The Imagery in the Book of Revelation

In Session 6, Dr. Shane J. Wood underscores the importance of interpreting symbols in the Book of Revelation. He emphasizes that every element in Revelation, such as numbers, colors, animals, and furniture, holds symbolic meaning. Wood emphasizes the power of symbols and provides guidance on interpreting them by considering immediate and broader contexts within Revelation and the Old Testament. Properly understanding these symbols is essential for grasping the profound message of Revelation.

Classroom

**_Simplifying Revelation: How to Read the Book of Revelation_**

***Session 6:* The Imagery in the Book of Revelation (Symbols)**

I. Literal vs. Figurative

a. The literal interpretation must be more than the “surface reading of a text.”

b. We should read the book of Revelation not literally or figuratively but **naturally.**

II. Does Revelation use symbols?

a. If not = CONTRADITION: Rev. 3:12 **_vs._** Rev. 21:22

b. CONCLUSION:

i. Does Revelation have symbols? ABSOLUTELY!

ii. IN FACT: In the book of Revelation every number, color, animal, and piece of furniture symbolizes something.

a. THIS SHOULD NOT SHOCK US!!!! God consistently reveals himself and his truths through symbols in the Bible.

i. Symbols for God (Deut. 4:24; Psalm 5:2; 23:1; 80:1; Isa. 6:5; 8:21; 30:27; Jer. 10:10; Matt. 25:32; Heb. 12:29)

ii. Symbols for Christ (Matt. 2:6; 26:31; Mark 14:27; John 1:29, 36; 10:7, 9, 11, 14)

iii. Symbols for God’s Church (1 Cor. 3:16, 17; 12:27; Eph. 4:12; Rev. 19:7; 21:2, 9)

b. Why Symbols?: Symbols have POWER!

I. How do we interpret the symbols of Revelation?

a. context – How is this symbol used in the immediate context or the verses around this current verse? (cf. Acts 7:60)

b. Context – How is this symbol used in the larger context of the entire book of Revelation? (Key – Rev 1:18; 3:7; 9:1; 20:1)

c. CONTEXT – How is this symbol used in the broader context of the Old Testament?

II. CONCLUSION:

a. Without understanding John’s use of symbols, we can and will miss the entire point and message of Revelation.





Session 06

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Classroom Instructions