The Violence of the Lamb: Martyrs as Agents of Divine Judgement in the Book of Revelation [Paperback]

The act of martyrdom in the worldview of the Apocalypse has been considered to be an exemplification of non-violent resistance. Paul Middleton argues here, however, that it is in fact a representation of direct participation by Christians, through their martyrdom, in divine violence against those the author of Revelation portrays as God's enemies. Middleton shows that acceptance of martyrdom is to grasp the invitation to participate in the Revelation's divine violence. Martyrs follow the model laid down by the Lamb, who was not only slain, but resurrected, glorified, and who executes judgement.

The world created by the Apocalypse encourages readers to conquer the Beast through martyrdom, but also through the experience of resurrection and being appointed judges. In this role, martyrs participate in the judgement of the wicked by sharing the Lamb's power to judge. Different from eschewing violence, the conceptual world of the Apocalypse portrays God, the Lamb, and the martyrs as possessing more power, might, and violent potential than the Emperor and his armies. Middleton believes that martyrdom and violence are necessary components of the worldview of Revelation.

The Violence of the Lambis a well-argued, persuasive study, not to mention an enjoyable read. Biblical Theology Bulletin

Indispensable for the study of Revelation and martyrdom in early Christianity. NTT Journal for Theology and the Study of Religion

A carefully argued and persuasive reading of the Book of Revelation ... This book is a valuable contribution to the field of historical-critical New Testament studies as well as to the study of the Apocalypse. Journal of Theological Studies

This book is most appropriate for scholarly or graduate audiences, and would be helpful for courses on the book of Revelation, NT eschatology, and ChrislS=