APOCALYPTIC
What Is the Apocalyptic Literature in the Bible?
Apocalyptic language is a highly symbolic form of expression. Vivid figures of speech convey the ideas. When the figures are interpreted, the meaning of the message is uncovered. The word derives from the Greek apokalupto , meaning to uncover, to unveil.
The first word of the final book of the New Testament isapokalupsis , "revelation," which serves as the book's title. Thus, this book is sometimes called The Apocalypse.
Certain portions of Daniel, Ezekiel, and Zechariah, as well as sections of Matthew 24, are apocalyptic in nature. Of course, the book of Revelation is also significantly apocalyptic. This type of symbolism was employed in times of danger. The message, by means of word pictures, could be "smuggled" to the people of God, thus affording them great comfort. At the same time, the celebration of ultimate victory over their enemies would be concealed from the hostile opposition.
The first word of the final book of the New Testament is
Certain portions of Daniel, Ezekiel, and Zechariah, as well as sections of Matthew 24, are apocalyptic in nature. Of course, the book of Revelation is also significantly apocalyptic. This type of symbolism was employed in times of danger. The message, by means of word pictures, could be "smuggled" to the people of God, thus affording them great comfort. At the same time, the celebration of ultimate victory over their enemies would be concealed from the hostile opposition.
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Adapted from the book "Bible Words and Theological Terms Made Easy" by Wayne Jackson
