The Book of Revelation with Jay Aruga and Unboxing Catholicism Podcasts
Sep 27, 2023
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Jay Aruga and Unboxing Catholicism podcast host Jimmy Akin to discuss the Book of Revelation, the anti-Christ, and the number of the Beast. They explore the authorship of Revelation, debate interpretations of the Whore of Babylon, and express gratitude and promote collaboration.
The Book of Revelation was written to encourage and give hope to persecuted Christian communities in Asia.
The Whore of Babylon represents a city, not the Catholic Church, with Rome and Jerusalem being the primary contenders.
The number 666 and the Beast in Revelation symbolize a political leader and empire in the first century that persecuted Christians, primarily associated with Rome.
Deep dives
The Book of Revelation and its Primary Audience
The book of Revelation is addressed to seven Christian communities living in Asia, which is modern-day Turkey. The main message of the book is to encourage and give hope to these believers who are facing persecution and difficult times. It reassures them that although they will face further trials, God will ultimately be victorious and they will be rewarded if they remain faithful.
Interpretation of the Whore of Babylon
The Whore of Babylon mentioned in the book of Revelation is depicted as a city, not a church. Scholars have different theories about which city the Whore represents, with Rome and Jerusalem being the primary contenders. Both cities had prominence and persecuted Christians, fitting the general description of the Whore. Some even suggest that the Whore could represent any city that opposes God's truth. However, it is clear that the Whore of Babylon does not symbolize the Pope or the Catholic Church.
Understanding 666 and the Beast
The number 666 and the Beast in the book of Revelation refer to a political leader and an empire in the first century that persecutes Christians. The Beast is associated with Rome, as it has seven heads, potentially representing the famous seven hills of Rome. The number 666 has been incorrectly linked to the Pope by manipulating Latin phrases, but this is unfounded and historically inaccurate. The Beast and its relationship with the Whore of Babylon reflect the intense persecution faced by early Christians in opposition to the faith.
Interpreting the Book of Revelation
The podcast episode explores different approaches to interpreting the book of Revelation. The speaker emphasizes that the Catholic Church does not endorse a specific interpretation and leaves the matter to scholars. One view is that most of the book applies to early church history, while another suggests it was written before the destruction of the temple in 70 AD. The dating of the book can impact the interpretation of certain events, such as whether it includes information about the Jewish war. However, the fundamental message of the book, that Christians will face persecution but God will ultimately prevail, remains the same.
Symbolism of the Four Horsemen
The podcast also discusses the symbolism of the four horsemen in Revelation. The first horseman on a white horse is often associated with Jesus, but the speaker argues that it is more likely a Roman political leader who initiates war. The subsequent horsemen represent war, famine, and death. The interpretation of the first horseman as Jesus is not supported by the progression of events in Revelation. The speaker explains that historical context and cultural symbolism suggest a different understanding of the horsemen's symbolism.
In this bonus episode, Jimmy Akin is a guest of Jay Aruga and Unboxing Catholicism to discuss the Book of Revelation, the anti-Christ, the number of the Beast, and more.
