The Book of Revelation often intimidates readers, but it’s actually an unveiling of the person and work of Jesus Christ. The very first words of the book are “the revelation of Jesus Christ,” signifying that He is the star and focus.
Revelation’s Purpose and Structure
John, the author of Revelation, wrote the book to show God’s servants “the things that must soon take place”. This doesn’t mean the events would happen immediately, but that once they began, they would unfold quickly.
The book is structured in three sections:
- The things John had seen: This covers chapter 1 and describes John’s vision of the glorified Jesus.
- The things which are: Chapters 2 and 3 contain letters to the seven churches of Asia Minor, addressing their specific situations and offering guidance.
- The things which will take place after this: Chapters 4 through 22 focus on future events following the church age.
John’s Vision on Patmos
John received these revelations while exiled on the island of Patmos for “the word of God and the testimony of Jesus”. While “in the spirit on the Lord’s Day,” he heard a loud voice commanding him to write down what he saw and send it to the seven churches.
This “special day of the Lord” wasn’t necessarily a Sunday, but a day distinguished by John’s powerful experience.
The Glorified Jesus
Turning toward the voice, John encountered a breathtaking vision of the glorified Jesus amidst seven golden lampstands, symbolizing the seven churches. John’s detailed description portrays a figure radiating power and majesty:
- Clothed with a long robe and a golden sash: This symbolizes Jesus’s high priestly role, superior to the Old Covenant priesthood.
- Hair white like wool, eyes like flames of fire: This evokes purity, judgment, and divine insight.
- Feet like burnished bronze, voice like roaring waters: This imagery portrays strength, power, and a commanding presence.
- Holding Seven Stars and a sharp two-edged sword: This signifies Jesus’s authority over the churches and the power of His word.
- Face like the sun shining in full strength: This echoes Matthew’s description of Jesus at the Transfiguration.
Overwhelmed by this awe-inspiring sight, John fell at Jesus’s feet “as though dead”, similar to Daniel’s reaction in Daniel 10.
Words of Comfort and Assurance
Jesus, full of compassion, reassured John: “Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and Hades”.
- “The first and the last”: This signifies Jesus’s eternal nature, encompassing all of time and existence.
- “The living one”: This declares Jesus as the source and giver of life, echoing His claim in John 14: “I am the way, the truth, and the life”.
- “I died, and behold I am alive forevermore”: This emphasizes Jesus’s victory over death, a victory that is permanent and offers hope to believers.
- “I have the keys of death and Hades”: This offers immense comfort to believers, knowing that Jesus holds authority over death and the place of the dead, assuring them of His control over their ultimate fate.
John’s vision in Revelation 1 lays a powerful foundation for the rest of the book. It unveils Jesus in His glory and authority, highlighting His power over all things, including death itself. This vision serves as a source of hope and encouragement for believers facing trials and tribulations.
