Was Revelation Written by Paul or John?
The Book of Revelation, also known as the Apocalypse, is a deeply intriguing and often debated text within the New Testament. Many readers turn to their Bibles to seek answers and spiritual guidance, with the answer lying partly within the book itself. Some believe that it was written by Paul, the apostle known for his missionary work and epistles scattered throughout the New Testament. However, the writings themselves and historical evidence point more towards John the Apostle as the author. This article delves into the evidence supporting John as the author, debunking the notion that Paul was the main author of Revelation.
Evidence from Revelation and Beyond
Revelation 1:1 states: 'The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John.' Here, the phrase 'his servant John' suggests that John was the recipient of this divine revelation, further supporting his authorship.
Further confirmation can be found in other verses. Revelation 1:4 and 1:9 clearly reference 'I, John.' These personal pronouns reinforce that John is the author, not Paul. The opening sections of Revelation 1:4 read: 'To the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace to you from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne. I, John, am the one who was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.'
John's Historical Background and Connections
John was the only apostle who was not martyred. This unique status is prophesied in the Gospels, where Jesus speaks to him, promising that he would not taste death (John 21:18-19). Similarly, Revelation 1:9 boldly states: 'I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.'
John subsequently took Jesus's mother, Mary, to Ephesus, where they both lived out their days. John carried out his ministry in and around Ephesus. In recent years, a Christian lady had a vision of where Mary’s house was located, and it has been discovered in the countryside near Ephesus, a site that can be visited today. The eldest sons of Mary and Joseph – James, Joses (also known as Joseph), and Jude – wrote several New Testament books, and their ministries were centered in Israel, north Africa, and the Middle East. Like James and Jude, they were also martyred.
Jesus entrusted Mary’s care to John before he was crucified, ensuring that John would look after her. This event is often seen as a turning point in John’s life, leading him to write Revelation from Patmos around 70 AD. After sending copies to each of the seven churches of Asia (now Turkey), he left behind the first full copies of the Bible, spreading the gospel message throughout the known world during the first and second centuries.
Synchronic Significance of 70 AD
The year 70 AD holds significant historical and theological importance. It is the year that the Romans laid siege on Jerusalem and destroyed the temple, mirroring the events described in Revelation. This destruction came at the same time the veil in the temple tore at Jesus's crucifixion, symbolizing that Jesus's sacrifice reunites humanity with the Holy Spirit, and no longer do we need a physical temple. Instead, the people of the church are the living temple, and we rely on the Bible and the Holy Spirit for guidance and comfort.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Book of Revelation is unequivocally authored by John the Apostle, and not Paul. The evidence within the text, supported by historical context and the significance of the year 70 AD, solidifies this authorship. As readers continue to explore Revelation, they can appreciate its rich theological and historical value, guiding them towards a deeper understanding of Christ and spiritual growth.