"This Book": The Rhetoric of John's Apocalypse

Abstract

The aim of apocalyptic texts is to influence both the understanding and the behaviour of the audience by means of divine authority. This article explores how this rhetorical aspect of the apocalyptic genre is verified in John's Apocalypse. John identifies himself as the final link in the chain of communication from God to the churches, and in this way he highlights the divine authority of "this book." Furthermore, although the book does not explicitly call on the authority of the Scriptures, it is itself the fruit of an inspired or prophetic reading of the Scriptures focused on the concrete situation of his hearers. The book influences the hearers by drawing them into John's vision; reading the book is meant to lead the readers into a symbolic universe in which God is seen as the creator of all and ὁ παντοκράτωρ. The book is meant to stimulate them to share in John's experience of God's royal rule. In the light of this fresh way of looking, they are expected to be empowered to face the trials of life with endurance (Rev 1:9). The specific nature of this book's rhetoric is articulated in terms of mystagogia, lectio divina and ekphrasis.