| Your Window into the Bible (30 Second Version) Writings during Persecution Two other books in the Bible deserve
special mention, as they are in a category all by
themselves. Daniel (in the
Old Testament) and Revelation (the
last book in the New Testament) were written to people
who were being persecuted by their government for their
faith. These books
sought to remind the believers that God is more powerful
than any government (thus the fierce, powerful, and even
intimidating images of God in these books). Since secrecy was
important in a time of persecution, these books
extensively used symbolism.
For example, something like a “seven-headed
beast” might refer to the rulers of the government,
while the candlestick with seven candles might refer to
churches, which are supposed to be the light of the
world. Some meanings
are known today, and the true meaning of other symbols
are still debated. The
important point is to understand that these books, which
can seem frightening if taken at face value, were
actually intended to encourage suffering people, not make
people afraid of the end of the world. Thank you for your interest in studying the Bible!!!! Return to Bible Study Main Menu Return to Camp Point United Methodist Church Main Page
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