Revelation

The Book of Revelation, also called the Apocalypse, is the final book of the New Testament and the Bible. Written by John during his exile on the island of Patmos around AD 90-95, Revelation unveils God's plan for the culmination of history through a series of vivid visions and symbolic imagery. Unlike any other New Testament book, Revelation belongs to the apocalyptic genre, which uses symbolic language to reveal hidden truths about the spiritual realm and future events. It begins with letters to seven churches in Asia Minor, then proceeds to depict the heavenly throne room, a series of judgments (seals, trumpets, and bowls), cosmic battles between good and evil, the fall of Babylon, Christ's return, final judgment, and the creation of a new heaven and earth. Throughout history, interpreters have approached Revelation differently: preterists see its events as largely fulfilled in the first century; historicists view it as outlining church history; futurists place most events in the yet-to-come end times; and idealists interpret it as symbolic of the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil. Despite these differences, most Christians agree on its core message of hope: despite present sufferings and the apparent triumph of evil, God remains sovereign, Christ will return victoriously, and faithful believers will ultimately share in God's eternal kingdom.