The book of Revelation is the record of a long vision—a revelation from Christ—given to John of Patmos to pass on to seven churches in Asia. The style is apocalyptic, a particular form of writing that appeals to the reader’s imagination and emotions. It is filled with bizarre symbolic language not meant to be taken literally. However, the themes of Revelation are clear:

1) God reigns supreme;

2) Christ died, but rose again; and

3) Those who are persecuted can take heart: the Lord is with them.