A Revelation-informed Order of Worship
I’m laying out the structure of the Book of Revelation as part of my study of liturgy. This is just the structure from my initial observations. I need to compare notes with commentaries particularly in chapters 5-18 to see how these sections have been read historically. I also need to develop the implications such a structure has for Christian worship. Comments are welcome.
Chapter 1:1-3
Introduction and Authorship
1:4-8
Salutation and doxology
1:10-19
The liturgical setting. “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day.” Meeting with God. Note John meets an angel (messenger) first.
Chapter 2-3
To the seven churches, a call to repentance.
Chapter 4
Ascension. Having dealt with sin, the door is opened, and John is caught up to the throne room of God. Creatures of heaven say sanctus. “Holy, Holy, Holy . . . .” The elders reply, “Worthy are you, our Lord and God . . . for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.” It’s a hymn celebrating God’s work as creator.
Chapter 5-18
The Word of the Lord. These chapters recount the entire history of redemption, from the sealing of the elect (Chapter 7), to the fall of the false Bride (Chapter 18).
Chapter 19:1-10
The fall of the Harlot is cause for rejoicing because it results in the exaltation of the true Bride, Christ’s Church. The multitude sings “Hallelujah” because salvation is complete. The Bride is revealed and she adorns herself for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.
19:11-21; 20:1-5
The commission of the Church for the rest of history.
Chapter 20:6-14; Chapter 21-22
The eschatological hope of Christ’s return in glory.