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Confessions of an Education Pastor

Over the past couple of years as the class has discussed possible topics for the Adult Sunday School class to cover, The Book of Revelation has always been on the list. I’ve been tempted to ask why, but suspect there’s an interest because the book is mysterious, fascinating, difficult to understand, and highly publicized due to the “Left Behind” series by Tim Lahaye and Jerry B. Jenkins. I’ve resisted the urge to read and discuss the book because it’s mysterious, full of symbolism, not easy to understand, subject to interpretation, complex and troubling…in other words tough for the teacher but great for class discussion.

To be honest, prior to starting my study of the Book of Revelation late in 2002, I had never read the book cover to cover. Well, it was about time to accept the challenge and so, I began my study in early December 2002. The class began discussing the book on Sunday, January 12, 2003 (Jane Landrum is co-teaching the Library Adult Sunday School class with me). Just a caution: If you are seeking absolute truth regarding the interpretation of the book, please wait for St. John the Divine to teach the class (He’s the author of the vision). However, if you’re interested in a guided tour through the possible interpretations of Revelation, you’re invited to join us each Sunday morning at 9:20 a.m. in the Library.

After my third reading, it’s fascinating how much the language of the Book of Revelation is evident in Latter Day Saint history and philosophy. Come and join us and we’ll look at the common language and symbols of the book. We’ll discuss the various interpretations of Revelation. You’ll receive handouts on the symbolic glossary and history of the book.

To really benefit from this study, here’s what I'd strongly suggest for each of you.

1. Bring your Bible to class. Each class session will start with historical background on The Book of Revelation, comments on the symbolism, and notes including references to other Biblical works that help understand the book. Then we’ll play an audio recording of the book while you read through the book in your Bible. Each Sunday, we'll follow the same pattern and proceed sequentially through the book.
2. Start reading the book at home. You'll find it confusing but also dramatic and very poetic. Just keep reading on your own before coming to class each Sunday and you'll find clarity as we discuss the book.
3. Bring your questions each Sunday. If the class cannot find an answer, I’ll do some research and have a response the following Sunday. If you’re interested, I’m using the following books as references. You might find it fascinating to read one of them in conjunction with your reading the last book of the Bible.

Breaking the Code: Understanding the Book of Revelation by Bruce M. Metzger (Abingdon Press, Nashville, 1993)

The Complete Idiot’s Guide to The Book of Revelation by Stan Campbell & James S. Bell, Jr. (Alpha/Pearson Education Company, Indianapolis, 2002)

The Interpreter’s Bible, Volume XII edited by Nolan B. Harmon (Abingdon Press, Nashville, 1957)

Reading the Bible Again for the First Time: Taking the Bible Seriously But Not Literally, chapter 10 “Reading Revelation Again” by Marcus J. Borg (HarperCollins, NY, 2001)

Revelation Unveiled by Tim Lahaye (Zondervan, Grand rapids, MI, 1999).