Laws Publishing
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REVELATION: AN OVERVIEW (Part I) |
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Jim Laws |
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The book of Revelation is a remarkable study of God's word and one that every child of God needs to carefully consider. It is hoped that these brief notes will prove to be helpful to you and your continued study. |
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It is also important to know that this is a book of symbols with many symbolic references. This style of writing is similar to what may be found in such Old Testament books as Ezekiel, Daniel, and Zechariah. Such material as this is sometimes referred to as apocalyptic material because it contains such highly symbolic references. In fact, that is what "revelation" means, an uncovering or an unveiling. The book of Revelation was written to reveal not to conceal. Therefore, because it has many symbols (See Rev. 1:1), one should understand for instance that the dragon in chapter 12 is a symbolic reference and does not refer to a literal dragon. The same is true for other references, such as the beast of the sea as well as the beast of the earth referred to in chapter 13. Once again, these are symbolic references and should be understood as such. There are times when John tells us what the symbolism means, as with the dragon (Rev. 12:9). John tells us that he refers to Satan, but then there are times when we are not told what the reference is to certain symbols, and we must carefully use our best reason and judgment about such matters. |
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It is at this very point that a word of caution needs to be given. We must not interpret this book in such a way as to contradict other known passages of the Bible. This is a rule we should always remember regarding any passage. If this happens, then we know we have misunderstood the matter and we must go back and study it once again. |
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