Page 170 - Advanced Biblical Backgrounds Revised

Chapter 19: Old Testament Backgrounds in Revelation

Connect….

The book of Revelation is a favorite of many and inspires great confusion as well. One reason this is true
is that we do not understand which genre it belongs in. Another reason it is considered confusing is the
use of symbolism, imagery, poetry, and the drawing on many Old Testament passages. These passages
are used in different ways. Some are used as citations, direct quotations, others as allusions, and
possibly as echoes. In this chapter, we will address some of these differences and their importance in
interpreting Revelation. We will also summarize some of the various Old Testament usages in John’s
letter as well. Keep in mind that Revelation is somewhat mysterious. As we proceed, you need to know
that we hold a futurist position on Revelation; that is, we understand that the events prophesied after
the chapters on the seven churches have not yet happened. So while we will address other views, what
follows will be from that perspective.

Objectives…

1. Students should be able to explain the difference between prophecy and apocalyptic literature as well
as the impact that has on interpretation.

2. Students should be able to explain the different types of uses of the Old Testament in Revelation.

3. Students should be able to explain major structures and theories of interpretation regarding
Revelation.

The Lesson ...

Old Testament backgrounds in Revelation

One of the most important aspects of understanding any ancient writing is being able to identify what
type of literature it contains. Most are unaware of the debate existing today as to whether Revelation
ought to be viewed as apocalyptic or prophetic literature. Apocalyptic literature is understood to be
“revelatory literature with a narrative framework.” 219 Prophetic literature reveals a predictive future and
can take many forms, including narrative. Both utilize vivid imagery to convey meaning. Each
interpretive group points to the contents of Revelation and claims total justification for identifying it as
apocalyptic or prophetic. The name of the book in Greek is Apocalypse. Apocalypse means “revelation,”
which is what we find in the book. The book itself says it is a prophecy (Revelation 1:3, 10:11, and 22:6-

219 Gary M. Burge, Gene L. Green, and Lynn H. Cohick, The New Testament in Antiquity (Grand Rapids, Mich.:
Zondervan, 2009), 427-28.

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