The Book of Revelation seems to be an incomprehensible mystery. Full of strange symbols, colourful metaphors, cryptic numbers and fantastic beasts. No book of scripture has captivated, baffled and divided Christians quite like Revelation. The English theologian G. K. Chesterton once remarked, “Though St. John the Evangelist saw many strange monsters in his vision, he saw no creature so wild as one of his own commentators.”

Despite its complexity, for John’s original audience, the images, language and prophecies were relevant to their worldview and understanding. Revelation reveals the message about Jesus Christ and his purposes for the Church, to enact an eschatological (end-time) exodus. The Egyptian Exodus is the template for Revelation’s Exodus.  Jesus the Great Passover Lamb has initiated the deliverance of his people and they are waiting for the “Red Sea” moment when evil is finally destroyed. With this New Exodus looming, John provides a message of comfort to those who are suffering and a warning to churches who are tempted to assimilate to the practices of the culture around them. In these series of introductory lessons, we will explore some of the historical, cultural and textual background behind one of the most complex but important books in the bible.