Revelation for Normal People - by Robyn J Whitaker (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

It has never been more important to read Revelation well.

Whether you love it, hate it, or avoid it like the plague, the last book of the Bible's influence permeates our cultural, political, and religious landscapes. From the so-bad-they're...still bad actually...Left Behind series, to conspiracy theories about microchips and barcodes, to all-too-real political discourse and actions, John's visions in Revelation reach far beyond anything their ancient author could have imagined.

But what did John imagine? Who was he writing for and why? And what's the deal with all the hideous horned beasts?

Join New Testament scholar Robyn Whitaker as she uncovers the real-world contexts behind this ancient apocalyptic text. A world occupied by an oppressive empire, a marginalized people, and a God committed to justice. Where a beast overthrown was a declaration of authority and a falling star was a statement of evil's demise. Where symbols gave voice to resistance and visions provided a glimpse of hope. A world utterly and entirely ancient.

Only when we understand Revelation's ancient contexts can we begin to find meaning from it for our own.

Learn to read Revelation well with The Bible for Normal People-bringing the best in biblical scholarship to everyone.

Review Quotes

"This is my favorite guide to Revelation. The Bible's most confusing and controversial book demands a guide who gives clear instruction and calls attention to potential pitfalls. Robyn Whitaker is that guide: she walks us through Revelation and its bizarre symbols, unveils its challenge to those ancient Christians who first heard it, and reckons with its dangers. In the end, Whitaker speaks directly to contemporary readers who may be tempted to neglect Revelation because it is too hard to understand or because other Christians make such a mess of it. According to Whitaker, Revelation opens fresh ways of relating to Jesus and challenges us to life in hope despite countless reasons for despair."

- Greg Carey, Professor of New Testament, Lancaster Theological Seminary

"After everything you've heard about Revelation, you may not think that it's not a book for normal people at all. Dr. Whitaker will help you give Revelation another chance. She shows us how Revelation was not a crystal ball for seeing distant future events, but rather a challenge to first-century Christians to open their eyes to the world around them. It challenged them to peel back the veneer of the political propaganda that legitimated violence and exploitation, and to take a bold stand for God and for the justice God desires for all people. And that's an important challenge for us in our time as well."

- David A. deSilva, Trustees' Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Greek, Ashland Theological Seminary

"Unlike Revelation itself, Revelation for Normal People by Robyn Whitaker is clear, approachable, and not scary at all! Whitaker's guide offers an excellent introduction to the book. She provides the tools necessary for understanding Revelation in its historical context and points out the common interpretive pitfalls that make Revelation a daunting read for many. Even more important, Whitaker's inviting approach to Revelation empowers readers who have been frightened or traumatized by traditional interpretations of the text to take a second look at the book, which Whitaker sees as ultimately offering a vision of hope and of God's abundance."

- Lynn R. Huber, Maude Sharpe Powell Professor of Religious Studies, Elon University