The book of Revelation is the one prophetic book of the New Testament with 22 chapters. It was written by the Apostle John, one of Jesus' disciples, who also wrote the Gospel of John and the three epistles of John - five New Testament books in all. Revelation was written as John was in exile for his faith on the island of Patmos about A.D. 95.
The book divides itself into three principal parts. First, an opening vision of Jesus and messages to the seven churches of the Roman province of Asia. Second, there follows most of the book, which is a description of the seven years of tribulation that will come upon the earth: seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven bowls - the pressure God is bringing on the earth to secure repentance among the peoples. It all draws to a close with the second coming of Jesus Christ - King of kings and Lord of lords (19:16). Third, the book then ends with a brief description of the judgment and the new heavens and new earth.
This marvelous book was written to encourage the suffering saints, persecuted by the Roman Empire. Evil will not win. God will! It has much encouragement for every subsequent generation, because the end of things has not yet come. But it will. We need to be prepared.
The Bible has numerous references regarding the end of the ages. The Book of Revelation was written by the Apostle John. It is the revelation of Jesus Christ. This lesson is a general introduction to this prophetic book, the only one in the New Testament.
John provides a look at both the lowly Jesus of earth and the exalted Jesus of heaven.
Insight is given into the seven churches of Asia (now modern day Western Turkey) Pluses and minuses are given and described. Are there similar characteristics in a church you know?
Enter the throne room of Heaven. John describes the sights and sounds of heavenly beings who will give praise to the one and only Triune God, the Creator of the universe and the Redeemer of all mankind.
As the great tribulation begins seven seals are revealed and seven trumpets sound. What is the meaning of these events and how do the 144,000 fit into the picture. The great multitude, the little scroll and the two witnesses are discussed.
The great tribulation continues. The woman and the dragon enter the scene. The beast comes out of the sea, the beast comes out of the earth. The Lamb and the 144,000 play a key role along with three angels. The harvest of the earth begins. The later tribulation is discussed along with the meaning of the seven bowls.
The end nears. What is the meaning of the woman on the beast? How does the fall of Babylon occur? The Hallelujah Chorus sounds. The Rider on the white horse enters majestically with all recognizing Him as King of kings and Lord of lords!
How will the earth be ruled for the next 1,000 years? What becomes of Satan? The judgment of the all world's dead takes place.
John wraps up his revelation with a description of the eternal heaven and the New Jerusalem. The River of Life is revealed. Jesus is coming again! Is the world ready this time?