Apocalypse: The Revelation of Jesus Christ

Bible Prophecy and Revelation

At the beginning of the year, we spent six weeks in South Africa. While contemplating a topic for reflection, we decided to read the Book of Revelation. By the end of the six weeks, two significant themes struck us: the description God gives of a lost world and the tragic state of many churches that have strayed from sound doctrine. In both cases, the remedy is clear: repentance. God reveals to His children the eternal inheritance He has prepared for those who love Him. That is why the Lord has laid on my heart the desire to share the treasures found in the last book of the Bible. Let us examine the first chapter. This book is God’s final word to humanity. Many profound truths, proclaimed from Genesis through the Scriptures, culminate in Revelation. Most importantly, it is the revelation of Jesus Christ. We discover Him in the Old Testament as the Angel of the Lord. The Gospels and Acts describe His birth, life, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension. The Epistles provide a theological explanation of Christ and His work. Finally, Revelation serves as “the revelation of Jesus Christ,” not only as the Lamb of God who was slain but also as the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Although various interpretations of this book exist, we will adhere to the rules of hermeneutics rather than approach it in a particular way. In other words, we believe that the words used should be understood in their ordinary sense unless the context indicates otherwise. In verse 19, the plan of the book is present: “The things you have seen” pertains to the first chapter—the revelation of the glorified Jesus Christ. “Those that are” applies to chapters 2 and 3—the time of the Church. “Those that must happen after these things,” spans from chapter 4 to chapter 22, detailing what will happen after the Church age begins (chapter 4 begins with “after these things”). The importance of this book is emphasized in verses 1-3, where it states that it is a revelation from Jesus Christ given by God to show what must soon take place. He made it known by sending His angel to His servant John. John bears witness to God’s word and the testimony of Jesus Christ. It is blessed for everyone who reads, hears, and keeps the words of this prophecy, for the time is near.

Jesus Christ, the Faithful Witness

In Revelation 1:4-8, we read, “From John to the seven churches in Asia: Grace and peace to you from him who is, who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.” This book is intended for all who are part of the Church of Jesus Christ, not just a few prophecy scholars or enthusiasts. This passage poignantly reminds us that all three persons of the Trinity are engaged in our salvation and sanctification. The Father is described as “him who is, who was, and who is to come.” Human history is not a circle but has a beginning and an end, and we await the return of the Almighty God. The “seven spirits” symbolize divine perfection and completeness found throughout Revelation. The Holy Spirit knows and sees all; we can rely on Him for guidance in our lives. Jesus Christ is “the faithful witness” who has revealed the Father to us. He is the firstborn of the dead—the prototype of a new humanity, the first to rise from the dead never to die again. As the ruler of the kings of the earth, He reigns supreme over all.

What has the Lord done for you and me? He “loves us” continuously. Never doubt Jesus’ love for you! He “has freed us from our sins by His blood” a completed action. We were like lost sheep, each turning to our own way. He has made us a kingdom and priests to God His Father, to Him be glory and power forever! All blessings associated with keeping this revelation are vital as they remind us that the moment is near; we should live with a sense of the imminence of Christ’s return. Our response ought to be readiness and vigilance. John, the beloved disciple, was eventually exiled to Patmos for his testimony. Even during hardships, he remained faithful, declaring that no one can take him away from Christ’s love. God calls each of us, regardless of our positions, to a life of faithfulness and service in anticipation of our Savior’s return.

The Vision of John (Revelation 1:12-16)

John turned to discover the voice speaking to him. He saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the lampstands was someone who resembled a son of man. This figure wore a long robe and had a golden sash across His chest. His hair and head were white like wool or snow, symbolizing purity and wisdom. His eyes appeared as flames of fire, indicating deep insight and judgment, while His feet looked like they were molten bronze, suggesting strength and authority. The sound of His voice was like the roar of many waters, powerful and commanding. In His right hand, He held seven stars, representing the angels of the churches, and from His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, highlighting His role as a divine judge. His face shone like the sun in its strength, reflecting His divine glory. This powerful imagery from the Book of Revelation reveals Jesus’s position and authority within Christianity. The scriptures affirm His love for the church, which are represented by the seven lampstands. Do we view our local church with the same importance that Jesus does?

The Implications of Jesus’s Revelation

The portrayal of Jesus as the “Son of Man” reminds us of His humanity and His mission to save us. One day, we will see the marks in His hands as a testament to His sacrifice. The white garments signify purity, illustrating the transformation during His transfiguration where His clothing became dazzling white. His flaming eyes serve as a symbol of His perfect knowledge and insight into our hearts. Jeremiah 17:10 tells us that the Lord searches the heart and examines the mind, reminding us to be introspective about our paths. During the Judgment Seat of Christ, our deeds will be tested by fire, necessitating self-examination as David prayed in Psalm 139. The imagery of His feet as bronze signifies judgment, pointing to the truth that He will judge the nations before establishing His peace on Earth. Additionally, the powerful voice of Jesus is a reminder that He once humbled Himself but will return in majesty and strength. Believers must listen carefully to His call and recognize the significance of His authority and purpose as laid out in the scriptures.

John’s Response to the Glorified Jesus

Upon seeing Jesus, John fell at His feet as if dead, overwhelmed by the glory and majesty of the Lord. Jesus placed His hand on John and said, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.” This acknowledgment of Jesus’s eternal nature reminds us that He triumphed over death and is now alive forevermore. He holds the keys to death and Hades, signifying His complete authority over life and death. Jesus instructs John to write what he has seen and the things that will take place after this. The mystery of the seven stars and the seven golden lampstands is revealed: the stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the lampstands represent the churches themselves. Understanding John’s reaction is essential; in the presence of divine glory, humility is warranted. In our daily lives, this serves as a reminder of our posture before Jesus. He may refer to us as “brothers,” yet He is the Lord of glory who shares all attributes of the Father. When we come before Him, our response should reflect reverence, acknowledging Him as Lord and Savior, rather than treating Him merely as a brother.

-sermon series by Pastor Michel Bohrer