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Understanding Revelation
Understanding Revelation
I have a small collection of writings on the book of Revelation – more than 20 but I haven't counted. I know that there are thousands of other books trying to explain this book. Several brethren whom I esteem highly for their bible knowledge have written about this book and each has a slightly different thought. The interesting thing is that they differ in explaining the details but basically all agree with the main thrust of the book.
God rules in Heaven. Jesus, the lamb of God, has come, died, and been raised to glory upon the throne of the Father. Satan has attempted from the beginning to overthrow the purpose and plan of God to have people who loved Him and whom He could love and provide for. Satan has used men, governments, and even nature to try and stop God's plan. ALL of this is to no avail. Satan has lost and will continue to lose until God forever banishes him from His presence. Those who have been deceived into following Satan will also be cast out of the presence of God forever.
Students of this book have identified the various governments and 'players' in this book. Likewise they have attempted to identify the very years and persecutions that are envisioned. I freely confess that I have my own ideas on the identities of the characters and times in this book. The greater comfort and lesson that I take from my study is that "in all these things we are more than conquerors through Christ who loved us" (Rom. 8:37). As each new enemy of God's people arises and attempts to destroy them, they can be assured that if they are faithful unto death God will give them a crown of life (Rev. 2:10). Regardless of who the enemy is or when they appear, "They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful" (Rev. 17:14). History has shown this principle to be true over and over again. It will always be true. Let us be true to our Lord. Hugh DeLong
