The book of Revelation has long been seen as an enigma. Its readers get entrapped with the interpretation of the heavenly visions and apocalyptic language.
The confusion around the book is at odds with the stated purpose of the book which is to “shew” and “bare record” of a revelation.
What is that revelation? What is it about?
It is certainly not the mystery revelation kept secret since the foundation of the world (Rom 16:25), because it abounds with the fulfillment of that kingdom which had been “declared to the prophets” since the world began (Rev 10:7; Rev 11:15).
This is the same restored kingdom that Peter asked about in Acts 1:6, and spoke of by Holy Ghost utterance in Acts 3:21.
“Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?” (Acts 1:6)
“Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.” (Acts 3:21)
Moreover, Peter wrote about this kingdom in his epistles and prepares his audience (remnant Israel) for the events of Revelation.
“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” – 1 Peter 1:13
“But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night…” – 2 Peter 3:10
“Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.” – 2 Peter 3:13
What Peter is looking forward to is what the book of Revelation reveals: the coming of Jesus Christ, the day of the Lord, the new heavens and new earth.
Revelation fulfills what the prophets have spoken since the world began: to bring grace and salvation to the world through the nation Israel.
Peter’s final words about the revelation of Jesus Christ in the kingdom was that it was in abeyance. Revelation was not being fulfilled, and how that could only be explained by Paul, the apostle of this dispensation of grace.
“And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you…” – 2 Peter 3:15
When we learn what Peter says about the subject of the book of Revelation, then we can rightly separate it from what God is doing today through the church which His body (Eph 1:21-23) from His return and kingdom restoration.
This right division makes Revelation understandable and clears up any need to find an explanation within its pages of what God is doing now.
Article Index Published: November 1, 2024
Last Modified: November 1, 2024