2025/04/01 by Bohdan Kuryliak · 1 voice
Arts and Humanities · #Archaeology and Historical Studies #Biblical Studies and Interpretation #Theology and Canon Law Studies
paper · pdf · doi:10.1017/s003693062400067x
openalex publication_date 2025/04/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/05/21
Abstract Scholars studying cosmic conflict in the book of Revelation primarily focus on chapters 12–14, while the letters to the seven churches are often overlooked. In this article I demonstrate the presence of key elements of cosmic conflict in the letters to the seven churches, with a particular focus on the letter to the church in Smyrna (Rev 2:8–11). I identify the main facets of spiritual warfare, such as Jesus Christ versus the devil; Christians versus Jews/Romans; and victory/life versus defeat/death. I conclude that this passage contributes to the military narrative of cosmic conflict in the Apocalypse.