Book introduction
The book of Revelation
Revelation is a vision given to John on the island of Patmos. It opens with letters to seven churches, then shows God on his throne, the Lamb who was slain, and the defeat of evil. It ends with a new heaven and a new earth where God wipes away every tear.
Who wrote Revelation?
Written by a man named John. Tradition names the apostle John. Since the third century some have argued for a different John, because its Greek differs from the Gospel’s.
When was it written?
Most date it to about AD 95, under Emperor Domitian; some to the late 60s.
Main themes
- God is on the throne
- Whatever empires do, God rules.
- The Lamb wins
- Jesus conquers by his death.
- Faithful to the end
- Churches are called to endure.
- All things new
- The story ends with God living with his people.
Outline of Revelation
Key verses
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is coming, the Almighty.
Look, I am standing at the door and knocking. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to them and share a meal with them, and they with me.
He will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will not exist any longer, and neither will grief or crying or pain, because the former things have gone away.
The one who bears witness to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!
Quoted from the Lumin Translation.
Where to start
Read chapters 1–5, then 21–22. Christians read the middle in different ways, so go slowly.
How well do you know Revelation?
Ten questions on the book of Revelation, from “On which island was John when he saw the visions?” on. Each answer shows its verse.
Ask about this book
Questions about Revelation?
Lumin answers in a few sentences and shows each verse it cites in full.
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