Page 144 - New Testament Survey Student Textbook

3. Futuristic approach: Everything in Revelation beginning from chapter 4 to the end finds its
fulfilment in the very last days of human history.
4. Identification: The symbolism is designed to help understand God’s person and ways with the
world in a general way, not to enable us to map out a course of events. Revelation, then,
teaches us the action of great principles and not special incidents.

Carson and Moor conclude that along with several other recent commentators, they find some truth in
all four views. However, they believe that it is futuristic approach that comes closest to doing justice to
the nature and purpose of Revelation.
How does Revelation Impact our lives?

Revelation 1:12 – 17: The description of Jesus in this here [though the word “like” is being used], feels
frightening, yet gives the sense of longing to view such a glorious appearing of our King. Are you
frustrated or yearning for Christ’s coming? Why are you frustrated at Christ’s appearing?
Revelation 2:1 – 3:22: The repeated use of the phrases “I know” associated with “your works” (2:2, 19;
3:1, 8, 15), “I know you are enduring” (2:3), “I know your tribulation” (2:9), and “I know where you
dwell” (2:13), is comforting. Often, we are tempted to wonder whether God really knows our good
works since we are mostly repaid with bad deeds from evil people. But here are assured that God sees
our good works and He is yet to reward us; our expectations of those rewards are in heaven. The very
same phrases also should lead us to shame, that He knows our secret sins. Is there a secret sin you need
to confess and repent from? Will you choose to live differently today?

Revelation 1:3 promises a blessing to those who read (or hear it) and observe the things written in it. What
blessings have you received as a result of reading, hearing, and obeying what is communicated in
Revelation?

What words or phrases in Revelation tell the most about God’s character and his plans and purposes for
the future? How does the resurrected Jesus fit into the picture? And how does the resurrected Jesus fit
into the daily picture of your life?

Why do you think God has given a preview of all the judgments that will be unleashed on the wicked?
Why would God show us this now?

What similarities can you find between the characteristics of “empire” listed in the description of Babylon
(Rev 18) and the dominant culture of the 21st century?

What kind of practical changes to your life is Revelation prompting you to make?

Atmosphere
There was a state persecution against Christians (1:9), suspected, during Domitian reign. Most likely,
John believed that the persecutions he and the church were presently undergoing indicated that the end
of the age was just around the corner. Therefore, the eschatological hope and the need for
perseverance were key in his writing more especially in the first 3 chapters (addressing the Seven
Churches).

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