We began our study of the Book of Revelation in September 2023, and finally, by the end of 2025, we completed all 22 chapters. For most brothers and sisters, Revelation is a deep and difficult book, filled with mysterious and puzzling imageries. Moreover, people hold different interpretive approaches to apocalyptic literature, which makes understanding Revelation even more challenging. Different interpretive methods often lead to different conclusions. To complicate matters further, there are varying theological positions on eschatology (the study of the end times) within the church. With these differing presuppositions, readers often interpret Revelation through a particular theological lens, creating many obstacles to properly understanding its message.
We thank pastor for leading us in Tree of Life Christian Church on this courageous journey of studying Revelation. Regardless of how long one has been a Christian, most of us would agree that this was a refreshing experience. Unlike some studies that focus on unlocking the hidden meanings of Revelation’s prophecies, this study did not aim to decipher every prophetic mystery—since such speculation goes beyond the author John’s intent. If uncovering the “secrets” of the future were truly essential, the true Author—the Holy Spirit—would have stated them plainly rather than leaving us to guess. The purpose of Revelation is made clear at both its beginning and end: “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near” (1:3); “Behold, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll” (22:7). Revelation is not written merely to satisfy curiosity about future events. Rather, it is given to show believers—from the early church to just before the second coming of Christ—God’s plan for the last days, and to bless those who obey its clear instructions. Even after completing this study, we admit that there are still many prophetic details we do not fully understand. For example, who exactly will the Antichrist and the false prophet be? Revelation tells us that such figures will arise in the last days, but we need not speculate whether the Antichrist is the Pope, Hitler, a Roman emperor, or even a modern political leader. What Christians must do is believe that such figures will indeed appear, remain vigilant against false Christs and deceptive teachings, and be prepared—mentally and spiritually—to endure persecution for remaining faithful to Jesus Christ. By studying Revelation and obeying its commands, we become those who are truly blessed.
At the same time, a careful study can still shed light on certain future details. For instance, Revelation 11 prophecies that a temple will one day be rebuilt in Jerusalem. However, this temple will not truly be God’s temple but will be used by the Antichrist as an instrument of deception (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4). Based on these details, we understand that before Christ’s return, the temple in Jerusalem will indeed be rebuilt and the Antichrist will execute his schemes there. When John wrote this prophecy more than two thousand years ago, it was hard to imagine that the temple could ever be rebuilt in Jerusalem. Yet, looking at the current situation in the Middle East, it is no longer unthinkable. The unfolding of world events seems to be moving in the very direction foretold in Revelation. Every prophecy in Scripture, including those in this book, will surely be fulfilled—and that day is drawing ever closer! How unfortunate it would be for modern Christians to neglect the study of Revelation and ignore its serious teachings and prophecies. By studying Revelation, we see how the world is moving toward the fulfilment of these prophecies, we are reminded to stay alert—the Lord’s coming is near!
Furthermore, Revelation gives us a clearer view of the full scope of God’s redemptive plan. The Tree of Life, which disappeared because of human sin, reappears in the new heaven and new earth. The world once defiled by sin will be renewed completely. How great is the salvation God has prepared for His people! As we studied chapters 21 and 22, we caught a glimpse of the radiant glory of that new creation—what an uplifting and hope-filled vision! It makes us long for that world with no pain or sorrow, no death or disease, and no sin—where we will dwell with Jesus Christ and the Triune God, enjoying the fullness of life in our Creator. Studying Revelation helps us grasp how complete and magnificent our salvation truly is.
At the close of the book, the Lord Jesus declares: “Yes, I am coming soon.” How will we respond to His coming? With anxiety and unease? With indifference? Or like John, with heartfelt anticipation—“Amen. Come, Lord Jesus”? If our hearts are preoccupied only with earthly matters, it is natural that we seldom think of the Lord’s return. But if our focus is on God’s kingdom, His coming becomes the very hope and motivation of our lives. Studying Revelation helps us view our brief earthly life through the lens of eternity.