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Book Review: Revelation: A Commentary

THE CHALLENGE FOR ANYONE who writes a commentary on the book of Revelation is to produce a coherent, convincing reading of a text that is filled with strange symbolism, mixed genres, and a confusing structure. This commentary by Brian Blount in the New Testament Library series succeeds admirably, not only in helping readers understand the often bewildering landscape of Revelation, but also in challenging them to take seriously the powerful theological concerns of the book. In the relatively brief introduction to the commentary, Blount covers the usual issues of authorship, date, genre, social setting, outline, and structure of the book. His views are consistent with that of most recent scholars. The book was written around 95 CE. during the reign of Domitian as Roman emperor by an otherwise unknown John, a prophet-leader among the churches of Asia Minor. The setting was western Asia Minor in a society dominated by the Roman Empire, whose social, economic, political, and religious control permeated all aspects of the culture. Persecution of Christians who defied Roman hegemony was a real threat, but so far only a minor reality. In fact, the lack of persecution could be seen as evidence that Christians had sold out to Rome and its enticements.