The Book of Revelation

The Book of Revelation

Introduction

Some commentators divide the book of Revelation into two major parts. At first, going from chapter 1-11, Christ is revealed as the head of the Church and the controller of the destiny of the world. In the second, going from chapter 12 to the end, are revealed the trials and triumphs of the Church (DeSilva, 2009).

In the opening of chapter 12, John sees a radiant woman and her offspring and the dragon with his allies. In chapter 13, there is the first and second beast. They are doing everything to destroy the woman and her children. Who they are or represent these figures? The meaning of each character is essential to the understanding of the text message. Who will emerge victorious from this struggle, is another question that remains in the air.

Discussion

In the scene that follows, the evil forces are headed by a dragon, identified as the devil. His allies are the first beast, symbolizing the emperor of Rome, Domitian, and the second beast, which symbolizes the commission or board created by Domitian, to require the entire cult of the emperor. The forces of good are commanded by God, who also has two allies: the Lamb, which symbolizes Christ the Redeemer and sickle, symbolizing eternal judgment. The battle will be terrible and furious, but victory shall hang over the side of God.

The dragon has seven heads, meaning great wisdom, ten horns, symbolizing great power and brings seven crowns on his head, the same as used by royalty, they mean great authority. It is so large that its tail, with a movement can bring down the stars of heaven. This terrible dragon put up before the woman in labor to devour the child as soon as it is born. God, however, so that ...