Postcards from Patmos
Visions and Letters of an Exiled Prophet
- Biblical Studies & Commentaries
- Publisher: Resource Publications (Wipf and Stock)
- Published: 2024
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Publisher's Description
In this work, a fictionalized John is addressing a contemporary audience directly, as if they were the original recipients of the book. Unlike the author's two previous books, which were historical fictions, this one does not include fictional elements. It does not dwell on possible scenarios advanced by information found in the text, like the trip to Spain in the case of Paul. Rather, it aims at providing the audience with some additional historical information so they can have a better understanding of the place and time in which John wrote. The reader will notice, for example, that instead of using inclusive language, which would be anachronistic, John uses male language to address God. The author also explores, fictionally, John's feelings, to allow the readers to imagine how he might have felt in the troubled times he lived in.
Endorsements (3)
Foreword
“It is this sort of thoughtful engagement with Revelation—an engagement that Vena models and seeks to stimulate in his readers—that makes Postcards from Patmos a welcome addition to the church’s ongoing wrestling with the difficult, final book of the Bible.”
“Some of us have wondered and hoped that we could ask John of Patmos a few follow-up questions about the book of Revelation. Vena has asked and is inviting us to ask as well through this book. Vena situates the book of Revelation historically while providing us cathartic glimpses of engaging John from a first-person point of view. A must-read for apocalyptically inquisitive minds.”
“Dr. Osvaldo Vena’s Postcards from Patmos brilliantly completes a trilogy that imagines ancient Christian figures narrating their own stories, breathing new life into ancient voices. In a creative mix of rigorous academic research and clear, everyday language, Vena transforms the complexity of Revelation into a vibrant and engaging conversation with John of Patmos. With a fresh critique of traditional ‘end times’ interpretations, Vena emphasizes Revelation’s timeless relevance as a message of comfort and reflection rather than prediction. This is a must-read for anyone seeking to engage with the Bible’s most challenging book in a way that is relevant, illuminating, and remarkably enjoyable.”
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