The Book of Revelation
PHI 1163 ACTS AND THE EPISTLES
REVELATION
The description of the Book of Revelation as “the strangest book of the New Testament” could be the reason for the general neglect that is afforded it today. Such neglect did not characterize the earliest history of the book.
Currently there is a general tendency to identify the book as Revelations as there are multiple revelations in the book. This is not the case. The book is the Revelation of Christ to John. The definition of the term “revelation” is to reveal, as in pulling back a curtain to show or bring to light the subject, in this case Jesus Christ. This is the Revelation of Jesus Christ, bringing to light the truth about Jesus. When tempted to refer to it as Revelations please remember it is the revealing of Jesus Christ to the readers, a wonderful and glorious source of the truth of Jesus; his revealing to all who will listen. The Revelation of Jesus Christ in his glory, the Savior who is the King of Kings, Lord of Lords! His Revelation to you.
The early recognition of the book is not surprising, considering the fact that it was originally addressed, and presumably sent to seven Asiatic churches, which would ensure an initial circulation over a considerable area. Moreover, its message possessed such a general application that it would readily spread its influence beyond the boundaries of Asia.
In all probability, it was known during the period of the Apostolic Fathers, although not all scholars are prepared to admit that the parallels with works such as The Shepherd of Hermes or those of Barnabas and Ignatius are sufficient to prove acquaintance with the book. The parallels that exist between the works and the presence of many common images in use by the writers do not prove the existence of mutual recognition.
In the period subsequent to the Apostolic Fathers, the position was very different, for there is clear attestation of circulation over a wide area. Justin knew the book and attributed
REVELATION
The description of the Book of Revelation as “the strangest book of the New Testament” could be the reason for the general neglect that is afforded it today. Such neglect did not characterize the earliest history of the book.
Currently there is a general tendency to identify the book as Revelations as there are multiple revelations in the book. This is not the case. The book is the Revelation of Christ to John. The definition of the term “revelation” is to reveal, as in pulling back a curtain to show or bring to light the subject, in this case Jesus Christ. This is the Revelation of Jesus Christ, bringing to light the truth about Jesus. When tempted to refer to it as Revelations please remember it is the revealing of Jesus Christ to the readers, a wonderful and glorious source of the truth of Jesus; his revealing to all who will listen. The Revelation of Jesus Christ in his glory, the Savior who is the King of Kings, Lord of Lords! His Revelation to you.
The early recognition of the book is not surprising, considering the fact that it was originally addressed, and presumably sent to seven Asiatic churches, which would ensure an initial circulation over a considerable area. Moreover, its message possessed such a general application that it would readily spread its influence beyond the boundaries of Asia.
In all probability, it was known during the period of the Apostolic Fathers, although not all scholars are prepared to admit that the parallels with works such as The Shepherd of Hermes or those of Barnabas and Ignatius are sufficient to prove acquaintance with the book. The parallels that exist between the works and the presence of many common images in use by the writers do not prove the existence of mutual recognition.
In the period subsequent to the Apostolic Fathers, the position was very different, for there is clear attestation of circulation over a wide area. Justin knew the book and attributed