Revelation demonstrates that Christ has already defeated Satan by his death and Resurrection (Rv 1:5; see Col 2:13-15). This victory, however, must be expressed in the lives of individual believers and in the events of history (Rv 3:21; Rv 18; see Eph 6:12). It will be completed at the end of time (Rv 21:1-8; see 1 Cor 15: 24-26). Understanding Revelation To understand Revelation, we must be familiar with its literary form, terminology, symbolism, and frequent use of Old Testament excerpts or references. It is not a traditional story with beginning, middle, and end. Rather, it repeats the epic battle of good against evil in cycles of seven. Reading Revelation might be compared to going to a theme park where we take scary rides. The rides bring us through frightening visions of evil monsters and impending dangers, but perils are overcome and we exit each ride with a sense of victory. Throughout history, the Church has been challenged by evil. There have been shadowy passageways, demonic forces, and terrifying battles. But against all odds the Church has emerged from each confrontation because Christ has conquered Satan. If we see Revelation as a pattern for confidence in Christ through every age, we can enjoy its twists and turns. We will grow in faith and hope, in our assurance that God wins. Revelation might also be seen as a biblical “Star Wars,” as an epic presentation of the battle between good and evil. As in the “Star Wars” movies, good is threatened as monsters are unleashed by the forces of evil, but they are vanquished. Seen in this way, Revelation is a powerful statement that God prevails over Satan. In addition to the main theme that God triumphs over evil, many other important lessons are taught in Revelation. God the Father is adored as Creator of all (4:11; 14:6-7). Jesus is proclaimed as Savior and worshiped as divine (1:8 and 1:17; 5:8-14; 22:3). The Holy Spirit touches the lives of believers (1:4; 2:7,11,17,29; 3:6,13,22). The perfection of the Trinity is displayed through symbols of wisdom, power, holiness, and majesty (1:4; 4:1-5:14). The universe is God’s handiwork, subject to his Providence (4:8-11; 5:1-2; 10:5-7). Mary stands radiant in heaven as Mother of Christ; her life and victory foreshadow that of the Church (12:1-17). The saints join us in prayer and worship (5:8-14; 8:3-4). Angels exist, worship God with us, and protect us (5:11; 12:7). People have free will and can sin; God will vindicate the just, but the guilty will suffer forever in hell (2:1-3:22; 11:16-18; 19:1-9; 20:11-15). God does not view earth’s events as a disinterested bystander, but invites us to accept grace and salvation (2:8-12). Christ in glory is close to his Church (1:5-7 and 9-20; 19:11-21; 22:12-21). He is one with believers and acts on their behalf (3:20-21; 22:12-21). As Christ suffered, so too must we, always with hope of final victory (5:6; 19:1-10; 21:1-7). Christ rejects lukewarmness, and urges us to follow him with all our hearts (3:14-19). He expects us to be courageous in challenging false values in society or government (13:1-13; 17:1-18:24). Revelation teaches us to trust God, who brings us through every trial, even death, to eternal life (7:9-17; 14:13; 21:1-22:5). The end is a new beginning Revelation is a fitting conclusion to the whole Bible. Its placement at the end says what Genesis states at the beginning. Genesis assures us that God exists. It proclaims that God created the world good and gave us life because he wanted us to enjoy paradise. Evil entered the world as the result of sin, and the Bible is a commentary on the tragedies that have afflicted humanity because we refuse God’s friendship. Nevertheless, God keeps reaching out to us. The high point of this outreach was Christ’s coming, and we must be faithful to him in order to share his triumph and heavenly joy. Revelation acknowledges the struggles we have undergone because of sin, but it also assures us that God’s love and Christ’s salvation are the greatest powers in the universe. No matter how badly human beings have failed, no matter how terrible the wounds sin may inflict on the world, no matter how desperate our situation may seem, God will prevail. Victory is not complete, but it is certain. In this Year of Faith and always, Revelation and the entire Bible invite us to trust God and enter his kingdom. God wins! See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them as their God; they will be His people. … He will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the former things have passed away. The One Who was seated on the throne said, “See, I make all things new. … I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end” (Rv 21:3-6). “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Rv 22:20).