Abstract
D.Litt. et Phil.
The aim of this study is to examine Revelations 1-11 in a narratological framework. There are various formal divisions of the Revelation to John. Amongst the formal divisions the narratological division is likewise accepted. Regarding the development of Revelations, a narrative analysis depends upon the viewpoint that the message of Revelations may be perceived as functional. Readers in a specific situation are provided with a supportive message upon which they can rely and according to which they may live (A Y Collins 1994a). The author derives his images and figures of speech, which occupy the central position, from the traditional apocalyptic visions, through the symbol of the cosmic battle. The theological convictions of the writer, which are presented in a narrative form, intend to involve the reader. The sequence of events reveals the plot of the events of Revelations. The reader of Revelations observes the functional application of recapitulation, interjections and symbolism. The events in Revelations 1-11 concentrate primarily upon God, through the glorified Christ, who brings salvation and conviction of the church and cosmos. The salvation through Christ is symbolically revealed in Revelations 1-11. Due to the symbolism in the drama, the book can be divided into three acts. The first act depicts the risen Christ who presents the seven letter-messages to the church. The second act covers the unlocking and unfolding of the sealed scrolls by the Lamb of God. The third act historically describes the warfare between the Lamb and his opponents. The study concentrates upon the first two acts which cover Christ in the church (Rev. 1-3) and Christ in the cosmos (Rev. 4-11). The researcher realises that there are many different divisions of Revelations and therefore intentionally accepts this particular division for this study.