- A faithful Christian’s reward is to become “a pillar in the temple of My God” (Revelation 3:12). Should the “pillar” be taken… Literally? Figuratively?
Explain:
- In a vision, John sees a Lamb that has been killed (Revelation 5:6, 12). Should the “Lamb” be taken… Literally? Figuratively?
Explain:
- A four-horned altar of gold stands before God’s throne (Revelation 8:3; 9:13). Should the “altar” be taken… Literally? Figuratively?
Explain:
- Seven torches or lamps burn before God’s throne (Revelation 4:5). Should the “seven torches” be taken… Literally? Figuratively?
Explain:
- The elders have golden bowls of incense (Revelation 5:8 cf. Revelation 8:3-6). Should the “incense” be taken… Literally? Figuratively?
Explain:
- The elders also hold harps (Revelation 5:8 cf. Revelation 14:2; 15:2). Should the “harps” be taken… Literally? Figuratively?
Explain:
Here is a puzzle worth pursuing. As we just asked about the harps of John’s vision, are they literal? That is, are they made of wood and string? Or are the harps figurative, standing for something else? If they are symbolic, what is their meaning? (Later, you may want to compare your notes with “Answers to the Puzzle” at the end of Lesson Eleven.)