PMT 2013-035 by Kenneth L. Gentry, Jr.
To understand a book, particularly a difficult one such as Revelation, it is important to discern its theme, its driving purpose. Fortunately, John states his theme in the opening of Revelation. In Rev 1:7 we read his theme:
“Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen.”
At first glance it seems that John is speaking of the Second Advent. It certainly does involve language which is quite applicable to the future, glorious, history-ending Second Coming of Christ. Continue reading
The opening words of Revelation are absolutely essential for its proper interpretation. Unfortunately, too many prophecy enthusiasts leap over the beginning of Revelation, never securing a proper footing for the treacherous path ahead. But stealing a line from Isaiah, the preterist asks: “Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning?” (Isa. 40:21). The preterist insists that the key to Revelation is found in its front door.
When interpreting any biblical book of the Bible it is important to understand the audience to which it is directed. The evangelical interpreter should understand a passage’s grammar in light of its historical context, not despite it. At least three factors in Revelation emphasize the original audience and their circumstances. These are quite important for and relevant to the preterist position.
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