Interpreting the book of Revelation requires we first understand the genre of “apocalypse” (from Gk. apocalypsis: “to reveal” – as in a secret, or in pulling back the curtain on a stage). Though it feels quite foreign to us, it was a well-known form of literature in the ancient world, particularly within 2nd Temple Judaism. The dramatic use of symbolism was intended to put to words what stands beyond comprehension; that is, to give a vision of cosmic truths that transcend prose description. How does one speak about eternal truths and cosmic realities? By analogy and metaphor – trying to explain the unknowable by means of our collective experience (which – by capturing many layers of meaning at once – is best left to the language of symbolism).
In this episode, we both examine the genre of apocalypse and take our first steps into the heavenly realms. As John recounts his vision, we are transported to the throne room of God and at last the early church’s most pressing question is asked: Is there a plan for the final victory of God? When comes the end of this age? And how does the coming of God’s kingdom unfold?
This is a sermon that was originally presented at Canvas (a Presbyterian church in Irvine, CA), August 10, 2014. To learn more about Canvas, click here!
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