Revelations 1:9-18

It's been a while since I read this book so I wanted to start a blog series on the book of Revelations. John wrote this book to encourage first-century Christians who were experiencing great suffering. In every age of the Church, Revelation has brought comfort and hope. Why? Because its symbols are timeless and may be understood by believers in any period of history; because its promises are eternal and may be trusted by all saints.

This book was born out of John's spiritual encounter while he was exiled on he island of Patmos. The Lord had commissioned John to write this book and send it to the seven churches that God had selected. Christ's garments are those of a Judge -King, One with honor and authority. The white hair symbolizes His eternity "the Ancient of days" (Dan 7:9) His eyes see all enabling him to judge righteously (Heb 4:12). His feet of brass also suggest judgment since the brazen altar was the place where the fire consumed the sin offering. He speaks with power and authority and must be heard. The sword from his mouth represents the living Word of God. He fights his enemies by using His Word (Rev 2:16). This visions of Christ had to be totally different from what John was use to. In this vision Jesus was not the gentle Jewish carpenter that John was familiar with He is the risen, glorified exalted Son of God!! The King that has authority to judge all men starting with his own people. What John does is not surprising he falls to the ground as if he was dead. A vision of the almighty Christ can only produce awe and fear (Dan 10:7-9). Johns response was what Paul wrote about in 2 Corinthians 5:16 "So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. John no longer related to Jesus as he had done before.

The Lord reassured John by touching him and speaking to him. "Fear not!" Those two words our such an encouragement to any child of God. We need not fear life because He is "The Living One." We need not fear death because He has conquered death! We need not fear eternity because he hold the keys of Hades and of death. The One who holds the keys is the One who has authority!!! At the very beginning of this book Jesus presented Himself to His people in majestic glory. What we need today is a new awareness of Christ and His glory. Jesus help me to daily fall at your feet and be in awe of you the One and only Wise KING!!!