Marco Lutheran Church to Host Seminar on Book of Revelation

Marco Lutheran Church will welcome the Rev. Dr. John Roth, pastor and Florida Gulf Coast University adjunct faculty member, on Saturday, November 14, 2026, for a seminar titled “Revelation Reclaimed: Hope That Outlasts Empire.”

Many Christians know Revelation as a book of beasts, battles, and end-times speculation. Roth will offer a different perspective, exploring how the Bible’s often-misunderstood final book was written to inspire hope rather than fear.

The seminar will examine Revelation’s historical context, the meaning of its symbols to its original readers, and its challenge to empire and injustice. Roth will also discuss why many popular interpretations overlook the book’s central message: the hope found in God’s promised New Creation.

“Behold, I am making all things new.” — Revelation 21:5

Roth serves as coordinator for adjunct faculty at Florida Gulf Coast University, where he has taught since 2015. His courses have covered religion, biblical studies, theology, and church history. He has also taught “Apocalyptic America and the Book of Revelation,” an upper-level course examining Revelation’s interpretation and influence on American religious life.

In addition to his academic work, Roth has served in pastoral and campus ministry roles at Louisiana State University, the University of Florida, and FGCU. He currently serves as president of United Campus Ministries at FGCU and as pastor of Thrive Community Church in Estero.

Roth holds Doctor of Ministry and Master of Divinity degrees. His teaching emphasizes understanding Scripture in its historical and literary context while applying its message to contemporary life.

The seminar is free to the community and no reservation is required. It will take place at Marco Lutheran Church in the Great Room from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Light refreshments will be served.

For additional information, please visit marcolutheran.org or call 239-394-0332