Why Study Revelation? – 1. Last personal message from Jesus in

Heaven, to believers. Divine source confirmed by studying it:

“Prophecy is the mould into which history is poured.”

Symbols are used throughout scripture -unlocking the signs and symbols - “makes the matter set forth more vivid and striking.”

Why Study the Revelation? – 2. Jesus said “...there shall be signs in the sun, in

the moon and in the stars...” (Lk 21:25 ) He commanded “Watch ye therefore..” (Lk

21:36) Jesus continued...“And when these things begin

to come to pass look up…” (Lk 21:28) To what things did Jesus refer? - “The Revelation

of Jesus Christ to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass.” (Rev 1:1)

Signs and Symbols. Understanding the signs and the passing of the

times gives hope of the coming Kingdom. The end could be near - understanding of

Revelation more urgent than ever. Seven “blessings” are described for those who

understand. The book instructs to keep its sayings - need to

understand in order to keep them. Rev 22:7.

“At first sight it might seem a matter of regret that symbol should be employed at all… The effect of symbols… is to make the matter set forth much more vivid and striking … The symbols of the Book of Revelation are very graphic but it is necessary to realise that they are only symbols…

Why Signs and Symbols?

Symbols - No Actual Existence!

…Thus John when he saw seven candlesticks, saw something that had no actual existence ... He saw a drying river, three frogs, a seven-headed dragon.

But there was no literal river or frogs or dragon. These were the signs of something else.” (Robert Roberts, ‘Thirteen Lectures on the Apocalypse’ 4th Edn.1921 p.4).

Warnings. God’s anger is to be poured out on “the beast”

- Revelation warns believers to discern what the beast is so as to be separate from all aspects of it.

“And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them...which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image...and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.” (Rev 20:4).

How to Strengthen Faith. A principle laid down by Jesus, “And now I

have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.” (John 14:29).

Prophecy helps us to be forewarned. Peter says, “...seeing ye know these things

before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness.” (2 Pet.3:1,2,17).

Purpose of Revelation. Faith is increased in God and in scripture. Thoughts detached from dwelling on

present. Mind set on things to come. Forewarned to reject error. Freed from entrapment by “the beast.” Prepared to meet the Lord when he

appears and not be ashamed.