Revelation for Normal People
By Robyn J. Whitaker
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 for our own.
Learn to read Revelation well with The Bible for Normal People—bringing the best in biblical scholarship to everyone.
Book cover for Revelation for Normal People: A Guide to the Strangest and Most Dangerous Book in the Bible
“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.”
About the Author
Robyn J Whitaker
PhD, University of Chicago Divinity School
Robyn Whitaker is a New Testament scholar who has had a long fascination with John’s Apocalypse. She is an ordained minister of the Uniting Church in Australia who lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and two retrievers. When she is not thinking about the Bible she likes to bake, hike, do yoga, and go to the beach. She is Associate Professor of New Testament at Pilgrim Theological College in the University of Divinity. You can find more of her writing at robynwhitaker.com