John states the purpose of his revelation at the very outset: “to show God’s servants the things that must soon take place” (Rev. 1:1). What kinds of things does he have in mind? A brief outline of Revelation can answer that question. John wants to show God’s servants that:
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Jesus walks among his churches, encouraging them to “conquer” the trials and temptations they face (chs. 1–3).
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God is enthroned in heaven, and his Son is worthy to break the seven “seals” on the “scroll,” inaugurating divine judgment against sinful humanity (chs. 4–6).
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Because they have been sealed with God’s Holy Spirit, God’s servants are able to stand and worship God, even as his judgment falls all around them (ch. 7).
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Unfortunately, even though God’s judgment of unbelief (now portrayed as seven trumpets being sounded) shows up the folly of sinning against him, many refuse to repent and turn to God for grace (chs. 8–9).
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Nevertheless, as the example of both John and the mysterious “two witnesses” shows, it is the church’s duty to witness to God’s justice and love to an unbelieving world (chs. 10–11).
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In the meantime, a great red dragon (the devil) and his two grotesque beasts (sinful politics and unholy religion) antagonize the church and make the life of believers miserable. But God keeps the faithful safe from eternal harm (chs. 12–14).
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At the end of time, when it is clear that humanity will not repent and seek forgiveness, God’s judgment—now portrayed as seven bowls being poured out upon the earth—is given in its final form (chs. 15–16).
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In light of all this, humanity must make a decision whether it is for or against God. Those for God are portrayed as a bride and a New Jerusalem. Those against God are portrayed as an adulteress and the wicked city of Babylon (chs. 17:1-22:5).
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Knowing the future that awaits it, the church prays, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (22:5-21).
Obviously, John—or rather, God—is not concerned merely to show his servants (us) the events that must soon take place. He wants to show us their significance too, and the proper response we should make to them.
As you look at this simple (but hopefully not simplistic!) outline of John’s Apocalypse, notice how often the theme of divine judgment appears. The seven seals reveal God’s judgment of sinful humanity, as do the seven trumpets and the seven bowls. Chapter 18 portrays the judgment of Babylon in graphic—even grotesque—terms. Revelation is not a book for the faint of heart.
Then again, neither is life. The great fact of the matter, which John drives home in every chapter of his book, is that the choices we make in this life have consequences in the life to come. Life is momentous! There is a heaven to be gained and a hell to be avoided, and our choices—in response to God’s grace—determine where we end up.
When driving a curvy mountain road, you see many yellow warning signs, which warn of sharp turns, falling rocks, and the need to slow down and drive carefully. Revelation too is a warning sign from God that shows us the peril of the road ahead. If we heed the sign, we will steer through life’s dangers and at last arrive safely home.
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