Steve Grant
Series in Revelation
A Vision of the Glorified Christ
Revelation 1:9-20
29 January 2017
In Revelation 1:9 - 20, John describes his vision of the risen Christ, and what it means for everyone. He explains the circumstances of his vision, the content, and the consequences for believers and unbelievers alike.
John was exiled "on the island called Patmos because of the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus" (v. 9). He relates this suffering of his to the suffering of his audience: the seven churches. Just as he could take strength from his vision of Christ, so could they. John tells us that he writes not of his own will, but because Jesus commanded him to "write in a book what you see, and send it to the seven churches" (v. 11). Because the Lord directed it, Revelation is authoritative and trustworthy.
The content of the vision is a glimpse of the risen Lord. He is standing among seven lampstands, which are the seven churches that John's letter is written to. Jesus Christ is described as having eyes "like a flame of fire;" seeing and knowing all things. He is described as having a voice "like the sound of many waters;" a voice loud and commanding. "Out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword," which is the Word of God that convicts the heart of man (Hebrews 4:12). This is no ordinary man, but the Lord of the universe that John saw.
John said that when he saw Jesus, he "fell at His feet like a dead man." But Jesus put his hand on John and comforted Him, saying, "do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One." This is the same Christ all believers have hope in today! Therefore we too can have hope, for He is also on our side. Jesus said "I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades." Since He is all-powerful, even Death cannot restrain Him. Since we are also in Him, we will live past death too.
We often forget how great our risen Lord Jesus is. We need a fresh glimpse at the glorified Christ; He is far greater than anything we can imagine.