BibleProject | Reading Revelation WiselySample

Day 3: The Day of the Lord

As we continue looking at apocalyptic literature in the Bible and the book of Revelation, you’ll notice a common biblical phrase being used—the Day of the Lord. What is the Day of the Lord, and how does it fit into the biblical idea of apocalypse? 

Similar to the word apocalypse, the phrase “Day of the Lord” is commonly associated with the end of the world. However, like apocalypse, the Day of the Lord doesn’t actually refer to the end of the world. It’s a phrase used in the Bible to describe God’s work throughout history to confront collective human evil, to liberate his people from oppression, and to assert his rule over all creation. 

To better understand this phrase, let’s take a look at Babylon.

Babylon is an ancient geographic location, but in the biblical story, Babylon is an archetype of human rebellion against God that brings violence and injustice.

In today’s video and readings, we’ll take a look at the origins of Babylon and the Day of the Lord and see how it’s all connected to understanding Revelation. 

When the final battle ends, the future Day of the Lord presents every person with a choice: Will they participate in Babylon and allow it to define their identity? Or will they participate in the upside-down Kingdom of Jesus and allow it to define their identity and future? 

Choosing to participate in the upside-down Kingdom of Jesus means joining in the new creation.