How Revelation Has Been Interpreted Through Church History
Summary
Hosts Walter Strickland, Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, and Dustin Holcomb explore the history of interpreting Revelation, from its original context as subversive political theology against Rome to medieval views like Joachim of Fiore’s three ages. They discuss how the Reformers, particularly Luther and Calvin, approached the text with caution against allegorical misuse, contrasting this with modern dispensationalism and postmillennialism. The episode concludes by addressing contemporary issues, arguing that Revelation’s promise of bodily resurrection and renewed creation challenges modern tra…
Topics discussed
Introduction: Suffering, Justice, and Joachim of Fiore
White Horse Inn Intro and Guest Introductions
Understanding Apocalyptic Literature and Symbolism
Revelation as Political Manifesto Against Rome
Avoiding Anachronistic Interpretations
The Pastoral Nature and Call to Perseverance
Reading Revelation Through the Old Testament and Jesus
Judgment of Rome and Early Church Views
Historical Interpretations: Augustine and the Millennium
Medieval Mysticism and Hope Amidst Suffering
Joachim of Fiore and the Three Ages of History
Reformation Views: Luther, Calvin, and the Gospel
Protestant Traditions and Christological Focus
Rise of Fundamentalism and Literalism
Shift from Post-Millennialism to Premillennialism
Heaven Descending and the Renewal of Creation
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