REVELATION 1: THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST

Revelation 1:1

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto His servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John.

Revelation—disclosure, from apokalupto, to take off the cover, i.e. to disclose¹

“To shew unto His servants”

Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. (Psalm 16:11)

The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will show them his covenant. (Psalm 25:14)

Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. (Isaiah 58:1)

The very first words of Revelation tell us that this book is a disclosure and that Jesus, through His servant, will be taking the cover off that which is secret so that we can know and understand. That which Christ wishes to show His servants in the book of Revelation is a panorama of events from John’s day until the earth is made new.

Revelation reveals themes made up of that which God has desired to show His professed people throughout the ages. Revelation reveals to us the promises of God, the hope of salvation, as well as rebuke, admonition, and warning.

Revelation 1:2

Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.

John declares that what he has written is the word of God; it is not his own creation, but is the testimony of Jesus, the Word made flesh. The Revelation is truly the word of God, written by John and based on Jesus’ own testimony and the visions shown to John. It is to be understood and believed as Christ is revealed as Sacrifice and Redeemer, our sustaining strength and Mediator and Judge. The Revelation is the unveiling of the play and counterplay of the forces of good and evil for the control of this world and human hearts.

The Revelation is a rebuke and an admonition, as well as an encouragement and warning to the professed servants of God. The Revelation reveals the wicked forces of evil culminating in the end-time apostasy of the beast and his mark, which is —a political and economic confederacy, with a global system of world religion known as “mystery Babylon,” in the seat of international power.

The Revelation reveals that Christ and His truth are to be the ultimate victors over the devil and evil. It also reveals that sinners shall ultimately be held accountable with eternal death the result. It will be clearly seen and known that “the wages which sin pays is death” for “it is sin which gives death its sting” (Romans 6:23 AMP; 1 Corinthians 15:56 Phillips). In contrast the redeemed who have trusted in and served the Lord will have an eternity of joy and peace, with every tear of sorrow and pain giving way to an eternal joy.

The Revelation was intended for Christ’s servants; therefore, as we are subject to God, living in obedience to Him, we have the assurance of a blessing in the reading of this prophecy. If every detail of the prophecy is not yet understood, let us nevertheless lay hold of the broad principles outlined above and obtain the blessing God has for us.

Revelation 1:3

Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.

“Blessed is he that readeth”

Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. (Proverbs 8:32–34)

But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it. (Luke 11:28)

Blessed, fortunate, and happy are those who read and take in the wonderful themes of Revelation. This is not speaking of any casual knowledge, for the Word tells us that we are to have knowledge and understanding and keep, which is to hold fast and attend to the words of the Revelation of Jesus Christ. It is in knowing the Word and doing it that we shall find the blessing from the Lord.

We should not think that because we cannot explain the meaning of every symbol in Revelation that it is useless for us to search this book in an effort to know the meaning of the truth it contains. No, this is not the case, for there is a blessing in reading. Those whose hearts are open to the reception of truth will be able to understand its teachings and will be granted the blessing promised to those who “hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein.”

Revelation’s Seven Blessings:

Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. (Revelation 1:3)

And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. (Revelation 14:13)

Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. (Revelation 16:15)

And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God. (Revelation 19:9)

Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. (Revelation 20:6)

Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. (Revelation 22:7)

Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. (Revelation 22:14)

We will deal with these blessings as we come to them in their respective chapters. But one thing is certain: Revelation is an open book. It is the word and testimony of Jesus, and there is a blessing for us in reading and understanding it. I pray by the time you finish this book that you will know Revelation’s story and will have gained the blessing God intended you to have in hearing the testimony of Jesus.

Keys to Understanding Revelation:

• When dealing with prophetic symbols, it is essential to let the Bible interpret itself. Symbols generally have no literal meaning and are best understood by allowing the Bible to give its own definition or usage of the symbol. Once the symbol is defined, the events described can be understood. We cannot simply apply meanings to symbols as we think best; the Bible must be used as the interpreter to tell us the meaning of the symbols. This method of understanding prophetic symbols will become plain before you finish the first chapter, for this book utilizes this principle extensively.

• The apostle Peter explains, “No prophecy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation” (2 Peter 1:20). Here Peter means that Bible prophecy is not a matter of individual speculation. The same God who gave us the prophecy has provided for its accurate interpretation through a special decoding system that is available to all, and that code is the Bible itself. The prophecies of the book of Revelation have only one correct interpretation, though there are many lessons we can learn.

• To understand Revelation we need a basic understanding of the Old Testament sanctuary service, for sanctuary terms and symbols are used throughout the book. The book of Revelation draws much of its imagery and themes from the Old Testament sanctuary service. Further, the sanctuary itself teaches us much about the ministry and character of Christ and the plan of salvation. Therefore, having a general understanding of the sanctuary service given by God to the children of Israel is an important key to unlocking the message of Revelation.

• To fully understand Revelation we need to have a conversion experience with the Lord, for this book is the revelation of Christ as the Lamb who was sacrificed for our sins, as our High Priest, and as our conquering and soon-coming King. Revelation has a blessing for all those who read it, but it is specifically addressed to God’s servants.

• To understand the book of Revelation, we must understand the Bible as a whole. The last book of the Bible is not isolated from the rest of Scripture. It is estimated that of the 404 verses in Revelation, 278 contain phrases from or allusions to the Old Testament Scriptures. Thus, approximately 68 percent of the material in Revelation comes from the Old Testament. So if you have an understanding of the Old Testament, you have an advantage to understanding the book of Revelation. Even if you know little about the Bible, persist in the reading of this book. Let Daniel and Revelation speak, and the Bible will be opened to you, for in the Revelation all the books of the Bible meet and end.

• Another key is found in understanding a specific Old Testament book of the Bible. Revelation is the complement of the book of Daniel. One is a prophecy; the other a Revelation.

• Revelation records marvelous events of history, which is prophecy fulfilled. It also reveals to us events that are to take place in the last days of this earth’s history, which are just before us. In addition, the book is filled with wonderful lessons to guide and direct us in our Christian experience.

• The teachings of this book are definite, they are not mystical or unintelligible riddles. Some prophecies, especially from Daniel are repeated in Revelation, thus showing the importance of them and our need to understand them, for the Lord does not repeat things that are of no great consequence.

Revelation 1:4

John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne.

“Which are in Asia”

Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. (Revelation 1:11)

This reference to Asia is referring to the Roman province of Asia in the western part of what is now known as Asia Minor, in the present country of Turkey. In New Testament times Asia was an important center of Greek/Roman culture. It is probable that the members of these churches in the Roman province of Asia were mostly Gentiles. John was familiar with these churches and had likely personally ministered to them. From his rocky prison on Patmos, these churches were geographically among the closest to him.

God’s care in giving special messages to these churches was a demonstration of His care to the churches throughout time. The counsel, while applicable to the local churches to whom they were addressed, also speaks to conditions prevailing at different times of the church’s history worldwide.

John’s vision was directed to the church of His day, with lessons and prophecies of future events for the children of God to the end of time. Thus, Revelation is like Daniel in that the messages and prophecies began in the days of John, under the dominion of Daniel’s fourth beast, or pagan Rome, and carry forward to the coming of the Lord and to prophecies concerning events after the second coming.

“John to the seven churches”

The Revelation was originally written to seven literal churches in Asia Minor. But, like in Paul’s epistles to various churches, the lessons are for believers through all time. These seven churches were to be given messages and insights especially applicable to them and insights into events that would transpire far in the future, which no doubt were little understood by them at the time.

The message was written in symbolic language. These symbols are defined as we compare Scripture with Scripture and seek God with humble hearts to know and understand the meaning of inspiration.

The process by which the Revelation is brought forth reveals the interest of heaven in mankind’s spiritual edification and salvation. God gave the prophecies to Jesus, who in turn gave them to His angel to reveal to John.

“Grace be unto you”

What is grace?

• God’s unmerited favor

• God’s love

• God’s means of saving us apart from any works we do

• God’s power to justify and sanctify

Grace is all these things. It is especially the divine influence of the Holy Spirit upon the heart to renew the life and transform the character so that we resist sin instead of living in sin. Grace is the power of God to draw us to Himself and the power of God to sanctify us.

Where does grace come from?

I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:4)

For by grace are ye saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. (Ephesians 2:8)

God’s love and unmerited favor encircle this world as abundantly as the air we breathe. Grace is God’s love in action to draw us to Himself.

The grace that Christ imparts to the believer creates in them hatred against Satan and sin. Without the converting grace and renewing power of Christ, we would continue to be captives of Satan, servants following the dictates of his spirit and principles. The power of grace, which Christ imparts, enables us to resist him. Whoever hates sin instead of loving it, whoever resists and conquers the principles of the kingdom of darkness that have held dominion within is living by grace, and is a partaker of an enabling power that is wholly from God.

“And peace from him”

Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (2 Thessalonians 1:2)

And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth or things in heaven. (Colossians 1:20)

How can we have peace?

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. (Isaiah 26:3)

Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. (Psalm 119:165)

For to be carnally minded is death: but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. (Romans 8:6)

Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. (Psalm 34:14)

God and Christ are the source of all divine favor, grace, and peace. In light of the tremendous events revealed in the book of Revelation, and the admonitions given and the lessons of faith and patience called for, it is essential that we know Jesus as our peace and the source of all grace.

“From him which is”

This expression is apparently taken from the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament), Exodus 3:14, where it is translated as the divine name I AM. This expression sets forth the eternal timeless existence of God.

“Which was”

Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God. (Psalm 90:2)

And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is. (Acts 4:24)

For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: thou art God alone. (Psalm 86:10)

Yea, before the day was I am he; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it? (Isaiah 43:13)

“Which is to come”

Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned. (Revelation 11:17)

And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. (Revelation 4:8)

The reference here to the Father sets forth His eternal nature and states that the same One who now exists has always existed, and He shall exist throughout eternity. This being is spoken of in Scripture as Lord, God, and Father, who has the destiny of the world in His hands.

Revelation’s prophecies are known and controlled by Him who is, was, and is to come. If we surrender ourselves to this God, we need not be overwhelmed or frightened by the events that will transpire upon this world. “For He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5).

“From the seven spirits”

And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. (Revelation 4:5)

And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. (Revelation 5:6)

Four times in the book of Revelation, seven spirits are mentioned. The number seven represents divine perfection, and by implication the seven spirits refer to the Holy Spirit. The seven spirits represent wisdom and understanding brought to us by the Spirit of God.

Revelation 1:5

And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.

All of heaven is involved in our salvation. Verses four and five tell us that grace and peace come from or have as their source the Father, the Spirit, and Christ.

Jesus is believable and trustworthy; His witness and testimony is true. With full assurance we can place our confidence in His Word and entrust our souls to His keeping. Christ is the first begotten of the dead—He is the conqueror of death, and He holds the keys of “hell and of death” (Revelation 1:18). Jesus is the King of kings. Only by His allowance do earthly rulers have power. Christ has loved us, dying for us upon Calvary and washing us in His own blood, bringing to us cleansing forgiveness and empowering strength.

“The first begotten of the dead”

And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. (Colossians 1:18)

That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles. (Acts 26:23)

But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. (1 Corinthians 15:20–21)

Christ was not the first in time to arise from the grave, but He was first in importance. Others have been resurrected, such as those whom Christ raised. Concerning His resurrection to come, Christ declared, “Therefore doth my Father love Me, because I lay down My life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of My Father” (John 10:17–18).

Because of Christ’s resurrection, all the redeemed saints will arise from the grave. (See 1 Corinthians 15:13–24.) This comes by virtue of the fact that Christ “was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification” (Romans 4:25).

“Prince of the kings of the earth”

Prince—a first (in rank or power); to be first (in political rank or power)¹

Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: and hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church. (Ephesians 1:21–22)

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9–11)

These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful. (Revelation 17:14)

And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. (Revelation 19:15–16)

We read of Christ that He was “despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed Him not” (Isaiah 53:3). We read further, “He was in the world, the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not” (John 1:10–11).

The world’s rejection or neglect of Christ continues today, even among professed believers who fail to truly accept Christ as Redeemer and King. Despite this neglect, Revelation reveals that Christ is above all earthly powers and that every earthly power will one day be brought to submission. Then He whom we have despised and neglected shall reign supreme. Only those who have known Christ as King in their lives and who have made Him their Redeemer, having been washed by His blood, will be given the privilege to reign with Him.

“Washed us from our sins in his own blood”

And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. (Colossians 1:20)

In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins. (Colossians 1:14)

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. (1 John 1:7)

How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? (Hebrews 9:14)

Only those who have accepted Christ as their Savior have been loosed from the guilt and condemnation of sin by the merits of His shed blood. Let us remember that as we proceed through the book of Revelation, keeping in mind Christ as our sacrificial Redeemer, our Mediator, and our High Priest, and that Christ will come again as conquering King.

This book is the revelation of Jesus Christ, therefore, as the powers of evil through the ages are revealed, let us not lose sight of Him, to whom the book of Revelation points. For despite the current reign of evil, the Christ of the Revelation is faithful and true to His promises and to His people.

Revelation 1:6

And hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

“Hath made us kings and priests unto God”

And formed us into a kingdom (a royal race), priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and the power and the majesty and the dominion throughout the ages and forever and ever. Amen (so be it.) (Revelation 1:6 AMP; see also Exodus 19:5–6.)

Present

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. (1 Peter 2:9)

Future

Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. (Revelation 20:6)

Through the mystery of the gospel God has “delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son” (Colossians 1:13). We have become children of God, “and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17). By this experience we become priests to minister the gospel to others as Christ’s representatives, “an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:5). As we come into the kingdom of Christ’s redeeming grace, we share in the promises of Christ, and we will reign with Him.

“To him be … dominion for ever and ever”

I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. (Daniel 7:13–14)

How very great is his power at work in us who believe. This power working in us is the same as the mighty strength which he used when he raised Christ from death and seated him at his right side in the heavenly world. Christ rules there above all heavenly rulers, authorities, powers, and lords; he has a title superior to all titles of authority in this world and in the next. God put all things under Christ’s feet and gave him to the church as supreme Lord over all things. (Ephesians 1:20–22 TEV)

In Christ His people are washed from the guilt and stain of sin and become members of His kingdom of grace, which is established in our hearts, “for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:21). Christ has become our Sovereign and King, His word the Holy Bible, our law and constitution.

No longer do we need priests to intercede for us, for we can come to God directly through Christ, our great High Priest. “And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God” (2 Corinthians 5:18–20). Now, as priests unto God, the ministry of reconciliation in bringing others to God is ours.

A priest also presents offerings to God. (See Hebrews 5:1; 8:3.) As Christians we have that privilege in Christ. “By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name” (Hebrews 13:15).

By virtue of Christ and the Father’s eternal reign and dominion and power, all the powers of evil revealed in Revelation shall be judged, and God’s people will be vindicated, for “the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his [the little horn’s] dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end. And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey Him” (Daniel 7:26–27).

Revelation 1:7

Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

Jesus here testifies that He will come again to redeem His people and put an end to the reign of wickedness. Then He will fully take up His eternal dominion.

Clouds—a great multitude, a vast collection² (See Hebrews 12:1.)

“He cometh with clouds”

And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. (Luke 21:27)

And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. (Acts 1:9–11)

Christ will come in the midst of clouds of angels attending Him.

Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters: who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind. (Psalm 104:3)

The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels. (Psalm 68:17)

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:17)

“They also which pierced Him”

But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water. And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe. For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken. And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced. (John 19:34–37)

For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet. (Psalm 22:16)

Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified. And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified. When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children. (Matthew 27:22–25)

Those who played a leading role in the crucifixion of Christ, from the Jewish leaders to the Roman soldiers and officials, will be raised from their graves to see Him whom they despised. They will see Jesus coming in glory and power exactly as He declared at His trial.

“Nevertheless I say unto you, hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven” (Matthew 26:64).

“And all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him”

And they cast dust on their heads, and cried, weeping and wailing, saying, Alas, alas, that great city, wherein were made rich all that had ships in the sea by reason of her costliness! for in one hour is she made desolate. (Revelation 18:19)

And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; and said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: for the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand? (Revelation 6:14, 17)

And they shall go into the holes of the rocks, and into the caves of the earth, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth. In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; to go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the ragged rocks, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth. (Isaiah 2:19–21)

When Christ comes there will be but two classes to meet Him: those who, wailing in fear and grief, seek to hide from the light and glory of the Lamb, and those who love Christ’s appearing. For God’s children it will be a glorious day when “He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of His people shall He take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it. And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation” (Isaiah 25:8–9).

Revelation Reveals the Advent:

He will come in the air, surrounded by clouds of angels. (See Revelation 1:7.)

All eyes shall see Him. (See Revelation 1:7.)

There will be a special resurrection of those involved in His crucifixion. (See Revelation 1:7.)

All the wicked shall wail because of His coming. (See Revelation 1:7.)

The heavens will depart like a scroll, and the wicked will hide from the face of God. (See Revelation 6:14–17.)

A great earthquake, with thunder and lightning and great hail, will precede the coming of Christ. (See Revelation 16:18–21.)

Christ will come with the armies of heaven to punish the rebellious inhabitants of the world. (See Revelation 19:11–21.)

Revelation 1:8

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, says the Lord God. He Who is and Who was and Who is to come, The Almighty (the Ruler of all). (Revelation 1:8 AMP)

The Father as the Alpha and Omega:

John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne. (Revelation 1:4)

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. (Revelation 21:4–6)

Christ the Alpha and Omega:

Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. … And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. … And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last. (Revelation 1:11–12, 17)

And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. (Revelation 22:12–13)

The expression “Alpha and Omega” refers to the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. It is used along with the expressions “the beginning and the end” and “the first and the last” to show the eternal, enduring nature of God and Christ. Revelation reveals God and the Lamb as inhabiting all of eternity past and future. Therefore, they are well able to save to the uttermost all those who will trust and obey.

Revelation tells the story of God’s children in this world, of evil and sorrows. Yet Revelation’s glorious message is that He who inhabits eternity is in control, and an eternity of unimaginable joy is yet before the faithful children of God. “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away” (Revelation 21:3–4).

“The Almighty”

And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. (Revelation 4:8)

Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned. (Revelation 11:17)

And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. (Revelation 15:3)

And I heard another out of the altar say, Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are thy judgments. (Revelation 16:7)

For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. (Revelation 16:14)

And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. (Revelation 19:15)

And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. (Revelation 21:22)

Verse eight clearly speaks of God, for Revelation applies to the Father the term “Almighty.” The attributes of deity apply to Christ as well, as seen in Revelation 1:11, 17. While Revelation and indeed the entire Bible reveals the Father and Son as equal, each is distinctly set forth in different roles, sometimes with similar and sometimes with different attributes, as they have revealed themselves to the children of men over the ages. Yet God and Jesus work together to seek and to save mankind, and they are one in character and purpose.

Revelation 1:9

I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. (Revelation 1:9)

I, John, your brother and companion (sharer and participator) with you in the tribulation and kingdom and patient endurance [which are] in Jesus Christ, was on the isle called Patmos, [banished] on account of [my witnessing to] the Word of God and the testimony (the proof, the evidence) for Jesus Christ. (Revelation 1:9 AMP)

“Brother, and companion in tribulation”

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)

Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. (Acts 14:22)

I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. (Revelation 2:9)

Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. (Revelation 2:10)

[Who] are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. (Revelation 7:13–14)

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:35–39)

John was banished to the rocky prison island of Patmos about the year A.D. 95. What was his crime? Teaching and preaching the Word of God and giving witness by word and life of the Lord Jesus Christ. Wicked men and Satan sought to silence his voice, but with God he conquered, and upon this island the glorious Revelation of Jesus Christ was written. The same God who upheld His servant John will keep us in this day if we choose to serve Him.

“Brother, and companion … in the kingdom”

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. (Romans 14:17)

And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation. Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. (Luke 17:20–21)

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (John 3:3)

Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins. (Colossians 1:12–14)

The kingdom of God of which John was a subject, and in which we are to be companions, is the kingdom of grace. It was not an earthly kingdom that John was seeking to establish in opposition to the great Roman Empire. No, this was a kingdom of righteousness accepted by faith and developed in the hearts of individuals.

It is not by the decisions of courts, legislative assemblies, or church councils that the kingdom of Christ is established. Rather, it is by the implanting of Christ’s nature in humanity through the work of the Holy Spirit. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name; which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God” (John 1:12–13).

This kingdom of grace drew the wrath of Satan and moved him to work through the Roman Empire to destroy the church of Christ. We no longer live under the rule of the Roman Empire, but we do live in a world that Satan the usurper still claims as his own. Because this is Satan’s world, we enter the kingdom through much tribulation. All the followers of Christ, to greater and lesser degrees, will be companions or sharers in John’s tribulation. “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12).

The tribulation of the saints through the ages and their final triumph is part of Revelation’s story, and it is to be our story as well. So let us take courage from John’s experience, for as he overcame so may we overcome Satan and all the forces of evil “by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of …[our] testimony” (Revelation 12:11).

“Patience of Jesus Christ”

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. (Romans 5:1–5)

Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness. (Colossians 1:11)

I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: and hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. (Revelation 2:2–3)

I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. (Revelation 2:19)

Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. (Revelation 3:10)

He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints. (Revelation 13:10)

Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. (Revelation 14:12)

The patience of Christ comes into our life as we are justified and forgiven, which allows us to have access by faith to the enabling grace of Christ so that we might endure the tribulations of the way, developing by faith the consistent endurance of the saints.

God’s children—as revealed throughout the book of Revelation, past, present, and future—must have this Christ-centered grace of consistent endurance. This was John’s experience, and we are too can have the same patience.

“Was in the isle that is called Patmos”

Patmos is a small island in the Aegean Sea off the coast of modern-day Turkey, southwest of the ancient city of Ephesus. The island is about ten miles long running north/south, and about six miles wide running east and west, or about 16 kilometers by 10 kilometers. It was a Roman penal colony at the time John was banished there.

Revelation 1:10

I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet.
Lord’s—belonging to the Lord (Jehovah or Jesus); from supremacy; supreme in authority, i.e. controller³

Day—literally the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole twenty-four hours; figuratively a period (always defined more or less clearly by the context)⁴

“I was in the Spirit”

So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. (Romans 8:8–10)

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. (1 Peter 1:2)

The hand of the Lord was upon me, and carried me out in the spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full of bones. (Ezekiel 37:1)

And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. (Revelation 4:2)

So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. (Revelation 17:3)

And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God. (Revelation 21:10)

Being in the Spirit is to be born again, empowered of the Spirit, overcoming the fleshly nature, fully consecrated or sanctified unto the Lord, living a life of obedience, and washed from our sins by the blood of Christ. This was John’s experience, and it is to be ours as well, for spiritual things are spiritually discerned, and only the spiritually minded can truly understand the Revelation of Jesus Christ. John’s experience in the Lord allowed God to speak to him, and then to us, of the mysteries of the future, as the Spirit took John in a vision.

“On the Lord’s day”

If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and shalt honor him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord. (Isaiah 58:13–14)

Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. (Mark 2:28)

And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. (Luke 6:5)

For this is the day of the Lord God of hosts, a day of vengeance, that he may avenge him of his adversaries: and the sword shall devour, and it shall be satiate and made drunk with their blood: for the Lord God of hosts hath a sacrifice in the north country by the river Euphrates. (Jeremiah 46:10)

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. (2 Peter 3:10)

John was overshadowed by the Spirit and taken off into a vision on the Lord’s day. The Lord’s day here means “that which belongs to the Lord.” This is not speaking of some future period or the end-time day of the Lord, usually thought of as Christ’s second coming and the end of all things, when the rule of evil is put down.

John’s vision began in his day and carries down through the centuries and millenniums, culminating in the end, when sin and sinners shall be no more and the earth is made new. The termination in the future of this long period of struggle between good and evil is not the day John is referring to.

All days belong to God, for in six days He created all things and on the seventh day He rested from His work and hallowed or sanctified that day. Throughout the Scriptures God identifies the seventh day as His special day of rest and worship. Thus the Lord’s Day cannot refer to a vision of the Spirit given on Sunday the first day of the week. The only day Jehovah God and Christ His Son claim as their own special day, is the seventh day. Thus John is telling us he was in a vision on the Lord’s Day, a specific time period defined in the Bible as the Sabbath of the Lord.

“A great voice, as of a trumpet”

After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter. (Revelation 4:1)

The voice of his words [was] like the voice of a multitude. (Daniel 10:6)

His voice [was] as the sound of many waters. (Revelation 1:15)

And it came to pass on the third day in the morning, that there were thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud upon the mount, and the voice of the trumpet exceeding loud; so that all the people that was in the camp trembled. And when the voice of the trumpet sounded long, and waxed louder and louder, Moses spake, and God answered him by a voice. (Exodus 19:16, 19)

But Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, Absalom reigneth in Hebron. (2 Samuel 15:10)

In the Old Testament trumpets were used to communicate messages or give a signal. The “great voice as of a trumpet” indicates the intensity of the message and the heavenly source of the messenger.

Revelation 1:11

Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.

The true and faithful witness testifies of Himself that He is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last. Christ is the eternal self-existent one. The events that transpire in the Revelation are under His control. And if we abide in Christ, we have no need to fear the future. For He who controls the future also has our lives in His hands.

“Saying, I am”

And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. (John 6:35, 51)

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (John 8:12)

Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. (John 10:7, 9)

I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. (John 10:11, 14)

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. (John 11:25)

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6)

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. (John 15:1, 4–5)

The Christ of the Revelation is the “I AM” of eternity; therefore, we can trust Him for our salvation and through all the trials of this life. Christ’s identification of Himself as the “I AM” is our assurance that He will sustain us and give us His light and knowledge as we make our way through this world of darkness. Christ the “I AM” is our resurrection and hope of eternal life. He is our vine and the source of our strength.

Revelation 1:12–13

And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; and in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.

When John turns to hear the voice, he sees the glorified and risen Christ. Christ is spoken of as walking in the midst of golden candlesticks. Thus is symbolized His relation to the church, for the “seven candlesticks … are the seven churches” (Revelation 1:20). Although He is High Priest and Mediator in the sanctuary above, He is represented as walking up and down in the midst of His church on the earth. This demonstrates His continual care and sustaining grace, which are the source of life and light to the church.

Revelation 1:14

His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire.

“His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow”

I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. (Daniel 7:9)

Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. (Isaiah 1:18)

And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves: and he was transfigured before them. And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them. (Mark 9:2–3)

Besides being a simple description of the being that stood before him, the physical characteristics John uses are indicative of the character of Christ, the Son of God. He was without sin, and by virtue of His spotless life He became our sacrifice for sin so that He in turn could wash us from our sin and guilt. The snow-white hair shows Christ’s purity and may represent the wisdom of age as, like the Father, He has existed from eternity.

“His eyes were as a flame of fire”

The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints. (Ephesians 1:18. Eyes represent understanding.)

He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. (John 12:40. Eyes represent discernment.)

I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. (Psalm 32:8. The eye represents the watch care and direction of God.)

And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass. (Revelation 2:18)

His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. (Revelation 19:12)

And His eyes penetrated like flames of fire. (Revelation 1:14 TLB)

Eyes here represent the power of perception and God’s watch care and communication with us. The Word of God and the Holy Spirit are as fire, which brings to us this spiritual perception and understanding from God. (See Jeremiah 23:29; Acts 2:3–4.)

The eyes of fire represent the discerning and purifying work of the Spirit of Christ. The fiery flame represents the intensity of His gaze, “wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: for our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:28–29).

Revelation 1:15

And His feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.

John’s view of the glorified Jesus inspires wonder, but there is also rich symbolism here. The Bible is the key to unlock the symbols of Revelation.

“Feet like unto fine brass”

And thou shalt make an altar of shittim wood, five cubits long, and five cubits broad; the altar shall be foursquare: and the height thereof shall be three cubits. And thou shalt make the horns of it upon the four corners thereof: his horns shall be of the same: and thou shalt overlay it with brass. (Exodus 27:1–2)

Thou shalt also make a laver of brass, and his foot also of brass, to wash withal: and thou shalt put it between the tabernacle of the congregation and the altar, and thou shalt put water therein. For Aaron and his sons shall wash their hands and their feet thereat. (Exodus 30:18–19)

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! (Isaiah 52:7)

For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet. (Psalm 22:16)

In the Old Testament sanctuary, both the cleansing laver and the altar of sacrifice were made of brass. Christ is both the propitiation for sin by His sacrifice, and the cleansing, purifying water of life. He has been made a perfect sacrifice and Savior through the things He suffered.

Jesus’ feet carried Him down the dusty roads of Israel to bring the good tidings of salvation to mankind. John, who witnessed those feet cruelly nailed to the cross, now in vision sees the feet of Christ as they shine forth radiant and blazing as brass fired in a furnace.

“His voice as the sound of many waters”

His voice thundered like the waves against the shore. (Revelation 1:15 TLB)

And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice was like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory. (Ezekiel 43:2)

And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. (Revelation 19:6)

The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea. (Psalm 93:4)

And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps. (Revelation 14:2)

Hast thou an arm like God? or canst thou thunder with a voice like him? (Job 40:9)

The clap of thunder, the crash of the endless waves upon the seashore, and the roar of a cascading waterfall are all sounds that demonstrate nature’s power. Thus is the power of God and of Christ. The strength of their voice is likened to the strength and power of these examples of nature, for it immediately draws our attention and humbles us. This is what sinful man needs to experience. His attention must be grabbed and his heart humbled. Then, in love and mercy, Christ speaks to us with His still small voice. “And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it” (Isaiah 30:21).

Revelation 1:16

And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.

“In his right hand”

And he said, The Lord came from Sinai, and rose up from Seir unto them; he shined forth from mount Paran, and he came with ten thousands of saints: from his right hand went a fiery law for them. (Deuteronomy 33:2)

Show thy marvellous lovingkindness, O thou that savest by thy right hand them which put their trust in thee from those that rise up against them. (Psalm 17:7)

Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great. (Psalm 18:35)

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. (Isaiah 41:10)

Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. (Romans 8:34)

Because most people are right handed in terms of strength and dexterity, the right hand is used symbolically in both the Old and New Testaments. The right side or hand is the side of faith, and it represents God’s sustaining power and salvation. It is the side of favor and intimacy. The significance of the right hand or right side is important as we seek to understand what the stars in Christ’s right hand represent.

“Seven stars”

The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches. (Revelation 1:20)

For the priest’s lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts. (Malachi 2:7)

The seven stars are represented as angels or messengers who are being supported and directed by Christ. They convey light and knowledge to the followers of Christ, to His church, which is represented by the seven candlesticks. These stars or messengers would be its leaders—its pastors and elders. Christ is represented as holding the seven stars in His right hand. This representation assures us that no messenger who remains faithful will fall from the hand of Christ. No star that has the protection of omnipotence can be plucked out of the hand of Christ. (See John 10:27–29.)

“Out of His mouth went a sharp, two-edged sword”

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:17)

And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations. And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth. (Revelation 19:15, 21)

And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. (Revelation 2:12, 16)

He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. (John 12:48)

This sword is symbolic of Christ’s authority to judge and His power to execute judgment. The sword is the Word of God, the standard or basis of the judgment.

“Countenance as the sun shineth in his strength”

At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me. … And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. (Acts 26:13, 15)

In him was life; and the life was the light of men. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. (John 1:4, 9)

This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. (1 John 1:5)

But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. (Malachi 4:2)

The light of Jesus face reflects the glories of heaven. His countenance also reflects His character for in Christ there is no darkness of evil or error at all; and He is the light and life of men.

Revelation 1:17

And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last.

“I fell at His feet as dead”

In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts. (Isaiah 6:1, 5)

As the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness round about. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when I saw it, I fell upon my face, and I heard a voice of one that spake. (Ezekiel 1:28)

And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. (Matthew 28:2–4)

John knew Christ as the Son of man, for he lived and worked with Him for over three years. But now the view of the glorified Christ was overwhelming. Despite the love and closeness John felt for Christ and for the things of heaven, the realities and glories of heaven were too much for him, and he fell as one dead. This is often the case, as recorded throughout the Scriptures, when sinful man encounters the glory and purity of heavenly beings. If John the beloved could not stand before the glorified Christ, we should not become puffed up in thinking we have anything in our lives to recommend ourselves to God. Our hope and merits lie in Christ alone.

“Laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not”

And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands. And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling. Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words. (Daniel 10:10–12)

According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. (Luke 1:9–13)

An encounter with angels or Christ, in person or vision, leaves the beholder in a state of fear. This fear is the result of the overwhelming recognition of the frailty and weakness of humanity in the presence of deity or heavenly beings. Yet Christ says to John and to us, “Fear not. Do not be afraid. For I am thy God, thy help in time of trouble.” “For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee” (Isaiah 41:13).

Revelation 1:18

I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

“I am he that liveth, and was dead”

Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. (Romans 6:9–10)

But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. (1 Corinthians 15:20)

“And have the keys”

And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. (Matthew 16:19)

Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered. (Luke 11:52)

And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth. (Revelation 3:7)

The word key or keys is used as a symbol of power and jurisdiction or authority. Thus Christ is depicted here as having authority and the power to open the grave.

“Keys of hell and of death”

Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. (John 5:25–29)

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. (John 11:25)

And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. (1 John 5:11–12)

Christ, by virtue of His death and resurrection, has the keys representing authority over the grave and death. To those who believe and entrust their life to Him, the fear of death is removed, for as Jesus conquered death by His resurrection, so we have the assurance of a resurrection unto eternal life.

Revelation 1:19

Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter.

John was admonished to write down the things revealed to him in vision, both that which was current and understandable to his day and that which was yet unknown and for the ages to come. Now to us is granted a more perfect vision, as we can look back upon prophecy fulfilled in history and see the outlines of the last events of the future.

Revelation 1:20

The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.

Angel—(To bring tidings); a messenger, especially an angel; by implication a pastor.⁵ Literally a messenger; A minister of the gospel, who is an ambassador of God. A spiritual intelligent being employed by God to communicate his will to man. Hence angels are ministers of God, and ministering spirits.⁶

The messages to the seven churches in chapters 2 and 3 are addressed specifically to the leaders of these churches in Asia Minor. They are also messages to the church throughout its history, from John’s day to just before the coming of Christ. The principles and admonitions of Scripture are timeless, therefore the message to the seven churches continue to speak words of warning, rebuke, and encouragement to the leaders and people of the churches today.


Endnotes

1.  James Strong, LL.D., S.T.D., Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1987).

2.  Noah Webster, American Dictionary of the English Language (San Francisco, California: Foundation for American Christian Education, 1967).

3.  James Strong, op cit.

4.  Ibid.

5.  Ibid.

6.  Noah Webster, op cit.