What are some approaches to interpreting Revelation?

Easter (this) Sunday we’re beginning a study through the book of Revelation. I’m committed to making our study together as simple and clear as possible.  I’m not planning on giving out complicated charts every week. However, in order to clearly understand much of Revelation, we must understanding the Old Testament because that’s where most of the imagery started.  This will NOT be a seminary level or scholarly study of the book. My prayer during this study is that you and I will experience the comfort that this book was written to offer both to us and the early church during a time of persecution, the aging and death of their leaders, and confusion of false teachers entering the church. The book starts by stating that there's a blessing for those who read, hear, and keep the contents of this book. I desire for us to be blessed and comforted as we look at what must come. During this study, I may use my blog to add things that I’m not covering on Sundays. Here’s a question for today:

What are some approaches to interpreting Revelation?

There are 4 common approaches to interpret Revelation. I should state clearly that this is an “open handed issue” that godly Christians have been debating for generations.  We should be able to have unity and love for one anther in our differing views. There are literally entire libraries written on all sides of this issue, which indicates scripture is not completely clear on the subject. The main point of the book is certainly clear and we keep the main thing the main thing. What's the main thing?  Jesus is returning, His people will be comforted, and His enemies will be defeated! 

Here are the 4 main views:

1. The Preterist (past) View

Most of Revelation depicts the trials and triumphs of the early church.  The events of the book have mostly already taken place. This view holds that these past events give comfort for Christians and has significance for all future Christians.

2. The Historical View

Most of Revelation is a chronological depiction of the entire church age. It describes events that have taken place since the church started in Acts until Jesus’ return. It holds that most events have already taken place with a few still to come.

3. The Idealist View

Most of Revelation represents the on going spiritual conflict between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of Satan.  Events and visions can’t be tied to specific events in history.

4. The Futurist View

Most of Revelation after chapter 3 is about events and visions that will come during the end times.  It holds that chapter 1 describes the past, chapters 2-3 describe the present, and chapters 4-22 describe the things still to come. While understanding the imagery and figurative language used in Revelation, futurists hold a literal interpretation of the events.

Where do I stand?

Great question since what I believe naturally affects my preaching and teaching of the text. Revelation 1:19 states, “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.  I believe the Futurist View best makes since of this verse, which starts the book.  I understand that chapter 1 is the past, chapters 2-3 describe specific churches of the past that also describe current type of churches, and 4-22 are the things to come. 

I look forward to our study together. Let's read ahead and pray before we gather on Sunday!