As has probably already been referenced, Revelation often works in a multi-layered way depicting the same event through different pictures and language. Thus, for example, seven seals, seven trumpets, seven angels (Ch. 15) and seven bowls of wrath (Ch 16) are all descriptions of the same events.  The language is symbolic and each metaphor adds something new to the developing vision. Our focus should not be on interpreting the language but rather allowing the awfulness of the scene to lead us to a place of repentance (9:21).

We might not like the language but it’s used for a reason. The point of it is to get our attention about the seriousness of our condition; remind us of past interventions by God – the plagues are intended to reflect the Egyptian plagues and the liberation of God’s people (remember Revelation is written to a persecuted church); emphasise that deliverance and freedom is always God’s intent and clarify that the ball is really in our court. We always have the choice to enter into that freedom through repentance and faith. The invitation is open to all, but it is up to us to respond – there’s an RSVP on each invitation.

We know how the story ends. In the meantime Revelation speaks not only into our future, assuring us that victory over the powers of oppression is assured and we are destined for an altogether better world; but identifies with the past and releases strength for today. Revelation has spoken to every generation, from the very first generation to whom John was writing until now, of the reality that we live in a world where the 4 horsemen are free to roam far and wide, wreaking much havoc. We are relatively sheltered from violence in the west, but for those lands in which violence is a normal part of life the imagery is one of all too familiar relevance. Even in our land there are sadly plenty of broken communities which would identify with some of this language too.

Nonetheless, to quote a Bible scholar, Ian Paul, ‘the violence is not to be read in a literal way but as a metaphor for the spiritual conflict between God and the powers that oppose him and his people and needs to be read as such.’

However, it’s an awful picture of what happens when evil is allowed to flourish unchecked. Revelation promises us that evil will eventually destroy itself, but in the meantime, we are called to persevere in the face of persecution and trouble, repenting of anything that takes the place of God in our own lives, for in the end the chilling (or encouraging!) reminder is that we become like the one we worship.

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You are born to be an image-bearer. So, what does His image look like? Clue: look at Jesus. Is there one aspect of his character you would love to ‘bear’ more?