
The Apocalypse: Controversies and Meaning in Western History
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Narrated by:
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Craig R. Koester
What are we to make of the book of Revelation, with all its dramatic events and rich symbolism? Get an authoritative guide to this extraordinary work in 24 thought-provoking and enlightening lectures, divided into three parts: the historical and intellectual background of the Apocalypse; a close reading of John's text, focusing on the meaning of its images; and the wide-ranging impact of the book on Christian and Western history.
Throughout these lectures, Professor Koester focuses on what John actually wrote in the Apocalypse, what his situation tells us about his meaning, how that meaning can be applied to our own lives, and how contemporary biblical scholars relate Revelation to the modern world. He also introduces major figures in history who have been powerfully drawn to the Apocalypse, among them St. Augustine (who saw it as timeless and symbolic rather than literal), Martin Luther (who decoded it to reach a remarkable theological insight), and Sojourner Truth (who was inspired by the book to work tirelessly for women's rights and the abolition of slavery).
Describing the Apocalypse as a roller coaster that hurtles you down into the abyss amid scenes of monsters and plagues, only to send you flying upward toward views of pure light, Professor Koester stresses that if you are reading Revelation and want to despair, then you've stopped reading too soon. You need to turn the page and look to the next chapter, because there will be a wonderful message of hope waiting for you. And as you learn with this lecture series, you'll find that the Apocalypse you've heard about pales beside the real one.
PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.
©2011 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2011 The Great CoursesListeners also enjoyed...




















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Great course.
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Good job giving context but structure was not optimal
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What did you love best about The Apocalypse: Controversies and Meaning in Western History?
Looking at Revelation from a literary perspective brought new understanding for me.Have you listened to any of Professor Craig R. Koester’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
I wish the professor had more teachings available. I thoroughly appreciated his academic approach, presenting his understanding as well as other perspectives.If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?
The book of Revelation is not about the future, rather a classic writing that speaks to people of any time and culture.Any additional comments?
I couldn't help thinking that the U.S. today is very much like the imperialistic Roman Empire at the time Revelation was written. We are also a culture that embraces power and violence; which caused me to wonder if my country, the United States of America, isn't the "Whore of Babylon."Outstanding Scholarship
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Not what I expected
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The second half is when he discussed how the book has been interpreted by the early church up to modern views is importance. He discusses at length the way different religious sects used the book to label someone as the Antichrist and what ramifications that had. Very interesting as it has had such an important place in shaping history.
The Professor Covers many of the Bases
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Amazing
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Amazing teacher
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Excellent look at Revelation
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informative and clarifying
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Loved it!
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