this book 19 and if anyone takes away from the words of…this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life… (Rev. 22:7-19)
II. Day Of The Lord: 2 extremes in the generation Jesus returns
A. The subject emphasized in Revelation is the Day of the Lord which refers to the unusual events related to Jesus’ Second Coming. It will be a Great Day for the responsive who will experience the greatest revival in history. It will be a very Terrible Day to the rebellious who will experience the most severe judgments of God in history along with Satan’s rage in the Great Tribulation.
11 For the day of the LORD is great and very terrible; who can endure it? (Joel 2:11)
B. The Great Tribulation emphasizes the negative dimensions of the 3½ years before Jesus’ return. The great trouble will be caused by the wrath of God on the rebellious (3 numbered judgment series: Seals, Trumpets, Bowls), the rage of Satan seen in the Antichrist’s reign of terror and the actions of evil people (Rev. 9:21) along with convulsions in nature (earthquakes, storms, etc.).
21 There will be great Tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world…nor ever shall be. 22 Unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved... (Mt. 24:21-22)
C. The principle of judgment: God will use the least severe means to reach the greatest number of people at the deepest level of love without violating anyone’s free.
III. Outline of the Book of Revelation: 4 main parts
A. Pt. 1 Introduction (Rev. 1): John’s commission to reveal Jesus’ majesty and beautyPt. 2 Letters to the 7 Churches (Rev. 2-3): Exhortations to be overcomersPt. 3 The Heavenly Court (Rev. 4-5): Jesus receives the 7 sealed Scroll (title deed of earth)Pt. 4 Storyline on earth (Rev. 6-22): Tribulation, 2nd Coming, Millennium and New Earth
B. The storyline covers the largest section in the Book of Revelation telling us what happens on earth during the Great Tribulation (3½ years), the Millennium leading to the New Earth. In this section, John highlights the 3 numbered judgment series (7 Seals, Trumpets and Bowls). They are literal (actual events not to be explained away symbolically), future (greatest fulfillment is future), progressive (increasing in intensity) and numbered (released in a sequential order).
IV. Pt. 4 Storyline on earth (Rev. 6-22): chronological/parenthetical sections
A. This main storyline unfolds in a sequential or chronological way as the First Seal leads to the Second Seal which in turn leads to the third and so on, throughout the seven Trumpets, then the seven Bowls (Rev. 6:1-17; 8:1-9:21; 11:15-18; 15:1-16:21; 19:11-21:8).
B. Two main literary features in the book’s structure: 5 chronological and 5 parenthetical sections A) Five Chronological Sections (are written in a straight forward way) B) Five Parenthetical Sections (storyline is put on “pause” after each chronological section). Parenthetical sections follow chronological sections to answer tough questions about the severity of God’s wrath (seen in the chronological sections). We ask what requires such severe judgments? What will happen to the saints? How will God help us?
C. Chronological Section #1: The 7 Seals (Rev. 6:1-17) Parenthetical Section #1: Sealing for protection: physical and spiritual (Rev. 7:1-17)Chronological Section #2: The 7 Trumpets (8:1-9:21) Parenthetical Section #2: Prophetic Ministry: direction and power (Rev. 10:1-11:13)Chronological Section #3: The Rapture of the Church (Rev. 11:15-19) Parenthetical Section #3: War in the Spirit: Antichrist and False Prophet (Rev. 12:1-14:20)Chronological Section #4: The 7 Bowls (Rev. 15:1-16:21) Parenthetical Section #4: Fall of Babylon (Rev. 17:1-19:10)Chronological Section #5: Jesus received as King of kings over the earth (Rev. 19:11-21:8) Parenthetical Section #5: Victory of the Bride (Rev. 21:9-22:5)
D. The Parenthetical Sections mostly describe Satan’s attack against the Church and then God’s intervention to help with power, protection, direction or reward. They are the interpretative sections of Revelation that answer two main questions. First, “Why are these judgments are so severe?” In other words, how can a God of love be so violent? Second, “What will happen to the Church?” In other words, will we be safe in God’s favor and will we be anointed to stand against deception and persecution? The five parenthetical sections answer these two questions.
E. John is given “pastoral insight and assurance” that things will be good for the believers. For example, after John saw the severity of the seals, he was undoubtedly overwhelmed by what he learned. Thus, the angel put the chronological storyline “on pause” as if to say, “John sit down and let me explain things to you.” These sections provide strength and comfort for the Church.
F. Understanding the relationship between the Chronological Sections and the Parenthetical Sections, makes the Book of Revelation much easier to grasp. The parenthetical sections are the most challenging parts of Revelation because most of the symbolism is in these sections.
V. Seven primary symbols IN the parenthetical sectionS
A. How do we know when a passage is symbolic? When the text clearly indicates that it is. For example, the angel tells John the 7 lamp stands are symbolic of seven churches (Rev. 1:20). Daniel used some of the same symbols as John (Dan 7:3-7, 12, 17; 8:4). Daniel prophesied of the Antichrist as the Beast with an evil empire (Dan. 7:7, 11, 19, 20-23) that was supported by ten kings seen as ten horns (Dan. 7:7, 20, 24; 2:41-42; Rev. 12:3; 13:1; 17:3, 7, 12, 16).
B. The dragon: is always symbolic of Satan (Rev. 12:3, 4, 7, 9, 13, 16, 17; 13:2, 4; 16:13; 20:2).
C. The first Beast: is symbolic of the Antichrist (Rev. 13; 14:9-11; 17:3-17; 19:19-21; 20:4, 10). He is called the Beast 36 times in Revelation
D. Another Beast: is symbolic of the False Prophet who is only called, “another Beast” one time. Every other time he is called the False Prophet (Rev. 13:11-17; 16:13; 19:20; 20:10)
E. The 7 heads: are 7 empires from history that persecuted Israel (Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, Greece, Rome, revived Roman Empire of Dan. 2:41-42; 7:7, 20, 24; Rev. 12:3; 13:1; 17:3-16)
F. The 10 horns: speak of a future 10-nation confederation that will rule simultaneously over their own nation as they come into an enthusiastic agreement or partnership together under the Antichrist’s authority (Dan. 2:41-42; 7:7, 20, 24; 11:36-45; Rev. 12:3; 13:1; 17:3, 7, 12, 16)
G. The Harlot Babylon: will be established in the literal re-built city of Babylon on the Euphrates River in Iraq (50 miles south of Baghdad) that will be restored and used as a headquarters for the Antichrist. It will function as the center of worldwide demonic religious and economic networks (Rev. 17-18; Isa. 13-14; 21; Jer. 50-51). It will seduce many to sin and to persecute the saints.
H. The Woman with the Male-child (Jesus): the woman is the faithful remnant of Israel through history (Rev. 12:1-5). Satan wars with her offspring who are Gentile believers (Rev. 12:17).
I. The 7 beatitudes in Revelation are brief injections (some are parenthetical encouragements) that do not advance the unfolding story line (Rev. 1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14).
VI. Pt. 1 Introduction (Rev. 1): John’s commission to reveal Jesus’ majesty
1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him (Jesus) to show His servants--things which must shortly take place. He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John… (Rev. 1:1)
A. The Book of Revelation is called the revelation of Jesus because it reveals His heart, power and leadership in preparing the nations for God’s glory. If we read the Book of Revelation right, it causes us to adore Jesus. Revelation is not an optional book for the Church.
B. The Gospels (89 chapters) give us a record of Jesus’ miracle power at His first coming to accomplish redemption. The end-of-the-age (with over 100 chapters in Scripture) tells us about Jesus’ miracle power in taking leadership over the earth. The Gospels and the End-Time Scriptures reveal the same Jesus operating in the same power of the Holy Spirit.
VII. Pt. 2 Letters to the 7 Churches (Rev. 2-3): Exhortations to overcomers
Jesus spoke prophetically to 7 churches in the first century calling them to be overcomers (Rev. 2-3). His prophetic messages are intended to give us instruction on how to best prepare for His coming in the midst of the End-Time dynamics. Jesus promised us eternal rewards (Rev 2:7, 10, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 21).
VIII. Pt. 3 the Heavenly court (Rev. 4-5): Jesus Receives the 7 sealed Scroll
Jesus takes a 7 sealed scroll from the Father. The scroll represented the title deed of the earth and the action plan to judge, cleanse and prepare the earth for Jesus’ rule on the earth while bringing the Church to maturity and in unity with redeemed Israel. This plan is seen in the events of Revelation.
IX. first Chronological Section: 6 SEALS of judgment (Rev. 6:1-17)
A. The seven seals are released by Jesus, the Lamb of God (Rev. 5:5; 6:1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12; 8:1).
1 I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals... (Rev. 6:1)
B. THE SEVEN SEALS (Rev. 6:1-17; 8:1)First Seal (White Horse): Antichrist's political aggression (Rev. 6:1-2)Second Seal (Red Horse): bloodshed and World War (Rev. 6:3-4)Third Seal (Black Horse): famine and economic crisis (Rev. 6:5-6)Fourth Seal (Pale Horse): disease and death to 1/4 of the earth (Rev. 6:7-8)Fifth Seal (Prayer Movement): spiritual atmosphere – releasing God's judgment (Rev. 6:9-11)Sixth Seal (Cosmic Disturbances): natural atmosphere – cosmic crisis (Rev. 6:12-17)Seventh Seal (Anointed Prayer): heavenly atmosphere – an angel is given divine incense to enhance the End-Time prayer movement that contributes in releasing the 7 Trumpets (Rev. 8-9)
X. first Parenthetical section: Who can stand? (Rev. 7:1-17)
17 For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand? (Rev. 6:17)
A. This Parenthetical Section answers the question, “Who can stand?” John sees a divine sealing on people that gives them physical and spiritual protection (Rev. 7:1-17). There will be 144,000 Jewish believers who will stand in victory (Rev. 7:1-8). Gentile believers (7:9-17) will also stand strong without wavering even in persecution. Many saints will be physically protected in the End-Times (Rev. 9:4; Zeph. 2:3; Mic. 7:14-19; Isa. 11:15-16).
3 Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads." 4 I heard the number of those who were sealed: 144,000 of all the tribes of…Israel were sealed…9 Behold, a great multitude…of all nations…before the Throne …clothed with white robes…10 saying, "Salvation belongs to our God… (Rev. 7:3-10)
B. God puts a protective seal on His people before He strikes the earth (Rev. 7:3). Other believers (Gentiles) will be sealed by God (Rev 9:4). In the Exodus, Israel received a “protective mark” on their doors that saved their first born from death. The Goshen Principle: Ex. 8:22-23; 9:4, 6, 26.
XI. second Chronological Section: 6 TRUMPETS (Rev. 8:2-9:21)
The Trumpet judgments are supernatural acts of God to destroy the Antichrist’s resources.
First Trumpet (Food Supply): burning 1/3 of the earth's vegetation (Rev. 8:7)Second Trumpet (Food Supply): destroying 1/3 of the sea (Rev. 8:8-9)Third Trumpet (Water Supply): poisoning 1/3 of the earth's fresh water (Rev. 8:10-11)Fourth Trumpet (Light, Energy): darkening 1/3 of the earth’s light (Rev. 8:12)Fifth Trumpet (Torment): releasing demonic locusts that torment for 5 months (Rev. 9:1-12)Sixth Trumpet (Death): releasing demonic horsemen that kill 1/3 of the earth (Rev. 9:13-21)
XII. second Parenthetical section: prophetic messengers (Rev. 10:1-11:13)
A. Rev. 10:1-11:13 is a parenthetical section after the crisis of the six Trumpet judgments. This section is focused on the welfare of the saints as God promises to provide prophetic direction and power by releasing an unprecedented outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:17-21).
B. God has concealed key information that will be vital in the End-Times. He will reveal it to the Church (Rev. 10:4). He will raise up the Two Witnesses (prophets) who will help God’s people with great power during the last 3½ years of the Tribulation. Jesus will also raise up prophetic messengers who will carry the “seven thunders prophetic messages”. My prayer is for 10,000 forerunners to serve in the End-Time drama in each local and regional part of the earth.
XIII. third Chronological Section: Rapture of the Church (Rev. 11:14-19)
15 The seventh angel sounded…voices…saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord…" 17 You have taken Your power and reigned. (Rev. 11:15-17)
51 We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed-- 52 in a moment…at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible... (1 Cor. 15:51-52)
The Rapture occurs at the Last Trumpet which is the 7th Trumpet (Rev. 11:15; 1 Cor. 15:52). The Last Trumpet signals the time that Jesus raptures the Church. The Rapture is the first event in the Second Coming Procession (that has three stages). First, Jesus comes across the earth in the sky (Rev. 1:7) to Rapture the saints. Second, He comes across the land (Isa. 63:1-6; Hab. 3:3-16). Third, Jesus enters Jerusalem (Mt. 23:39) using the 7 Bowls of wrath to destroy the Antichrist’s armies that are gathered around Jerusalem (Zech. 12:1-3; 14:1-5). He will replace all the evil governments on earth.
XIV. third Parenthetical section: war in the spirit (Rev. 12:1-14:20)
A. This Parenthetical Section occurs after the 7th trumpet and the Rapture (Rev. 11:15). It gives us insight into the magnitude of Satan’s attack against the Church and thus why God’s wrath is so severe. Namely, Satan makes war through his two evil vessels the Antichrist and the False Prophet. In this Section, the saints are assured of full victory and judgment on the Antichrist.
B. This parenthetical section occurs just before the announcement of the release of the 7 Bowls of wrath (Rev. 15-16). This Section gives insight as to why God’s wrath is so severe as to require the 7 Bowls of wrath. The answer is that billions will willingly worship the Antichrist as god. Consequently, they will operate in the same spirit and do the same deeds. God will allow man’s free will to be exercised to its full degree. Thus, the seven Bowls of wrath will be necessary to stop evil men from exterminating the whole human race and polluting the earth with evil.
C. In Rev. 13:1-10, the Antichrist will wage war against God and His people with a political, military and economic alliance of a ten-nation confederation. In Rev. 13:11-18, the False Prophet will be devoted to causing all nations to worship Satan and the Antichrist (Rev. 13:4, 8).
XV. fourth Chronological Section: 7 BOWLS OF GOD’S WRATH (Rev. 15:1-16:21)
A. The 7 Bowls of wrath are the third and final numbered judgment series (Rev. 16). Jesus will release the 7 Bowls in a way that parallels Moses releasing the ten plagues of Egypt against Pharaoh (Exod 7-12). They will destroy the resources of the armies of the Antichrist. All the Bowls will be poured out over a 30 day period as Jesus marches up through Jordan to fight the final battle in the Armageddon campaign in Jerusalem and to rescue the unsaved remnant of Israel (Zech. 12:1-9; 14:1-5; Isa. 63:1-6; Hab. 3:3-16).
B. The Second Coming Procession occurs over a 30 day period which can be seen by comparing the 1,260 day (3½ year) time frame in Rev. 11:2-3; 12:6, 14; 13:5; Dan. 7:25; 9:27; 12:7 with the 1,290 days of Dan. 12:11. (See appendix at www.IHOP.org).
C. The 7 Bowls of wrath (3rd Judgment series) recalls the ten plagues of Egypt (Exod 7-12). First Bowl (Sores): painful sores on those who worship the Antichrist (Rev. 16:1-2)Second Bowl (Food Supply): destroying the sea with blood and killing all in it (Rev. 16:3)Third Bowl (Water Supply): poisoning the earth’s fresh water with blood (Rev. 16:4-7)Fourth Bowl (Torment): scorching heat and fire from the sun (Rev. 16:8-9)Fifth Bowl (Destruction): darkness on the Antichrist's global empire (Rev. 16:10-11)Sixth Bowl (Global Guilt): deceiving the nations to come to Armageddon (Rev. 16:12-16)Seventh Bowl (Annihilation): shaking by earthquakes and hail stones (Rev. 16:17-21)
XVI. fourth Parenthetical section: the fall of Babylon (Rev. 17:1-19:10)
The Seventh Bowl declares God’s fierce judgment on Babylon (Rev. 16:19). This parenthetical section tells why such severe judgment is necessary. God assures the saints that judgment is certain to come on Babylon, who seems invincible in her evil worldwide economic and religious networks that seduce many to do evil and to persecute the saints. The judgment of the Great Harlot (Rev. 17) and the fall of Babylon (Rev. 18) will destroy many of the resources for the infrastructures of darkness. The Marriage supper of the Lamb is the revelation that motivates each believer (Rev. 19:7-10).
XVII. fifth Chronological Section: Millennium, New Earth (Rev. 19:11-21:8)
11 Behold, a white horse. And He (Jesus) who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war….14 And the armies in heaven…followed Him on white horses. 15 Out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them…16 He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS…20 The Beast (Antichrist) was captured, and with him the False Prophet …These two were cast alive into the Lake of Fire burning with brimstone. 21 And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse. (Rev. 19:11-21)
A. In this section, Jesus marches into Jerusalem as the Warrior-King (Rev. 19:11-21) to end the Armageddon campaign by destroying the armies of the Antichrist. These passage describes Jesus’ Second Coming to Jerusalem to sit on an earthly Throne as King over all kings. He will cast the Antichrist and False Prophet in the Lake of Fire (Rev. 19:20).
B. Jesus will cast Satan into prison (Rev. 20:1-3) and establish the Millennium (Rev. 20:4-10).
2 He (angel) laid hold of…Satan and bound him for 1000 years; 3 and he cast him into the bottomless pit…4 I saw thrones, and they (saints) sat on them…They lived and reigned with Christ for 1000 years…6 They shall reign with Him 1000 years. (Rev. 20:2-6)
C. The Millennium is a literal 1,000-year period in which Jesus will rule the whole world from Jerusalem in righteousness and peace. Millennium is from the Latin “mille” (a thousand). At this time the Kingdom of God will be openly manifest worldwide affecting every sphere of life (political, social, agricultural, economic, spiritual, educational, law enforcement, family, media, arts, technology, athletics, environment, social institutions, etc.). The result will be a 1,000-year period of unprecedented blessing for the whole earth as Jesus establishes righteousness and prosperity, and restores the agriculture, atmosphere, and animal life to some of the conditions that were seen in the Garden of Eden (Rev. 20:1-6; Isa. 2:1-4; 9:6-9; 11:1-16; 51:1-8; 60-62; 65:17-25; Ps. 2:6-12; 110:1-7; Deut. 8; 28; Mt. 5:5; 6:10; 17:11; 19:28; 28:19; Acts 1:6; 3:21).
D. Immediately following the Millennium, all unbelievers will be judged before the Great White Throne (Rev. 20:11-15). The earth will be cleansed by fire (2 Pet. 3:10-13) to be the New Earth.
XVIII. fifth Parenthetical section: New Jerusalem on earth (Rev. 21:9-22:5)
A. This Parenthetical Section shows the victory of the Bride and describes the New Jerusalem’s relationship to the Millennial earth. (Rev. 21:9-22:5). God shows how fully He will vindicate and reward the saints for standing true throughout the Great Tribulation. In other words, it will be worth it. This parenthetical section produces great hope and stability.
B. The New Jerusalem descends during the Millennium (Rev. 21:10) revealing heaven coming down to earth. Jesus brings the heavenly and earthly realms together. (Eph. 1:9-10). When the New Jerusalem comes to earth, then heaven is literally on earth. New Jerusalem is the place where resurrected saints will live. The earth will continue forever (Ps. 37:29; 78:69; 104:5; 105:10-11; 125:1-2; 1 Chr. 23:25; 28:8; Isa. 60:21; Ezek. 37:25; Joel 3:20).
12 The New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. (Rev. 3:12)
C. The New Jerusalem will descend with the Father’s Throne (Rev. 21:1-8). The New Jerusalem will descend to the earth (Rev. 3:21) in two stages. First, it descends at the time of Jesus’ Coming to begin the Millennium (Rev. 21:10). Second, it will descend to the New Earth after the Millennium (Rev. 21:2). Stage one of the descent of the New Jerusalem is partial yet substantial. Stage two is total and ultimate after the Millennium.
D. The New Jerusalem will descend to a place above Millennial Jerusalem (Temple on Mt. Zion) creating a vast “governmental complex” joined by a “Corridor of Glory.” It will be the governmental center of heaven and earth referred to as Jesus’ Throne of glory (Mt. 19:28; 25:31).
31 When the Son of Man comes…then He will sit on the Throne of His glory. (Mt. 25:31)
I. the Book of Revelation is for everyone to understand
A. Revelation gives us more information on the End-Times than any other book in Scripture. It was written to help God’s people endure and overcome in victory throughout history but especially in the Great Tribulation. It will be the “prophetic prayer manual” for the End-Time Church.
B. Think for yourself. Truth is never hurt by scrutiny but rather it is confirmed. You must boldly challenge all ideas that you hear. Refuse any that you cannot clearly see in Scripture for yourself. The Bereans searched the Scriptures to see if the things that Paul said were so (Acts 17:10-11).
11 These were more fair-minded…in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. (Acts 17:11)
C. The most controversial point is found in the conviction that Church will go through the Tribulation (in great victory and power). This differs from the popular pre-tribulation Rapture view that teaches that the Church will be raptured at any minute and will therefore, miss the End-Time revival and crisis. The Bible teaches that the Church will be raptured. The issue is one of timing. The Church will be raptured at the end of the Tribulation, rather than at its beginning. I honor the godliness and wisdom of many who hold the pre-tribulation Rapture view, but I see it as a serious mistake that will leave many unprepared. We can disagree in a spirit of meekness without a spirit of debate. The reality of the Tribulation is too weighty to reduce it to arguments.
D. Common lies related to the Book of Revelation:
1. Lie #1: It is not relevant for today because every generation has believed they were the final generation. (It is possible that each generation has had 1% or less who believed this, yet only two generations have had a universal conviction about it).
2. Lie #2: Revelation is to be interpreted symbolically. The events and numbers in Revelation are to be understood in their plain meaning (literal) unless the Scripture specifically indicates that they are symbolic (Rev. 1:20; 5:6; 11:8; 12:1, 3, 9; 17:7, 9).
3. Lie #3: Revelation is impossible to understand except by scholars. (It was written to be understood by all. The majority of the people through history were uneducated).
E. It is unique in being the only book in the Bible that God promises a special blessing to anyone who reads or hears it (Rev. 1:3) as well as cursed if anyone adds or subtracts from it.
7 Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book…18 If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues…in this book 19 and if anyone takes away from the words of…this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life… (Rev. 22:7-19)
II. Day Of The Lord: 2 extremes in the generation Jesus returns
A. The subject emphasized in Revelation is the Day of the Lord which refers to the unusual events related to Jesus’ Second Coming. It will be a Great Day for the responsive who will experience the greatest revival in history. It will be a very Terrible Day to the rebellious who will experience the most severe judgments of God in history along with Satan’s rage in the Great Tribulation.
11 For the day of the LORD is great and very terrible; who can endure it? (Joel 2:11)
B. The Great Tribulation emphasizes the negative dimensions of the 3½ years before Jesus’ return. The great trouble will be caused by the wrath of God on the rebellious (3 numbered judgment series: Seals, Trumpets, Bowls), the rage of Satan seen in the Antichrist’s reign of terror and the actions of evil people (Rev. 9:21) along with convulsions in nature (earthquakes, storms, etc.).
21 There will be great Tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world…nor ever shall be. 22 Unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved... (Mt. 24:21-22)
C. The principle of judgment: God will use the least severe means to reach the greatest number of people at the deepest level of love without violating anyone’s free.
III. Outline of the Book of Revelation: 4 main parts
A. Pt. 1 Introduction (Rev. 1): John’s commission to reveal Jesus’ majesty and beautyPt. 2 Letters to the 7 Churches (Rev. 2-3): Exhortations to be overcomersPt. 3 The Heavenly Court (Rev. 4-5): Jesus receives the 7 sealed Scroll (title deed of earth)Pt. 4 Storyline on earth (Rev. 6-22): Tribulation, 2nd Coming, Millennium and New Earth
B. The storyline covers the largest section in the Book of Revelation telling us what happens on earth during the Great Tribulation (3½ years), the Millennium leading to the New Earth. In this section, John highlights the 3 numbered judgment series (7 Seals, Trumpets and Bowls). They are literal (actual events not to be explained away symbolically), future (greatest fulfillment is future), progressive (increasing in intensity) and numbered (released in a sequential order).
IV. Pt. 4 Storyline on earth (Rev. 6-22): chronological/parenthetical sections
A. This main storyline unfolds in a sequential or chronological way as the First Seal leads to the Second Seal which in turn leads to the third and so on, throughout the seven Trumpets, then the seven Bowls (Rev. 6:1-17; 8:1-9:21; 11:15-18; 15:1-16:21; 19:11-21:8).
B. Two main literary features in the book’s structure: 5 chronological and 5 parenthetical sections A) Five Chronological Sections (are written in a straight forward way) B) Five Parenthetical Sections (storyline is put on “pause” after each chronological section). Parenthetical sections follow chronological sections to answer tough questions about the severity of God’s wrath (seen in the chronological sections). We ask what requires such severe judgments? What will happen to the saints? How will God help us?
C. Chronological Section #1: The 7 Seals (Rev. 6:1-17) Parenthetical Section #1: Sealing for protection: physical and spiritual (Rev. 7:1-17)Chronological Section #2: The 7 Trumpets (8:1-9:21) Parenthetical Section #2: Prophetic Ministry: direction and power (Rev. 10:1-11:13)Chronological Section #3: The Rapture of the Church (Rev. 11:15-19) Parenthetical Section #3: War in the Spirit: Antichrist and False Prophet (Rev. 12:1-14:20)Chronological Section #4: The 7 Bowls (Rev. 15:1-16:21) Parenthetical Section #4: Fall of Babylon (Rev. 17:1-19:10)Chronological Section #5: Jesus received as King of kings over the earth (Rev. 19:11-21:8) Parenthetical Section #5: Victory of the Bride (Rev. 21:9-22:5)
D. The Parenthetical Sections mostly describe Satan’s attack against the Church and then God’s intervention to help with power, protection, direction or reward. They are the interpretative sections of Revelation that answer two main questions. First, “Why are these judgments are so severe?” In other words, how can a God of love be so violent? Second, “What will happen to the Church?” In other words, will we be safe in God’s favor and will we be anointed to stand against deception and persecution? The five parenthetical sections answer these two questions.
E. John is given “pastoral insight and assurance” that things will be good for the believers. For example, after John saw the severity of the seals, he was undoubtedly overwhelmed by what he learned. Thus, the angel put the chronological storyline “on pause” as if to say, “John sit down and let me explain things to you.” These sections provide strength and comfort for the Church.
F. Understanding the relationship between the Chronological Sections and the Parenthetical Sections, makes the Book of Revelation much easier to grasp. The parenthetical sections are the most challenging parts of Revelation because most of the symbolism is in these sections.
V. Seven primary symbols IN the parenthetical sectionS
A. How do we know when a passage is symbolic? When the text clearly indicates that it is. For example, the angel tells John the 7 lamp stands are symbolic of seven churches (Rev. 1:20). Daniel used some of the same symbols as John (Dan 7:3-7, 12, 17; 8:4). Daniel prophesied of the Antichrist as the Beast with an evil empire (Dan. 7:7, 11, 19, 20-23) that was supported by ten kings seen as ten horns (Dan. 7:7, 20, 24; 2:41-42; Rev. 12:3; 13:1; 17:3, 7, 12, 16).
B. The dragon: is always symbolic of Satan (Rev. 12:3, 4, 7, 9, 13, 16, 17; 13:2, 4; 16:13; 20:2).
C. The first Beast: is symbolic of the Antichrist (Rev. 13; 14:9-11; 17:3-17; 19:19-21; 20:4, 10). He is called the Beast 36 times in Revelation
D. Another Beast: is symbolic of the False Prophet who is only called, “another Beast” one time. Every other time he is called the False Prophet (Rev. 13:11-17; 16:13; 19:20; 20:10)
E. The 7 heads: are 7 empires from history that persecuted Israel (Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, Greece, Rome, revived Roman Empire of Dan. 2:41-42; 7:7, 20, 24; Rev. 12:3; 13:1; 17:3-16)
F. The 10 horns: speak of a future 10-nation confederation that will rule simultaneously over their own nation as they come into an enthusiastic agreement or partnership together under the Antichrist’s authority (Dan. 2:41-42; 7:7, 20, 24; 11:36-45; Rev. 12:3; 13:1; 17:3, 7, 12, 16)
G. The Harlot Babylon: will be established in the literal re-built city of Babylon on the Euphrates River in Iraq (50 miles south of Baghdad) that will be restored and used as a headquarters for the Antichrist. It will function as the center of worldwide demonic religious and economic networks (Rev. 17-18; Isa. 13-14; 21; Jer. 50-51). It will seduce many to sin and to persecute the saints.
H. The Woman with the Male-child (Jesus): the woman is the faithful remnant of Israel through history (Rev. 12:1-5). Satan wars with her offspring who are Gentile believers (Rev. 12:17).
I. The 7 beatitudes in Revelation are brief injections (some are parenthetical encouragements) that do not advance the unfolding story line (Rev. 1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14).
VI. Pt. 1 Introduction (Rev. 1): John’s commission to reveal Jesus’ majesty
1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him (Jesus) to show His servants--things which must shortly take place. He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John… (Rev. 1:1)
A. The Book of Revelation is called the revelation of Jesus because it reveals His heart, power and leadership in preparing the nations for God’s glory. If we read the Book of Revelation right, it causes us to adore Jesus. Revelation is not an optional book for the Church.
B. The Gospels (89 chapters) give us a record of Jesus’ miracle power at His first coming to accomplish redemption. The end-of-the-age (with over 100 chapters in Scripture) tells us about Jesus’ miracle power in taking leadership over the earth. The Gospels and the End-Time Scriptures reveal the same Jesus operating in the same power of the Holy Spirit.
VII. Pt. 2 Letters to the 7 Churches (Rev. 2-3): Exhortations to overcomers
Jesus spoke prophetically to 7 churches in the first century calling them to be overcomers (Rev. 2-3). His prophetic messages are intended to give us instruction on how to best prepare for His coming in the midst of the End-Time dynamics. Jesus promised us eternal rewards (Rev 2:7, 10, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 21).
VIII. Pt. 3 the Heavenly court (Rev. 4-5): Jesus Receives the 7 sealed Scroll
Jesus takes a 7 sealed scroll from the Father. The scroll represented the title deed of the earth and the action plan to judge, cleanse and prepare the earth for Jesus’ rule on the earth while bringing the Church to maturity and in unity with redeemed Israel. This plan is seen in the events of Revelation.
IX. first Chronological Section: 6 SEALS of judgment (Rev. 6:1-17)
A. The seven seals are released by Jesus, the Lamb of God (Rev. 5:5; 6:1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12; 8:1).
1 I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals... (Rev. 6:1)
B. THE SEVEN SEALS (Rev. 6:1-17; 8:1)First Seal (White Horse): Antichrist's political aggression (Rev. 6:1-2)Second Seal (Red Horse): bloodshed and World War (Rev. 6:3-4)Third Seal (Black Horse): famine and economic crisis (Rev. 6:5-6)Fourth Seal (Pale Horse): disease and death to 1/4 of the earth (Rev. 6:7-8)Fifth Seal (Prayer Movement): spiritual atmosphere – releasing God's judgment (Rev. 6:9-11)Sixth Seal (Cosmic Disturbances): natural atmosphere – cosmic crisis (Rev. 6:12-17)Seventh Seal (Anointed Prayer): heavenly atmosphere – an angel is given divine incense to enhance the End-Time prayer movement that contributes in releasing the 7 Trumpets (Rev. 8-9)
X. first Parenthetical section: Who can stand? (Rev. 7:1-17)
17 For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand? (Rev. 6:17)
A. This Parenthetical Section answers the question, “Who can stand?” John sees a divine sealing on people that gives them physical and spiritual protection (Rev. 7:1-17). There will be 144,000 Jewish believers who will stand in victory (Rev. 7:1-8). Gentile believers (7:9-17) will also stand strong without wavering even in persecution. Many saints will be physically protected in the End-Times (Rev. 9:4; Zeph. 2:3; Mic. 7:14-19; Isa. 11:15-16).
3 Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads." 4 I heard the number of those who were sealed: 144,000 of all the tribes of…Israel were sealed…9 Behold, a great multitude…of all nations…before the Throne …clothed with white robes…10 saying, "Salvation belongs to our God… (Rev. 7:3-10)
B. God puts a protective seal on His people before He strikes the earth (Rev. 7:3). Other believers (Gentiles) will be sealed by God (Rev 9:4). In the Exodus, Israel received a “protective mark” on their doors that saved their first born from death. The Goshen Principle: Ex. 8:22-23; 9:4, 6, 26.
XI. second Chronological Section: 6 TRUMPETS (Rev. 8:2-9:21)
The Trumpet judgments are supernatural acts of God to destroy the Antichrist’s resources.
First Trumpet (Food Supply): burning 1/3 of the earth's vegetation (Rev. 8:7)Second Trumpet (Food Supply): destroying 1/3 of the sea (Rev. 8:8-9)Third Trumpet (Water Supply): poisoning 1/3 of the earth's fresh water (Rev. 8:10-11)Fourth Trumpet (Light, Energy): darkening 1/3 of the earth’s light (Rev. 8:12)Fifth Trumpet (Torment): releasing demonic locusts that torment for 5 months (Rev. 9:1-12)Sixth Trumpet (Death): releasing demonic horsemen that kill 1/3 of the earth (Rev. 9:13-21)
XII. second Parenthetical section: prophetic messengers (Rev. 10:1-11:13)
A. Rev. 10:1-11:13 is a parenthetical section after the crisis of the six Trumpet judgments. This section is focused on the welfare of the saints as God promises to provide prophetic direction and power by releasing an unprecedented outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:17-21).
B. God has concealed key information that will be vital in the End-Times. He will reveal it to the Church (Rev. 10:4). He will raise up the Two Witnesses (prophets) who will help God’s people with great power during the last 3½ years of the Tribulation. Jesus will also raise up prophetic messengers who will carry the “seven thunders prophetic messages”. My prayer is for 10,000 forerunners to serve in the End-Time drama in each local and regional part of the earth.
XIII. third Chronological Section: Rapture of the Church (Rev. 11:14-19)
15 The seventh angel sounded…voices…saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord…" 17 You have taken Your power and reigned. (Rev. 11:15-17)
51 We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed-- 52 in a moment…at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible... (1 Cor. 15:51-52)
The Rapture occurs at the Last Trumpet which is the 7th Trumpet (Rev. 11:15; 1 Cor. 15:52). The Last Trumpet signals the time that Jesus raptures the Church. The Rapture is the first event in the Second Coming Procession (that has three stages). First, Jesus comes across the earth in the sky (Rev. 1:7) to Rapture the saints. Second, He comes across the land (Isa. 63:1-6; Hab. 3:3-16). Third, Jesus enters Jerusalem (Mt. 23:39) using the 7 Bowls of wrath to destroy the Antichrist’s armies that are gathered around Jerusalem (Zech. 12:1-3; 14:1-5). He will replace all the evil governments on earth.
XIV. third Parenthetical section: war in the spirit (Rev. 12:1-14:20)
A. This Parenthetical Section occurs after the 7th trumpet and the Rapture (Rev. 11:15). It gives us insight into the magnitude of Satan’s attack against the Church and thus why God’s wrath is so severe. Namely, Satan makes war through his two evil vessels the Antichrist and the False Prophet. In this Section, the saints are assured of full victory and judgment on the Antichrist.
B. This parenthetical section occurs just before the announcement of the release of the 7 Bowls of wrath (Rev. 15-16). This Section gives insight as to why God’s wrath is so severe as to require the 7 Bowls of wrath. The answer is that billions will willingly worship the Antichrist as god. Consequently, they will operate in the same spirit and do the same deeds. God will allow man’s free will to be exercised to its full degree. Thus, the seven Bowls of wrath will be necessary to stop evil men from exterminating the whole human race and polluting the earth with evil.
C. In Rev. 13:1-10, the Antichrist will wage war against God and His people with a political, military and economic alliance of a ten-nation confederation. In Rev. 13:11-18, the False Prophet will be devoted to causing all nations to worship Satan and the Antichrist (Rev. 13:4, 8).
XV. fourth Chronological Section: 7 BOWLS OF GOD’S WRATH (Rev. 15:1-16:21)
A. The 7 Bowls of wrath are the third and final numbered judgment series (Rev. 16). Jesus will release the 7 Bowls in a way that parallels Moses releasing the ten plagues of Egypt against Pharaoh (Exod 7-12). They will destroy the resources of the armies of the Antichrist. All the Bowls will be poured out over a 30 day period as Jesus marches up through Jordan to fight the final battle in the Armageddon campaign in Jerusalem and to rescue the unsaved remnant of Israel (Zech. 12:1-9; 14:1-5; Isa. 63:1-6; Hab. 3:3-16).
B. The Second Coming Procession occurs over a 30 day period which can be seen by comparing the 1,260 day (3½ year) time frame in Rev. 11:2-3; 12:6, 14; 13:5; Dan. 7:25; 9:27; 12:7 with the 1,290 days of Dan. 12:11. (See appendix at www.IHOP.org).
C. The 7 Bowls of wrath (3rd Judgment series) recalls the ten plagues of Egypt (Exod 7-12). First Bowl (Sores): painful sores on those who worship the Antichrist (Rev. 16:1-2)Second Bowl (Food Supply): destroying the sea with blood and killing all in it (Rev. 16:3)Third Bowl (Water Supply): poisoning the earth’s fresh water with blood (Rev. 16:4-7)Fourth Bowl (Torment): scorching heat and fire from the sun (Rev. 16:8-9)Fifth Bowl (Destruction): darkness on the Antichrist's global empire (Rev. 16:10-11)Sixth Bowl (Global Guilt): deceiving the nations to come to Armageddon (Rev. 16:12-16)Seventh Bowl (Annihilation): shaking by earthquakes and hail stones (Rev. 16:17-21)
XVI. fourth Parenthetical section: the fall of Babylon (Rev. 17:1-19:10)
The Seventh Bowl declares God’s fierce judgment on Babylon (Rev. 16:19). This parenthetical section tells why such severe judgment is necessary. God assures the saints that judgment is certain to come on Babylon, who seems invincible in her evil worldwide economic and religious networks that seduce many to do evil and to persecute the saints. The judgment of the Great Harlot (Rev. 17) and the fall of Babylon (Rev. 18) will destroy many of the resources for the infrastructures of darkness. The Marriage supper of the Lamb is the revelation that motivates each believer (Rev. 19:7-10).
XVII. fifth Chronological Section: Millennium, New Earth (Rev. 19:11-21:8)
11 Behold, a white horse. And He (Jesus) who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war….14 And the armies in heaven…followed Him on white horses. 15 Out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them…16 He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS…20 The Beast (Antichrist) was captured, and with him the False Prophet …These two were cast alive into the Lake of Fire burning with brimstone. 21 And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse. (Rev. 19:11-21)
A. In this section, Jesus marches into Jerusalem as the Warrior-King (Rev. 19:11-21) to end the Armageddon campaign by destroying the armies of the Antichrist. These passage describes Jesus’ Second Coming to Jerusalem to sit on an earthly Throne as King over all kings. He will cast the Antichrist and False Prophet in the Lake of Fire (Rev. 19:20).
B. Jesus will cast Satan into prison (Rev. 20:1-3) and establish the Millennium (Rev. 20:4-10).
2 He (angel) laid hold of…Satan and bound him for 1000 years; 3 and he cast him into the bottomless pit…4 I saw thrones, and they (saints) sat on them…They lived and reigned with Christ for 1000 years…6 They shall reign with Him 1000 years. (Rev. 20:2-6)
C. The Millennium is a literal 1,000-year period in which Jesus will rule the whole world from Jerusalem in righteousness and peace. Millennium is from the Latin “mille” (a thousand). At this time the Kingdom of God will be openly manifest worldwide affecting every sphere of life (political, social, agricultural, economic, spiritual, educational, law enforcement, family, media, arts, technology, athletics, environment, social institutions, etc.). The result will be a 1,000-year period of unprecedented blessing for the whole earth as Jesus establishes righteousness and prosperity, and restores the agriculture, atmosphere, and animal life to some of the conditions that were seen in the Garden of Eden (Rev. 20:1-6; Isa. 2:1-4; 9:6-9; 11:1-16; 51:1-8; 60-62; 65:17-25; Ps. 2:6-12; 110:1-7; Deut. 8; 28; Mt. 5:5; 6:10; 17:11; 19:28; 28:19; Acts 1:6; 3:21).
D. Immediately following the Millennium, all unbelievers will be judged before the Great White Throne (Rev. 20:11-15). The earth will be cleansed by fire (2 Pet. 3:10-13) to be the New Earth.
XVIII. fifth Parenthetical section: New Jerusalem on earth (Rev. 21:9-22:5)
A. This Parenthetical Section shows the victory of the Bride and describes the New Jerusalem’s relationship to the Millennial earth. (Rev. 21:9-22:5). God shows how fully He will vindicate and reward the saints for standing true throughout the Great Tribulation. In other words, it will be worth it. This parenthetical section produces great hope and stability.
B. The New Jerusalem descends during the Millennium (Rev. 21:10) revealing heaven coming down to earth. Jesus brings the heavenly and earthly realms together. (Eph. 1:9-10). When the New Jerusalem comes to earth, then heaven is literally on earth. New Jerusalem is the place where resurrected saints will live. The earth will continue forever (Ps. 37:29; 78:69; 104:5; 105:10-11; 125:1-2; 1 Chr. 23:25; 28:8; Isa. 60:21; Ezek. 37:25; Joel 3:20).
12 The New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. (Rev. 3:12)
C. The New Jerusalem will descend with the Father’s Throne (Rev. 21:1-8). The New Jerusalem will descend to the earth (Rev. 3:21) in two stages. First, it descends at the time of Jesus’ Coming to begin the Millennium (Rev. 21:10). Second, it will descend to the New Earth after the Millennium (Rev. 21:2). Stage one of the descent of the New Jerusalem is partial yet substantial. Stage two is total and ultimate after the Millennium.
D. The New Jerusalem will descend to a place above Millennial Jerusalem (Temple on Mt. Zion) creating a vast “governmental complex” joined by a “Corridor of Glory.” It will be the governmental center of heaven and earth referred to as Jesus’ Throne of glory (Mt. 19:28; 25:31).
31 When the Son of Man comes…then He will sit on the Throne of His glory. (Mt. 25:31)
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