Revelation, Written in September AD 96
A. Introduction
Was the book of Revelation written before or after the destruction of Jerusalem, and the temple, in AD 70?
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A-1. Outline of Sections and Subsections
A. Introduction
A-1. Outline of Sections and Subsections [You are here]
A-2. Just Historical Trivia?
B. Claims for the Early Date
B-1. “The Time Is at Hand”
B-2. “Measure the Temple”
B-3. No Mention of Jerusalem Destroyed
B-4. Persecution Under Nero
B-5. Nero and the Seven Kings
C. God’s Irrefutable Numbers
C-1. 26 Equations that Point to AD 96
C-2. 96 Silver Sanctuary Sockets
C-3. Parable of the Sower: 30, 60, 100
C-4. Exact Date Hidden in Revelation
D. Festivals, History, and Cities
D-1. The Reason for the Gaps
D-2. Irenaeus: “In the End of Domitian’s Reign”
D-3. Three Applications of the Seven Kings
D-4. Cities of the Seven Churches
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A-2. Just Historical Trivia?
Was the book of Revelation written before or after the destruction of Jerusalem, and the temple, in AD 70? That is the big question, and the answer is not merely a minor point of historical trivia; instead, it is very important—because it makes a big difference, in how people understand the entire book.
For example: full preterists claim that everything, in the book of Revelation, was fulfilled by AD 70; therefore, there is no application at all, for our time. This belief REQUIRES the date of authorship, to be sometime prior to AD 70 (usually during Nero, around AD 65); partial preterists, generally, also teach an early date for Revelation. The more common view, in our day, is a late date (usually around AD 95); popular views are not necessarily correct views—nevertheless, in this case, the late date is correct (specifically, AD 96). And this article will demonstrate this fact, with much better evidence than ever before; the time for the final fulfillment of Revelation is very near: so God is NOW revealing the clearest biblical truths, about when AND WHY the book was written.
Those who want to be ready for the final battle of Armageddon, prophesied in Revelation, absolutely MUST understand Revelation correctly; otherwise, you will end up on the wrong side of the battle (on Satan’s side). It is NOT about a major literal war, between world powers (focused in the middle east); instead, it is the final battle between good and evil, culminating in the second coming of Jesus Christ. And the starting point, for being on the right side of this battle, is having and following the true Bible (https://7grails.world/babel/66books/).
B. Claims for the Early Date
Again, it is primarily preterism (full and partial), that is pushing for the early date of Revelation; and in this section, we will examine all of their strongest claims (none of which are very strong).
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B-1. “The Time Is at Hand”
Revelation 1:1-3, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants THINGS which must shortly come to pass … Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear [and understand] the words of this prophecy, and keep those THINGS which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” (see 22:10,12,20).
Notice what the passage does NOT say: “… ALL things in this book, will shortly come to pass; the time is at hand, for EVERYTHING in this book.” So it is very possible: that SOME things, in the book, would happen soon; and OTHER things would happen much later. Furthermore, EVEN IF every word of Revelation was fulfilled—shortly before, and during AD 70—this would not in the LEAST BIT prevent the prophecies from having another fulfillment, in our time (almost everything in the Bible has “two or three” applications, especially symbolic prophecies like Revelation). In this scenario: the first application could already be history (destruction of Jerusalem); and this history then becomes an example and warning, for the final application—global destruction, in our time. In fact, this scenario is indeed close to the truth; the main difference being that not all of Revelation had a clear fulfillment, in the destruction of Jerusalem—but some of it did (see B-3).
And there is a whole different aspect, also, that preterists totally overlook (see Part 0). Please carefully notice that the word “hear”—in the above passage—means more than just eardrums rattling; it means comprehension, and clear understanding. Many things in Revelation have been partially understood, ever since that book was written; when it is fully understood, though, THEN we may know that Jesus is indeed coming back: very soon! And in fact, it is in our generation—that we may know, for certain: “… the time is at hand.”
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B-2. “Measure the Temple”
Revelation 11:1,2, “And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein. But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles …”
This passage is used, almost without exception, by early date advocates; it is supposedly strong evidence that the temple, in Jerusalem, was still standing at the time (when Revelation was written). Perhaps it is their strongest support, and if so: then there is no hope for the early date—because this very weak support easily collapses, much faster than the temple itself did (in AD 70).
Preterists usually take every statement in the Olivet Discourse—as well as every statement in Revelation—and then say that everything is symbolic, and it represents the destruction of Jerusalem. YET, there is ONE EXCEPTION: this verse in Revelation 11, it is LITERAL! John the Revelator was supposed to literally get up (“rise”), and break out of his prison (on Patmos), and swim to the mainland (many miles away), and walk 800+ miles to Jerusalem (or take a ship); then he was supposed to literally measure the temple, and altar, AND THE PEOPLE THERE! And of course, he could not possibly have done all that: if it was AD 96, and the temple was gone.
Fortunately, the temple was still intact (so say the preterists); but unfortunately, poor John got lost along the way (he probably even died, in the process)—which is why he never wrote about his perilous journey there, OR TOLD US THE DIMENSIONS OF THE TEMPLE, ALTAR, AND PEOPLE (that he learned, from literally measuring it all, as he was instructed to do). While it is true, that much of the Bible is both literal and symbolic; yet this is one case where we will be excused, if we don’t take it quite so literally (and we might not be excused, if we do take it that literally).
Late date advocates have already pointed out, and with good reason, that Ezekiel 40 through 48 has similar terminology: including a “reed” for measuring the temple, etc; YET THERE WAS NO TEMPLE STANDING, at the time (the first temple had already been destroyed, and the second one wasn’t even started yet). This fact totally collapses the above claim, that Revelation 11 proves the temple in Jerusalem was still standing (when Revelation was written).
We can safely conclude, that Revelation 11 has more than one application (https://7grails.world/7-symbolic/chr/1260-2/); nevertheless, the literal trip (by John) to measure the temple, and people, is not one of them. What Revelation 11:1 does do, however, is instruct all readers to FIGURE OUT THE DIMENSIONS OF THE TEMPLE (as well as the people), based on the written word of God (which can still be done even today, nearly 2,000 years after the temple was destroyed). With this application: it includes more than just the second temple; in fact, there are much more details, in the Bible, about the dimensions of the first temple (see 1 Kings 6 and 7; etc)—along with the wilderness tabernacle (see Exodus 25 through 38; etc). And last but not least: there is great value, in understanding the dimensions of the New Jerusalem (see Revelation 21); yet these dimensions are not very clear, until AFTER you obey Revelation 11:1—and fully understand the measurements, of the Jerusalem temple (and wilderness tabernacle). For details on all of these dimensions, see this webpage: https://7grails.world/7-symbolic/q-bits/
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B-3. No Mention of Jerusalem Destroyed
The destruction of Jerusalem, in AD 70, is one of the most significant events in all of history; and if it was already destroyed, surely John would’ve mentioned it in Revelation (so say the preterists). Since John did not whisper a single word, about this destruction, then surely it was still future (so say the preterists). Very strangely, the preterists also say that both the Olivet Discourse, AND THE ENTIRE BOOK OF REVELATION, is all about the destruction of Jerusalem!! See if anyone can figure out how to harmonize these two polar opposites (not one word about AD 70, and also the entire book is all about AD 70).
What the preterists fail to clearly understand, is that Revelation is entirely a book of prophecy; even the parallel book, of Daniel, is partly history (chapters 1,3,4,5,6)—not so, with Revelation, it is almost exclusively prophecy (the letters to the seven churches do have a historical application, but also a prophetic application). This means that the destruction of Jerusalem, in Revelation—whether in the past, or still in the future—would be reported in prophetic or symbolic terminology, not simply a factual report (such as events reported in the gospels, and other New Testament books, etc). And this is exactly what we find, in Revelation: the entire book is not about AD 70; but the destruction of Jerusalem is indeed in the book, more than once (see D-3, for just one example).
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B-4. Persecution Under Nero
Persecution is found in Revelation, several times (see 2:10-13; 6:9-11; 12:4,13; 13:7,15; 17:6; 20:4; etc); and preterists say that this fits much better under Nero (AD 54 to 68), than under Domitian (AD 81 to 96). Certainly, Paul and Peter were killed by Nero, all agree on that; but some disagree on whether there was any persecution, under Domitian. Regardless of what history does or doesn’t say, about persecution under Domitian, Revelation itself describes at least one martyr in AD 96 (details to come, in the 7 Literal GRAILS: https://7grails.world/7-literal/); plus, John himself was exiled on Patmos, under Domitian (as is shown by this entire article).
Nevertheless, this whole argument is circular reasoning—and almost the same, as the argument in B-3. Just like past destruction of Jerusalem, could represent future global destruction (in our time): past persecution under Nero, could represent future global persecution (in our time). It is circular reasoning, to claim that Revelation is ONLY about the first century; and then support that claim, with the idea that first century persecution fits best under Nero: therefore, Revelation and it’s prophesied persecution was written before AD 70—THEREFORE, THE ENTIRE BOOK IS ABOUT EVENTS AROUND AD 70, IN THE FIRST CENTURY (this is where the circle started).
It is likely that this whole preterist interpretation—especially full preterism—had its origin and continued attraction, in the fear of persecution; if it was all done and completed in AD 70, then we living today have nothing to worry about: “For when they [preterists] shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.” (1 Thessalonians 5:3). Sticking your head in the sand, is NOT going to stop the global persecution from coming; in fact, there are already tens or hundreds of thousands of Christian martyrs, in OUR lifetime! Instead of living in preterist denial, we should TRUST GOD—as He said IN REVELATION: “… be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” (2:10).
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B-5. Nero and the Seven Kings
Revelation 17:10, “And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space.”
Preterists use this verse, to date Revelation during Nero: #1 Julius (died 44 BC), #2 Augustus (died AD 14), #3 Tiberius (died AD 37), #4 Caligula (died AD 41), #5 Claudius (died AD 54)—five are fallen (dead)—then one is, Nero (reigned from AD 54 to 68); finally, Galba continued a short space (reigned about half of a year, the shortest reign of all seven, and died in AD 69). This application seems to fit nicely, other than number eight—although some did believe that Nero would rise again (see Revelation 13:3; 17:11).
Nevertheless, even if this is a legitimate application: yet there is no reason to assume that this is the ONLY application (usually “two or three” applications, especially of symbolic prophecies). There is also no reason to assume that the present tense verb (“one is”), necessarily matches the time—when John was writing Revelation. Especially if there is more than one application, of the seven kings—and there is—then different applications could be anchored to different timings, for the present tense: “one is” (see D-3).
The application of 666 (and 616) to Nero, supposedly proving the early date of Revelation, is a third round of the same basic preterist mindset: destruction of Jerusalem (one), persecution (two), Nero and 666 (three); supposedly, these three things could not be in the past, at the time when Revelation was written. Yet they COULD all be in the past; and serve as types, or examples, of similar things in our time (global destruction, global persecution, and 666 antichrist). For details about 666 in Revelation, as it applies to Nero—as well as counterfeit Bibles—see this webpage: https://7grails.world/babel/66books/
C. God’s Irrefutable Numbers
We have examined the five strongest supports, for the early date; and all five of them collapsed, faster than the Jerusalem temple fell in AD 70. Furthermore, preterists have failed to give a single example, of biblical evidence: that was designed by God—for the specific purpose, of dating Revelation (early or late); yet God HAS GIVEN this evidence, exclusively for the purpose of dating Revelation, at least ten times (or more than thirty times, if you count each individual equation in C-1). And God did this, because He knew the importance of understanding Revelation correctly (especially in our day); in all cases, this evidence—which is in the Bible, for the very purpose of dating Revelation—points to the late date (see sections C and D).
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C-1. 26 Equations that Point to AD 96
In order to understand the full context, of these numbers: it is best to read the webpage about 66 books, in the true canon (https://7grails.world/babel/66books/). Briefly, though, these numbers are directly related to 666, in Revelation 13:18, as well as 616 (the textual variant).
From the 616 variant, we multiply 6 x 16, and the answer is 96—which is the year that Revelation was written, coded into Revelation itself. For slightly more complex equations: you can multiply all three digits, 6 x 1 x 6 = 36; then bring in 666 (the more common variant), with 6 + 6 + 6 = 18—plus one more triple six, 6 x 6 + 6 = 42. Finally, add these three totals, for a grand total of: 36 + 18 + 42 = 96! And there is another option to arrive at 42 (6 + 1 x 6); so using this new 42, plus the same 36 and 18, also equals 96 (42 + 36 + 18).
Furthermore, there are many more ways to arrive at 96, if you allow repeating of the same numbers; for example, 18 (6+6+6) + 18 (6+6+6) + 18 (6+6+6) + 42 (6×6+6) = 96 (18 is repeated, 3 times). In fact, in all possible equations (including repeated numbers): the answer is 96, in a whopping 26 different equations! But all of these are indeed just equations, POINTING TO the year of Revelation (AD 96). However, if the year of Revelation itself (96)—without any equation—is added to the 26 equations, then it is 27 times; and this is exactly the number of books in the New Testament (and Revelation is the 27th book). For those who want to see the homework, it is shown below; for those who are not so mathematically curious, you can skip to the next paragraph.
616 and 666 Totals
6 x 1 + 6 = 12
6 + 1 + 6 = 13
6 + 6 + 6 = 18
6 + 16 = 22
6 x 1 x 6 = 36
6 + 1 x 6 = 42a
6 x 6 + 6 = 42b
6 + 6 x 6 = 72a
6 + 66 = 72b
66 + 6 = 72c
6 x 16 = 96
26 Different Equations, Using Only the Above Numbers
#1 6 x 16 = 96
#2 18 + 36 + 42a = 96
#3 18 + 36 + 42b = 96
#4 12 + 12 + 12 + 12 + 12 + 12 + 12 + 12 = 96
#5 12 + 12 + 12 + 12 + 12 + 18 + 18 = 96
#6 12 + 12 + 12 + 12 + 12 + 36 = 96
#7 12 + 12 + 12 + 12 + 13 + 13 + 22 = 96
#8 12 + 12 + 12 + 18 + 42a = 96
#9 12 + 12 + 12 + 18 + 42b = 96
#10 12 + 12 + 18 + 18 + 18 + 18 = 96
#11 12 + 12 + 18 + 18 + 36 = 96
#12 12 + 12 + 36 + 36 = 96
#13 12 + 12 + 72a = 96
#14 12 + 12 + 72b = 96
#15 12 + 12 + 72c = 96
#16 12 + 13 + 13 + 18 + 18 + 22 = 96
#17 12 + 13 + 13 + 22 + 36 = 96
#18 12 + 18 + 22 + 22 + 22 = 96
#19 12 + 42a + 42a = 96
#20 12 + 42a + 42b = 96
#21 12 + 42b + 42a = 96
#22 12 + 42b + 42b = 96
#23 13 + 13 + 13 + 13 + 13 + 13 + 18 = 96
#24 13 + 13 + 13 + 13 + 22 + 22 = 96
#25 18 + 18 + 18 + 42a = 96
#26 18 + 18 + 18 + 42b = 96
Some might say that this is just manipulating numbers, to match a specific total (96). If so, then try to do the same thing for an early date (in the mid 60’s—or at least from 54 to 68, Nero’s reign): you need to use only 616 &/or 666, and use all three numbers in each set (not merely 1, 6, 16, 61, or 66); also, use only addition or multiplication (subtraction and division are negative).
Well actually, you can: 12 (6×1+6) + 18 (6+6+6) + 36 (6x1x6) = 66; and this is before Nero died (in AD 68). Nevertheless, to do better than AD 96: you need to find a year that produces at least 27 different equations (for 66, or whatever early date during Nero); yet 66, which is the best year during Nero, has only 7 equations (a far cry from 27)—and that is with 15 Nero options (54 – 68), versus just one option (96). Then last, but not least, your number 66—or whatever year you use—must ALSO fit the tabernacle sockets (C-2), the parable of the sower (C-3), and much more (section D, etc).
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C-2. 96 Silver Sanctuary Sockets
Psalm 12:6,7, “The words of the Lord are pure words: as SILVER tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.”
Exodus 26:18-25, “And thou shalt make the boards for the tabernacle, twenty boards on the south side southward. And thou shalt make forty sockets of SILVER under the twenty boards; two sockets under one board for his two tenons, and two sockets under another board for his two tenons. And for the second side of the tabernacle on the north side there shall be twenty boards: And their forty sockets of SILVER; two sockets under one board, and two sockets under another board. … And they shall be eight boards, and their sockets of SILVER, sixteen sockets [40 + 40 + 16 = 96]; two sockets under one board, and two sockets under another board.” (see 36:23-30).
So we see that silver represents the pure word of God (Psalm 12:6); and there were exactly 96 silver sockets, for the 48 boards of the wilderness tabernacle: 20 boards south, 20 boards north, 8 boards on the west end; and 2 sockets for each board (48 x 2 = 96). Also, for more verification (in addition to Psalm 12:6), that these silver sockets represent the word of God: these 48 boards make up the walls—for the tabernacle—which surround and protect the show-bread table, and the ark; and both of these positively represent God’s word, as much or more than anything else (https://7grails.world/babel/66books/).
Then what does 96 have to do, with the word of God? Of course, it is the year of Revelation—the very last book, in the Bible! Like the walls of the sanctuary: this AD 96 date, for Revelation, helps to PROTECT God’s word from harmful attacks—such as full preterism, and the early date; or the Babel Skeptics, who claim that some of the 27 New Testament books were written in the second century. AD 96, and the book of Revelation, closes the canon (NO apocryphal gospels allowed, written after Revelation); and God foresaw the importance of this, so He hid it in the 96 silver sanctuary sockets!
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C-3. Parable of the Sower: 30, 60, 100
Mark 4:8,20, “And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an HUNDRED. … And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word [such as Matthew and John—who were present, and heard Jesus speak these words], and receive it, and bring forth fruit [such as the gospels, of Matthew and John], some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an HUNDRED.” (see Matthew 13:8,23).
This parable, and the numbers, are described on another related webpage (https://7grails.world/babel/dated-27/); on that page, these numbers are shown to have round number applications: New Testament books written in the 30’s, in the 60’s, and completed by AD 100. And here, we will see exact number applications (not rounded): for 30, 60, and 100—all still very directly related to the same subject, dating the New Testament books. First, we’ll look at the 100; and this brings us right back to the 100 sockets, in the tabernacle (96 for the walls, plus 4 for the veil).
Exodus 38:27, “And of the HUNDRED talents of silver were cast the sockets of the sanctuary [96], and the sockets of the vail [4]; an HUNDRED sockets of the HUNDRED talents, a talent for a socket.”
Exodus 26:31,32, “And thou shalt make a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen of cunning work: with cherubims shall it be made: And thou shalt hang it upon four pillars of shittim wood overlaid with gold: their hooks shall be of gold, upon the four sockets of silver.” (see 26:33; 36:35,36).
So the 96 sockets represent the date of Revelation (see C-2); and the 4 sockets represent the birth of Christ, in 4 BC—spanning a total of 100 years, between these two events (not 100 exactly, to the day: but more than 99 years, and less than 101). Why do these 4 sockets represent the birth, of Jesus Christ? Because they support the veil (see the above quotes); and the veil represents the human “flesh” of Jesus, which He took on through His incarnation and birth. Therefore, this debunks the false years, for Christ’s birth (such as 6 BC, 3 BC, 1 BC, etc); if you want to know the exact true date, of His birth (not 12-25): stay tuned, and watch the Latest UP-dates page, or the chronology articles page (https://7grails.world/7-symbolic/chr/articles/).
Hebrews 10:19,20, “Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;”
Here are the years, in which all 27 New Testament books were written (or completed, for books that took more than one year): 31, 35, 37, 53, 59, 60, 62, 63, 65, 66, 96 (https://7grails.world/babel/dated-27/). None of these numbers add up to 30, or 60 (from the sower parable); but two sets add up to 100 (35 + 65, and 37 + 63)—which means that there are three cases, with 100 (4 BC – AD 96, 35 + 65, and 37 + 63). There are also three cases, with 60: because three books were written in AD 60 (Romans, Galatians, and Luke). Finally, what are the three cases for 30 (exactly 30, not just books written sometime in the 30’s)? Twice, and only twice, there is a 30 year spread (35 to 65, and 66 to 96). Then what is the third 30? The year that Jesus spoke this sower parable: it was on Wednesday, May 10, AD 30 (https://7grails.world/7-symbolic/chr/abcd/). So all three of these numbers—30, 60, 100—have three applications each, all related to dating the 27 New Testament books! And this helps to verify, that these years are correct; but this is just a drop in the bucket—so much more, is yet to come (on how to verify the exact year, for every book in the New Testament).
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C-4. Exact Date Hidden in Revelation
Not only the year, but the exact date—of John the Revelator’s visions—is hidden in Revelation itself; and that date is in September, AD 96. However, the details on this are yet to come. For the full study on this: please watch this page, or the “Latest UP-dates” page, or the 7 Literal GRAILS (especially Part 3).
D. Festivals, History, and Cities
In this section, we will continue looking at evidence in favor of the late date: evidence from the Jewish festivals (spring vs fall), evidence from historical events (a quote from Irenaeus, plus the fall of Jerusalem in Revelation), and evidence from seven cities (the fall of seven cities, plus cities in the seven churches). However, unlike the previous section (C), this section does not focus on any specific year; instead, it provides additional support, for the late date (Revelation was written after Nero, and after the destruction of Jerusalem).
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D-1. The Reason for the Gaps
Notice the title here has “gaps” (plural); we have already discussed one of those gaps, above: the 30 year gap, between Jude and Revelation (during which no other canonical books were written). Now, we are going to look at other gaps, as well as the reason for the gaps; this is something that God did intentionally, to help reveal the importance—and correct understanding—of the visions and prophecies, in Revelation.
The gap between Jude (book #65) and Revelation (book #66) is also shown, in 4 more ways.
#1 From the first book (Matthew in AD 31), to the last book (Revelation in AD 96): is 65 years (exclusive), and 66 years (inclusive reckoning).
#2 Only one book was written in AD 65 (none in 64), and nine books in AD 66 (so 66 is primary).
#3 The count to Pentecost is 65 days (without stopping on Wave Sheaf); or 66 days, if you add 16th Wave Sheaf date, plus 50 days inclusive to Pentecost (this fits the biblical descriptions, so 66 is primary).
#4 John 6:5 and 6:6 (again, 66 is primary)—for details on all 4 of these, see the following webpages: https://7grails.world/babel/66books/; https://7grails.world/babel/dated-27/
The OT festival system was designed by God, to illustrate the major events related to the first and second advents; the spring festivals illustrate His first advent (including Passover and Pentecost), and the fall festivals illustrate His second advent (see Leviticus 23; etc). There were about 1,500 years: from when God gave the festival system, until the first advent (spring festivals); then another 2,000 years, until the second advent, is shown by the four-month gap between the spring and fall festivals (6,000 years / 12 months in a year = 500 years per month, x 4 months = 2,000). This is just one of several biblical prophecies, showing about 2,000 years between the two advents—and 2027 is 2,000 years, after Jesus was baptized (https://7grails.world/7-symbolic/chr/abcd/); for other examples of the same timing, see Part 0—as well as the 70th Jubilee (https://7grails.world/7-symbolic/chr/70jubilee/).
These gaps show us that Revelation is primarily about the fall festivals—and therefore the second advent—although the major first advent events are briefly mentioned, such as the birth, death, and resurrection of Christ (see 1:18; 12:1-5; etc). To put it another way: these gaps were designed by God, for the VERY PURPOSE OF DESTROYING THE PRETERIST VIEW (especially full preterism); the book of Revelation is NOT entirely, or even primarily, about AD 70—those events are merely examples, of the far more serious events in our time (just before the second coming).
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D-2. Irenaeus: “In the End of Domitian’s Reign”
The internal evidence, above and below, is found in the Bible; but in this subsection (D-2), we will briefly look at external evidence. Most agree, that the internal evidence is far more important; yet many—both early date and late date advocates—have focused on the nitty-gritty details, of the relatively trivial historical statements. Quite frankly, that is a big waste of time; the truth on this matter can be defended, with overwhelming clarity, without quoting from a single external witness. Nevertheless, we will quote from Irenaeus: one of the earliest historical witnesses, on the matter (about AD 180). The big controversy, about this quote, is the translation of a single word (“it” or “he”); preterists claim that it should be translated “he” (so John himself was seen, in Domitian’s reign, rather than the Apocalypse).
Irenaeus: “We, you see, do not venture anything as concerning the name of Antichrist, in the way of positive affirmation. For if it were meet that at this time his name should be expressly proclaimed, it [the name] would have been spoken by him [John] who also SAW the Apocalypse. For at no long time ago was IT [the Apocalypse, and/or he (John)] SEEN, but almost in our generation, in the end of Domitian’s reign.” (Against Heresies, book V, chapter 30; page 521, in the 1872 Keble translation, PDF available at the Internet Archive; https://archive.org/details/fivebooksofsiren42iren/page/521/mode/1up).
This statement, if taken at face value, single-handedly destroys the ENTIRE false religion of (full) preterism! As a result: early date promoters have tried to dodge it—either by saying that Irenaeus made it up (he is unreliable); and/or they re-translate the passage, in a very unnatural way. So is Irenaeus unreliable? Well, he is not the author of any New Testament book; so in one sense: yes, he is not as reliable as the Bible itself. However, is there any valid reason to dismiss the above statement, as being false? No!
First and foremost: the quote, as translated by Keble, fits perfectly with all of the internal evidence (detailed above)—in fact, not only does it fit a year for Revelation, after AD 70 (late date generally); but it even fits the latest possible late date: SEPTEMBER, AD 96 (the END of Domitian’s reign, he died on 9-18-96). And this EXACTLY matches the date, for the Revelation visions, that is hidden in Revelation itself (see C-4).
But what about the translation? Preterists say it could be translated “he” (instead of “it”); if so, then John himself was “seen” (at the end of Domitian’s reign). It is probably true, that the single word “it” could also be translated “he” (in that quote); but anyone, who wants to know and follow the truth, should NEVER EVER base their whole worldview—and religious belief system—on one possible translation, of a single word! Because if “it” is the correct translation (as in the above quote): then the entire religious framework, of the full preterist, completely and totally collapses (as it should).
Worse yet: even the preterists admit, that it COULD be translated “it” or “he” (both are valid translations); then why not take it BOTH WAYS?? The Apocalypse was seen, AND John himself was seen, in the end of Domitian’s reign—what is wrong with that? There is not the slightest whisper of a hint, in the context, that would give any justification for separating the two events: the Apocalypse was seen in Nero’s reign, and John himself was seen 30 YEARS LATER (in Domitian’s reign). Nothing but a high-speed trainload, of preterism inertia, could possibly force such an unnatural and unbiblical interpretation.
Is there any possibility that John himself was seen MORE THAN ONCE—maybe even several times, over a period of months or years? Obviously, the Apocalypse itself would happen once (in the end of Domitian’s reign); and yes, it is very likely that John was also seen (at that time)—as well as before and after that time. Notice also, the immediate context: “by him [John] who also SAW the Apocalypse. For at no long time ago was it SEEN …”; the context defines what was “SEEN”—the word “SAW” is clearly referring to the “Apocalypse”! Therefore, although BOTH translations are possible (“it was SEEN” and “he was SEEN”)—and although it’s very likely that BOTH were actually seen (the Apocalypse was seen by John, and John was seen by others)—yet the obvious primary meaning is: John SAW the Apocalypse, and not long ago the Apocalypse was SEEN (in the end of Domitian’s reign).
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D-3. Three Applications of the Seven Kings
We have already reviewed the preterist view, of the seven kings: Nero, and seven emperors (see B-5); now, we will cover two other views—both of which are better than the preterist view, and more biblical (neither of which support the early date). In brief, these two other views are: seven kingdoms, and seven cities.
First, however, notice that three Roman emperors are mentioned, by name, in the Bible: Augustus, Tiberius, and Claudius (see Luke 2:1; 3:1; Acts 11:28; 18:2); yet in not a single case, does the Bible call any of them a “king” (Greek word #935, used in Revelation 17:10). Sure, the Jews said: “We have no king but Caesar.” (John 19:15). However, they were lying; the truth is that they didn’t want ANY Roman rulers, AT ALL—regardless of whatever title! Furthermore, the emperors themselves, refused the title of king: “Officially, Roman emperors were not kings. The title of king (rex) was highly taboo in Rome after the monarchy was overthrown in 509 BC.” (Google AI). This fact, alone, does not necessarily rule out the emperors application, of the seven kings; however, this does show that it’s not the only application—or even the best application.
At least two other applications DO use the word “king”—in the Bible, which is always the first and most important source (for interpretation of the Bible). In the book of Daniel, which is the parallel book, the word “king” is used to represent an entire “kingdom” (see 7:17,23; etc). With the cities application, also, the Bible mentions one or more “kings”—for each of the different cities, in the list (references further below).
Even with the “kingdom” application: there are various ideas, about which seven kingdoms. For example: Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece (five had fallen, in John’s day); Rome (one is); and the other is not yet come, etc. If this view is correct, it would be a major problem for preterism; in the next few years, between Nero and AD 70: a seventh whole major kingdom would need to arise, and fall (“continue a short space”)—followed by the eighth, which “is of the seven” (Revelation 17:10,11). But no history book has any such thing, happening during Nero (and completed by AD 70).
Worse yet, for preterism: these seven major kingdoms do NOT START with Egypt; instead, both Daniel and Revelation—parallel books—start the prophetic kingdom list, with Babylon! The book of Revelation even goes to the specific trouble: of naming “Babylon”—and aligning with the kingdoms, in the book of Daniel (see 2:1,37-39; 7:3-7,17,23; Revelation 13:1,2; 14:8; 16:19; 17:5,10; 18:2,10,21; etc). This means that during the life of John the Revelator (whether early date or late date): ONLY THREE of the first five kingdoms, had already fallen (Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece); this also means that two more kingdoms were yet to fall (including Rome), BEFORE the anchor point—or time reference—for past, present, and future (five fallen, past; one is, present; not yet come, future). This also proves, that verb tenses (past, present, future) do not always match the date of writing (this fact should be first-grade level knowledge, for students of Bible prophecy).
Although this kingdom application, of the seven kings, is a total hurricane disaster for full preterism (supposedly everything was fulfilled by AD 70): yet it does not lend any support for the early date, or the late date (because either one could fit). However, the cities application—of the seven kings—positively does reveal the late date, with very strong certainty!
Since there are way too many cities in the Bible, that had already fallen, there needs to be limiting factors (to avoid endless lists, of randomly selected cities). So here are just 2 simple, and biblical, limiters: #1 the cities must be mentioned, by name, in Daniel and/or Revelation (the parallel books); #2 each numbered city must have the title of “king” applied, to a ruler over that city, at least once.
#1 Sodom: name in Revelation (11:8); “king” (Genesis 14:2-22)
#2 Jerusalem: name in Daniel (1:1; 9:2,16; see Revelation 11:8; 21:2,10); “king” (2 Kings 25:1-12; etc)
#3 Babylon: name in Daniel (2:12,48; 4:6; etc) and Revelation (14:8; 18:10,21); “king” (Daniel 1:1; 5:1; etc)
#4 Megiddo: name in Revelation (16:16, WEB version); “king” (Joshua 12:21)
#5 Jerusalem (2nd major fall): name in Daniel (1:1; 9:2,16); “king” (Matthew 2:1,3; Mark 6:14,22; Acts 12:1)
FIVE ARE FALLEN: As of AD 96, when Revelation was written—this endorses the late date, after the fall of Jerusalem (in AD 70); and this cities application is far more biblical, than the seven emperors application. Oh, but what about the possibility that a prophetic time anchor is different, than when the prophet was writing? True; but that fact actually works great, in this case. You see, the seven kings has three applications (which is standard): first, seven PEOPLE (Roman rulers), with a past time anchor; second, seven CITIES, with a present time anchor (when John the Revelator was writing, in AD 96); and third, seven KINGDOMS, with a future time anchor (long after the first century). This makes it slam-dunk clear: small, medium, and large (people, cities, and kingdoms); and these three-step sizes, parallel with the three-step timings (past, present, AND future)—so the middle and present tense application, seven cities, places Revelation AFTER the fall of Jerusalem (because city #5, Jerusalem, was already “fallen” in the present tense time anchor).
#6 ONE IS: Rome was a current major city, at the time; but it is not mentioned by name, in Daniel or Revelation (and it had no king, as noted above). However, this is the only one, of the seven (or eight), which does not specifically say that it ends; the first five fall (end), the seventh continues a short space (then ends), and the eighth goes into perdition (ends). So number 6 is the NEW JERUSALEM—and it never ends! It is mentioned, by name, in Revelation (3:12; 21:2,10); and it definitely has a “King” (17:10,14; 19:11-16; etc).
#7 NOT YET COME, CONTINUE A SHORT SPACE: Almost exactly 1,000 years later, rebuilt Jerusalem again had a “king”—and that kingdom lasted about 100 to 200 years, depending upon whether you include when Jerusalem was not the capital (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingdom_of_Jerusalem). Either way, it is a “short space”: compared to how long Jerusalem has existed (for thousands of years). This is also the same kingdom, which had the famous “Knights Templar” order—the subject of many legends. They did NOT find the true holy grail cup, because they were looking in the wrong place; however, they DID find an artifact of very high value—stay tuned for details, in the series about the 7 Literal GRAILS (https://7grails.world/7-literal/).
#8 IS OF THE SEVEN, GOES TO PERDITION: Three of the above five cities, have been in ruins for thousands of years; and they will not be rebuilt, in the next few years (before Jesus returns). Therefore, it is Jerusalem that fits #8. Also, it says “of the seven”—notice that it doesn’t say “ONE of the seven”—because it is more than one: #8 is the same city as #2, #5, and #7; plus it has the same name, as #6 (so #8 is not Sodom, Babylon, or Megiddo, because each of them are only ONE of the seven). Jerusalem has not had a king, since 1291; and #8 here is yet be fulfilled, in our day. Although not his official title, Benjamin Netanyahu does have the nickname: “King Bibi” (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8797138/).
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D-4. Cities of the Seven Churches
Two of these seven churches, Ephesus and Laodicea, had a letter written to them by Paul (see Ephesians 1:1; Colossians 4:16)—in AD 63, during his first Rome imprisonment (https://7grails.world/babel/dated-27/exact-27/). Therefore, if indeed the early date is correct (about AD 65): then the messages, to these same two churches in Revelation, should reflect a similar spiritual condition. However, if the late date is correct: then it was more than three decades later—with plenty of time for major changes, in their condition. Which one, of these two options, fits the inspired records? The late date fits much better.
To the church of Ephesus, John wrote: “… thou hast left thy first LOVE. Remember [from decades ago] therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works [from the early days, decades ago] …” (Revelation 2:4,5). How does this compare, with Paul’s letter to the same church—was he condemning them, for leaving their first love, and falling, and needing to return to their original condition? No! Quite the opposite, the entire letter is very much full of compliments; sure, there are some mild corrections, or guidance—but nothing like Revelation 2, or the serious concerns in Galatians, etc. For example, Paul wrote: “… Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and LOVE unto all the saints, Cease not to give thanks for you …” (Ephesians 1:15,16; see 2:1-13; 3:16-21; 4:1-3; 5:1,2,8; 6:10,23,24; etc).
Paul’s letter to Colossians, and Laodicea, maybe isn’t quite as positive as the one to Ephesus; but it still has some positive statements: “To whom God would make known what is the RICHES of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:” (Colossians 1:27; see 1:8,21,23; 2:1-5; 3:1-10; 4:2,6,8,12-16; etc). Compare that with John, who has nothing but rebukes, for Laodicea: “So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am RICH, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: … As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.” (Revelation 3:16-19). Perhaps relatively minor—but a serious earthquake hit Laodicea, about AD 60: “… in which the town was completely destroyed.” (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laodicea_on_the_Lycus). It’s not likely, that Laodicea would’ve become so self-confident, and complacent, just a few years later (if the early date is correct); this attitude fits much better with the late date of Revelation, about 35 years after the earthquake.
Finally, some preterists cite Revelation 3:9, to the Sardis church, as support for the early date: “Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.” The claim here is that this attitude fits the Jews, before the destruction of their temple; even if that application is correct, as always, it’s most likely NOT the ONLY application. This could be a past attitude, of the Jews, which represents a future application (in our time); it’s basically the same idea, already discussed above (see B-2, B-3, B-4). In our day, this verse applies to full preterists: who claim to be Christians (spiritual Jews), but are not, and do lie; they are of the “synagogue of Satan”—and they need to repent, before it is too late for them. These are strong warnings, but very much needed: because they are misleading people about Revelation, the most important prophecy for our time (and probably for all time). They are preparing people to be on the wrong side, of the Armageddon battle; and to be unready, for the soon return of Jesus Christ in power and great glory.
Revelation 3:19, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.”
Revelation 22:12-20, “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. … He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”
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