Canon division

Apocalyptic

The unveiling of Christ and the end of the story.

Overview

The Bible closes with a single book of unveiling. “Revelation” means an uncovering, and what it uncovers is Jesus Christ, reigning now and returning to make all things new.

Given to the apostle John in a series of visions, Revelation pulls back the curtain on the unseen war behind history. Through vivid images: a slain yet standing Lamb, sealed scrolls, trumpets and bowls, a beast and a bride, it assures a suffering church that Christ has already won, that evil will be judged, and that God will dwell forever with His people.

The story that opened in a garden ends in a city, where there is no more death or mourning or pain, and where the Lamb is the light. The last word of Scripture is a prayer and a promise: “Come, Lord Jesus.”

Key themes

Christ victorious

The slain Lamb is the risen Lord who reigns over history and its end.

Judgment and justice

Evil is not ignored; God sets every wrong right.

Perseverance

The vision calls a suffering church to faithful endurance and hope.

New creation

God’s story ends with a new heaven and a new earth, and His people home with Him.

Books in this section

The 1 book of this division, in order. The 1 with a full study on this site are linked.