THE APOCALYPSE AND THE TEMPLE CODE

C. The prophetic order of the book

1. John is viewing three realms at once

a. John sees in heaven b. John sees on earth

- from inside the heavenly Temple (4:1) - from inside Israel, Jerusalem, and the nations - from inside the abyss (bottomless pit)

c. John sees under the earth

Note: Chapter 11 (Jerusalem), chapter 12 (the wilderness), and chapter 13 (Jerusalem)

D. Prophetically interpreting the vision of Revelation

1. The vision reveals four central revelations

a . It is a revelation of earth’s f inal seven y ears (Daniel’s 70 th week) b. It is a revelation of the final judgments predicted by Old Testament prophets c. It is revelation of the Messiah returning to earth , setting up His Kingdom d . It is a revelation of God’ s eternal plan for His people (everything ends in eternity)

2. The vision reveals Christ’s three fold heavenly ministry

a. John reveals Jesus Christ as High Priest b. John reveals Jesus Christ as Judge c. John reveals Jesus Christ as King d. He was called a Prophet on earth e. He has been a Priest since His ascension f. He will be the King for one thousand years

- Rev. 1:12-18 - Rev. 14:14-20 - Rev. 19:11-16 - Matt. 13:57 - Heb. 4:14-16 - Rev. 19:11-16

3. The vision reveals the “Temple C ode ” throughout the Apocalypse

a. The seven feasts were rehearsals for future events b. The earthly Temple rituals were a reflection of what would occur in the Heavenly Temple c. The Apocalypse reveals certain Temple rituals, customs, and patterns of the feasts

E. There is priestly imagery throughout the book

1. John ’s link to the priesthood in Jerusalem

a . John was acquainted with the High Priest b. John was allowed into the council chamber c. John took Mary to his own house in Jerusalem

- John 18:15-18 - John 18:15-16

- John 19:27

2 . John’s priestly knowledge is revealed in the book

a. Certain verses have allusions to the seven feasts b. Certain verses have allusions to ancient Temple rituals c. Certain verses have allusions to priestly customs

- Rev. 7:9 - Rev. 8:3

- Rev. 16:15

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