Future promises to the victor in the Book of Revelation

Abstract

The Book of Revelation is often characterised as one in which violence, cosmic signs and plagues prevail. Its theological message, however, is one of hope and salvation for the νικῶν (nikōn), a term that is usually translated as ‘the one who conquers’/ ‘overcomes’ or ‘the victor.’ The theme of the νικῶν is of major significance for the theology of this book where it occurs seventeen times. It is a theme that carries military overtones, reminding the reader that the Christian way of living is a battle. The so-called ‘seven letters’ which dominate Revelation 2–3 are fundamental for the development of this theme as each of these ‘letters’ ends with a promise given to the νικῶν. The motif of promises to the victor crops up again in Revelation 21–22 as part of the vision of the New Jerusalem. [Excerpt]