Understanding John’s Revelation

The Greek word used for revelation (apokalypsis) carries the idea of “revealing” or “unveiling.” This identifies the function of John’s Revelation: it is revelatory in nature. As an apocalyptic text, it relates to Dan 7–12, as well as portions of the Gospels (see Mark 13) and other deuterocanonical literature of the Second Temple period. While these other works contain apocalyptic literature, Revelation is the only biblical book comprised entirely of such material. The notions of “revealing” or “unveiling” link Revelation to the apocalyptic material of Daniel (see Dan 2:28–30, 45b–47). Much of John’s Revelation refers back to concepts and imagery introduced by Daniel.

In Revelation, John adopts Daniel’s eschatological schema. Jewish and early Christian eschatology—which draws on the book of Daniel—understood the end of days to be a threefold process, beginning with tribulation (which would last three-and-a-half years, or perhaps longer). This period would be followed by God’s judgment on the nations of the world, with particular emphasis on those who oppressed His people. After that, the kingdom of God would be established—a just, utopian society. John adopts this threefold perspective in Revelation.

Similar to Daniel, John’s revelation seems to presume an imminent eschatological framework: His prophecies were believed to be either already occurring or quickly approaching (i.e., within his lifetime). The seven churches of Asia Minor served as John’s audience. Due to their refusal to participate in imperial religion (emperor worship), these congregations faced religious persecution from Rome that could have resulted in death. Revelation criticizes Roman imperial religion and Domitian—the emperor at the time of John’s writing. John exhorts the people of God to stand firm through their period of tribulation, detailing the consequences of fidelity and compromise. Revelation reflects a belief that the tribulation was upon the world; through his vision, John states that the people of God must persevere for three-and-a-half years, after which God will judge Rome and all wickedness. The kingdom of God will follow.

Ultimately, Revelation is both “hope literature” and “crisis literature”: it is meant to instill hope during a period of crisis. It tells readers that they will not be harmed spiritually if they remain faithful. It also presents an end to physical suffering—trials will be vindicated when the Lamb judges the nations of the world. The reward for faithfulness will be eternal life spent in the presence of God (see Rev 21:3–5).

Matthew M. Whitehead

Further Reading

Eschatology CLBD