“Look at the Book” is Bible Gateway’s series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. One of the most complex, confusing, and controversial books in the Bible, Revelation is nevertheless critical for understanding the world to come.
Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.
Summary
Revelation looks forward to the triumph to come at the return of Christ, when he will deliver the righteous who are suffering and judge the wicked for their deeds.
- Category: Apocalypse
- Theme: Unveiling
- Timeline: Written around AD 95
Key Verse
“‘I am the Alpha and the Omega,’ says the Lord God, ‘who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.’” — Revelation 1:8 (NIV)
God Wins
Revelation was written for churches under the shadow of imperial persecution. They needed encouragement to keep from despair and not abandon faith, and warning to be alert to the dangers of external attack and internal apostasy.
Though many questions remain about the exact nature of John’s prophecy concerning the second coming, one thing is sure: God wins and Jesus reigns.
7 Day Reading Guide
Here’s a handy 7-day guide to reading Revelation. (See 30-day reading guide below.)
- Day 1: Revelation 1-3
- Day 2: Revelation 4-6
- Day 3: Revelation 7-9
- Day 4: Revelation 10-12
- Day 5: Revelation 13-15
- Day 6: Revelation 16-18
- Day 7: Revelation 19-22
Becoming Visible
In the NT, revelation describes an unveiling. In all its uses, “revelation” refers to something or someone, once hidden, becoming visible. What this book reveals or unveils is Jesus Christ in glory.
Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference.
Chris Fann is the Senior Digital Marketing Manager for Harper Christian Resources. He loves the smell ofa baseball glove, coffee, and old books. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, 2 teenage boys, and their dog, Freya.
