Revelation is like a roller coaster ride through an exotic universe. John uses rich symbols and graphic images to create Revelation’s visionary universe. To understand and be transformed by this symbolic world requires that we simplify Revelation by utilizing time-tested, commonsense principles of biblical interpretation. 

Revelation is weird, scary, and confusing. Why should we even bother? In this chapter we consider six reasons why we should embrace the weirdness. 

There are no Revelation experts. Revelation is difficult and challenging to understand. When interpreting Revelation, we must not forsake our first love. Thoughtful Christians can disagree on its meaning and still be brothers and sisters in Christ. 

We all have Revelation “baggage.” Baggage usually involves unhealthy attitudes and misguided approaches. Revelation should be studied on its own terms with an open mind and blank slate. 

Rigorous study of the Bible requires commonsense interpretive principles, practices, and habits. Revelation needs to be exegeted the same strategic way we would any other book of the Bible. To interpret the Bible properly we must “cross the bridge” to the ancient world and then return to the modern world. 

Revelation speaks to the future, but not in the way most think. Revelation offers a spiritual template for the future, not a specific timeline of events. Like the Old Testament prophets, Revelation offers hopeful promises, not detailed predictions. What Revelation does reveal about the future is designed to either comfort or challenge its readers in the present. 

When interpreting Revelation, we must follow the clues. In other words, we allow Revelation to interpret itself. This chapter discusses three interpretive “clues”: symbols explicitly explained by John, clear verses surrounded by complex imagery, and the hymns scattered throughout the book. 

The most important context for understanding Revelation is the first-century historical context. Revelation was written to seven historical churches in ancient Asia Minor during the final decade of the first century. What was it like to be a Christian living in the Roman Empire at this time? This chapter answers this important question by surveying three historical “windows”: Nero’s fire, Domitian’s ego, and Trajan’s policy.

Building on the previous chapter, this chapter focuses on internal historical evidence about the world of the seven churches. As we study Revelation 2-3, we discover that the seven churches were facing two primary threats: religious persecution and cultural seduction. 

To interpret Revelation properly we must follow the rules of genre. Revelation’s genre is unique, containing elements of three distinct literary styles: letter, prophecy, and apocalypse. After surveying these three genre types, the second half of this chapter focuses on the interpretation of Revelation’s symbols. 

A basic knowledge of the Old Testament helps us grasp the meaning of Revelation’s symbols and storylines. This chapter focuses on how to discern and interpret John’s use of the Old Testament in creating Revelation’s visionary world. 

When interpreting Revelation’s numbers or time periods, no calculators or calendars are needed. Revelation’s notorious numbers are symbols which invite thoughtful reflection. This chapter offers interpretations of four of Revelation’s most repeated numbers: four, seven, twelve, and three and a half. 

Revelation’s most complex visions function like parables. Do we have “ears to hear”? This chapter suggests that the strange visual narratives found in Revelation 11-13 are best understood as symbolic parables. 

Revelation employs the literary device of parody to expose Satan’s schemes. Building on the previous chapter, this chapter focuses on Revelation’s use of parody in the parable of the two beasts. 

Revelation repeats itself, taking us to the end of the world multiple times. Revelation’s repetitious literary structure is designed to move us to repentance and renewed faithfulness to Jesus. 

Building on previous chapters and lessons, Chapter 15 presents a brief interpretation of Revelation’s overall storyline and meaning. 

God intends that we consume the sweet and sour message of Revelation. The message of Revelation is surprisingly relevant for our lives today.