revelation begins by introducing john as its author, and has letters to seven churches of that day. some think these churches also represent periods of history. various visions follow that are highly symbolic, allow many different interpretations, and are often thought to represent past and future events. some believe that many of these prophecies have already been fulfilled, some believe they will be fulfilled at the end of time, and some believe they do not refer to any specific events but instead describe the victory of christ over all enemies.