Why is apocalyptic literature strange?

TL;DR:

Apocalyptic literature is a form of prophecy predicting end times disasters. Apocalyptic literature might seem strange because of the imagery and symbols used, but this strangeness prompts us to study it so we can understand God’s plan of judgment, redemption, and restoration. Studying the apocalyptic literature in the Bible also helps prepare us to be alert to future deceptions.

what does the bible say?

Apocalyptic literature is a genre of prophetical writing that foretells supernaturally inspired cataclysmic events that will occur at the end of the world. Ezekiel, Daniel, Zechariah, Matthew 24, Mark 13, 2 Thessalonians, and Revelation contain the bulk of end-times prophecy and description in the Bible. Revelation is called The Revelation of Jesus Christ since it culminates in the return of Christ to the earth when Jesus is revealed in all His glory (Revelation 19). Apocalyptic literature might seem strange due to the symbols and imagery used, but studying it gives us a fuller, descriptive picture of the end times and helps us better understand God and His coming plans of judgment, redemption, and restoration.

from the old testament

The book of Ezekiel is considered apocalyptic literature. It includes visions, symbolic acts, and prophecies about the end times, judgment, and the future restoration of Israel. Some strange elements include the description of four-faced creatures in Ezekiel 1:4–28. It also includes symbolic acts like eating a scroll that turns bitter (Ezekiel 2:9—3:3), and visions such as a valley of dry bones coming to life (Ezekiel 37:1–14).
The book of Daniel is also considered apocalyptic literature, featuring visions and prophecies about future events and God's ultimate triumph. Daniel 2 describes a statue with various materials symbolizing different kingdoms and Daniel 9 contains the prophecy of seventy weeks predicting the coming of the anointed one. Daniel 7 describes four beasts, one of them with iron teeth.
The Book of Zechariah is also considered apocalyptic literature. Zechariah documents end-time events by means of figurative, imaginative symbols. It includes vivid visions and symbolic imagery, particularly in chapters 1—8, which focus on the restoration of Jerusalem and the coming of God's kingdom. Zechariah's later chapters (9—14) feature apocalyptic themes such as the coming of a messianic king, judgment, and the ultimate triumph of God.

from the new testament

In Matthew 24 Jesus uses multiple descriptors to tell the disciples about end-time events. Mark 13 is a parallel passage describing the events of the end times and tribulation.
The Book of Revelation is a prime example of apocalyptic literature. It is characterized by its use of vivid imagery, symbolic language, and visions of the end times. Revelation 9 mentions long-haired locusts with men's faces. The author John tells of a woman clothed with the sun, a dragon waiting to attack her offspring (Revelation 12:1–4). John also sees a beast with seven heads and ten horns rise up from the sea (Revelation 13:1). A large percentage of the symbols in Revelation are similes and metaphors, using “like” or “as”.

implications for today

Another reason for the oddity of apocalyptic literature is the very nature of the end times. By definition, the coming of God’s judgment and the destruction of our world will be out of the ordinary. It makes sense that the descriptions of such calamity would sound strange to us. However, in Revelation we are promised a blessing when we read, hear, and heed the prophecies of the book. So, we need to see this literature as something we can understand and follow (Revelation 1:3).

Apocalyptic literature also exists outside of the Bible, but that literature generally has an anonymous author and is vague about its audience. On the other hand, the Bible's apocalyptic literature is not so veiled. John clearly identifies himself as the writer of Revelation (Revelation 1:1–2) and addresses his writing to specific groups of people (Revelation 1:9–11). His general view, after the direct messages to specific churches, was far into the future (Revelation 1:19; 21—22). While apocalyptic literature might seem strange due to the imagery and descriptions used, it reveals God’s heart for us to know Him and how His plan of judgment, redemption, and restoration will unfold.

understand

Apocalyptic literature uses many symbols and imagery to describe future events. These symbols often describe things unknown or not completely understood to the one receiving the vision due to the futuristic nature of the symbols.
Apocalyptic literature reveals God's plans for judgment and restoration.
Apocalyptic literature helps us understand and prepare for future events.

reflect

How does the use of vivid imagery and symbols in apocalyptic literature impact your understanding of God's plan for the end times?
How does studying the strange elements of apocalyptic literature help you understand the future?
How can the promise of blessing for those who read and heed specific apocalyptic texts (Revelation 1:3) influence your approach to these writings?

engage

Some fear or shy away from studying through apocalyptic literature because it is strange. Some do not study it because there are varying interpretations of apocalyptic literature. However, God makes clear the things we need to know by explaining certain symbols. Even those things that are strange and not explained can be studied so we can understand them as best as we can, while not being dogmatic about specific interpretations. With apocalyptic literature, we can be dogmatic that God is in control, that He will judge what is evil, and that He will return to restore and redeem what sin has destroyed.
What challenges do people find in interpreting the symbolic language of apocalyptic literature, and how can we address them together?
How do the themes of judgment and redemption in apocalyptic literature influence the way we live?