Jonah2005bt
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Hi, I'm looking for somebody to conduct a Revelation Bible Study to me. Anybody out there willing?
Book of Revelation [Study]: Chapter 1
- Thread starter Jonah2005bt
- Start date
Yes I am willing. But you are talking about a big subject.
Our eyes here are upon Jesus. If we can express His lifestyle as we go about our business, that would be just wonderful
Jesus said "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life."
Without the Way............no GOING
Without the Truth............no KNOWING
Without the Life.............no LIVING
"I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life" thats what Jesus said.
To be like Jesus, to be like Jesus, all I ask to be like Him. All through life's journey, from earth to glory, all I ask, to be like Him.
That is our desire.
God Bless You
Our eyes here are upon Jesus. If we can express His lifestyle as we go about our business, that would be just wonderful
Jesus said "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life."
Without the Way............no GOING
Without the Truth............no KNOWING
Without the Life.............no LIVING
"I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life" thats what Jesus said.
To be like Jesus, to be like Jesus, all I ask to be like Him. All through life's journey, from earth to glory, all I ask, to be like Him.
That is our desire.
God Bless You
- Joined
- Feb 9, 2004
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- 17,077
Article from gotquestions: http://www.gotquestions.org/Book-Revelation.html
The key to consistent Bible interpretation, including the Book of Revelation, is to have a consistent hermeneutic. Hermeneutics is the study of the principles of interpretation. In other words, it is the way you interpret Scripture. A normal hermeneutic or normal interpretation of Scripture means that Unless the verse or passage CLEARLY indicates that the author was using figurative language, you are to understand it in its normal sense. Don't look for other meanings if the natural meaning of the sentence makes sense. Don't spiritualize Scripture by assigning meanings to words or phrases when it is very possible that the author under the guidance of the Holy Spirit means for it to be understood as it is written.
One example from the Book of Revelation that I can give you is Revelation 20. Many will assign various meanings to where it refers to a 1,000 year period. Yet, the language does not imply in anyway that the references to 1,000 years should be taken to mean anything other than a literal 1,000 year period.
A simple outline for the Book of Revelation is found in Revelation 1:19. In the first chapter, the risen and exalted Christ is speaking to John. Christ tells John to "Write therefore the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall take place after these things." The things John had already seen are recorded in chapter 1. The "things which are" (that were present in John's day) are recorded in chapters 2-3 (the letters to the Churches). The "things which shall take place" (future things) are recorded in chapters 4-22.
Generally speaking, chapters 4 through 18 of the Book of Revelation deal with God's judgments on the people on the earth. These judgments are NOT for the church (1 Thessalonians 5:2, 9). The church has been removed from the earth in an event called the Rapture. The Rapture is described in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-52. This is a time of Jacob's trouble; trouble for Israel (Jeremiah 30:7; Daniel 9:12; 12:1). It is also a time when God is judging the world for their rebellion against Him.
Chapter 19 describes Christ's return with the Church, the Bride of Christ. He defeats the Beast, the False Prophet and casts them into the Lake of Fire. In Chapter 20, Christ has Satan bound and cast in the Abyss. Then Christ sets up His kingdom on earth that will last 1,000 years. At the end of the 1,000 years, Satan is released and he leads a rebellion against God. He is quickly put down and also cast into the Lake of Fire. Then the final judgment, the judgment for all Unbelievers, where they too are cast into the Lake of Fire.
Chapters 21 and 22 describe what is referred to as the eternal state. This is where God tells us eternity with Him will be like. The Book of Revelation is understandable! God would not have given it to us if its meaning was entirely a mystery. The key to understanding the Book of Revelation is to interpret it as literally as possible. The Book of Revelation says what it means.
The key to consistent Bible interpretation, including the Book of Revelation, is to have a consistent hermeneutic. Hermeneutics is the study of the principles of interpretation. In other words, it is the way you interpret Scripture. A normal hermeneutic or normal interpretation of Scripture means that Unless the verse or passage CLEARLY indicates that the author was using figurative language, you are to understand it in its normal sense. Don't look for other meanings if the natural meaning of the sentence makes sense. Don't spiritualize Scripture by assigning meanings to words or phrases when it is very possible that the author under the guidance of the Holy Spirit means for it to be understood as it is written.
One example from the Book of Revelation that I can give you is Revelation 20. Many will assign various meanings to where it refers to a 1,000 year period. Yet, the language does not imply in anyway that the references to 1,000 years should be taken to mean anything other than a literal 1,000 year period.
A simple outline for the Book of Revelation is found in Revelation 1:19. In the first chapter, the risen and exalted Christ is speaking to John. Christ tells John to "Write therefore the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall take place after these things." The things John had already seen are recorded in chapter 1. The "things which are" (that were present in John's day) are recorded in chapters 2-3 (the letters to the Churches). The "things which shall take place" (future things) are recorded in chapters 4-22.
Generally speaking, chapters 4 through 18 of the Book of Revelation deal with God's judgments on the people on the earth. These judgments are NOT for the church (1 Thessalonians 5:2, 9). The church has been removed from the earth in an event called the Rapture. The Rapture is described in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-52. This is a time of Jacob's trouble; trouble for Israel (Jeremiah 30:7; Daniel 9:12; 12:1). It is also a time when God is judging the world for their rebellion against Him.
Chapter 19 describes Christ's return with the Church, the Bride of Christ. He defeats the Beast, the False Prophet and casts them into the Lake of Fire. In Chapter 20, Christ has Satan bound and cast in the Abyss. Then Christ sets up His kingdom on earth that will last 1,000 years. At the end of the 1,000 years, Satan is released and he leads a rebellion against God. He is quickly put down and also cast into the Lake of Fire. Then the final judgment, the judgment for all Unbelievers, where they too are cast into the Lake of Fire.
Chapters 21 and 22 describe what is referred to as the eternal state. This is where God tells us eternity with Him will be like. The Book of Revelation is understandable! God would not have given it to us if its meaning was entirely a mystery. The key to understanding the Book of Revelation is to interpret it as literally as possible. The Book of Revelation says what it means.
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Matthew Henry's Commentary
Revelation Chapter 1:
And Laodicea.
This book is the Revelation of Jesus Christ; the whole Bible is so; for all revelation comes through Christ, and all relates to him. Its principal subject is to discover the purposes of God concerning the affairs of the church, and of the nations as connected therewith, to the end of the world. These events would surely come to pass; and they would begin to come to pass very shortly. Though Christ is himself God, and has light and life in himself, yet, as Mediator between God and
man, he receives instructions from the Father. To him we owe the knowledge of what we are to expect from God, and what he expects from us.
The subject of this revelation was, the things that must shortly come to pass. On all who read or hear the words of the prophecy, a blessing is pronounced. Those are well employed who search the Bible. It is not enough that we read and hear, but we must keep the things that are written, in our memories, in our minds, in our affections, and in practice, and we shall be blessed in the deed. Even the mysteries and difficulties of this book are united with discoveries of God, suited to impress the mind with awe, and to purify the soul of the reader, though he may not discern the prophetic meaning. No part of Scripture more fully states the gospel, and warns against the evil of sin. (Rev 1:4-8)
A vision of God, as on his glorious throne, around which were twenty-four elders and four living creatures.
There can be no true peace, where there is not true grace; and where grace goeth before, peace will follow. This blessing is in the name of God, of the Holy Trinity, it is an act of adoration. The Father is first named; he is described as the Jehovah who is, and who was, and who is to come, eternal, unchangeable. The Holy Spirit is called the seven spirits, the perfect Spirit of God, in whom there is a diversity of gifts and operations. The Lord Jesus Christ was from eternity, a Witness to all the counsels of God. He is the First-born from the dead, who will by his own power raise up his people. He is the Prince of the kings of the earth; by him their counsels are overruled, and to him they are accountable.
Sin leaves a stain of guilt and pollution upon the soul. Nothing can fetch out this stain but the blood of Christ; and Christ shed his own blood to satisfy Divine justice, and purchase pardon and purity for his people. Christ has made believers kings and priests to God and his Father. As such they overcome the world, mortify sin, govern their own spirits, resist Satan, prevail with God in prayer, and shall judge the world. He has made them priests, given them access to God, enabled them to offer spiritual and acceptable sacrifices, and for these favours they are bound to ascribe to him dominion and glory for ever. He will judge the world.
Attention is called to that great day when all will see the wisdom and happiness of the friends of Christ, and the madness and misery of his enemies. Let us think frequently upon the second coming of Christ. He shall come, to the terror of those who wound and crucify him by apostacy: he shall come, to the astonishment of the whole world of the ungodly. He is the Beginning and the End; all things are from him and for him; he is the Almighty; the same eternal and unchanged One. And if we would be numbered with his saints in glory everlasting, we must now willing submit to him receive him, and honour him as a saviour, who we believe will come to be our Judge. Alas, that there should be many, who would wish never to die, and that there should not be a day of judgment! (Rev 1:9-11)
Whose songs, and those of the holy angels, the apostle heard.
It was the apostle's comfort that he did not suffer as an evil-doer, but for the testimony of Jesus, for bearing witness to Christ as the Immanuel, the Saviour; and the Spirit of glory and of God rested upon this persecuted apostle. The day and time when he had this vision was the Lord's day, the Christian sabbath, the first day of the week, observed in remembrance of the resurrection of Christ. Let us who call him to �Our Lord, to � honour him on his own day. The name shows how this sacred day should be observed; the Lord's day should be wholly devoted to the Lord, and none of its hours employed in a sensual, worldly manner, or in amusements. He was in a serious, heavenly, spiritual frame, under the gracious influences of the Spirit of God.
Those who would enjoy communion with God on the Lord's day, must seek to draw their thoughts and affections from earthly things. And if believers are kept on the Lord's holy day, from public ordinances and the communion of saints, by
necessity and not by choice, they may look for comfort in meditation and secret duties, from the influences of the Spirit; and by hearing the voice and contemplating the glory of their beloved Saviour, from whose gracious words and power no confinement or outward circumstances can separate them. An alarm was given as with the sound of the trumpet, and then the apostle heard the voice of Christ. (Rev 1:12-20)
A book sealed with seven seals, which could be opened by none but Christ, who took the book to open it.
The churches receive their light from Christ and the gospel, and hold it forth to others. They are golden candlesticks; they should be precious and pure; not only the ministers, but the members of the churches; their light should so shine before men, as to engage others to give glory to God. And the apostle saw as though of the Lord Jesus Christ appeared in the midst of the golden candlesticks. He is with his churches always, to the end of the world, filling them with light, and life, and love. He was clothed with a robe down to the feet, perhaps representing his righteousness and priesthood, as Mediator.
This vest was girt with a golden girdle, which may denote how precious are his love and affection for his people. His head and hairs white like wool and as snow, may signify his majesty, purity, and eternity. His eyes as a flame of fire, may represent his knowledge of the secrets of all hearts, and of the most distant events. His feet like fine brass burning in a furnace, may denote the firmness of his appointments, and the excellence of his proceedings. His voice as the sound of many waters, may represent the power of his word, to remove or to destroy. The seven stars were emblems of the ministers of the seven churches to which the apostle was ordered to write, and whom Christ upheld and directed. The sword represented his justice, and his word, piercing to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, Heb 4:12.
His countenance was like the sun, when it shines clearly and powerfully; its strength too bright and dazzling for mortal eyes to behold. The apostle was overpowered with the greatness of the lustre and glory in which Christ appeared. We may well be contented to walk by faith, while here upon earth. The Lord Jesus spake words of comfort; Fear not. Words of instruction; telling who thus appeared. And his Divine nature; the First and the Last. His former sufferings; I was dead: the very same whom his disciples saw upon the cross. His resurrection and life; I have conquered death, and am partaker of endless life.
His office and authority; sovereign dominion in and over the invisible world, as the Judge of all, from whose sentence there is no appeal. Let us listen to the voice of Christ, and receive the tokens of his love, for what can he withhold from those for whose sins he has died? May we then obey his word, and give up ourselves wholly to him who directs all things aright.
Revelation Chapter 1:
And Laodicea.
This book is the Revelation of Jesus Christ; the whole Bible is so; for all revelation comes through Christ, and all relates to him. Its principal subject is to discover the purposes of God concerning the affairs of the church, and of the nations as connected therewith, to the end of the world. These events would surely come to pass; and they would begin to come to pass very shortly. Though Christ is himself God, and has light and life in himself, yet, as Mediator between God and
man, he receives instructions from the Father. To him we owe the knowledge of what we are to expect from God, and what he expects from us.
The subject of this revelation was, the things that must shortly come to pass. On all who read or hear the words of the prophecy, a blessing is pronounced. Those are well employed who search the Bible. It is not enough that we read and hear, but we must keep the things that are written, in our memories, in our minds, in our affections, and in practice, and we shall be blessed in the deed. Even the mysteries and difficulties of this book are united with discoveries of God, suited to impress the mind with awe, and to purify the soul of the reader, though he may not discern the prophetic meaning. No part of Scripture more fully states the gospel, and warns against the evil of sin. (Rev 1:4-8)
A vision of God, as on his glorious throne, around which were twenty-four elders and four living creatures.
There can be no true peace, where there is not true grace; and where grace goeth before, peace will follow. This blessing is in the name of God, of the Holy Trinity, it is an act of adoration. The Father is first named; he is described as the Jehovah who is, and who was, and who is to come, eternal, unchangeable. The Holy Spirit is called the seven spirits, the perfect Spirit of God, in whom there is a diversity of gifts and operations. The Lord Jesus Christ was from eternity, a Witness to all the counsels of God. He is the First-born from the dead, who will by his own power raise up his people. He is the Prince of the kings of the earth; by him their counsels are overruled, and to him they are accountable.
Sin leaves a stain of guilt and pollution upon the soul. Nothing can fetch out this stain but the blood of Christ; and Christ shed his own blood to satisfy Divine justice, and purchase pardon and purity for his people. Christ has made believers kings and priests to God and his Father. As such they overcome the world, mortify sin, govern their own spirits, resist Satan, prevail with God in prayer, and shall judge the world. He has made them priests, given them access to God, enabled them to offer spiritual and acceptable sacrifices, and for these favours they are bound to ascribe to him dominion and glory for ever. He will judge the world.
Attention is called to that great day when all will see the wisdom and happiness of the friends of Christ, and the madness and misery of his enemies. Let us think frequently upon the second coming of Christ. He shall come, to the terror of those who wound and crucify him by apostacy: he shall come, to the astonishment of the whole world of the ungodly. He is the Beginning and the End; all things are from him and for him; he is the Almighty; the same eternal and unchanged One. And if we would be numbered with his saints in glory everlasting, we must now willing submit to him receive him, and honour him as a saviour, who we believe will come to be our Judge. Alas, that there should be many, who would wish never to die, and that there should not be a day of judgment! (Rev 1:9-11)
Whose songs, and those of the holy angels, the apostle heard.
It was the apostle's comfort that he did not suffer as an evil-doer, but for the testimony of Jesus, for bearing witness to Christ as the Immanuel, the Saviour; and the Spirit of glory and of God rested upon this persecuted apostle. The day and time when he had this vision was the Lord's day, the Christian sabbath, the first day of the week, observed in remembrance of the resurrection of Christ. Let us who call him to �Our Lord, to � honour him on his own day. The name shows how this sacred day should be observed; the Lord's day should be wholly devoted to the Lord, and none of its hours employed in a sensual, worldly manner, or in amusements. He was in a serious, heavenly, spiritual frame, under the gracious influences of the Spirit of God.
Those who would enjoy communion with God on the Lord's day, must seek to draw their thoughts and affections from earthly things. And if believers are kept on the Lord's holy day, from public ordinances and the communion of saints, by
necessity and not by choice, they may look for comfort in meditation and secret duties, from the influences of the Spirit; and by hearing the voice and contemplating the glory of their beloved Saviour, from whose gracious words and power no confinement or outward circumstances can separate them. An alarm was given as with the sound of the trumpet, and then the apostle heard the voice of Christ. (Rev 1:12-20)
A book sealed with seven seals, which could be opened by none but Christ, who took the book to open it.
The churches receive their light from Christ and the gospel, and hold it forth to others. They are golden candlesticks; they should be precious and pure; not only the ministers, but the members of the churches; their light should so shine before men, as to engage others to give glory to God. And the apostle saw as though of the Lord Jesus Christ appeared in the midst of the golden candlesticks. He is with his churches always, to the end of the world, filling them with light, and life, and love. He was clothed with a robe down to the feet, perhaps representing his righteousness and priesthood, as Mediator.
This vest was girt with a golden girdle, which may denote how precious are his love and affection for his people. His head and hairs white like wool and as snow, may signify his majesty, purity, and eternity. His eyes as a flame of fire, may represent his knowledge of the secrets of all hearts, and of the most distant events. His feet like fine brass burning in a furnace, may denote the firmness of his appointments, and the excellence of his proceedings. His voice as the sound of many waters, may represent the power of his word, to remove or to destroy. The seven stars were emblems of the ministers of the seven churches to which the apostle was ordered to write, and whom Christ upheld and directed. The sword represented his justice, and his word, piercing to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, Heb 4:12.
His countenance was like the sun, when it shines clearly and powerfully; its strength too bright and dazzling for mortal eyes to behold. The apostle was overpowered with the greatness of the lustre and glory in which Christ appeared. We may well be contented to walk by faith, while here upon earth. The Lord Jesus spake words of comfort; Fear not. Words of instruction; telling who thus appeared. And his Divine nature; the First and the Last. His former sufferings; I was dead: the very same whom his disciples saw upon the cross. His resurrection and life; I have conquered death, and am partaker of endless life.
His office and authority; sovereign dominion in and over the invisible world, as the Judge of all, from whose sentence there is no appeal. Let us listen to the voice of Christ, and receive the tokens of his love, for what can he withhold from those for whose sins he has died? May we then obey his word, and give up ourselves wholly to him who directs all things aright.
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Let us study one chapter per week. Next week, on Monday we'll start with Chapter 2.
How's this sound? I think we need to be careful, meditating on this book of Revelation. Its complex and symbolic more than any other book in the Bible.
I think we'll have some fun in this thread. We'll create new threads per chapter, to make it easier to read and scan through later on.
I have renamed this thread to:
Book of Revelation [Study]: Chapter 1
How's this sound? I think we need to be careful, meditating on this book of Revelation. Its complex and symbolic more than any other book in the Bible.
I think we'll have some fun in this thread. We'll create new threads per chapter, to make it easier to read and scan through later on.
I have renamed this thread to:
Book of Revelation [Study]: Chapter 1
Jonah2005bt
Member
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Sounds awesome, Chad!
But, how do we go about this?
Do we read the first chapter & try to understand what is being said, & then share what we think we may have learned or what?
That sounds great, Chad! Sounds like fun to me, too!Chad said:
But, how do we go about this?
Do we read the first chapter & try to understand what is being said, & then share what we think we may have learned or what?
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Yes, we all must read the each chapter (whatever we are studying), which now is chapter 1. We must read, meditate, study on our own. Then we'll come here and discuss the chapter.
PRAY before you read, pray while you read. Ask for wisdom. Pray before you TYPE here as well and let the Holy Spirit be in charge!
PRAY before you read, pray while you read. Ask for wisdom. Pray before you TYPE here as well and let the Holy Spirit be in charge!
SpiritLedEd
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Chad:
This study is interesting. Up to this point, I've been reluctant to delve deeply into Revelation because I tended to see it in almost purely symbolic terms.
Taking it literally should simplify things for me.
SLE
This study is interesting. Up to this point, I've been reluctant to delve deeply into Revelation because I tended to see it in almost purely symbolic terms.
Taking it literally should simplify things for me.
SLE
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The Superscription
(1:1-3)
1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show to His bond-servants, the things which must shortly take place; and He sent and communicated it by His angel to His bond-servant John, 2 who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. 3 Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near.
Title and Theme of the Book (1a)
The title of the book is “The Apokalupsis of Jesus Christ.” “Revelation” is the translation of the Greek noun, apokalupsis, meaning “a disclosure, an unveiling.” The term “revelation” itself is derived from the Latin revelatio (from revelare, “to reveal or unveil that which has previously been hidden”).
This was the title assigned to the book in the Latin Vulgate. The Greek title is Apocalypse, taken directly from the first word in the Greek text, apokalupsi. In this noun form the word is not found anywhere else in Greek literature, but as a verb it is continually used in the Gospels and the Epistles, in many different ways, especially in reference to some form of divine revelation to man (as of the Son of Man, in Lk 17:30). It is used by Paul in referring to the same coming event (Rom 8:18; I Cor 1:7; II Thess 1:7), and frequently in I Peter (1:7, 13; 4:13; 5:1). In the Greek text of Daniel this word is often found referring to the uncovering of secrets, or the interpretation of dreams, or the revelation of God (see Dan 2:19, 22, 28, 29, 30, 47; 10:1; 11:35).14
Apokalupsis means “to expose to full view what was before unknown, hidden, and secret.” In its first appearance in the New Testament (Luke 2:32), it is used of Simeon who, taking the baby Jesus in his arms, blessed Him and spoke of Him as “a light to lighten the Gentiles” (KJV). It reminds us that God intends for this book to bring light and to be understood by its readers. This opening clause is a mark of distinction which gives us not only the title, but the theme. Notice that it is not the revelation of John, but of Jesus Christ which was given to John. The common title sometimes used for the book, “The Revelation to John,” merely identifies John as the human author. But how are we to understand the phrase, “of Jesus Christ”?
Grammatically, the words “of Jesus Christ” can be either a genitive of object meaning a revelation “about Jesus Christ,” or a genitive of subject meaning a revelation “from Jesus Christ.” “From Jesus Christ” would point to Christ as the author who gave this to John through His angel (cf. 22:16). Writers differ with some arguing for one or the other of these views. Some would argue that as 22:16 shows, it is from Christ and that the subject is about “things which must shortly come to pass” (vs. 1b). Others say, no, it is a revelation of and about the person of Christ. But grammatically it is likely that “of Jesus Christ” is what grammarians call a plenary genitive and includes both ideas.15 It is a revelation about and from the Lord Jesus. It is a revelation, a disclosure about the Christ Himself. It reveals His present work in the church, and discloses future events, but the events concern the person of Christ Himself and His return and activities associated with His second coming. In support, note the following verses:
* 1:5 — “and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness.”
* 1:7 — “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him,” so we have an unveiling.
* 1:13f — Reveals Christ’s ministry in the middle of the lampstands.
* 5:5-6 — Reveals Jesus Christ as the Lion and the Lamb.
* 6:14f — Reveals the unveiling of the Lamb on the throne and His wrath.
* 19:10 — Reveals the return of the Lord as King of kings.
The Communication of the Book (1b-2)
The Chain of Communication
In keeping with the teaching of the New Testament regarding the procession of the ministries of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we see the headship of the Father who initiates this revelation through the Son (cf. 1 Cor. 11:3). First, it proceeds from the Father to the Son—“which God gave to Him.” For other Scriptures supporting the doctrine of procession see John 3:34, 35; 5:20-24; 7:16; 14:10, 24; 16:15).
Second, the communication proceeds from the Son through an angel, “and He sent and communicated it by His angel.” The term angel, angelos, is found 175 times in 171 verses of the New Testament. Though some verses refer to men, the vast majority refer to angelic beings. This prominence shows the importance of angels in the worship of God, in the communication of revelation to man, and in the execution of God’s purposes and judgments.
Angels were often God’s instruments of communication or his messengers which is the basic meaning of the word, “angel” (Heb. 2:2; Acts 7:53). They will again be used as God’s special messengers in the time described in Revelation 6-19. Angelos is used seven times of the angel or messenger to the seven churches in chapters 2-3, though in these chapters, it refers most likely to a human messenger, someone responsible for communicating the Word in each of the seven churches. The prominent idea is a messenger, an instrument of communication used by God.
There is a great deal of interest today in angels. Numerous books have been written about angels and so-called angelic encounters. Little figures of what angels are supposed to look like are a very popular item in the stores and not just around Christmas time. But we need to be careful about this interest in angels since Satan, who disguises himself as an angel of light, surely has fallen angels under his command who do the same and pose as instruments of good, even claiming revelation from God (2 Cor. 11:14-15). One of the largest cults in the world today claims it was begun because of an encounter with an angel; and shortly after the time of Paul, a false system of religion arose called gnosticism in which there was an intricate belief system in angels. Paul seems to warn about this system in its incipient form in Colossians 2:18-19.
An extremely interesting statement and a very timely one for any generation, but especially for our society, is found in Galatians 1:8. “But even though we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to that which we have preached to you, let him be accursed.” Since the fall of Satan, no true angel from heaven would ever preach a false gospel, but hypothetically speaking, should one do so, Paul says he is to be accursed, devoted to destruction as are all the fallen angels or demonic beings (Matt. 25:41). The good angels are servants who do many tasks for God, but above all, they are messengers, as the name implies, who are responsible to witness truthfully to the person of the Lord Jesus. Three characteristics of angels: (a) they will agree with and bear testimony to the message of the Bible regarding the person and work of Christ (Rev. 1:1-2; 19:10), (b) they will always honor God and never seek honor for themselves (Rev. 19:10), and (c) they act on God’s behalf to do His will and often for the sake of Israel and the church as is so evident in the book of Daniel (10:13f; 12:1) and Revelation (see also Heb. 1:7, 14; Ps. 103:20).
Third, the communication comes from the angel as the Lord’s messenger to John who is called His bond-servant (vs. 1) (cf. Rev. 17:1; 19:9f; 21:9; 22:6,8,16).
Finally, the communication of the book is from John to the body of Christ. This is seen in the words, “to show to his bond servants” (vs. 1), and in the words, “to the seven churches …” in verse 4. “Bondservants” is the Greek word, doulos, a significant term especially when applied to the people of God. The bondservant was one who was owned by his master lock, stock, and barrel. He was totally under the authority and power of his master and dependent on him for everything—his responsibilities, his daily food, housing, and supplies, and his purpose in life. Ironically, however, it is in this servitude to Christ that we experience true freedom—freedom from bondage to sin, self, Satan, and the religion of the world. But it is not just a freedom from something. It is also a freedom to be something, a freedom to know, serve, and walk with God in the peace and righteousness of Christ choosing to serve Him rather than sin.
Perhaps the use of the terms “angel” (messenger) and “bond-servant” should remind us of two key areas of truth that are related as root to fruit. They remind us of what both angels and men should be, especially the body of Christ which has been left on earth to represent the Lord Jesus as His messengers. We are to be instruments of light as portrayed in the symbol of the lampstand. This means we are messengers of Christ and servants of God, but our willingness and ability to be effective as messengers of the message of the Savior as was John is greatly dependent on truly living as bondservants of the Savior. We see this truth in the first verse of Paul’s message to the Romans where he identifies himself as “a bondservant of Jesus Christ” and then as one “called to be an apostle” (Rom. 1:1). The secret of Paul’s ministry to the nations as a preacher and an apostle and a teacher (2 Tim. 1:11) is indicated in the order of these words of identification in Romans 1:1. He was first and foremost a bondslave, one utterly surrendered to the ascended Christ, and then he was an apostle, one sent with the message as a preacher and a teacher.
One of the vital principles of the Christian life is that the way up is down, and the way to life is death—death to self and its control. The Lord Jesus is the perfect example of this, who, though being God of very God, took on the form of a bondslave in the form of true humanity and humbled Himself to die in our place that we might have life (Phil. 2:6-8). He, as a servant, came not to be ministered to, but to minister and give His life for our redemption (Mark 10:45). He taught us that becoming a productive servant begins with dying to ourselves as a grain of wheat. He said:
John 12:24-26 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains by itself alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25 He who loves his life loses it; and he who hates his life in this world shall keep it to life eternal. 26 If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall My servant also be; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.
General Eisenhower once rebuked one of his generals for referring to a soldier as “just a private.” He reminded him that the army could function better without its generals than it could without its foot soldiers. “If this war is won,” he said, “it will be won by privates.” In the same way, it is the common, servant-like believer who becomes the very backbone of the body of Christ. We are often overly impressed by our great evangelists and superstar Bible teachers and leaders who stand before large crowds, but if the glorious message of the person and work of Christ is to reach the world, it will be done by a church that functions as bondslaves of the Savior (cf. Luke 12:15; 12:32; 2 Pet. 2:19; 1 John 3:17).
One man tells this story of his experience with hummingbirds:
Recently we put up a hummingbird feeder with four feeding stations. Almost immediately it became popular with the hummingbirds that live in our area. Two, three, or even four birds would feed at one time. We refilled the feeder at least once a day. Suddenly the usage decreased to almost nothing. The feeder needed filling only about once a week. The reason for the decreased usage soon became apparent. A male bird had taken over the feeder as his property. He is now the only hummingbird who uses our feeder. He feeds and then sits in a nearby tree, rising to attack any bird that approaches his feeder. Guard duty occupies his every waking hour. He is an effective guard. The only time another bird gets to use the feeder is when the self-appointed owner is momentarily gone to chase away an intruder.
We soon realized that the hummingbird was teaching us a valuable lesson. By choosing to assume ownership of the feeder, he is forfeiting his freedom. He is no longer free to come and go as he wishes. He is tied to the work of guarding his feeder. He is possessed by his possession. His freedom of action is as circumscribed as if he were in a cage. He is caged by a situation he has created.16
Someone has said, “The true test of a servant’s heart is whether or not I am willing to act like one when I am treated like one.”
The Aim and Purpose of the Communication
“Show” is deiknumi, “to exhibit, disclose, point out.” Again we see an emphasis on disclosing the message of Revelation. God intends for this book to be communicated to His people.
“Shortly” is the Greek en tacei which can mean either of two things. It can mean soon as in the immediate future or in prophetic terms, it can mean imminent, i.e., they could occur at any time or in our day. One must remember the truth of 2 Peter 3:8, that one day is as a thousand years and vice versa from God’s viewpoint. It may also mean “rapidly, quickly, speedily.”
The point is, by comparison to the rest of history, once these things begin to unfold they will occur rapidly (cf. Luke 18:8; Acts 12:7; 22:18; 25:4; Rom. 16:20). There will be no more delays in the plan of God and in His long suffering (cf. Matt. 24:22). A similar word, tacus, is translated six times in Revelation meaning “quickly” which may illustrate the concept (cf. 2:16; 3:11; 11:14; 22:7,12,20). In view of the words “the time is near” in verse 3 (cf. 22:10), it may be best to take en tacei as “soon” and understand it to refer to the imminent return of the Lord. Imminent means “ready to take place, impending.” “The church in every age has always lived with the expectancy of the consummation of all things in its day. Imminency describes an event possible any day, impossible no day.”17 (See Appendix 1 for reasons in support of imminency.)
The Manner of the Communication
“Communicated” is shmainw, meaning “to show, signify, reveal by signs or symbols” as is often the case in this book. But it can also mean to reveal by words without the use of signs or symbols. John was communicated to by both the spoken word and by visions in which he saw things that were full of symbolic meaning as in 1:10-12, but these symbols are designed to be understood according to the normal meaning of the symbols.
The Things Communicated
That which is communicated is first of all defined as the “witness” of John. This is marturew, “to be a witness, act as a witness, testify or bear witness.” It carries the idea of “attestation, verification, validation” and stresses that John was bearing testimony as a witness of what he received. That witness is defined and described in a three-fold way which shows it importance and why we need to pay attention to it message:
(1) “The Word of God”—This book with its visions is called the Word of God and is part of the whole canon of Scripture. It stands in harmony with the rest of Scripture and provides us with the culmination and conclusion. This description stresses its authority and importance to the church. It brings out the concepts of inspiration, canonicity, preservation, and illumination (cf. 1:9; 3:8, 10; 6:9; 12:11; 17:17; 19:9; 20:4).
(2) “The testimony of Jesus Christ”—The word “testimony,” marturia, a noun form of the above marturew, also carries the idea of “attestation, verification, validation.” This could mean “the testimony about Jesus Christ,” an objective genitive, or “the testimony from Jesus Christ,” a subjective genitive. The latter is preferable because of the phrase, “the Word of (from) God,” and the context. The point is John testifies to both the Word of God and to the validation of his message from Jesus himself.”18
(3) “And of all the things which he saw”—The first two defined and described his testimony from the standpoint of its nature or character and source. This calls attention to the many details and areas that he saw and that will be found in the book—the great events and personages which precede and surround Christ’s coming, His kingdom, and His eternal glory.
The Promise, Plan, and Value of the Book (3)
The Promise—Blessing
“Blessed” is makairos, “happy, blessed” (cf. Matt. 5:3). This is a promise of the happiness, spiritual blessing, and joy that will come from knowing and responding to the truth of the book. There are seven beatitudes, the word “blessed” appearing 7 times in the book of Revelation.
Lehman Strauss defines them as: The Blessed Challenge (1:3), The Blessed Comfort (14:13), The Blessed Cautiousness (16:15), The Blessed Calling (19:9), The Blessed Conquest (20:6), The Blessed Cherishing (22:7), The Blessed Conformity (22:14).19
The Plan—Exposition and Application
“He who reads.” Note that this is singular while the next clause, “those who hear,” is plural. This reflects the early form of worship and one of God’s primary plans for taking in the Word. The Scripture was publicly read to the congregation. The early church didn’t have a large number of copies of the Scripture nor any books of the New Testament when they were received, so they would be read and undoubtedly also, expounded on by the pastor and teachers given to the body.
“And those who hear.” In this we see the responsibility of the flock to hear and respond. It is these who are blessed. “Hear” is akouw, “to hear, listen, attend, perceive by hearing, comprehend by hearing.” It includes concentration and learning, and of course, to hear, one must be present when the Word is taught (Heb. 10:25).
“And heed the things …” “Heed” is threw, “to guard, watch over, preserve” or “observe, apply, obey.” In this context, the main idea is that of personal application with obedience.
“The words of this prophecy” and “the things which are written.” Note that “words” and “things” are plural. They point us to the content of the book, but include the various categories and truths that make up the content of Revelation—the person of Christ, the church, the saints, the Tribulation, witnessing, faithfulness, overcoming, the angelic warfare, Israel, Satan, demons, judgments, the millennium, the resurrection, the eternal state, etc.
“Of this prophecy.” In addition to being called the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ, it is called “prophecy.” Prophecy involves not only future events, but also moral and spiritual things that train, exhort, and comfort. It particularly refers to truth received by direct revelation from God (1 Cor. 14:30).
“Which are written in it.” “Written” is in the perfect tense and means “stands written.” The perfect tense stresses the permanence of the record and perhaps its availability. God has made His Word available to us and preserved it in the Canon of Scripture. In the New Testament, the concept of the Word which stands written is found over sixty times.
(1:1-3)
1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show to His bond-servants, the things which must shortly take place; and He sent and communicated it by His angel to His bond-servant John, 2 who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. 3 Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near.
Title and Theme of the Book (1a)
The title of the book is “The Apokalupsis of Jesus Christ.” “Revelation” is the translation of the Greek noun, apokalupsis, meaning “a disclosure, an unveiling.” The term “revelation” itself is derived from the Latin revelatio (from revelare, “to reveal or unveil that which has previously been hidden”).
This was the title assigned to the book in the Latin Vulgate. The Greek title is Apocalypse, taken directly from the first word in the Greek text, apokalupsi. In this noun form the word is not found anywhere else in Greek literature, but as a verb it is continually used in the Gospels and the Epistles, in many different ways, especially in reference to some form of divine revelation to man (as of the Son of Man, in Lk 17:30). It is used by Paul in referring to the same coming event (Rom 8:18; I Cor 1:7; II Thess 1:7), and frequently in I Peter (1:7, 13; 4:13; 5:1). In the Greek text of Daniel this word is often found referring to the uncovering of secrets, or the interpretation of dreams, or the revelation of God (see Dan 2:19, 22, 28, 29, 30, 47; 10:1; 11:35).14
Apokalupsis means “to expose to full view what was before unknown, hidden, and secret.” In its first appearance in the New Testament (Luke 2:32), it is used of Simeon who, taking the baby Jesus in his arms, blessed Him and spoke of Him as “a light to lighten the Gentiles” (KJV). It reminds us that God intends for this book to bring light and to be understood by its readers. This opening clause is a mark of distinction which gives us not only the title, but the theme. Notice that it is not the revelation of John, but of Jesus Christ which was given to John. The common title sometimes used for the book, “The Revelation to John,” merely identifies John as the human author. But how are we to understand the phrase, “of Jesus Christ”?
Grammatically, the words “of Jesus Christ” can be either a genitive of object meaning a revelation “about Jesus Christ,” or a genitive of subject meaning a revelation “from Jesus Christ.” “From Jesus Christ” would point to Christ as the author who gave this to John through His angel (cf. 22:16). Writers differ with some arguing for one or the other of these views. Some would argue that as 22:16 shows, it is from Christ and that the subject is about “things which must shortly come to pass” (vs. 1b). Others say, no, it is a revelation of and about the person of Christ. But grammatically it is likely that “of Jesus Christ” is what grammarians call a plenary genitive and includes both ideas.15 It is a revelation about and from the Lord Jesus. It is a revelation, a disclosure about the Christ Himself. It reveals His present work in the church, and discloses future events, but the events concern the person of Christ Himself and His return and activities associated with His second coming. In support, note the following verses:
* 1:5 — “and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness.”
* 1:7 — “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him,” so we have an unveiling.
* 1:13f — Reveals Christ’s ministry in the middle of the lampstands.
* 5:5-6 — Reveals Jesus Christ as the Lion and the Lamb.
* 6:14f — Reveals the unveiling of the Lamb on the throne and His wrath.
* 19:10 — Reveals the return of the Lord as King of kings.
The Communication of the Book (1b-2)
The Chain of Communication
In keeping with the teaching of the New Testament regarding the procession of the ministries of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we see the headship of the Father who initiates this revelation through the Son (cf. 1 Cor. 11:3). First, it proceeds from the Father to the Son—“which God gave to Him.” For other Scriptures supporting the doctrine of procession see John 3:34, 35; 5:20-24; 7:16; 14:10, 24; 16:15).
Second, the communication proceeds from the Son through an angel, “and He sent and communicated it by His angel.” The term angel, angelos, is found 175 times in 171 verses of the New Testament. Though some verses refer to men, the vast majority refer to angelic beings. This prominence shows the importance of angels in the worship of God, in the communication of revelation to man, and in the execution of God’s purposes and judgments.
Angels were often God’s instruments of communication or his messengers which is the basic meaning of the word, “angel” (Heb. 2:2; Acts 7:53). They will again be used as God’s special messengers in the time described in Revelation 6-19. Angelos is used seven times of the angel or messenger to the seven churches in chapters 2-3, though in these chapters, it refers most likely to a human messenger, someone responsible for communicating the Word in each of the seven churches. The prominent idea is a messenger, an instrument of communication used by God.
There is a great deal of interest today in angels. Numerous books have been written about angels and so-called angelic encounters. Little figures of what angels are supposed to look like are a very popular item in the stores and not just around Christmas time. But we need to be careful about this interest in angels since Satan, who disguises himself as an angel of light, surely has fallen angels under his command who do the same and pose as instruments of good, even claiming revelation from God (2 Cor. 11:14-15). One of the largest cults in the world today claims it was begun because of an encounter with an angel; and shortly after the time of Paul, a false system of religion arose called gnosticism in which there was an intricate belief system in angels. Paul seems to warn about this system in its incipient form in Colossians 2:18-19.
An extremely interesting statement and a very timely one for any generation, but especially for our society, is found in Galatians 1:8. “But even though we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to that which we have preached to you, let him be accursed.” Since the fall of Satan, no true angel from heaven would ever preach a false gospel, but hypothetically speaking, should one do so, Paul says he is to be accursed, devoted to destruction as are all the fallen angels or demonic beings (Matt. 25:41). The good angels are servants who do many tasks for God, but above all, they are messengers, as the name implies, who are responsible to witness truthfully to the person of the Lord Jesus. Three characteristics of angels: (a) they will agree with and bear testimony to the message of the Bible regarding the person and work of Christ (Rev. 1:1-2; 19:10), (b) they will always honor God and never seek honor for themselves (Rev. 19:10), and (c) they act on God’s behalf to do His will and often for the sake of Israel and the church as is so evident in the book of Daniel (10:13f; 12:1) and Revelation (see also Heb. 1:7, 14; Ps. 103:20).
Third, the communication comes from the angel as the Lord’s messenger to John who is called His bond-servant (vs. 1) (cf. Rev. 17:1; 19:9f; 21:9; 22:6,8,16).
Finally, the communication of the book is from John to the body of Christ. This is seen in the words, “to show to his bond servants” (vs. 1), and in the words, “to the seven churches …” in verse 4. “Bondservants” is the Greek word, doulos, a significant term especially when applied to the people of God. The bondservant was one who was owned by his master lock, stock, and barrel. He was totally under the authority and power of his master and dependent on him for everything—his responsibilities, his daily food, housing, and supplies, and his purpose in life. Ironically, however, it is in this servitude to Christ that we experience true freedom—freedom from bondage to sin, self, Satan, and the religion of the world. But it is not just a freedom from something. It is also a freedom to be something, a freedom to know, serve, and walk with God in the peace and righteousness of Christ choosing to serve Him rather than sin.
Perhaps the use of the terms “angel” (messenger) and “bond-servant” should remind us of two key areas of truth that are related as root to fruit. They remind us of what both angels and men should be, especially the body of Christ which has been left on earth to represent the Lord Jesus as His messengers. We are to be instruments of light as portrayed in the symbol of the lampstand. This means we are messengers of Christ and servants of God, but our willingness and ability to be effective as messengers of the message of the Savior as was John is greatly dependent on truly living as bondservants of the Savior. We see this truth in the first verse of Paul’s message to the Romans where he identifies himself as “a bondservant of Jesus Christ” and then as one “called to be an apostle” (Rom. 1:1). The secret of Paul’s ministry to the nations as a preacher and an apostle and a teacher (2 Tim. 1:11) is indicated in the order of these words of identification in Romans 1:1. He was first and foremost a bondslave, one utterly surrendered to the ascended Christ, and then he was an apostle, one sent with the message as a preacher and a teacher.
One of the vital principles of the Christian life is that the way up is down, and the way to life is death—death to self and its control. The Lord Jesus is the perfect example of this, who, though being God of very God, took on the form of a bondslave in the form of true humanity and humbled Himself to die in our place that we might have life (Phil. 2:6-8). He, as a servant, came not to be ministered to, but to minister and give His life for our redemption (Mark 10:45). He taught us that becoming a productive servant begins with dying to ourselves as a grain of wheat. He said:
John 12:24-26 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains by itself alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25 He who loves his life loses it; and he who hates his life in this world shall keep it to life eternal. 26 If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall My servant also be; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.
General Eisenhower once rebuked one of his generals for referring to a soldier as “just a private.” He reminded him that the army could function better without its generals than it could without its foot soldiers. “If this war is won,” he said, “it will be won by privates.” In the same way, it is the common, servant-like believer who becomes the very backbone of the body of Christ. We are often overly impressed by our great evangelists and superstar Bible teachers and leaders who stand before large crowds, but if the glorious message of the person and work of Christ is to reach the world, it will be done by a church that functions as bondslaves of the Savior (cf. Luke 12:15; 12:32; 2 Pet. 2:19; 1 John 3:17).
One man tells this story of his experience with hummingbirds:
Recently we put up a hummingbird feeder with four feeding stations. Almost immediately it became popular with the hummingbirds that live in our area. Two, three, or even four birds would feed at one time. We refilled the feeder at least once a day. Suddenly the usage decreased to almost nothing. The feeder needed filling only about once a week. The reason for the decreased usage soon became apparent. A male bird had taken over the feeder as his property. He is now the only hummingbird who uses our feeder. He feeds and then sits in a nearby tree, rising to attack any bird that approaches his feeder. Guard duty occupies his every waking hour. He is an effective guard. The only time another bird gets to use the feeder is when the self-appointed owner is momentarily gone to chase away an intruder.
We soon realized that the hummingbird was teaching us a valuable lesson. By choosing to assume ownership of the feeder, he is forfeiting his freedom. He is no longer free to come and go as he wishes. He is tied to the work of guarding his feeder. He is possessed by his possession. His freedom of action is as circumscribed as if he were in a cage. He is caged by a situation he has created.16
Someone has said, “The true test of a servant’s heart is whether or not I am willing to act like one when I am treated like one.”
The Aim and Purpose of the Communication
“Show” is deiknumi, “to exhibit, disclose, point out.” Again we see an emphasis on disclosing the message of Revelation. God intends for this book to be communicated to His people.
“Shortly” is the Greek en tacei which can mean either of two things. It can mean soon as in the immediate future or in prophetic terms, it can mean imminent, i.e., they could occur at any time or in our day. One must remember the truth of 2 Peter 3:8, that one day is as a thousand years and vice versa from God’s viewpoint. It may also mean “rapidly, quickly, speedily.”
The point is, by comparison to the rest of history, once these things begin to unfold they will occur rapidly (cf. Luke 18:8; Acts 12:7; 22:18; 25:4; Rom. 16:20). There will be no more delays in the plan of God and in His long suffering (cf. Matt. 24:22). A similar word, tacus, is translated six times in Revelation meaning “quickly” which may illustrate the concept (cf. 2:16; 3:11; 11:14; 22:7,12,20). In view of the words “the time is near” in verse 3 (cf. 22:10), it may be best to take en tacei as “soon” and understand it to refer to the imminent return of the Lord. Imminent means “ready to take place, impending.” “The church in every age has always lived with the expectancy of the consummation of all things in its day. Imminency describes an event possible any day, impossible no day.”17 (See Appendix 1 for reasons in support of imminency.)
The Manner of the Communication
“Communicated” is shmainw, meaning “to show, signify, reveal by signs or symbols” as is often the case in this book. But it can also mean to reveal by words without the use of signs or symbols. John was communicated to by both the spoken word and by visions in which he saw things that were full of symbolic meaning as in 1:10-12, but these symbols are designed to be understood according to the normal meaning of the symbols.
The Things Communicated
That which is communicated is first of all defined as the “witness” of John. This is marturew, “to be a witness, act as a witness, testify or bear witness.” It carries the idea of “attestation, verification, validation” and stresses that John was bearing testimony as a witness of what he received. That witness is defined and described in a three-fold way which shows it importance and why we need to pay attention to it message:
(1) “The Word of God”—This book with its visions is called the Word of God and is part of the whole canon of Scripture. It stands in harmony with the rest of Scripture and provides us with the culmination and conclusion. This description stresses its authority and importance to the church. It brings out the concepts of inspiration, canonicity, preservation, and illumination (cf. 1:9; 3:8, 10; 6:9; 12:11; 17:17; 19:9; 20:4).
(2) “The testimony of Jesus Christ”—The word “testimony,” marturia, a noun form of the above marturew, also carries the idea of “attestation, verification, validation.” This could mean “the testimony about Jesus Christ,” an objective genitive, or “the testimony from Jesus Christ,” a subjective genitive. The latter is preferable because of the phrase, “the Word of (from) God,” and the context. The point is John testifies to both the Word of God and to the validation of his message from Jesus himself.”18
(3) “And of all the things which he saw”—The first two defined and described his testimony from the standpoint of its nature or character and source. This calls attention to the many details and areas that he saw and that will be found in the book—the great events and personages which precede and surround Christ’s coming, His kingdom, and His eternal glory.
The Promise, Plan, and Value of the Book (3)
The Promise—Blessing
“Blessed” is makairos, “happy, blessed” (cf. Matt. 5:3). This is a promise of the happiness, spiritual blessing, and joy that will come from knowing and responding to the truth of the book. There are seven beatitudes, the word “blessed” appearing 7 times in the book of Revelation.
Lehman Strauss defines them as: The Blessed Challenge (1:3), The Blessed Comfort (14:13), The Blessed Cautiousness (16:15), The Blessed Calling (19:9), The Blessed Conquest (20:6), The Blessed Cherishing (22:7), The Blessed Conformity (22:14).19
The Plan—Exposition and Application
“He who reads.” Note that this is singular while the next clause, “those who hear,” is plural. This reflects the early form of worship and one of God’s primary plans for taking in the Word. The Scripture was publicly read to the congregation. The early church didn’t have a large number of copies of the Scripture nor any books of the New Testament when they were received, so they would be read and undoubtedly also, expounded on by the pastor and teachers given to the body.
“And those who hear.” In this we see the responsibility of the flock to hear and respond. It is these who are blessed. “Hear” is akouw, “to hear, listen, attend, perceive by hearing, comprehend by hearing.” It includes concentration and learning, and of course, to hear, one must be present when the Word is taught (Heb. 10:25).
“And heed the things …” “Heed” is threw, “to guard, watch over, preserve” or “observe, apply, obey.” In this context, the main idea is that of personal application with obedience.
“The words of this prophecy” and “the things which are written.” Note that “words” and “things” are plural. They point us to the content of the book, but include the various categories and truths that make up the content of Revelation—the person of Christ, the church, the saints, the Tribulation, witnessing, faithfulness, overcoming, the angelic warfare, Israel, Satan, demons, judgments, the millennium, the resurrection, the eternal state, etc.
“Of this prophecy.” In addition to being called the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ, it is called “prophecy.” Prophecy involves not only future events, but also moral and spiritual things that train, exhort, and comfort. It particularly refers to truth received by direct revelation from God (1 Cor. 14:30).
“Which are written in it.” “Written” is in the perfect tense and means “stands written.” The perfect tense stresses the permanence of the record and perhaps its availability. God has made His Word available to us and preserved it in the Canon of Scripture. In the New Testament, the concept of the Word which stands written is found over sixty times.
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The Value—Its Timeliness
“For the time is as hand.” “Time” is kairos and refers to a definite season or period of time, but one that is marked out by its contents or characteristics. The time in mind is the time of Christ’s return marked out by all that will happen just before, during, and after (1:19).
“Is near” is engus which includes: (1) near as to place, close by, like the car near the garage, and (2), near as to time, soon. The idea is “near from the standpoint of prophetic revelation, i.e., next.” Again we see God’s reckoning of time (2 Pet. 3:8-9). The next phase of God’s program for the earth will be the events of this Revelation. The world is ever coming closer to this awesome time. The value of this book is that it provides orientation to the times, motivation to ministry and godliness, comfort, and instruction.
The Salutation
(1:4-8)
4 John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace, from Him who is and who was and who is to come; and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne; 5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first-born of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us, and released us from our sins by His blood, 6 and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father; to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 7 Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. Even so. Amen. 8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
The Writer (4a)
“John.” The human author is John the Apostle (1:4a). “The Hebrew idioms in the book, the authority of the author in relation to the churches, the use of distinctively Johannine terms like logos and “Lamb of God,” and the corroboration of Irenaeus, Origen, Tertullian and Clement all affirm that the Apostle John was the author of this book.”20 Every New Testament book was written by an apostle or by one who was closely associated with an apostle, i.e., like Luke who was a companion of the Apostle Paul. This was one of the marks of inspiration and necessary for recognition of a book into the canon of Scripture.
The Recipients (4a)
“To the seven churches in Asia” (1:4b). The whole book is addressed to seven historical churches in the province of Asia Minor. This fact should prevent anyone from saying that Revelation is nothing more than a piece of poetic idealism.21 As will be discussed later, these seven in their historical situation are representative of the church at any particular point in history. Chapters two and three contain specific letters to these seven churches with special warnings, exhortations, commendations, and instructions.
The Greeting (4b)
“Grace to you and peace.” First, we should note the order of God’s blessings: Grace, then peace. Peace is always the product of knowing and appropriating the grace of God in Christ. This order can never be changed. Ignore the grace of God and you forfeit the peace of God (cf. Heb. 12:14 with vs. 15). Peace is the product of grace (2 Pet. 1:2-4; 1 Pet. 3:18). Peter exhorts us, “but grow in the grace and knowledge of …” The more we experience the grace of God, the more capacity we have to experience the variegated aspects of God’s peace. Though the message of Revelation is primarily one of judgment, this benediction of grace and peace is notable. God here seeks to comfort and strengthen His people. Knowing this book brings a greater capacity to understand God’s grace in his patience during this age and even in the events of the future for God does not wish for any to perish, but to come to repentance (2 Pet. 3:9). Having a grasp of God’s program for the future also gives peace.
For an overview of the nature of grace and peace, see Appendix 2.
The Source of the Divine Blessings (4d-8)
Note that the preposition, “from,” is used three times in verses 4 and 5. This points us to three distinct and separate ministries found in the distinct ministries of the trinity.
From the Timeless and Eternal One
We should note in passing that this designation of God corresponds to the division of the book given in Revelation 1:19, the things past, the things present, and the things to come. It reminds us that He is the God of history. This should comfort and strengthen as we study about all that has, is, and will happen in the future. Behind it all is the eternal and sovereign God of the Bible.
“Who is” is literally “the one who is.” It ascribes the fact and quality of continual existence as a distinctive and emphatic quality of God’s being and essence. He is the “I Am” of the Old Testament.
“And who was.” “Was” is the imperfect of the verb “to be” and refers to God’s continual existence in past time. It stresses the Father has always been.
“And is to come” is literally “the one coming” or “the coming one.” The Greek construction again describes a fact and quality that characterizes God. It speaks of the future coming of God to take control of all things in a world that has been in open rebellion. He is coming to put down His enemies and establish His reign through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ (see 1 Cor. 15:20-28).
From the Seven Spirits
The number seven, occurring 54 times in the book, appears more frequently than any other number. In the Bible it is associated with completion, fulfillment, and perfection (cf. Gen. 2:2; Ex. 20:10; Lev. 14:7; Acts 6:3). In Revelation there are seven churches and seven spirits (1:4), seven lampstands (1:12), seven stars (1:16), seven seals on the scroll (5:1), seven horns and seven eyes of the Lamb (5:6), seven angels and seven trumpets (8:2), seven thunders (10:3), seven heads of the dragon (12:3), seven heads of the beast (13:1), seven golden bowls (15:7), and seven kings (17:10).22
“The seven Spirits.” To whom or what does this refer? Some take this to refer to the seven angels who are before the throne, but it seems best to understand this as a reference to the Holy Spirit and the perfection or fullness of His actions and the manifold nature of His ministry. This fits both the context and the analogy of Scripture as demonstrated below:
(1) The book is presented as coming from three sources who seem to be presented as equal with one another. The last of these is clearly defined as Jesus Christ, the third member of the trinity. If the first is the Father, and the third is the Son, the second would in all probability be the Holy Spirit rather than seven angels. First, because only the Holy Spirit is equal with the Father and the Son, and second, though angels are involved in the visions of the revelation, only one angel was really involved in specific communication of the book to John (cf. 1:1).
(2) Because the obvious parallel to the seven-fold ministries portrayed in Isaiah 11:2.
Why then is the Holy Spirit referred to as seven spirits? There is only one Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:4), but in the Bible, seven is consistently associated with perfection, fulfillment, and completeness. Evidently, because Revelation is the final book of the Bible, the culmination, the fulfillment, and climax of the ages. The number seven becomes prominent to demonstrate this.
From Jesus Christ, the God-man Savior
In verses 5a-7 there is a three-fold emphasis on Christ’s person and work to draw attention to who He is, what He has done, and will do.
Appellatives (titles) of Jesus Christ (5a)
(1) Our Prophet—the faithful witness. The Greek text is very emphatic. Literally it reads, “the witness, the faithful One.” This stresses the character of His witness as faithful. The Lord Jesus is the logos, the very revelation of God to man (cf. John 1:1, 14, 18). He answers man’s need of the ideal prophet or spokesman and revelation from and for God (Deut. 18:15-22).
(2) Our Priest—the firstborn of the dead. First, since He could not be the firstborn from among the dead without dying, this statement must first look back to Christ’s substitutionary death for the sin of the world (Heb. 5:1-10; 9:11-14; 10:14). Second, the firstborn from the dead is also an obvious reference to the fact of the resurrection. By the resurrection God the Father verified His acceptance of Christ’s offering of Himself by raising Him to prove our justification (Acts 2:23-24, 31-32; 4:25), prove to the world that He is God’s Son (Rom. 1:4), and prove that this Jesus will judge the world (Rom. 17:31). Third, the mention of the firstborn points to Him as our forerunner in resurrection. The first one brought forth from the dead in a glorified body is a promise that more will follow. The Lord Jesus is God’s guarantee of our resurrection and glorification (John 11:24-26).
(3) Our King—the ruler of the kings of the earth. “The ruler” is literally “the one who rules …” or “the ruling one …” It ascribes the quality of rule to Him and characterizes Him as the one who rules, the ruler (cf. 19:16). It is a rule that is going on now and it is a rule over all governments even though the world lies in rebellion and unbelief. Nations, kings, and governments rise and fall by His sovereign authority and power (cf. Matt. 28:18). Compare Daniel 2:20,21; 4:17; 5:18.
So Christ is now seated at God’s right hand, having spoiled Satan and Satan’s demonic hosts by His death and resurrection. But one day He will rise from His seat and begin to take the reigns of control through the events of the Tribulation (cf. Dan. 2:44; Rev. 4; 5; 11:15-17).
Accolades (praise) to Jesus Christ (5b-7)
(1) For His present ministry—“who loves us.” The Greek text uses one article with two adjectival participles which descriptively portray the person, work, and ministry of the Lord. Literally—“the one who loves, … and who released us, …” The construction of the Greek text ascribes Christ’s love for us as a constant quality and characteristic. It speaks of His constant care and ministry on our behalf.
(2) For His past ministry—“who released us … and made us a kingdom, priests to His God and Father.” “Released” looks at a past historic fact. It looks at this as an accomplished fact, as something that does not need repeating and Scripture strongly stresses this in the truth of the finished work of Christ. Again, it is a descriptive participle only now in the aorist tense. It is descriptive, classifying Christ as the Releaser, the one and only one who has accomplished what is necessary to release men from the penalty and power of sin.
The object of the releasing is “us,” a reference to believers in Christ, but it is available to any who will put their trust in the Savior (John 3:16).
The verb is luw, “to untie, set free, release.” It stresses that man, apart from Jesus Christ and His work on the cross is in bondage, chained to his sin problem: both its penalty (physical, spiritual, and eternal death) and its power (weakness and domination by a sinful nature). Some MSS have “washed us” from louw, “to wash.”
“From” is the Greek word ek, a preposition meaning “from, out of, away from.” It is a preposition of separation.
“Our sins” stresses two things: First, that the problem facing man is sin, imputed sin, inherent sin, and individual. Man’s problem is not the lack of a great society. Man is a fallen creature and this has caused both man’s separation from a holy God and the corruption of society. In himself, mankind does not have what it needs to rectify its problems. Only Christ, the sin releaser can do that. Second, it stresses that the sin problem is personal. Every person is up against the eight ball of sin and needs the saving grace of God (Rom. 3:23).
“By His blood” is a metonymy for the work of the Christ on the cross, His substitutionary death by which He dealt with the sin problem. Compare for instance, “the pen (a symbol of literary power) is mightier than the sword” (a symbol of military power).
As we think about this, we should be reminded of the total effects of what we have been separated from by His death in our place. The separation includes: (a) the PLACE from which separation takes place—Satan’s Kingdom (Col. 1:13), (b) the COMPANY from which separation takes place—Satan’s World System (John 17:15-17), (c) the CIRCUMSTANCES out of which one is brought—the Penalty and Power of sin and death—(Rom. 6:1f; Eph. 2:1f; Heb. 2:14, 15), and (d) the PERSONS with whom a connection is severed—the Son’s of disobedience (Eph. 2:2f; 5:6f).
“And He has made us a kingdom …” “Kingdom” is singular. Not kings, but a kingdom. It is collective and stresses our relationship to each other as believers and to Christ as our king. A kingdom is a place of rule. We are a kingdom, a people in whom God is to rule and who will one day reign with Christ, but because of the word “priests,” that’s not the focus here.
“Priests” is plural. Here we see our individual position, responsibility, and the purpose of this kingdom. We are a kingdom of priests to God who are to represent Him to the world. We have a collective priesthood, but every believer is a ministering priest before God. This is a far cry from what we so often see in churches today where the pastor is viewed as the minister and the people see themselves only as laymen or lay people.
“To Him be glory and dominion …” Before John turns to His future ministry and the keynote of the book—Christ’s coming again—there is a doxology of praise which both concludes what has been said and introduces what is about to be said regarding Christ’s return.
“To Him” is what we can call a dative of possession. It points us to that which rightly belongs to Christ. In this we see the great purpose of our lives.
“Be the glory.” This is the Greek doxa and refers to that which should accrue to Christ, the praise, the adoration, the rule, the respect and worship because of who He is and what He has done.
“And the dominion.” This is the Greek kratos. It means (a) power, might, and (b) rule, sovereignty.
“For ever and ever.” Man’s rule as given to him by God was lost in the garden of Eden, but never again once the Lord, the God-Man Savior, assumes His reign on earth at His second coming.
(3) For His future ministry—“Behold, He is coming with the clouds …”
“Behold” is designed to arrest our attention and get us to focus on this as the great theme of Revelation. He is coming for us (1 Thess. 4:13-18) and then with us to earth (Rev. 19:11-16), but in between, He is coming to judge the world for its rebellion (Rev. 6-19:10).
“Is coming” is the present tense of the verb, ercomai, “to come, go.” This is a future present used to denote an event which has not yet occurred, but which is regarded as so certain that in thought it is viewed as already occurring or accomplished.
“With the clouds” reminds us of Acts 1:9f and the promise of the angels at the ascension of the Lord Jesus. This may have been the Shekinah glory of God and it could be so here. There will be clouds, but clouds of the glory of God manifesting the coming glory of the Lord to rule and take up the reigns of government over the earth in a visible way (cf. Matt. 24:30).
“Every eye” simply points out that all mankind will see this in contrast to the ascension which was seen only by the disciples.
“Those who pierced Him.” In the light of Zechariah 12:10, this refers primarily to the Jews who asked for His death, but it could also refer to the Romans who carried out the sentence. In essence we all caused His death because of our sin.
“And all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him.” Literally “and they shall wail over Him” (Matt. 24:30). The Greek word is koptw and means literally “to beat the breast in wailing and mourning.” For some it will be the mourning of repentance. For others it will be the mourning over the judgments that He will pour out on the earth and sinners.
The Benediction to the Greeting (7c-8)
The benediction begins with the words of verse 7, “even so, amen.” This confirms what has been said and introduces what is to follow.
“Even so” is the Greek nai, a particle of affirmation. It confirms the sure return of the Lord and the statements made about Him.
“Amen” means “to be firm, sure, true.” It is a further affirmation of the promise of the verse.
There is some disagreement about who is here speaking. Ryrie thinks this verse refers to the Father and is His affirmation of the Son. Others as Walvoord, believe it speaks of the Son.
Reasons in favor of this as a reference to the Son are: (a) He is the central person of the first chapter, and (b) in verse 17 Christ uses a similar expression of Himself when he says, “I am the first and the last.” (c) Finally, toward the close of the book two expressions are united and applied by Christ to Himself which seems to identify Him as the one speaking here (cf. 22:6, 22:13, and Isa. 44:6). This authenticates who He is—God Almighty.
However, since this follows the salutation which comes from the trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, perhaps it could be from the Godhead itself.
“I Am the Alpha and Omega.” These are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. It is equivalent to our A and Z. This does not relate so much to time but to truth. It expressed the extent of God’s knowledge and wisdom (Col. 2:3). It stresses Christ’s or the Godhead’s omniscience or infinite knowledge and wisdom. This stands then as a strong authentication of the book of Revelation because it comes from the Alpha (a) and Omega (w).
“The Almighty” is the Greek pantokratwr from pas, “all” and kratos, “might, power.” It stresses God’s omnipotence, but also God’s sovereign supremacy over all things. It declares God’s supremacy over all the universe. The word was used in secular literature to describe the attributes of the gods and John is probably using it here in contrast to the Roman emperor’s self-designation as the autokrator.
“For the time is as hand.” “Time” is kairos and refers to a definite season or period of time, but one that is marked out by its contents or characteristics. The time in mind is the time of Christ’s return marked out by all that will happen just before, during, and after (1:19).
“Is near” is engus which includes: (1) near as to place, close by, like the car near the garage, and (2), near as to time, soon. The idea is “near from the standpoint of prophetic revelation, i.e., next.” Again we see God’s reckoning of time (2 Pet. 3:8-9). The next phase of God’s program for the earth will be the events of this Revelation. The world is ever coming closer to this awesome time. The value of this book is that it provides orientation to the times, motivation to ministry and godliness, comfort, and instruction.
The Salutation
(1:4-8)
4 John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace, from Him who is and who was and who is to come; and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne; 5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first-born of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us, and released us from our sins by His blood, 6 and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father; to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 7 Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. Even so. Amen. 8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
The Writer (4a)
“John.” The human author is John the Apostle (1:4a). “The Hebrew idioms in the book, the authority of the author in relation to the churches, the use of distinctively Johannine terms like logos and “Lamb of God,” and the corroboration of Irenaeus, Origen, Tertullian and Clement all affirm that the Apostle John was the author of this book.”20 Every New Testament book was written by an apostle or by one who was closely associated with an apostle, i.e., like Luke who was a companion of the Apostle Paul. This was one of the marks of inspiration and necessary for recognition of a book into the canon of Scripture.
The Recipients (4a)
“To the seven churches in Asia” (1:4b). The whole book is addressed to seven historical churches in the province of Asia Minor. This fact should prevent anyone from saying that Revelation is nothing more than a piece of poetic idealism.21 As will be discussed later, these seven in their historical situation are representative of the church at any particular point in history. Chapters two and three contain specific letters to these seven churches with special warnings, exhortations, commendations, and instructions.
The Greeting (4b)
“Grace to you and peace.” First, we should note the order of God’s blessings: Grace, then peace. Peace is always the product of knowing and appropriating the grace of God in Christ. This order can never be changed. Ignore the grace of God and you forfeit the peace of God (cf. Heb. 12:14 with vs. 15). Peace is the product of grace (2 Pet. 1:2-4; 1 Pet. 3:18). Peter exhorts us, “but grow in the grace and knowledge of …” The more we experience the grace of God, the more capacity we have to experience the variegated aspects of God’s peace. Though the message of Revelation is primarily one of judgment, this benediction of grace and peace is notable. God here seeks to comfort and strengthen His people. Knowing this book brings a greater capacity to understand God’s grace in his patience during this age and even in the events of the future for God does not wish for any to perish, but to come to repentance (2 Pet. 3:9). Having a grasp of God’s program for the future also gives peace.
For an overview of the nature of grace and peace, see Appendix 2.
The Source of the Divine Blessings (4d-8)
Note that the preposition, “from,” is used three times in verses 4 and 5. This points us to three distinct and separate ministries found in the distinct ministries of the trinity.
From the Timeless and Eternal One
We should note in passing that this designation of God corresponds to the division of the book given in Revelation 1:19, the things past, the things present, and the things to come. It reminds us that He is the God of history. This should comfort and strengthen as we study about all that has, is, and will happen in the future. Behind it all is the eternal and sovereign God of the Bible.
“Who is” is literally “the one who is.” It ascribes the fact and quality of continual existence as a distinctive and emphatic quality of God’s being and essence. He is the “I Am” of the Old Testament.
“And who was.” “Was” is the imperfect of the verb “to be” and refers to God’s continual existence in past time. It stresses the Father has always been.
“And is to come” is literally “the one coming” or “the coming one.” The Greek construction again describes a fact and quality that characterizes God. It speaks of the future coming of God to take control of all things in a world that has been in open rebellion. He is coming to put down His enemies and establish His reign through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ (see 1 Cor. 15:20-28).
From the Seven Spirits
The number seven, occurring 54 times in the book, appears more frequently than any other number. In the Bible it is associated with completion, fulfillment, and perfection (cf. Gen. 2:2; Ex. 20:10; Lev. 14:7; Acts 6:3). In Revelation there are seven churches and seven spirits (1:4), seven lampstands (1:12), seven stars (1:16), seven seals on the scroll (5:1), seven horns and seven eyes of the Lamb (5:6), seven angels and seven trumpets (8:2), seven thunders (10:3), seven heads of the dragon (12:3), seven heads of the beast (13:1), seven golden bowls (15:7), and seven kings (17:10).22
“The seven Spirits.” To whom or what does this refer? Some take this to refer to the seven angels who are before the throne, but it seems best to understand this as a reference to the Holy Spirit and the perfection or fullness of His actions and the manifold nature of His ministry. This fits both the context and the analogy of Scripture as demonstrated below:
(1) The book is presented as coming from three sources who seem to be presented as equal with one another. The last of these is clearly defined as Jesus Christ, the third member of the trinity. If the first is the Father, and the third is the Son, the second would in all probability be the Holy Spirit rather than seven angels. First, because only the Holy Spirit is equal with the Father and the Son, and second, though angels are involved in the visions of the revelation, only one angel was really involved in specific communication of the book to John (cf. 1:1).
(2) Because the obvious parallel to the seven-fold ministries portrayed in Isaiah 11:2.
Why then is the Holy Spirit referred to as seven spirits? There is only one Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:4), but in the Bible, seven is consistently associated with perfection, fulfillment, and completeness. Evidently, because Revelation is the final book of the Bible, the culmination, the fulfillment, and climax of the ages. The number seven becomes prominent to demonstrate this.
From Jesus Christ, the God-man Savior
In verses 5a-7 there is a three-fold emphasis on Christ’s person and work to draw attention to who He is, what He has done, and will do.
Appellatives (titles) of Jesus Christ (5a)
(1) Our Prophet—the faithful witness. The Greek text is very emphatic. Literally it reads, “the witness, the faithful One.” This stresses the character of His witness as faithful. The Lord Jesus is the logos, the very revelation of God to man (cf. John 1:1, 14, 18). He answers man’s need of the ideal prophet or spokesman and revelation from and for God (Deut. 18:15-22).
(2) Our Priest—the firstborn of the dead. First, since He could not be the firstborn from among the dead without dying, this statement must first look back to Christ’s substitutionary death for the sin of the world (Heb. 5:1-10; 9:11-14; 10:14). Second, the firstborn from the dead is also an obvious reference to the fact of the resurrection. By the resurrection God the Father verified His acceptance of Christ’s offering of Himself by raising Him to prove our justification (Acts 2:23-24, 31-32; 4:25), prove to the world that He is God’s Son (Rom. 1:4), and prove that this Jesus will judge the world (Rom. 17:31). Third, the mention of the firstborn points to Him as our forerunner in resurrection. The first one brought forth from the dead in a glorified body is a promise that more will follow. The Lord Jesus is God’s guarantee of our resurrection and glorification (John 11:24-26).
(3) Our King—the ruler of the kings of the earth. “The ruler” is literally “the one who rules …” or “the ruling one …” It ascribes the quality of rule to Him and characterizes Him as the one who rules, the ruler (cf. 19:16). It is a rule that is going on now and it is a rule over all governments even though the world lies in rebellion and unbelief. Nations, kings, and governments rise and fall by His sovereign authority and power (cf. Matt. 28:18). Compare Daniel 2:20,21; 4:17; 5:18.
So Christ is now seated at God’s right hand, having spoiled Satan and Satan’s demonic hosts by His death and resurrection. But one day He will rise from His seat and begin to take the reigns of control through the events of the Tribulation (cf. Dan. 2:44; Rev. 4; 5; 11:15-17).
Accolades (praise) to Jesus Christ (5b-7)
(1) For His present ministry—“who loves us.” The Greek text uses one article with two adjectival participles which descriptively portray the person, work, and ministry of the Lord. Literally—“the one who loves, … and who released us, …” The construction of the Greek text ascribes Christ’s love for us as a constant quality and characteristic. It speaks of His constant care and ministry on our behalf.
(2) For His past ministry—“who released us … and made us a kingdom, priests to His God and Father.” “Released” looks at a past historic fact. It looks at this as an accomplished fact, as something that does not need repeating and Scripture strongly stresses this in the truth of the finished work of Christ. Again, it is a descriptive participle only now in the aorist tense. It is descriptive, classifying Christ as the Releaser, the one and only one who has accomplished what is necessary to release men from the penalty and power of sin.
The object of the releasing is “us,” a reference to believers in Christ, but it is available to any who will put their trust in the Savior (John 3:16).
The verb is luw, “to untie, set free, release.” It stresses that man, apart from Jesus Christ and His work on the cross is in bondage, chained to his sin problem: both its penalty (physical, spiritual, and eternal death) and its power (weakness and domination by a sinful nature). Some MSS have “washed us” from louw, “to wash.”
“From” is the Greek word ek, a preposition meaning “from, out of, away from.” It is a preposition of separation.
“Our sins” stresses two things: First, that the problem facing man is sin, imputed sin, inherent sin, and individual. Man’s problem is not the lack of a great society. Man is a fallen creature and this has caused both man’s separation from a holy God and the corruption of society. In himself, mankind does not have what it needs to rectify its problems. Only Christ, the sin releaser can do that. Second, it stresses that the sin problem is personal. Every person is up against the eight ball of sin and needs the saving grace of God (Rom. 3:23).
“By His blood” is a metonymy for the work of the Christ on the cross, His substitutionary death by which He dealt with the sin problem. Compare for instance, “the pen (a symbol of literary power) is mightier than the sword” (a symbol of military power).
As we think about this, we should be reminded of the total effects of what we have been separated from by His death in our place. The separation includes: (a) the PLACE from which separation takes place—Satan’s Kingdom (Col. 1:13), (b) the COMPANY from which separation takes place—Satan’s World System (John 17:15-17), (c) the CIRCUMSTANCES out of which one is brought—the Penalty and Power of sin and death—(Rom. 6:1f; Eph. 2:1f; Heb. 2:14, 15), and (d) the PERSONS with whom a connection is severed—the Son’s of disobedience (Eph. 2:2f; 5:6f).
“And He has made us a kingdom …” “Kingdom” is singular. Not kings, but a kingdom. It is collective and stresses our relationship to each other as believers and to Christ as our king. A kingdom is a place of rule. We are a kingdom, a people in whom God is to rule and who will one day reign with Christ, but because of the word “priests,” that’s not the focus here.
“Priests” is plural. Here we see our individual position, responsibility, and the purpose of this kingdom. We are a kingdom of priests to God who are to represent Him to the world. We have a collective priesthood, but every believer is a ministering priest before God. This is a far cry from what we so often see in churches today where the pastor is viewed as the minister and the people see themselves only as laymen or lay people.
“To Him be glory and dominion …” Before John turns to His future ministry and the keynote of the book—Christ’s coming again—there is a doxology of praise which both concludes what has been said and introduces what is about to be said regarding Christ’s return.
“To Him” is what we can call a dative of possession. It points us to that which rightly belongs to Christ. In this we see the great purpose of our lives.
“Be the glory.” This is the Greek doxa and refers to that which should accrue to Christ, the praise, the adoration, the rule, the respect and worship because of who He is and what He has done.
“And the dominion.” This is the Greek kratos. It means (a) power, might, and (b) rule, sovereignty.
“For ever and ever.” Man’s rule as given to him by God was lost in the garden of Eden, but never again once the Lord, the God-Man Savior, assumes His reign on earth at His second coming.
(3) For His future ministry—“Behold, He is coming with the clouds …”
“Behold” is designed to arrest our attention and get us to focus on this as the great theme of Revelation. He is coming for us (1 Thess. 4:13-18) and then with us to earth (Rev. 19:11-16), but in between, He is coming to judge the world for its rebellion (Rev. 6-19:10).
“Is coming” is the present tense of the verb, ercomai, “to come, go.” This is a future present used to denote an event which has not yet occurred, but which is regarded as so certain that in thought it is viewed as already occurring or accomplished.
“With the clouds” reminds us of Acts 1:9f and the promise of the angels at the ascension of the Lord Jesus. This may have been the Shekinah glory of God and it could be so here. There will be clouds, but clouds of the glory of God manifesting the coming glory of the Lord to rule and take up the reigns of government over the earth in a visible way (cf. Matt. 24:30).
“Every eye” simply points out that all mankind will see this in contrast to the ascension which was seen only by the disciples.
“Those who pierced Him.” In the light of Zechariah 12:10, this refers primarily to the Jews who asked for His death, but it could also refer to the Romans who carried out the sentence. In essence we all caused His death because of our sin.
“And all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him.” Literally “and they shall wail over Him” (Matt. 24:30). The Greek word is koptw and means literally “to beat the breast in wailing and mourning.” For some it will be the mourning of repentance. For others it will be the mourning over the judgments that He will pour out on the earth and sinners.
The Benediction to the Greeting (7c-8)
The benediction begins with the words of verse 7, “even so, amen.” This confirms what has been said and introduces what is to follow.
“Even so” is the Greek nai, a particle of affirmation. It confirms the sure return of the Lord and the statements made about Him.
“Amen” means “to be firm, sure, true.” It is a further affirmation of the promise of the verse.
There is some disagreement about who is here speaking. Ryrie thinks this verse refers to the Father and is His affirmation of the Son. Others as Walvoord, believe it speaks of the Son.
Reasons in favor of this as a reference to the Son are: (a) He is the central person of the first chapter, and (b) in verse 17 Christ uses a similar expression of Himself when he says, “I am the first and the last.” (c) Finally, toward the close of the book two expressions are united and applied by Christ to Himself which seems to identify Him as the one speaking here (cf. 22:6, 22:13, and Isa. 44:6). This authenticates who He is—God Almighty.
However, since this follows the salutation which comes from the trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, perhaps it could be from the Godhead itself.
“I Am the Alpha and Omega.” These are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. It is equivalent to our A and Z. This does not relate so much to time but to truth. It expressed the extent of God’s knowledge and wisdom (Col. 2:3). It stresses Christ’s or the Godhead’s omniscience or infinite knowledge and wisdom. This stands then as a strong authentication of the book of Revelation because it comes from the Alpha (a) and Omega (w).
“The Almighty” is the Greek pantokratwr from pas, “all” and kratos, “might, power.” It stresses God’s omnipotence, but also God’s sovereign supremacy over all things. It declares God’s supremacy over all the universe. The word was used in secular literature to describe the attributes of the gods and John is probably using it here in contrast to the Roman emperor’s self-designation as the autokrator.
Revelation ch 1
This is the Revelation of a Person. The Revelation of Jesus Christ. It is the Revelation of a person and this makes the chapter rich, wonderful, you find Christ before you in all His glory, the wonder of His unique eternal personality.
v 10 some say "Lord's day" should be 'Day of the Lord' Some believe that John is being lifted up and transported by the Spirit into the midst of Tribulation Period....... I do not agree with this.
Also the great scholars agree that the word 'Lord' here is the adjective controlling the day. It is not the 'Day of the Lord' it is the "Lords day"
The Lord's day had come around and even here on a barren island John was "in the Spirit" Age doesn't matter, neither circumstances, he may have been lonely, but he was "in the Spirit on the Lord's day".
Will you be there, next Sunday morn?
Next few verses we see a picture of Jesus as you have never seen Him before. God is giving a picture of His Son. John turned to see the voice the spoke and saw one "like the son of man"
John had lived, walked, and talked with Jesus, for over 3 years.... Leaned on His breast. ....Jesus used the title "Son of man" often...Years later, Patmos A.D. 90-95 sixty years later, now an old man, and the last Apostle, ....here comes one......who is still the same Jesus.....no change......
Son of Man yesterday, Son of Man today, and Son of Man forever. ... The Christ we walked with in the early days, leaned upon, loved, helped us along the road....will be there at the end.
V 13 Not only revealed as Son of Man.....Revealed as Great High priest of our Profession.....clad in Priestly Garments...."girt about with golden girdle" not around the loins, "about his breast" girdle speaks of service.
Elisha, Elijah, John Baptist wore leather girdles...which were the prophets girdle. Worn around the loins, the place of strength, serving in his profession with all his strength...
"Around his breast" not serving so much with all his strength as with all of His Compassion. Where a mother puts her baby..... Our Great High Priest is like that.
"golden girdle" = everlasting. Not looking at Aaronic Priesthood, which fades away. He is a Priest forever after the order of Melchisedec.
When I'm be aten in the fight Jesus knows
When my day has turned to night, Jesus knows,
When life seems all in vain, its Jesus bids me start again,
He turns my losses into gain. Jesus knows.
"He can be touched with the feelings of our infirmities" This is a Revelation
He's Still the Same Jesus. He's Our Great High Priest.
v 14 "His head and his hair were white like wool, as white as snow" Daniel ch 7
v 9 One is coming to earth to rule over the kingdoms of men, and his hair is white like wool, his name is the Ancient of Days. This one is from everlasting to everlasting
He's 'Still the Same Jesus'. 'He's Our Great High priest'. He is 'from Everlasting to Everlasting'.
"His eyes are like a flame of fire" He can see into the innermost recesses of the human heart, in fact He is Judge of all Earth ......Cannot hide from Him ..."Sees the thoughts and intents of the heart" ......He is the Judge.
Yes it is Jesus all right .....He is the Son of Man, Great High priest, Ancient of Days, everlasting to everlasting, and He's The Judge of All Earth
v 15 Remember at the gate of the Court of the Tabernacle there was a brazen altar. An altar of solid brass. Here the fire burned, the lambs were consumed, the solid brass withstood the fire. All through the Old Testament sacrifices the fire on the brazen alter consumed the lambs.
But at Calvary the Lamb consumed the fire. All the waves billows fury of God's wrath, fell upon Jesus. He consumed the fire for me. No judgement now for them in Christ Jesus. So we see his feet here, he is the one, The Lamb of God, who triumphed over the fury of the fire.
Are you getting the Revelation? Revelation of Jesus Christ. Son of Man, Great High Priest. Ancient of Days. Judge of the Earth. Lamb of God
"His voice like the sound of many waters" All heard the crash of the sea
. Waves roar. John on an island knew sound of the sea. John also knew the gentle ripple, the wash of the sea.
v 20 "seven stars" ......Messengers to the churches, in His right hand..... Only of use when He can move you, hold you, direct you "in his hand" He is Lord of the Servants as we press on toward that City whose maker and builder is God.....
.through the valley of misunderstanding, the slopes of slander, cities of criticism, along the whole of the way we must be guided by the word of God.
"out of His mouth" Uses the sword. Captain of our Salvation and leading many sons to glory. We follow Him, sometimes we may wonder.....but he leads the way.
"his face was like the sun shining in all it's strength" He is the Altogether Lovely. What a Revelation We see the wonder, the glory, the beauty, that inseparably and eternally belongs to him
v 17 One of the great things in life is to look at Jesus. Never mind how much we understand about prophecy, how many verses, chapters we know.
Here we are looking at Jesus. Isaiah looked and got down low. Lord looked at Peter, and Peter got back into step.. The disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.......... John fell at his feet
"first and last" All Sufficiency is there.
"liveth and was dead" All Victorious One.
"keys of death and hell" All Powerful One.
Son of Man. Great High Priest. Ancient of Days. Lord of the Servants. Lamb of God. Judge of all Earth. Captain of Our Salvation. Altogether Lovely.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.
This is the Revelation of a Person. The Revelation of Jesus Christ. It is the Revelation of a person and this makes the chapter rich, wonderful, you find Christ before you in all His glory, the wonder of His unique eternal personality.
v 10 some say "Lord's day" should be 'Day of the Lord' Some believe that John is being lifted up and transported by the Spirit into the midst of Tribulation Period....... I do not agree with this.
Also the great scholars agree that the word 'Lord' here is the adjective controlling the day. It is not the 'Day of the Lord' it is the "Lords day"
The Lord's day had come around and even here on a barren island John was "in the Spirit" Age doesn't matter, neither circumstances, he may have been lonely, but he was "in the Spirit on the Lord's day".
Will you be there, next Sunday morn?
Next few verses we see a picture of Jesus as you have never seen Him before. God is giving a picture of His Son. John turned to see the voice the spoke and saw one "like the son of man"
John had lived, walked, and talked with Jesus, for over 3 years.... Leaned on His breast. ....Jesus used the title "Son of man" often...Years later, Patmos A.D. 90-95 sixty years later, now an old man, and the last Apostle, ....here comes one......who is still the same Jesus.....no change......
Son of Man yesterday, Son of Man today, and Son of Man forever. ... The Christ we walked with in the early days, leaned upon, loved, helped us along the road....will be there at the end.
V 13 Not only revealed as Son of Man.....Revealed as Great High priest of our Profession.....clad in Priestly Garments...."girt about with golden girdle" not around the loins, "about his breast" girdle speaks of service.
Elisha, Elijah, John Baptist wore leather girdles...which were the prophets girdle. Worn around the loins, the place of strength, serving in his profession with all his strength...
"Around his breast" not serving so much with all his strength as with all of His Compassion. Where a mother puts her baby..... Our Great High Priest is like that.
"golden girdle" = everlasting. Not looking at Aaronic Priesthood, which fades away. He is a Priest forever after the order of Melchisedec.
When I'm be aten in the fight Jesus knows
When my day has turned to night, Jesus knows,
When life seems all in vain, its Jesus bids me start again,
He turns my losses into gain. Jesus knows.
"He can be touched with the feelings of our infirmities" This is a Revelation
He's Still the Same Jesus. He's Our Great High Priest.
v 14 "His head and his hair were white like wool, as white as snow" Daniel ch 7
v 9 One is coming to earth to rule over the kingdoms of men, and his hair is white like wool, his name is the Ancient of Days. This one is from everlasting to everlasting
He's 'Still the Same Jesus'. 'He's Our Great High priest'. He is 'from Everlasting to Everlasting'.
"His eyes are like a flame of fire" He can see into the innermost recesses of the human heart, in fact He is Judge of all Earth ......Cannot hide from Him ..."Sees the thoughts and intents of the heart" ......He is the Judge.
Yes it is Jesus all right .....He is the Son of Man, Great High priest, Ancient of Days, everlasting to everlasting, and He's The Judge of All Earth
v 15 Remember at the gate of the Court of the Tabernacle there was a brazen altar. An altar of solid brass. Here the fire burned, the lambs were consumed, the solid brass withstood the fire. All through the Old Testament sacrifices the fire on the brazen alter consumed the lambs.
But at Calvary the Lamb consumed the fire. All the waves billows fury of God's wrath, fell upon Jesus. He consumed the fire for me. No judgement now for them in Christ Jesus. So we see his feet here, he is the one, The Lamb of God, who triumphed over the fury of the fire.
Are you getting the Revelation? Revelation of Jesus Christ. Son of Man, Great High Priest. Ancient of Days. Judge of the Earth. Lamb of God
"His voice like the sound of many waters" All heard the crash of the sea
. Waves roar. John on an island knew sound of the sea. John also knew the gentle ripple, the wash of the sea.
v 20 "seven stars" ......Messengers to the churches, in His right hand..... Only of use when He can move you, hold you, direct you "in his hand" He is Lord of the Servants as we press on toward that City whose maker and builder is God.....
.through the valley of misunderstanding, the slopes of slander, cities of criticism, along the whole of the way we must be guided by the word of God.
"out of His mouth" Uses the sword. Captain of our Salvation and leading many sons to glory. We follow Him, sometimes we may wonder.....but he leads the way.
"his face was like the sun shining in all it's strength" He is the Altogether Lovely. What a Revelation We see the wonder, the glory, the beauty, that inseparably and eternally belongs to him
v 17 One of the great things in life is to look at Jesus. Never mind how much we understand about prophecy, how many verses, chapters we know.
Here we are looking at Jesus. Isaiah looked and got down low. Lord looked at Peter, and Peter got back into step.. The disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.......... John fell at his feet
"first and last" All Sufficiency is there.
"liveth and was dead" All Victorious One.
"keys of death and hell" All Powerful One.
Son of Man. Great High Priest. Ancient of Days. Lord of the Servants. Lamb of God. Judge of all Earth. Captain of Our Salvation. Altogether Lovely.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.
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Jonah2005bt
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I'm still studying Chapter 1. . ,
I'm still studying Chapter 1, please bare with me. I have only study verses 1-3 & I now am working on verses 4-6. When I am finished I will come back & let you know, what it is that I think I may have learned.
Please, forgive me if I am a slow at studying - I have only so much time that my husband gives me to study. And, I really want to learn & live according to GOD'S Rules & Regulations.
And I thank you Chad & all of you for making this possible.
*genesis!
I'm still studying Chapter 1, please bare with me. I have only study verses 1-3 & I now am working on verses 4-6. When I am finished I will come back & let you know, what it is that I think I may have learned.
Please, forgive me if I am a slow at studying - I have only so much time that my husband gives me to study. And, I really want to learn & live according to GOD'S Rules & Regulations.
And I thank you Chad & all of you for making this possible.
*genesis!
Jonah2005bt
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- Joined
- Oct 16, 2005
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Chad I have questions . . .
I am having a hard time keeping up.
So, I thought { :lightbulb } that I'll just ask questions as I read on in Revelation. Is that O.K.?
I think it would be a lot easier for me & a lot quicker, too.
I am having a hard time keeping up.
So, I thought { :lightbulb } that I'll just ask questions as I read on in Revelation. Is that O.K.?
I think it would be a lot easier for me & a lot quicker, too.
Jonah2005bt
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- Oct 16, 2005
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Thank You Chad, for your understanding. 
And as for DanV,
Dan please don't stop on my acount.
For if you do have more to say, than I kindly urge you to carry on.
Because, there could be others out there needing to know what it is -that- you would be saying next.
But, as for me I will ask questions, and hope for someone to answer them.
Thank You Chad, for your understanding.Chad said:
And as for DanV,
Dan please don't stop on my acount.
For if you do have more to say, than I kindly urge you to carry on.
Because, there could be others out there needing to know what it is -that- you would be saying next.
But, as for me I will ask questions, and hope for someone to answer them.
Jonah2005bt
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Questions from the verses of 1 - 3
These questions that I am asking are according to what I have learned from reading.
1.) Is the meaning of Revelation - important information
given to Jesus Christ from The Almighty GOD, for Jesus to give to his angel to deliver to
John, because John bore witness to the word of GOD & also to the testimony of Jesus
Christ?
2.) And what is the testimony of Jesus Christ? *{ Please share verses, to help me understand, if you feel the need be.}
These questions that I am asking are according to what I have learned from reading.
1.) Is the meaning of Revelation - important information
given to Jesus Christ from The Almighty GOD, for Jesus to give to his angel to deliver to
John, because John bore witness to the word of GOD & also to the testimony of Jesus
Christ?
2.) And what is the testimony of Jesus Christ? *{ Please share verses, to help me understand, if you feel the need be.}
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Jonah2005bt
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- Oct 16, 2005
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Rev., 1:4-6
In verse 4, is John speaking to the Seven Churches that are in Asia? Or are the Seven Spirits {Angels} speaking to John?
I'm thinking John is the one speaking to the Churches?
And that John is saying to the Churches; "grace be to you & peace from HIM WHO IS & WHO WAS & WHO IS COMING, and from the Seven Spirits {Angels) who are before HIS Throne, and from Jesus Christ, Who is the Faithful Witness, the First Born of the dead, and, the Ruler of {all} the kings {here} on the earth.
Now verses 4 & 5 I'm thinking - are also tell me, that John was speaking about The Almighty GOD; "peace from HIM WHO IS & WHO WAS & WHO IS COMING?"
And, when John spoke of the Seven Spirits, he was referring to GOD'S Angels surrounding GOD'S Throne?
Then soon after that, John spoke of our Beloved Savior, Jesus Christ Who, John mentioned to be the Faithful Witness & the First Born of the Dead. Because, {I am thinking} He has already been raised up from the dead on the third day after His burial? (Matt., 28:1-7)
But then if I am right, then I am slightly confused about this, because didn't Jesus raise Lazarus up from his death way before Jesus' was crucified? (John 11: 43 - 44; John 11:19 - 45)
And when John spoke about Jesus being the Ruler of all the kings of earth, I got the impression that also refers to all the presidents & politicians of today, since they to try to rule the earth in their so called ways? For Jesus out Rules them all. Right? (Isaiah 9:6 - 7 & Matthew 2:1 - 2 & 1 Timothy 6:15 & Revelation 17:14)
And when John spoke about the One Who has Loved us & washed us from our sins in/through His Own Blood, John was/is referring to Jesus Christ, right? (Matthew 26:28)
And through all that has made for us to be a Kingdom, (GOD'S People?) and a Priest to HIM (The Almighty GOD) Belong Glory & Dominion Forever & Ever. AMEN.
Does that sound right? Please, let me know what you think? *genesis!
In verse 4, is John speaking to the Seven Churches that are in Asia? Or are the Seven Spirits {Angels} speaking to John?
I'm thinking John is the one speaking to the Churches?
And that John is saying to the Churches; "grace be to you & peace from HIM WHO IS & WHO WAS & WHO IS COMING, and from the Seven Spirits {Angels) who are before HIS Throne, and from Jesus Christ, Who is the Faithful Witness, the First Born of the dead, and, the Ruler of {all} the kings {here} on the earth.
Now verses 4 & 5 I'm thinking - are also tell me, that John was speaking about The Almighty GOD; "peace from HIM WHO IS & WHO WAS & WHO IS COMING?"
And, when John spoke of the Seven Spirits, he was referring to GOD'S Angels surrounding GOD'S Throne?
Then soon after that, John spoke of our Beloved Savior, Jesus Christ Who, John mentioned to be the Faithful Witness & the First Born of the Dead. Because, {I am thinking} He has already been raised up from the dead on the third day after His burial? (Matt., 28:1-7)
But then if I am right, then I am slightly confused about this, because didn't Jesus raise Lazarus up from his death way before Jesus' was crucified? (John 11: 43 - 44; John 11:19 - 45)
And when John spoke about Jesus being the Ruler of all the kings of earth, I got the impression that also refers to all the presidents & politicians of today, since they to try to rule the earth in their so called ways? For Jesus out Rules them all. Right? (Isaiah 9:6 - 7 & Matthew 2:1 - 2 & 1 Timothy 6:15 & Revelation 17:14)
And when John spoke about the One Who has Loved us & washed us from our sins in/through His Own Blood, John was/is referring to Jesus Christ, right? (Matthew 26:28)
And through all that has made for us to be a Kingdom, (GOD'S People?) and a Priest to HIM (The Almighty GOD) Belong Glory & Dominion Forever & Ever. AMEN.
Does that sound right? Please, let me know what you think? *genesis!
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Jonah2005bt
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Thank You Brother Chad
Thank you for your understanding & patience in me, along with your guiding me too, through our Almighty GOD & Chrisy Jesus our Mediator & King!
Chad said:
Thank you for your understanding & patience in me, along with your guiding me too, through our Almighty GOD & Chrisy Jesus our Mediator & King!
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Jonah2005bt
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What is the Testimony of Jesus Christ?
Hi everyone!
I am curious to what really is the true Testimony of Christ Jesus?
And according to DanV, he ask me to read Matthew 24:29-31, Mark 13:24-27, Luke 21:25-28 & Revelation 22:12.
Now I have read Matthew 24:29-31 & Revelation 22:12 many times in the past, and are 2 of my most favorite Scriptures, one that I take very, very seriously!
But I have never ever read Mark 13:24-27 nor Luke 21:25-28 before.
And though they pretty much repeat each other, I find Luke 21:25-28 to add on a little more information to go along with Matthew 24:29-31. And non-the-less strictly to the point.
I found it to be very interesting to my soul. > (If that makes any sense at all). Another favorite Scripture to add to my list.
BUT, how does this make out to be Jesus' Testimony?
I also notice that Revelation 1:7 noted, Jesus coming on a cloud, also.
What an awesome sight that will be, {I love my GOD, The One & Only Almighty GOD, and HIS Son, Jesus Christ too.} A I am watching for that day to come! *genesis!
Hi everyone!
I am curious to what really is the true Testimony of Christ Jesus?
And according to DanV, he ask me to read Matthew 24:29-31, Mark 13:24-27, Luke 21:25-28 & Revelation 22:12.
Now I have read Matthew 24:29-31 & Revelation 22:12 many times in the past, and are 2 of my most favorite Scriptures, one that I take very, very seriously!
But I have never ever read Mark 13:24-27 nor Luke 21:25-28 before.
And though they pretty much repeat each other, I find Luke 21:25-28 to add on a little more information to go along with Matthew 24:29-31. And non-the-less strictly to the point.
I found it to be very interesting to my soul. > (If that makes any sense at all). Another favorite Scripture to add to my list.
BUT, how does this make out to be Jesus' Testimony?
I also notice that Revelation 1:7 noted, Jesus coming on a cloud, also.
What an awesome sight that will be, {I love my GOD, The One & Only Almighty GOD, and HIS Son, Jesus Christ too.} A I am watching for that day to come! *genesis!
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