VERSE by VERSE COMMENTARY

Revelation Chapter One

Body :

Outline of Chapter One:

1. THE STRUGGLE ON EARTH --- Chapters 1-11. The church is persecuted by the world. The church is avenged, protected and victorious.
1. Christ in the Midst of the Seven Golden Lampstands. Chapters 1-3. Key Theme to be Noted ---- "Lo, I am with you always."
1. Introduction: 1:1-3. Chain of origin and Communication.
1. God The Father
2. Christ The Son of God.
3. His Angel.
4. His Servant, John.
5. The Reader - possibly the Public Reader of the Day.
6. They that hear and keep the Words.
2. Salutation and Adoration --- 1:4-6.
3. Announcement of Christ's Coming --- 1:7.
4. Christ's Self-designation or designation of the Father --- 1:8.
5. John's commission to write the Revelation --- 1:9-11.
6. The vision of the Son of Man --- 1:12-16.
7. Effect of this vision on John and Christ's Words of comfort and instruction --- 1:17-20.



2. Verse By Verse Commentary on Chapter One:
1. Verse 1-3 It should be noted that these three verses are the inspired introduction to the Book. There are a few vital points for us to note in this opening introduction.
1. Firstly to note is the fact that the Title of the book is contained in the first verse ie. (The Revelation of Jesus Christ). For a definition of the term "revelation" please see notes found on page four of this commentary under Introductory work. Jesus is the giver of this Revelation. One sees that the Revelation shows Christ in two different roles (1) It reveals Christ in His present Glory, (2) and Christ as executor of Judgment. This revelation did not originate with Christ but rather it was given to Him by God. Christ gave this revelation to His Angel who in turn gave it to the servant John. Angels played a part in giving the law (Acts 7:53 ; Gal. 3:19) and Angels also have a significant role in the book of Revelation. John gave it to those who would read and hear the words and keep the things which are written therein.
2. Secondly to note is the time period that the book of revelation is dealing with. The expressions, "shortly come to pass" (vrs 1) and "the time is at hand" (vrs 3) along with the verses 6 and 10 of chapter 22, show that the things of the book would not tarry or delay. Also here to be noted is the fact that the book had a definite bearing on the present generation that John was writing to. This type of language also gives the book a sense of urgency ie. imminent possibility that the things which are recorded are going to take place or are already taking place. What needs to be recognized is the fact that although the revelation pertained to the present generation of Christians, its principles and messages apply to Christians of all time.
3. Thirdly to note is the fact that John tells us in the opening address that the things which are recorded are signified (vrs 1). The term signified means :"the act or process of signifying by signs or other symbolic means" (Webster). From the greek word [SEMAINO], which Vine's defines as; "to give a sign, indicate, to signify. This term is used three times in the Gospel of John concerning the death of Jesus, cf. John 12;33, 18:32, 21:19.



1. Note this rule of Biblical Study:
1. Normally, a passage of scripture must be understood in its plain and natural sense unless the context demands that it be taken figuratively.
2. The reverse is true in the Book of Revelation: the symbols are to be taken figuratively unless the context demands otherwise.
3. The symbols and figures of Revelation should be understood in the light of the plain passages of the New Testament and should never be made to contradict them.
4. Fourthly it should be noted that John was to "bare witness". As many commentaries note, this language is characteristic of the Apostle John's writings. Note that John's witness is divided into three sections (1) bore witness of the Word of God --- which is the gospel (cf. I Peter 1:25). (2) The testimony of Jesus Christ --- all those things which Jesus both did and taught --- (cf. Acts 1:1). Some believe this to be John's previous preaching and teaching of the Gospel. On the other hand this statement could refer to the fact that the revelation was part of the Gospel of Christ. (3) all things that he saw --- John was always careful to point out that he gave a true witness of the things which he wrote (cf. John 19:35 ; 21:24 ; I John 1:1-4). Some believe that the usage of the term "witness" is a play on words since the Greek term "witness" has become our English word "martyr". Tenney suggests that it is possible that the term "witness" had started taking on the form "to suffer for" since witnessing for Christ involved great suffering. The one who "bore witness" for Christ would suffer since the Word of God is Light and exposes the things which are done in the dark. It must also be noted that Victory comes after the suffering for the cause of Christ (cf. Rev. 2:10).
5. Fifthly it should be noted that there is a blessing involved in hearing and heeding the things which are here written. The term "blessed" in (vrs 3) carries both the idea of being "happy" and "being praised or spoken well of." This is the same term that Christ uses in Matthew 5:1-13 and is the first of seven "blessed's" found in Revelation. BLESSED ARE ---:
1. 1:3 --- "that readeth .... that hear ... and Keep those things."
2. 14:13 --- "the dead which die in the Lord"
3. 16:15 --- "that Watcheth and keepeth his Garments"
4. 19:9 --- "that are Called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb"
5. 20:6 --- "that hath part in the First Resurrection".
6. 22:7 --- "that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy"
7. 22:14 --- "that do his commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life"
6. Sixth note that there are two aspects of who is blessed here in verse 3. The "he" is probably the public reader of that day as seen in the fact that John changes to the pronoun "they" for the listeners.



3. Verses 4. The Salutation.



1. The book is addressed to "the seven churches which are in Asia"; these are listed in verse 11 of chapter One. It must be noted that Asia had more than Seven churches as can be gathered from a study of Paul's Missionary journeys in the book of Acts. The salutation takes on both Jew and Gentile terminology. Grace --- (unmerited Divine favor) is the Gentile salutation and Peace --- (tranquility, free from disturbance) is the Jewish salutation. The greetings come from (1) Him which is and was and is to come --- ie. God the Father. This is the same terminology that Moses was told to tell the people in Egypt when questioned on his authority to say and do the things which he was about to do. "I AM". Note also Rev. 4:8); (2) the seven Spirits that are before the throne --- used also in Rev. 3:1 ; 4:5 ; 5:6. This either signifies that there are literally seven spirits before the throne of God or it must be understood in the symbolic language that the number seven represents ie. fullness and complete. With this in mind it possibly could be referring to the complete and all seeing Holy Spirit. (3) Jesus Christ.



4. Verses 5-6 The Adoration and Identity of Jesus Christ.



1. John's description of Jesus Christ gives the scope of the Ministry of Jesus Christ. There are seven descriptive terms used here of Christ. These are:
1. The faithful witness --- he gave witness of Himself cf. John 8:14 ; Heb. 1:1-3 ; John 18:36-38 ; I Tim. 6:13.
2. The first Begotten of the dead --- first to be resurrected never to die again cf. Acts 26:23 ; Col. 1:18 ; I Cor. 15:20.
3. Prince of the kings of the earth --- rules over all the kingdoms of men with a rod of iron ---- Eph. 1:20-21 ; I Tim. 6:15 ; Rev. 17:14 ; 19:15-16 ; Psa. 2:7-12 ; 110:1-7.
4. Him that loved us --- cf. Gal. 2:20 ; John 15:9 ; John 13:34.
5. Washed us from our sins --- He is the Savior who gave His blood and offered himself that we might be redeemed that we might be healed from our sins --- cf. I Peter 2:24 ; Heb. 9:14 , 25-28 ; Acts 22:16.
6. Made us to be kings and priests --- Christ is the founder of the kingdom and the priesthood. --- cf. I Peter 2:5,9 ; Rev 5:9-10 ; Col. 1:13.
7. To Him be the glory and Dominion --- unto Him is the praise and honor, and the rule and sovereignty --- cf. Acts 2:36 ; Rev. 17:14 "for ever and ever" --- for unending or unlimited duration. Note the fact that Angels, authorities and powers have been made subject to Him (I Peter 3:22) and before Him every knee shall bow (Phil. 2:9-11).

1. Verse 7 The Coming of Christ



1. Some understand verse 7 to be referring to Christ's coming in judgment upon Jerusalem --- cf. Matthew 24:30-34 ; 26:64 ; Luke 21:20-32 ; 23:27-31. However, by the expressions, "every eye" and "all kindreds," it no doubt is a description of the second coming of Christ. He first came as a Savior; however, He is returning as a Judge the second time. For other passages on the second coming see : I Thess. 4:16-17 ; I Cor. 15:51-53 ; Phil. 3:20-21 ; Acts 1:10-11.
2. Note the Term --- "Cometh with the clouds" vrs 7 can be understood in two ways. (1) The judgment of God on Jerusalem ---cf. Dan. 7:13 ; Isa. 19:1 or (2) The Second coming of Christ in Judgment --- cf. Acts 1:9-11. The clouds used here as a metaphorical expression is the means for transporting Deity. This expression is largely rooted in the writings of the Psalms. The term clouds is also largely connected with the sense of Judgment to come --- cf. Zech. 3:9 ; Psa. 97:2 ; Rev. 14:14-20 ; Zech. 10 and John 19:34,37 ; Ezek. 30:3 ; 32:7.



2. Verse 8 Christ's Self-designation or Designation of the Father



1. This verse probably has reference to the Father as is seen in 1:4. It must however, be noted that clearly through out the book we see this term used of Christ Jesus Himself. Compare Rev. 1:17 ; 2:8 ; 22:12-13 one can clearly see that the similar expression is used of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. These expressions refer to the "eternal existence" of the Father and of the Lord Jesus cf. Phil. 2:6.



3. Questions For Study:



1. Who is the Author of the Book of revelation and to whom is it written?



2. Under what atmosphere is the Book of Revelation written? This indicates that this Roman Emperor was probably on the throne when it was written?



3. What are two good questions that we should keep before us as we try to find the meaning of the book?



4. What is the purpose of the book with reference to the saints and their persecutions?



5. What word in verse one shows that the book of Revelation is a symbolic book?

1. On what are the blessings of the book (as well as all other books of the Bible) based?



2. The grace and peace were from who?



3. To what does verse seven refer?

1. CHAPTER ONE : 9-20 --- THE FIRST VISION CHRIST AMIDST THE CHURCHES



1. Verses Nine - Eleven : "(9) I, John, both your brother and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the island that is called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. (10) I was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet, (11) saying, "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last," and, "What you see, write in a book and send {it} to the seven churches which are in Asia: to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea."
1. The writer identifies himself as John, a brother (it is important to note the fact that in relation to Jesus Christ John was a slave or a servant cf. vrs 1, but to his fellow saints he was a brother) and a companion in tribulation. "The word that is used here for tribulation is a word which pictures the grinding of wheat in the mill or the crushing of grapes in the wine press. It is outside pressure which appears at first sight to crush and ruin, but it proves to make the grain (as flour) and the grapes (as wine) to be of greater service. So it was with John and his friends; the persecution appeared to be crushing and ruining, but in reality it was only preparing them for more effective service." ⁽¹⁾
2. From verse nine we must note that John identifies himself as being a companion to those whom he was writing in three distinct ways:
1. He was a fellow partaker/companion in the tribulation which was upon the Christians of that day.
1. This point is important to note because the writer here proclaims the fact that he is able to sympathize with the saints in this tribulation.
2. He is not one who was free from the suffering but rather was a victim of his religious beliefs also. NOTE the last part of vrs. 9.
3. It must also be noted that the church was suffering persecution from three different avenues:
1. The Jews.
2. The Roman Empire/Government.
3. From Paganism.
4. Note these scriptures for backing of such persecutions:
1. Rev. 2:13 ; 7:14 ; 20:4 ; also see John 16:33 ; Acts 14:21-22 ; II Tim. 3:12.
2. John was a fellow partaker/companion in the Kingdom of Christ.
1. This one statement proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that the JW's and the Millennialists are wrong in their assumption that the Kingdom of God was not in effect at this particular time.
1. Compare these Verses to show that the Kingdom was established on the day of Pentecost.
2. Mark 9:1 --- Kingdom to be present with power.
3. Acts 1:8 --- Power would come when the Holy Spirit came.
4. Acts 2:1-4 - Holy Spirit Came on Day of Pentecost.
5. If Holy Spirit Came then the power came. If power came then the Kingdom came to.
2. Note by comparison these scriptures: Col. 1:13 ; Heb. 12:28.
3. John was a fellow partaker/companion in the Patience of the Lord Jesus Christ
1. This is the steadfastness/patience/perseverance that all men should have especially under times of trails and tribulation.
1. Crist wants all men to be strong under such tribulation.
2. Certainly Christ is our example of how to be steadfast in time of trial and tribulation --- cf. Matt. 4:1-11.
2. Cross Reference these Scriptures: Rom. 5:3-5 ; 12:12 ; James 1:2-4.
3. John was banished to the isle of Patmos. (For more information on the Isle of Patmos see notes of the Place of Writing p. 19 of this commentary.)
1. There are three major positions that are held to on the banishment/exile of John to Patmos.
1. John was on the isle of Patmos as punishment for the proclamation of the Gospel of Christ.
1. There is evidence that banishment was a means of punishing Christians fr their belief in Christ.
2. Other punishments included being slain and beheaded, property being confiscated ect. Note. Rev. 6:9 ; 20:4.
2. John was on the isle of Patmos in order to proclaim the Gospel.
1. This position is not likely since islands such as Patmos were usually not populated or commercialized at all.
3. John was on the isle of Patmos for the specific purpose of receiving the Revelation.
2. Of the three positions point (a) seems to be the more correct, since the entire book of Revelation indicates that John was able to sympathize with the suffering saints since he himself was also suffering for the cause of Christ.
4. It must finally be noted that all three of these are to be found in Christ Jesus. The American Standard Version's wording helps one to see this point clearer.
1. Revelation 1:9 "I John, your brother and partaker with you in tribulation and kingdom and patience {which are} in Jesus, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God and the testimony of Jesus." (ASV)
2. This is understandable from the fact that those who were not in Christ Jesus would be spared the discomfort of suffering and tribulation/persecution that was being placed upon those who were in Christ.
1. These would not be in the Kingdom, however, those who are in the Kingdom would overcome because of the power by which they are kept.



2. John says that he was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day.



1. "I was in the Spirit", Hailey says concerning this statement. "This does not mean that John was in a spirit of worship or meditation or under the spell of a self-imposed ecstasy, but that he was under the power or control of the Divine Spirit."⁽²⁾
1. It is clear from other scriptures that this seems to be the most logical explanation of this expression.
2. "In the Spirit" --- "A miraculous vision in which one had contact with God. cf. (Ezek. 3:10-15 ; 8:1-4)"⁽³⁾
1. The fact that visions, dreams and trances were frequently used as mediums by which Divine Revelation occurred cannot be denied.
2. Note these Scriptures : Ezek. 1:1 ; Dan. 2:19 ; Matt. 1:20 ; Acts 2:17 ; 10:3,10 ; 22:17-18.
3. The Apostle Paul speaks of one who had a vision --- II Cor. 12:1-4.
2. "The Lord's Day", this particular expression is a little more difficult to understand however, it is made clearer by the examination of other scriptures.
1. The expressions "Lord's Day" and "Day of the Lord" should not be confused. These expressions are not equivalent in thought.
1. The Day of the Lord has reference to the second coming of Christ in Judgment upon all.
2. Where as the expression "Lord's Day" seems to suggest and indicate the First Day of the Week or (Sunday).
1. Note these important passages which seem to suggest that the Lord's Day is the First Day of the Week.
1. Jesus was raised on the first day of the week --- Mk. 16:1-9.
2. Jesus met with His disciples several times on the first day of the week --- John 20:1, 19, 26.
3. All the events of Acts chapter two took place on the first day of the Week.
1. First Gospel Sermon.
2. First Converts.
3. Beginning and Establishment of the church.
4. The church assembled on the first day of the week to partake of the Lord's Supper --- Acts 20:7.
5. Christians are commanded to give on the first day of the week --- I Cor. 16:2.
2. Not all commentators are in an agree with this explanation.
1. Note an extract from Foy E. Wallace concerning this expression:
1. "It is not a reference to the first day of the week, but to the day in which the Lord accomplished these events, as used in Isa. 13:9 in which Isaiah described the destruction of ancient Babylon as the day of the Lord; and in Zech. 14:1where Zechariah referred to the destruction of Jerusalem as the day of the Lord. The phrase meant the day of events connected with the judgments of the Lord. ...... Rev. 1:10 it means in day of the rapture into which the Lord placed John --- that he had been transported into the midst of the scenes of the vision as though he was, himself, in the day of their happening." ⁽⁴⁾
3. The majority of commentaries conclude that this is a reference to the Day on which Christians came together to commemorate the Son of God.
1. Ray Summers makes this observation concerning this day:
1. "Thus on the day of worship when John's heart longed for those Christians who had depended upon him for so long for spiritual comfort and guidance, and while he pondered upon his condition and theirs and the outcome of it all, he heard a voice saying in essence, 'You cannot be with those people but you can send them a message ; it is a message which I will give to you'"⁽⁵⁾
4. A study of the Greek words found in this phrase lends this author to believe that it is the First day of the Week (Sunday).
1. Note: (kuriakei hemerai) "Lord's Day". The Greek term {kuriakei} occurs only twice in the entire New Testament.
1. Rev. 1:10 and I Cor.11:20 (kuriakon deipnon) "Lord's Supper."
2. The significance of this cannot be overlooked.
3. John hears behind him a great voice as of a trumpet. Just as to why the voice came from behind him is not revealed but a parallel to this is found in Ezek. 3:12.
1. One needs to note that when ever God had something to impart to His people in the Old Testament dispensation, He gathered them by means of a trumpet-sound. cf. Ex. 19:16,19 ; Lev. 25:9 ; Josh 6:5 ; Isa. 58:1.
1. However, one needs to note the fact that the voice was not a trumpet but rather "as of a trumpet" meaning that it was loud and clear.
2. Trumpet sounding has also been used to sound men into battle as well as to announce the triumph of victory or to call men to attention.
3. It should be noted that the Romans used the trumpet extensively for this purpose.
2. Secondly to note is the commission given to John.
1. He was to write in a book the things which he would see.
2. He was to send it to the seven churches of Asia.
1. If one notes the order of the listing of these churches you will see that a rough circle is formed which has led many to believe that it is inclusive of all those who are in the Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
3. Though this was first sent to these seven churches, God has persevered this message showing that it is for all who would read and learn from God.
4. The question must be raised as to who gave John this commission.
1. Some contend that it is the angel of vrs 1. that summoned John's attention since it was by the Angel that these things were given to John.
2. Others contend that since John saw Jesus the Son of God in the midst of the candlesticks when he turned about, that it must have been Christ who spoke and commissioned John.
5. The fact cannot be denied that Christ is the speaker of verses 17-20however, it is probable that what is spoken in verse 11 is spoken by the Angel of vrs. 1.



3. Verses 12-16. "(12) And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And having turned I saw seven golden candlesticks; (13) and in the midst of the candlesticks one like unto a son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about at the breasts with a golden girdle. (14) And his head and his hair were white as white wool, {white} as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; (15) and his feet like unto burnished brass, as if it had been refined in a furnace; and his voice as the voice of many waters. (16) And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth proceeded a sharp two-edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength."



1. Hearing this voice John turns to see who is speaking to him and sees the first of many visions which are recorded in this book.
1. John first saw seven golden candlesticks/lampstands.
1. These are representative of the seven churches to which the message is addressed. cf. 1:20 ; 2:5c.
2. Note John saw seven distinct candlesticks and not the Old Jewish Candlestick which had seven branches. cf. Tabernacle in the wilderness had one lampstand located on the south end. Solomon's Temple multiplied this by 10 ; five on the one side and five on the other.
1. Some have indicted that this showed the true relationship of congregations to Jesus Christ as well as to each other.
2. Congregations of the Lord's church are to be autonomous and independent of each other only joined together by a central headship, Jesus Christ.
3. The purpose of lampstands is to shed light. In this way the churches are to fulfill their mission by shedding spiritual light. When they cease to shed forth this light the lampstand is removed.
3. Gold was the metal used in the vessels of Divine service.
2. Secondly John saw one who was in the midst of the candlesticks.
1. This is no doubt a reference to Christ Jesus.
2. Note: Christ is always in the midst of His churches, since He is the Head, the High Priest and the King.
3. What John saw in the midst of the candlesticks is indeed a description of Jesus Christ in His present Glory as triumphant King in Heaven. Though it is difficult for the human mind to comprehend the great glory of this Spirit Being, John tries to give us a glimpse of what Christ and His Reign is like through the usage of symbols. vrs13-16.
4. Note the chart which tries to give us a vague picture of what these symbols represent.

⁽⁶⁾

1. This description pictures Christ as more than just a tender, loving Savior. Christ is this and more than this; He is clothed with power and Majesty, with awe and terror. From this we see that Christ is Living, Holy, Pure, Majestic, authoritative, omniscient and powerful as He stands in the Midst of His churches.



1. Verses 17-20 : THE DIVINE CHARGE OF CHRIST TO WRITE.



1. "(17) And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, "Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. (18) "I {am} He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death. (19) "Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this. (20) "The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lamp-stands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lamp-stands which you saw are the seven churches."



2. NOTE: In this segment of our study we see the Divine charge to write the things which are to be revealed unto John. (2) We also see the effect that the first vision has had on John. (3) The authority and the Divinity of Christ acknowledged. (4) As well as an explanation of the seven golden lampstands and the seven stars which were mentioned in vrs. 12 and 16.
3. Verse 17: The effect of the Vision on John.
1. Note that John fell down at the feet of Christ.
1. Falling at the feet of someone or something has always being representative of showing worship.
2. Jesus is worthy of worship and adoration since He is God....John 1:1 cf. Heb. 1:6.
1. Note that man in not worthy of worship cf. Acts 10:24-25 ; 14:11-15.
2. Note angels are not worthy of worship either cf. Rev. 19:10 ; 22:8-9.
3. It must be noted that at this point John has not fallen down to worship the one who he has seen but rather this falling down is the physical strenuous effect that such a vision has had on him. The above comments are noted for future reference when John does fall at the feet of angels to worship them.
2. Secondly to note here is the fact that John writes that he fell down as though he were dead.
1. This possibly is a swoon that John had fallen in.
2. What caused this swoon?
1. Certainly the awe and the fear of what he has just witnessed concerning the present glory of Christ in Heaven.
3. This type of reaction towards receiving a revelation from God was not uncommon.
1. Prophets of the Old Testament had overcome similar experiences.
1. Isaiah when he beheld the vision of Jehovah's throne --- Isa. 6:5.
2. Ezekiel when he saw the chariot of God --- Ezek. 1:28.
3. Daniel at the sight of Gabriel --- Dan. 8:17,27 cf. 10:8-10.
4. These type of visions seemed to have a drastic effect on the physical bodies that caused them to react in such ways.
1. Note the purpose of the revelation was not to terrify but rather to bring comfort to John and the hearers of the words.
5. Note the fact that should this be the Apostle John who is writing this revelation, the drastic change that he saw in the appearance of Christ who cause the unnerving effect that is here portrayed.
1. One must remember that the Apostle John was the one whom Jesus loved while here on this earth.
2. Also what needs to be noted is the fact that John many times was referred to as "having been in the bosom of Christ".
3. The fact remains that the glorious body of Christ was so different from that of His fleshly body that the unanticipated change overwhelmed John.
1. All are going to be changed at the return of Christ --- I Cor. 15:50-52.
6. The subsequent revelations in this verse seem to imply that John did not recognize the Divine personage as that of Jesus Christ



4. Thirdly to note in this verse is the tenderness and genuine concern that Christ has for his servant John.
1. Christ stretched out His right hand and laid it on John.
1. The purpose of such can be seen in Dan. 8:18.
2. We are accustomed to the phrase "he extended his right hand in fellowship".
3. We often hear the expression, "he held out his right hand to help!"
4. Certainly here we can see that we are to recognize that Christ offers help to us even though we have fallen down.
2. "Fear not! ; Do not be afraid!" --- The child of God should not be afraid of the majesty and glory of the Son of God... cf. Matt. 14:27 but rather we should find peace and assurance before Him..
1. Those who should be afraid of being in the presence of God, as those who are walking contrary to the Will of God.
2. Lenski notes concerning this fearing: "The present imperative forbids a continuation of fearing" ⁽⁷⁾
3. The reasons that Christ gives to not be afraid are:
1. These titles are all descriptive of Christ the Savior. Ones which John would be well familiar with.
2. "I am the first and the last". This expression is found four times in the book of Revelation cf. 1:11 ; 1:17 ; 2:8 ; 22:13 and three times in the book of Isaiah cf. 41:4 ; 44:6 ; 48:12.
1. In Isaiah's account this expression is used to assure Judah that Jehovah God is absolute and that He is able to drive the enemies out of the land and redeem His people.
3. In Revelation Christ having been glorified, uses the same expression identifying Himself with the fullness and the power of the eternal God.
4. This expression exemplifies the eternal nature of Christ and the rightful place that He holds as being God. cf. John 1:1.



2. Verse 18 : Continuation of thought given to not be Afraid.



1. This continuation of thought removes beyond a shadow of a doubt the fact that this is Jesus Christ that John has seen amidst the Candlesticks.
1. "And the Living One" --- this continuation of verse 17 is once again another Divine Title that Christ under takes for Himself.
1. This title occurs many times in the O.T. to show the Supreme being cf. Deut. 5:26 ; 32:40 ; Josh. 3:10 ; I Sam. 17:26,36 ; II Kings 19:4,16 ; Psa. 42:2 ; 84:2 ; Isa. 37:4,17 ; Jer. 10:10 ; 23:36 ; Dan. 6:20,26 ; Hos. 1:10.
1. In the N.T. this phrase is also used of the Supreme Being --- cf. Matt. 16:16 ; 26:63 ; Rom. 9:26 ; II Cor. 3:3 ; 6:16 ; I Tim. 3:15 ; 4:10 ; Heb. 3:12 ; 9:14 ; 10:31 ; 12:22 ; Rev. 7:2.
2. God is not the God of the dead but of the living --- cf. Lk. 20:38.
2. Oaths were taken by the name of "Jehovah" and they would swear "As Jehovah Liveth" --- cf. Jer. 5:2 ; Matt. 26:63.
2. One needs to remember that Jesus identified Himself as the "life" and that we have life in Him. cf. John 14:6 ; 5:26 ; 1:4.
3. One must remember that this phrase would be familiar to John the Apostle since he uses this terminology frequently in the Gospel of John.

1. "And was dead, and behold, I am alive for evermore." It was the destiny of Christ to die, however, it was also Christ's destiny to arise never to die again.
1. Certainly this one phrase would give the readers and the hearers of these revelations a hope beyond all hope.cf. Rom. 8:34-39
1. We serve a risen Savior and not a dead hero.
2. The certainty of Christ's resurrection is here once again declared unto John.
3. This statement definitely alludes to Christ's death at the hands of the evil rulers of the Jewish religious system.
4. It is without doubt that this is Jesus Christ since to no one else could this terminology apply.
1. Christ was the only one who was raised from the dead never having to taste of death again.
5. This must have been very comforting to those who soon would have to die for the faith that they have in Christ Jesus.
1. Christ promised those who died in Him to be risen with Him in the Last Day.
2. The assurance of this was the fact that Christ had risen from the dead. cf. I Cor. 15:12-23.



2. Furthermore, another reason not to be afraid is the fact that Christ holds the "Keys of Hades and Death".
1. The term "keys" or "key" is never used literally in the N.T.
1. cf. Lk. 11:52.
2. What Christ here has reference to is that He has the authority over Hades and over Death.
2. The term "keys" represents authority and power.
1. Matt 16:19 --- defined "kleis {klice}; a key (as shutting a lock), literally or figuratively: - key."
2. Rev. 1:18 --- the same definition as that found in Matthew's account.
3. It is used of Christ twice in Revelation cf. Rev. 1:18 ; 3:7.
1. Twice of Angels cf. Rev. 9:1 ; 20:1.
4. Thus the term "key" is either inherent authority or authority delegated by one to another.
5. Note that Christ has the "keys" --- plural. ie. reference to Hades and to Death.
1. At the second coming of Christ both Hades and Death will cease and be casted in the Lake that burns with fire and brimstone cf. Rev. 20:13-14 cf. 6:8.
2. Christ will speak the Word and both will give up their prisoners -- cf. John 5: 28-29.



1. Verse 19 : Command by Christ the Son of God to write the things he saw.



1. Although there is some difficulty in accessing who the speaker is of verse 11, there is no doubt that the speaker here is Jesus Christ Himself. What is commanded here is a reinforcement of what was spoken in verse 11.
1. One must note the fact that what is spoken here is the One who has the Authority over Death and Hades and who now is ruling. To this fact it must be Jesus Christ.
2. The command to write implies that John was writing the things while they were happening. Although there are a few times when John is told not to write, we as students must understand that Revelation for the majority was not written after the event, but rather it was written during the revelations itself.
1. The command to write is threefold in nature.
1. "Write the things which you have seen."
2. "And the things which are."
3. "And the things which must take place after this."
2. Note the fullness of this command as compared with the command in verse 11.
1. Here the command was a threefold command.
1. "Write what you see."
2. "Write in a book."
3. "Send it to the seven churches."
3. As we analyze these commands we can see three distinct divisions which is a complete summarization of the proceedings of the book of Revelation.
1. "Write the things which you have seen" --- this is a reference to what John had already seen thus far --- cf. 1:1-20.
2. "Write the things which are" --- this is a reference to the prevailing conditions and state of the seven churches at the present time --- cf. Chapters 2-3.
3. And the things which must take place after this" --- points to the conditions in the future that would follow those just mentioned --- cf. Chapter 4:1-ff.
1. There is no doubt that the time limit on these things which would be reaches far into the future and not only to a few given years from its writing.
1. The Book of Revelation includes things of the immediate future and things which reach unto and include the second coming of Christ, the Judgment, and the Eternal Kingdom." ⁽⁸⁾
4. Albert Barnes notes on these three commands: "....Give an account of those things which thou hast seen as designed to represent the condition of the seven churches. He had seen not only the Savior, but he had seen seven lamp-stands, and seven stars in the hand of the Savior, and he is now commanded to record the meaning of these symbols as referring to the things then actually existing in the seven churches. This interpretation is demanded by verse 20. .... The Greek phrase 'hereafter' means 'after these things', that is, he was to make a correct representation of the things which were, and then to record what would occur 'after these things:' to wit, of the images, symbols, and the truths, which would be disclosed to him after what he had already seen." ⁽⁹⁾
4. One must realize that one cannot be dogmatic that this is the only plausible explanation of what is meant here. For certainly as Hailey states: "....for the things revealed in the seven letters blend into and also point to the things which were to come." ⁽¹⁰⁾

1. Verse 20 : The Mystery Unveiled by Jesus Christ. Mystery is that which was hidden but now is revealed.



1. Up until this time the meaning of the seven lamp-stands (vrs 12) and the seven stars held in the right hand (16) of Christ have not been explained. It is in this verse that their explanation is given.
1. Christ proceeds to explain first the "seven stars in His right hand". These are the "angels of the seven churches."
1. Just exactly what is meant here is most difficult to explain, if not impossible to determine what this has reference to.
2. Let us note what positions have been taken on its meaning:
1. Firstly some advocate that the angels are simply the messengers of the churches.
2. Secondly some advocate that this is the Bishop of each congregation. However, elders/Bishops were always to be in the plural and not in the singular form cf. Acts 14:23, thus this position cannot be accepted with much credibility.
3. Thirdly the most commonly held belief is the angel represents, symbolically, the spirit of the church.
1. Charles r. Erdman writes that the "angel denotes a personification of the character and temper and conduct of the church. It expresses the idea that each church, with its many individual members, constitutes a unity." ⁽¹¹⁾
2. Hailey notes on this position: "This last has stronger supporting evidence. Since the lampstands are the churches - the supporters of the light - viewed externally, the stars may well represent the inward life or spirit of the congregations addressed by Jesus. This position seems to be confirmed by the letters themselves; Jesus addresses each letter to the 'angel of the church .....,' and concludes with the appeal 'he that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches.' Whoever is addressed is to hear; the angels are addressed; the churches are to hear. It follows that the angels are that part of the church addressed which is to hear; this would be the spirit or active life of the churches." ⁽¹²⁾
4. To this end this author agrees that it is most probable that what is spoken here has reference to the spirit of the seven churches.



2. Secondly Christ says that the "seven lampstands are the seven churches."
1. There is no doubt as to the seven churches Christ has in mind.
1. These are the same churches to whom he must send the things which he has written and seen, mentioned in verse 11.
2. These are literal churches and not symbolic churches. Further explanations will be given in the commentary on each letter written to these churches.

Return to Commentary Index Page

1. Worthy is the Lamb by Ray Summers p.103-104

2. Revelation an Introduction and Commentary by. Homer Hailey p. 106

3. Studying the Book of Revelation by David. J. Riggs p.4

4. The Book of Revelation by Foy E. Wallace p. 77

5. Worthy is the Lamb p. 104

6. Studying the Book of Revelation p. 5

7. {The Interpretation of St. John's Revelation by R.C.H. Lenski. Augsburg Publishing House. Minneapolis, Minnesota. 1943 & 1963 p. 72.}

8. Studying the Book of Revelation by David J. Riggs. p.5

9. Barnes Notes on the New Testament by Albert Barnes. Vol. 14. Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506. Reprint of the 1884-85 edition. p.56.

10. Revelation An Introduction and Commentary by Homer Hailey p. 114

11. As quoted by Weldon E. Warnock in Revelation: A message from Patmos p. 28

12. Revelation An Introduction & Commentary by Homer Hailey p. 116