The first column presents some of the key Old Testament passages that are either quoted or referenced in Revelation. These are marked adjacent to the passages where they are particularly relevant. As you read these, you will notice that Revelation very often draws upon Old Testament imagery. Often it amplifies common Jewish expectations about God’s final judgement on sin. Other times it is used to remind God’s people that their experiences of suffering have been common to God’s people throughout history.

Of course, there are many more Old Testament references and allusions than we have highlighted. The ones indicated are perhaps some of the most significant for understanding how John’s original audience would have understood the imagery in Revelation. We have attempted to keep these references as brief as is useful, though you may find it helpful to look at the broader context for many of them.

The middle column presents the text of Revelation, using the New International Version 2011. The NIV headings have been kept with the text for clarity, though they do not appear in John’s original writing.

Included through the text are various coloured dots to indicate some further information about the words, phrases, or imagery being used. If you click on these dots, an information box of the same colour will be opened in the third column (or below the Bible text on a mobile device). (Note: The various colours are purely aesthetic.)

Some words or phrases in the text are underlined to indicate that a brief definition of the term is available. You can view these either by hovering or clicking on the word.

Occasionally, a large blue box will highlight a noteworthy topic that you can explore in further detail. Simply click on these to reveal the additional information.