Why We Struggle to Understand Revelation (And How to Fix It)
Brandon Cannon
- 3 min read

Why We Struggle to Understand Revelation (And How to Fix It)

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Introduction

Question: Pastor, can you teach me how to understand the book of Revelation? (like right now.)

Answer: Of course… not. The book of Revelation is amazing, but not for beginners. It can only be properly understood if you are willing to do the prerequisite reading… the entire Old Testament.

The Book of Revelation is one of the most misunderstood and misinterpreted books in the entire Bible. Many Christians avoid it altogether, overwhelmed by its symbolic imagery, strange beasts, and apocalyptic themes. Others try to interpret it solely through the lens of current events, which often leads to confusion and speculation.

But here’s the main reason most people don’t understand Revelation: they don’t understand the Old Testament.

Revelation’s Deep Connection to the Old Testament

Scholars estimate that 68.8% of the verses in Revelation contain allusions to the Old Testament—without ever directly quoting it. That means that if we don’t have a strong grasp of the Old Testament, we’ll miss the context for what John is seeing and writing.

For example:

  • Revelation 1:13-16 describes Jesus as the “Son of Man” with a face like the sun—directly echoing Daniel 7:13 and Daniel 10:5-6.
  • Revelation 4:6-8 introduces four living creatures, mirroring Ezekiel 1:5-14 and Isaiah 6:2-3.
  • Revelation 11:3-6 speaks of two witnesses with the power to shut the sky and turn water to blood, resembling Elijah (1 Kings 17:1) and Moses (Exodus 7:17-18).
  • Revelation 13:1-2 describes a beast with features from a lion, bear, and leopard, paralleling Daniel 7:3-6.
  • Revelation 21-22, with its imagery of a new heaven, new earth, and the river of life, is saturated with references to Genesis 2, Isaiah 65, and Ezekiel 47.

If we don’t know the Old Testament, we won’t recognize these connections. Instead, we’ll be tempted to make up meanings that have nothing to do with Scripture.

How to Understand Revelation Better

1. Read Revelation Through an Old Testament Lens.

Instead of jumping straight to interpreting Revelation, first ask: Where have I seen this before in Scripture? Use cross-references and study Bibles to trace each image or phrase back to the Old Testament.

2. Study Daniel, Ezekiel, and Isaiah First.

These three books are crucial to understanding Revelation. Daniel gives the prophetic framework, Ezekiel provides vivid apocalyptic imagery, and Isaiah sets the stage for the final restoration of God’s kingdom.

3. Avoid Speculation—Let Scripture Interpret Scripture.

Many approach Revelation looking for secret codes or modern-day events that fit its descriptions. Instead, interpret it within the Bible itself. Every symbol has biblical roots—find them.

4. Understand the Genre of Apocalyptic Literature.

Revelation, like parts of Daniel and Ezekiel, is written in apocalyptic style—filled with visions, symbols, and figurative language. It’s not meant to be read like a newspaper or a straightforward historical account. Instead, it paints a theological picture of Christ’s ultimate victory over evil.

5. Read It With Humility and Worship.

Revelation is ultimately about Jesus Christ (Revelation 1:1). It’s meant to give us confidence that He reigns, not stir up fear or wild speculation. Approach it with a heart of worship, not just curiosity.

Five Resources to Go Deeper

  1. The Book of Revelation: A Commentary on the Greek Text – G.K. Beale
    • A deep, scholarly work that extensively traces Revelation’s Old Testament connections.
  1. More Than Conquerors – William Hendriksen
    • A pastoral, amillennial approach to Revelation that focuses on its encouragement for the church.
  1. Revelation and the Old Testament – Apologetics Press (Read Here)
  • An overview of how Revelation connects to the Old Testament.
  1. Julian Spriggs’ List of OT Allusions in Revelation (Read Here)
    • A verse-by-verse breakdown of where each Old Testament reference appears.
  1. Beale & Carson’s Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament
    • A broader look at how the NT writers (including John) used the OT.

BOTTOM LINE

If you struggle to understand Revelation, don’t start with speculation—start with Scripture. Revelation isn’t a standalone book; it’s the grand conclusion of the entire biblical story. By grounding yourself in the Old Testament, you’ll see Revelation not as a mystery to decode but as a glorious affirmation that Jesus reigns and will make all things new.

Now, grab your Bible, start digging into Daniel, Ezekiel, and Isaiah, and watch how Revelation comes alive like never before.

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