Apocalyptic Literature and the Revelation

"Apocalyptic literature is a genre of prophetic writing that developed in post-Exilic Jewish culture and was popular among millennialist early Christians. 'Apocalypse' is a Greek word meaning 'revelation, an unveiling or unfolding of things not previously known and which could not be known apart from the unveiling'". Wikipedia

There are several apocalyptic books in the Bible. Ezequiel, Daniel, Zachariah, Joel and The Revelation are the prime examples. Throughout Scripture there are hints of endtime events but the concentration of material is in these specific works. 

When you read this genre you need to read with understanding of the characteristics of this type of literature in mind. Strange scenes of beasts, spirits, creatures and mysterious people are not uncommon. The author may be whisked from place to place and even from future to past in a matter of sentences. Revelation, for example, was not written chronologically, but sweeps back and forth from one event to another with confusing speed. Therefore the multitude of interpretations of John's masterpiece. 

If you have ever tried to study the Revelation, it will become clear to you, rather quickly, how many times the commentators say something like, "Many believe that…" or "Most scholars feel that…" or "dispensational Theology will interpret this chapter as …". 

The funny thing is that you may not know what strip you are, or even that theological and escatological stripes exist, until you have begun to study the Revelation for yourself. I, for example, have been in church for 67 years. I do not remember any of the four pastors of my home church ever preaching from the Revelation. Except for the first three chapters which deal with the letters to the seven churches. John MacArthur, whose famous slogan is, "Presenting God's Truth, one verse at a time", preached what he labeled as a "Jet Tour" through the Revelation. He preached through the entire book in one message! Amazing. Or, indicative that Revelation is complicated and to come to one opinion about the work is impossible. 

So, what to do with the Revelation? Read it with care and understanding. Know that there are a multitude of idea about its final meaning. Come to your own conclusions after a thorough study and research. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you with your understanding. And remember that many students of the Word have gone before you in those sacred pages and have left just as confused as you. So, don't be afraid or discouraged. Just join the study group and know that when you step into glory you'll be able to speak to the human author.