Kitchen Table Theology
Where Coffee, Conversation, and Theology Meet. During my 40 years in ministry, I’ve developed an increasing burden for what I sense to be an increase in biblical illiteracy, not only among those in our churches, but also in the young men and women entering the ministry. Conversely, I am hopeful, because I also sense a hunger from people to learn and know biblical truth and the things of God has revealed to us in Scripture. Our Kitchen Table Theology team has developed a list of over 150 doctrinal topics which I, along with one of my cohosts, Jen Denton or Tiffany Coker, examine weekly. Our goal is to educate and share biblical truth on the same level as if we were sitting at your kitchen table with a Bible and a pot of southern pecan coffee in front of us. Welcome to the table!
Kitchen Table Theology
213 Bible Overview: Revelation
The book of Revelation may be one of the most fascinating and remarkable pieces of literature ever written. It’s had a massive impact on human history and culture. In this episode, Tiffany Coker and Pastor Jeff Cranston conclude their New Testament overview series with an in-depth look at the final book of the Bible. What insights will you gain about this often misunderstood book?
[00:00 - 04:50] Introduction to Revelation
- Pastor Jeff explains who wrote Revelation and its significance in biblical canon
- Revelation's timeline and historical context (written around 95 AD)
- Brief explanation of the title "Revelation" and its meaning
[04:50 - 09:27] Purpose and Approach to Revelation
- John's reasons for writing Revelation, including encouragement for persecuted churches
- Discussion of two common errors in approaching Revelation:
- Neglecting the book due to its complexity
- Becoming obsessed with end-time predictions
- Pastor Jeff's argument for reading Revelation for encouragement and discipleship
[09:27 - 15:51] Old Testament Connections and Symbolic Language
- The crucial role of Old Testament knowledge in understanding Revelation
- Examples of Old Testament allusions in Revelation
- A brief explanation of the symbolic language and imagery in Revelation
- Caution against "newspaper eschatology" and misinterpretation of symbols
[15:51 - 22:08] Key Theological Themes and Conclusion
- Major themes in Revelation:
- Doctrine of God (Trinitarian emphasis)
- Suffering of the saints and call to persevere
- God's sovereignty in human history
- Centrality and deity of Christ
- How Revelation's message applies to believers today
- Encouragement to read Revelation with confidence and expectation of blessing
Direct Quotes:
"God has not given us revelation to confuse, mystify or terrify us. Like all scripture, Revelation is God-breathed, and it's profitable, and we really don't have the option to ignore it." - Pastor Jeff Cranston
"At its heart, Revelation is a story, and its main character is the crucified and risen Lord." - Dr. Matthew Emerson
Resources Mentioned:
[1] Matthew Emerson, Between the Cross and the Throne: The Book of Revelation. Lexham Press, 2016, 32. Accessed 26 Aug. 2024.
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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!