The Four Horsemen aren’t what you think they are…

A popular topic in some Christian circles is the Apocalypse — or the end of days. People have made a whole lot of money on the topic. Never mind that the folks who make all sorts of predictions always get it wrong — somehow there are plenty of people who continue to listen to these hucksters selling their latest books, videos, courses, conferences, and assortment of other merchandise designed to end money being in your account.

In particular, the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are popular. There are drawings of these guys that show them looking fierce and mighty and angry. And there is an assumption that they represent terrible things that will take place.

Scholars debate the meaning of the four horsemen. Many scholars look at the entirety of the book of Revelation as a judgement of the Roman Empire. The Empire was abusive and exploitive, bringing death and destruction to any who would oppose it. The four horsemen represent the consequences of empire — all empires.

A common way of thinking about the four horsemen is to consider what each horseman represents. I recommend reading Revelation 6 for the biblical description.

Here’s the summary:

• The first horseman is described in Revelation 6:2 — “I looked, and there was a white horse! Its rider had a bow; a crown was given to him, and he came out conquering and to conquer.” This horseman is often associated with the idea of conquest.
• The second horseman…