What is the idealist interpretation of the book of Revelation?

Answer

The idealist interpretation could also be referred to as the symbolic or spiritual interpretation. It can be best understood in contrast to the other main interpretations of Revelation. The futurist perspective views the majority of Revelation as awaiting a future fulfillment. The preterist (from the Latin word preter, meaning “past”) sees most of Revelation as already fulfilled around AD 70 with the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. The idealist interpretation perceives Revelation as continually being fulfilled throughout the history of the church.

In the idealist interpretation, the symbols in Revelation are generally understood not to represent specific individuals and historical events but rather typical individuals and events. For example, each generation will encounter an “antichrist” and a “mark of the beast”—various individuals, world leaders, or empires who oppose God are considered the “antichrist,” and those who follow them receive his “mark.” Some part of the church is always experiencing tribulation, and there are martyrs in every generation. The idealist views Revelation as an ongoing conflict between God and His people and Satan and his followers.

Regardless of the interpretation one adopts, it appears that every interpreter applies Revelation in an idealistic manner. The preterist believes the main interpretation pertains to past events, but the lessons from those events are meant to provide strength and encouragement to the saints in their present struggles. The futurist anticipates the specific events in Revelation unfolding at the end of time, yet Revelation remains relevant today as the saints confront challenges that foreshadow that final struggle. By considering how God will rescue the saints in the end times, the contemporary church is meant to find encouragement to endure. The way the preterist and futurist apply R

Revelation is how the idealist interprets the book of Revelation.