October-November Sermon Series

Two Beasts, a Dragon, and a Lamb:
A Journey Through the Book of Revelation
The Book of Revelation often evokes images of fiery destruction, cryptic symbols, and apocalyptic prophecies. Many have approached it with fear and trepidation, focusing on predictions about the end of the world. But is there another way to read it?

This October and November, we will journey through Revelation, exploring it as a powerful political cartoon that speaks directly to the challenges of our time. I had a New Testament professor who, when we came to the book of Revelation, showed us the political cartoon you see here. When we talk of donkeys and elephants fighting, we know that we’re not talking about literal animals fighting—or playing Twister. The same is true with Revelation.

When early Christians heard this book read, they would have heard 666 as an allusion to Emperor Nero. The heard the references to Old Testaments stories—the plagues of Egypt and Daniel’s visions. The author, John, was in tune with his audience.

Just as cartoons use exaggeration and satire to make a point, Revelation employs dramatic language and visions to challenge the status quo. The beasts, dragons, and battles depicted in the book represent the forces of evil and oppression that have plagued humanity throughout history.

Through October and November, we will encounter Revelation in this way: as a first-century political cartoon, a bold critique of the Roman Empire's oppressive power and idolatry. John used vivid imagery and symbolism to expose the injustices and false claims of the empire, calling on Christians to resist its corrupting influence.

In our modern world, we encounter our own "beasts" in the form of political corruption, economic inequality, and systemic injustice. Revelation invites us to consider how we relate to these powerful forces. How do we resist their influence and remain faithful to God's call for justice and compassion?

We will wrestle with these questions, exploring how Revelation's message challenges us to live as disciples of Christ in a world that often seems at odds with God's vision.

While Revelation paints a stark picture of the world's brokenness, it also offers a powerful vision of hope. It reminds us that God's love and justice will ultimately triumph over evil and oppression.

I invite you to join in this journey through the Book of Revelation. Together, we will discover how Revelation's message speaks to the challenges of our time and inspires us to live as faithful witnesses to God's transformative power.

In Christ,
Pastor Jason Dauer