Revelation 1:4-8

Ancient Lens

What can we learn from the historical context?

A Letter to Real People

In the understanding of, and preaching on, any section of the Revelation of John, it is critical to know that the author is writing to real people, in real cities, in a real region of the ancient world, during a specific period of time.  This is about history in the making, past, present and future.  With about 2000 years having elapsed since it was first written it easy to understand the confusion, questions, and controversies which have arisen over this remarkable document.

Obviously, this is a letter sent from one individual to several first century churches in western Asia Minor, but also meant to be shared…