Introduction
An idealist interpretation of Biblical prophecy, especially those found in the book of Revelation, sees these prophecies as a symbolic representation of the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil (often called the “spiritual approach”), rather than a literal prophecy of specific historical events. It views apostle John’s visions in Revelation as a timeless portrayal of the cosmic struggle between God and his enemies, applicable throughout the church's history. Christian Idealism is not related to philosophical theories of idealism.
Idealists believe that Revelation's imagery, like the Beast and Babylon, symbolize broader themes of evil, oppression, and persecution against God's people, rather than specific historical figures, events, or institutions. They see Revelation as a timeless parable addressing the church's struggles through various eras, illustrating the perpetual conflict between faith and unbelief, good and evil.
Variations
There have been several idealist perspectives proposed. One popular view acknowledges salvation and judgment at Christ's final coming. This view sees no specific historical events prophesied, except for Christ's return to deliver, judge, and establish the final kingdom in a new creation. It sees the book of Revelation as symbolically portraying historical events under Jesus’ sovereign rule. He will guide these events until the last judgment and the establishment of his kingdom. Specific events from Christ’s first coming to his second may be represented by one narrative or symbol, termed the "church age." Most symbols in the book apply to events throughout this age.
Regarding Revelation
The typical idealist perspective interprets the book of Revelation through an allegorical method. This approach was initially introduced by Origen (185-254 A.D.) and later developed by Augustine (354-420 A.D.). The events described in Revelation are viewed as symbolic rather than tied to any specific historical occurrences. The imagery within the book represents the ongoing conflict between divine forces and evil throughout history. This view suggests that while saints face persecution and martyrdom by malevolent forces, their eventual vindication is assured.
The beast emerging from the sea is often recognized as satanically-influenced political opposition to the church throughout various eras. Conversely, the beast arising from the land symbolizes paganism or corrupt religious practices opposing Christianity. The harlot symbolizes either a compromised church or the seduction embodied by the world at large. Each seal, trumpet, or bowl judgment represents natural disasters, wars, famines, and similar occurrences as part of God's unfolding plan within history. These catastrophes illustrate God's displeasure with sinful humanity; yet, even amidst these calamities, humanity frequently persists in its refusal to repent. Ultimately, God's victory and sovereignty are portrayed across time.
Conclusion
This perspective suggests that prophetic symbols represent ongoing spiritual conflicts without tying them to specific historical events or outcomes. Interpreting these “spiritual meanings” can lead to arbitrary (and sometimes fanciful) interpretations, often influenced by various cultural and political factors rather than the author’s intent.
Bibliography
Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: a commentary on the Greek text. W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.
Gregg, S. (1997). Revelation, four views: a parallel commentary. T. Nelson Publishers.
Gundry, S. N., & Pate, C. M., eds. (1998). Four Views on the Book of Revelation. Zondervan.
Mounce, R. H. (1997). The Book of Revelation. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.
Zukeran, P. (2016, December 26). Four views of revelation. Probe Ministries. https://probe.org/four-views-of-revelation/