One question I've had since the OP: how do we know which parts of Revelation are symbolic or code, and which parts should be taken literally?
Depends.
I happen to be very proficient in Revelation.
The Book of Revelation will make no sense to anyone who does not believe in miracles and who is not well versed in the books of Daniel, Zechariah, and others.
Do you believe that there will be a "rapture" of persons who belong to Christ ?