Revelation and the New Testament Canon

This chapter first considers the historical path by which Revelation was accepted as part of the New Testament canon. The various perspectives on the book in eastern and western Christianity are noted, showing greater diversity than is sometimes thought. Second, attention is given to way patterns of interpretation in antiquity and the modern period have shaped the actual function of Revelation as a canonical text. Third, the chapter explores Revelation’s possible theological value within the New Testament and the Bible as a whole.