Have you ever wondered if the Book of Revelation was meant to be a riddle for today's readers, or if its mysterious symbols actually made perfect sense to the early church? In this episode of Seek Go Create, host Tim Winders welcomes back theologian Leo De Siqueira to unpack the language, history, and meaning behind Revelation’s most puzzling images—like the beast, Babylon, and the infamous 666. Together, they challenge modern assumptions, reveal surprising insights from the Aramaic text, and explore what John’s visions truly meant for his first-century audience. If you’re ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about Revelation, this conversation is for you.

"Heaven and earth becoming one—that is the revelation and the culmination of Christ's victory." - Leo De Siqueira

Access all show and episode resources HERE

About Our Guest:

Leo De Siqueira is a theologian and author renowned for his in-depth, three-part commentary series on the book of Revelation. His scholarship focuses on understanding Revelation within its first-century context, highlighting the significance of the Aramaic language and the victory of Christ. With academic training in Hebrew and Greek, Leo leverages his linguistic expertise to unearth subtle nuances within biblical texts, bringing fresh insight into the prophetic literature. He is recognized for challenging traditional interpretations and promoting a holistic, historically informed approach to Scripture.

Reasons to Listen:

1. Discover how understanding the original Aramaic language and first-century context radically changes the meaning of key themes in Revelation—beyond what most modern interpretations offer.
2. Get myth-busting answers to hot topics like the rapture, 666, the Beast, and the rebuilding of the temple—explained in a way that challenges long-held beliefs with historical and biblical evidence.
3. Explore why the prophetic imagery in Revelation resonated deeply with its first audience, and how those symbols connect to the bigger story of life, death, and hope in the Bible—possibly reshaping your whole perspective.

Episode Resources & Action Steps:

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

1. Leo De Siqueira’s 3-Part Commentary Series on Revelation - Leo references his own three-book series that dives deeply into Revelation from a first-century, Aramaic, and historical context. (Book titles include in part: "Dawn of Eternity.")
2. Bible Translation Software - Leo mentions using Bible translation tools for studying Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic manuscripts to gain greater nuance and understanding.
3. Historical Writings of Josephus - While not discussed in detail, both Leo and Tim reference the historical accounts of Josephus, especially regarding events surrounding 70 AD, making his works a core supplemental resource.

Action Steps for Listeners:

1. Re-examine Your Understanding of Revelation - Instead of interpreting Revelation strictly through modern lenses or one-verse doctrines, approach it as first-century listeners would by considering language, historical context, and Jewish prophecy.
2. Explore the Historical and Cultural Context - Read Leo De Siqueira’s commentary series or similar resources that incorporate Aramaic texts and first-century Jewish perspectives to broaden your understanding of Revelation’s symbolism and meaning.
3. Dig Deeper into Biblical Languages and History - Use Bible translation software or online courses to explore passages in their original languages (Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic) and consult historical sources like Josephus for context around New Testament events.

Key Lessons:

1. Context Is Key to Understanding Revelation - The Book of Revelation was originally written in a first-century context, likely in Aramaic, and was full of symbols and references that would have made sense to its original audience. Understanding historical, cultural, and linguistic context—especially the Law and the Prophets—opens up deeper insight into its true meaning.
2. Beware of “One Verse” Doctrines - Leo strongly cautions against building major beliefs on isolated verses. These “one verse doctrines” are described as “a cancer to the body of Christ,” often leading to misunderstanding and division. Instead, scripture should be approached as a cohesive whole.
3. The Rapture, Revisited - Contrary to popular teachings, the idea of a “rapture” as commonly depicted isn’t actually found in Revelation—or anywhere else in scripture as a clearly described event. Leo explains that verses often used to support rapture theology are misunderstood when removed from their original context.
4. Prophetic Literature Is Both Immediate and Timeless - Prophecy in the Bible, including Revelation, speaks to immediate historical circumstances but also carries ongoing, timeless relevance. The messages directed at the seven churches, for example, were both real congregations and representative of wider, universal church experiences.
5. Much of Revelation Has Already Taken Place - The events described in the first 19 chapters of Revelation largely correspond to historical events around 70 AD, including the fall of Jerusalem and the end of the Mosaic age. Seeing this helps demystify the text and dispel modern sensational interpretations.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Revelation Revealed

01:51 The Importance of Aramaic in Understanding Revelation

05:43 The Deeper Meaning of Salvation and Life

10:31 The Urgency and Context of Revelation's Prophecies

18:20 The Seven Churches and Their Significance

23:14 Literal vs Symbolic Churches

23:52 Urgency in Revelation

26:24 Scientific Approach to the Bible

28:24 Contextualizing Biblical Interpretation

30:16 Rapid Fire: Hot Topics in Revelation

31:02 The Rapture and Resurrection

35:05 The Beast and 666

36:51 The Two Witnesses

37:15 Rebuilding the Temple

39:26 Understanding Revelation's Timeline

43:06 Final Thoughts and Next Episode Preview

Resources for Leaders from Tim Winders & SGC:

🎙 Unlock Leadership Excellence with Tim

• Transform your leadership and align your career with your deepest values. Schedule your Free Discovery Call now to explore how you can reach new heights in personal and professional growth. Limited slots available each month – Book your session today!

📚 Redefine Your Success with "Coach: A Story of Success Redefined"

• Challenge your perceptions and embark on a journey toward true fulfillment. Dive into transformative insights with "Coach: A Story of Success Redefined." This book will help you rethink what success means and how to achieve it on your terms. Don't miss out on this essential read—order your copy today!

Thank you for listening to Seek Go Create!

Our podcast is dedicated to empowering Christian leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals looking to redefine success in their personal and professional lives. Through in-depth interviews, personal anecdotes, and expert advice, we offer valuable insights and actionable strategies for achieving your goals and living a life of purpose and fulfillment.

If you enjoyed this episode and found it helpful, we encourage you to subscribe to or follow Seek Go Create on your favorite podcast platform, including Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. By subscribing, you'll never miss an episode and can stay up-to-date on the latest insights and strategies for success.

Additionally, please share this episode or what you’ve learned today with your friends, family, and colleagues on your favorite social media platform. By sharing our podcast, you can help us reach more people who are looking to align their faith with their work and lead with purpose.

For more updates and episodes, visit our website or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, TikTok and YouTube. We appreciate your support and look forward to helping you achieve your goals and create a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Now, you can tip us, buy us a coffee, or offer financial support. Contributions start at just $1, and if you leave a comment, you could be featured in a future episode!

Visit our Support page for more details.