lukewarmness, a condition still prevalent in modern Christianity.
3.Doctrinal/Prophetical:
•This focuses on the prophetic and theological truths of Scripture, particularly regarding God’s future plans. Revelation is primarily a prophetic book, fulfilling OT promises and foretelling Christ’s ultimate victory.
•Example: The sealing of the 144,000 in Revelation 7 fulfills God’s promise to preserve a remnant of Israel (Isaiah 49:6).

The Old Testament in Revelation: A Divine Continuum

The Book of Revelation is saturated with references to the Old Testament, with over 500 allusions to OT texts. This intertextuality underscores the continuity of God’s plan, connecting the past with the future. John’s vision echoes the prophecies of Ezekiel, Daniel, Isaiah, Zechariah, and other OT writers, proving that Revelation is not a standalone work but the culmination of God’s promises.

Key Themes from the Old Testament in Revelation:
1.Judgment:
•The plagues in Revelation (e.g., Revelation 8:6–12) parallel the judgments on Egypt in Exodus. Both reveal God’s power and justice.
•OT Connection: Exodus 7–12.
2.Restoration:
•Revelation 21–22 describes the New Jerusalem, fulfilling the promises of eternal peace and restoration in Isaiah and Ezekiel.
•OT Connection: Isaiah 65:17–19, Ezekiel 48:30–35.
3.Messianic Rule:
•Revelation 19 depicts Christ’s return as a conquering King, fulfilling prophecies in Psalms and Isaiah.
•OT Connection: Psalm 2, Isaiah 9:6–7.
4.Spiritual Warfare:
•The dragon in Revelation 12 echoes Satan’s role in Genesis 3 and the spiritual conflict in Job.
•OT Connection: Genesis 3:15, Job 1:6–7.

Integrating OT References into Revelation

In this series, each chapter of Revelation will be examined in detail to uncover its Old Testament roots. By connecting the OT and Revelation, we will:
•Illuminate the prophetic significance of key symbols (e.g., the Lamb, the throne, the seals).
•Show how Revelation fulfills OT promises and prophecies.
•Highlight the unity of Scripture as a single, God-breathed narrative.

Example: The Throne Room (Revelation 4)
•Literal: John’s vision of God’s throne parallels Ezekiel’s vision (Ezekiel 1) and Isaiah’s encounter (Isaiah 6).
•Spiritual/Inspirational: The heavenly worship inspires believers to revere God’s holiness.
•Doctrinal/Prophetical: The throne represents God’s sovereignty in executing judgment and redemption.

The Importance of Maintaining a Dispensational Framework

Studying Revelation through a dispensational lens ensures that we:
1.Preserve Literal Truth:
•By interpreting prophecy literally, we avoid the errors of allegorization, which can distort God’s Word.
2.Respect God’s Distinct Plans for Israel and the Church:
•Revelation primarily focuses on Israel’s restoration and the fulfillment of OT promises during the Tribulation and Millennium.
3.Uphold Biblical Authority:
•Dispensationalism affirms that all Scripture—from Genesis to Revelation—is inspired, inerrant, and relevant.

Conclusion

The Book of Revelation is a tapestry of God’s Word, intricately woven with threads from the Old Testament. By examining it through a dispensational perspective, we can appreciate its literal, spiritual, and doctrinal dimensions while remaining faithful to its intended meaning. This series will guide readers through each chapter of Revelation, unveiling the profound connections to the Old Testament and demonstrating how God’s promises, prophecies, and plans come to their ultimate fulfillment. As we embark on this 22-part journey, may we deepen our understanding of Scripture and strengthen our faith in the God who holds the future in His hands.