SLST is excited to welcome Dr. Alex Stewart from Gateway Seminary on August 25th, 2023 for our fall colloquium. Dr. Steward will set out five principles for interpreting the Book of Revelation.
There are five interpretive principles that are crucial to properly interpreting the book of Revelation. These five principles are not exhaustive and do not cover everything that can or should be said about interpreting Revelation, but they are the foundational starting point. Mistakes at this foundational level have misled many readers and continue to breed misunderstanding and confusion today. The goal is to hear, understand, and put into practice in the present time what God revealed to his people long ago.
The five foundational interpretive principles:
1. Focus on the original purpose of the visions. Revelation is primarily a motivational book and when this is neglected the whole point of the book is missed.
2. Let the original historical context guide your interpretation. Revelation was written for you but not originally to you.
3. Recognize repetition. Revelation consists of a series of visions that run roughly parallel to each other; each culminates in the end (Jesus’ return and the final judgment).
4. Recognize symbolism. John’s visions are highly symbolic and need to be read as such.
5. Read Revelation as Christian Scripture. This involves using the broader biblical context, especially the Old Testament, to interpret the book.
During our time together, Dr. Stewart will 1) explain each principle, 2) present arguments and evidence to support the principle, and 3) provide clear and compelling examples of why the principle is necessary or how it helps us understand the meaning of disputed visions. You will come away from this study equipped with a clear understanding of how to apply these five principles to understand the book, how to recognize bad questions, and how to ask and answer better ones. Dr. Stewart's book on the Revelation of John can be found here.
The lecture will be followed by a short question and answer segment.
The colloquium will be held at Gospel Grace Church from 6pm-9pm. Additionally, please plan to join us for a meal that will be served between 5pm and 6pm.
The cost to register for the colloquium and the meal is $10.
