Session 1 – introduction + chapter 1
Summary
· Revelation = unveiling
· Jesus is revealing hidden but true things about himself and how he is reigning/ruling
· Context of the book
> author, the Apostle John, a disciple of Jesus, in exile on the island of Patmos. John was a prominent leader of the early church in Asia Minor.
> to persecuted Christians in the late 1st century AD likely under the reign of Domitian, wondering, ‘where is the Kingdom of God / victory / Jesus?’
> message - King Jesus is sovereign despite appearances – Jesus hasn’t ‘half-won’ – “It is finished”
> continue to look to Jesus – what is He doing now?
Interpretive Keys
1. Jesus – Jesus is ruling in heaven with total power and authority. Victory was won through the cross, but it is veiled (hidden) until he returns. The book of Revelation presents the same gospel story as the rest of the NT.As we read, we must ask ourselves what each passage says about what Jesus has done, is doing and will do.
2. Timing – Interpreting prophecy requires recognising a fulfilment that has past, present, and future elements. The primary focus needs to be understanding the meaning and significance for original readers.
3. Old Testament pictures - early church readers would have been well acquainted with the symbolic language John uses and the original Old Testament stories that he reimagines. The better we understand the original message of the Old testament texts, the better we can understand what it means now.
4. Heavenly perspective - John gives us a visual glimpse of what God is doing in heaven. What God is doing in heaven has meaningful earthly consequences and expression.
Chapter 1
v1-3 John is unveiling a hidden reality, primarily about Jesus, which was given to him by God.
v4-8 The gospel message for the churches focuses on Jesus' person and work.
v13-16 A vision of Jesus appears in holy, unveiled glory!
v17-18 "Do not be afraid." The holiness of Jesus is not something to fear but draws us to joy and life (read Hebrews 12:18-29)
v19-20 Jesus is going to reveal past, present and future truth and wants John to share it with the church
Food for thought:
1. How might the experiences of the early church indicate John’s purpose in writing and circulating this book?
2. What is significant about the way Jesus is revealed in chapter 1?
3. How has chapter 1 challenged how you think about who Jesus is? What is Jesus saying to you about approaching him?
