For several years past the writer has received requests from many quarters to write a treatise on the Book of Revelation which would serve as a help to the study of that wonderful and difficult book. This pamphlet is in its measure a response to those demands, and will, he trusts, prove a help to many toward a fairer, and better grasp of that portion of the word of God.

      The writer is aware that this little treatise leaves many questions unanswered and difficulties unsolved. But it will nevertheless be found to answer the first, all important purpose--namely, to put the reader on track of an understanding of the book as a whole, so as to enable him to grasp its scope and design, and to get the main drift of its meaning; after which he will be better able to work out details for himself.

      The writer's aim has been, above all, to be faithful to the Word; just and true in his presentation, and undogmatic in his conclusions. His object was to point out facts and features, rather than to teach and dogmatize; [2] and more to direct the reader's eyes to what is actually said and written than to explain and comment. He says nothing upon his own authority but has endeavored to place everything before the reader, that he may see, examine, and judge for himself. If the author has failed of this aim in any point; if anywhere he may seem to be trying to force an opinion or an unwarranted conclusion, it is not intentional, and he would beg the reader to overlook such lapse, and always, everywhere, to "prove all things; hold fast that which is good."

[TR4R 2-3]