Ancient Anglican
A Modern Perspective on Early Christian Thought.
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The Revelation – Washed in the Blood – Rev. 7
It is the blood of the Lamb that cleanses the temple and the people to receive the presence of God (Ex. 24, Lev. 4). Therefore, it is only through the blood of the Lamb that salvation is received.
The Revelation – Six Seals & Four Horsemen – Rev. 6
Rather, judgment, harm, and destruction are simply the natural consequential result of turning away from God and the Lamb. When we reject the Lamb and the source of its power, we experience disorder, death, and destruction.
The Revelation – Worship of the Lamb – Rev. 5
The Lamb is more than something extraordinary and worthy of this world. The Lamb is more than the descendant of Judah or of David. The Lamb is, in some way, God as well.
The Revelation – The Vision of God – Rev. 4
John wants to draw these parallels between God and Ceasar to create a binary choice so choosing both is not an option.
The Revelation – Oracles to the 7 Churches (pt.4) – Rev. 2-3
The challenge in reading these letters is to see ourselves as the recipient.
The Revelation – Oracles to the 7 Churches (pt.3) – Rev. 3
A book of remembrance was written before him of those who feared the Lord and thought on his name. Mal. 3:16
The Revelation – Oracles to the 7 Churches (pt.2) – Rev. 2:12-29
As you read through each of these seven oracles to the seven churches – their proscription, praise, and promises – see yourself. Where do you meet the expectations of Christ and where do you fall short? Most importantly, how do Christ’s promises speak to you?
The Revelation – Oracles to the 7 Churches (pt.1) – Rev. 2:1-11
Our challenge is to see ourselves as being spoken to within these seven oracles. Continuously ask yourself how have I earned Christ’s commendation and how have I deserved his condemnation. Most importantly, however, see yourself as the recipient of the promises made in each of these letters.
The Revelation – Preparatory Vision – Rev. 1:9-20
Within this vision, John introduces himself to his audience and introduces three reoccurring themes in Revelation of security, hope, and discipleship.
The Revelation – Salutation – Rev. 1:1-1:8
It is in the opening words of the book in vv. 1-9 that tell us what the book is about and how we are to interpret the visions. Never skip over the beginning.
The Revelation – Historical Background
For John, there can only be one God Worshipful King – a man who was crucified in Jerusalem rather than the man who sits on the throne in Rome. Revelation is his teaching.
The Revelation – Interpretative Strategies
Regardless of the interpretive strategy employed or the themes recognized, Revelation, like all of the New Testament, must necessarily be read within the context of Jesus’ Passion and Resurrection. The Church’s proclamation since the day of Pentecost is Christ crucified.