Volharding as sentrale gegewe in die boek Openbaring

Abstract

This article attempts to indicate that the Book of Revelation as an apocalypse has a special way of inducing its readers, the church, to listen to its message. The Book of Revelation depicts the church as experiencing specific internal and external problems. A solution to these problems is founded in a theocentric perspective - a perspective in which the deeds of God are the foundation by which the church perseveres. The Book of Revelation describes the persevering activities of the church in its proclamation of the gospel, its liturgical activities, its reading of Scripture, hymns and prayers and its actions aimed at purifying the church of unacceptable influences.