Revelation 1:1

Berean Standard Bible

This is the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants what must soon come to pass. He made it known by sending His angel to His servant John,

King James Bible

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:

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The opening verse of the Book of Revelation, “The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,” is a profound and carefully constructed introduction that establishes the divine origin, purpose, and transmission of the apocalyptic message that follows. This verse, though concise, is dense with theological significance, setting the tone for a book that unveils the ultimate victory of God’s kingdom through Christ in the face of persecution and cosmic conflict. To fully unpack Revelation 1:1, we must explore its literary structure, theological themes, historical context, and the roles of the key figures mentioned—Jesus Christ, God, John, and the angel—in the chain of divine revelation.

The verse begins with the phrase “The revelation of Jesus Christ,” which immediately identifies the central focus of the book. The Greek term apokalypsis (translated “revelation”) denotes an unveiling or disclosure of hidden truths, often associated with divine mysteries revealed to humanity. This term sets the genre of the book as apocalyptic, a form of literature common in Jewish and early Christian contexts that uses vivid imagery and symbolism to convey God’s purposes, especially in times of crisis. The phrase “of Jesus Christ” is ambiguous in Greek, as it could mean a revelation about Jesus Christ (objective genitive) or a revelation from Jesus Christ (subjective genitive). Given the context of the verse, both senses are likely intended: the book reveals the person and work of Jesus Christ as the exalted Lord while also being a message He Himself conveys. This dual emphasis underscores Christ’s centrality in Revelation, both as the content of the revelation (e.g., the Lamb in Revelation 5:6–14) and as its divine mediator. The title “Jesus Christ” combines the human name “Jesus” with the messianic title “Christ” (Christos, meaning “anointed one”), affirming His identity as both the historical figure and the divine Messiah who fulfills God’s redemptive plan.

The clause “which God gave him” establishes the divine origin of the revelation and introduces a theological hierarchy. The pronoun “him” refers to Jesus Christ, indicating that God the Father is the ultimate source of the revelation, which He entrusts to the Son. This reflects a Trinitarian dynamic, where the Father and Son are distinct yet united in purpose, a theme that recurs throughout Revelation (e.g., Revelation 3:21). The verb “gave” (edōken) suggests a deliberate act of divine initiative, emphasizing that the revelation is not a human invention but a gift from God. This divine origin is critical in a book addressed to churches facing persecution, as it assures believers that the visions and promises they receive are authoritative and trustworthy. The purpose of this revelation is “to show to his servants the things that must soon take place.” The term “servants” (doulois, literally “slaves”) refers to believers, highlighting their devotion and submission to Christ, a recurring motif in Revelation (e.g., Revelation 7:3). The phrase “the things that must soon take place” underscores the eschatological urgency of the message, suggesting that the events foretold are imminent and part of God’s sovereign plan. The term “must” (dei) implies divine necessity, echoing apocalyptic traditions (e.g., Daniel 2:28–29) where God’s purposes unfold according to His will.

The second sentence, “He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,” describes the process of transmission. The subject of “he made it known” is ambiguous, potentially referring to God or Jesus Christ. Given the preceding clause, it is MOUSEOVER="likely Jesus Christ who acts as the mediator, relaying the revelation through His angel." class="cursor-pointer underline">Jesus Christ who acts as the mediator, relaying the revelation through His angel. The phrase “made it known” (Greek: esēmanen, from sēmainō) is significant, as it can mean “to signify” or “to communicate through signs,” hinting at the symbolic nature of Revelation’s visions, which are filled with imagery and metaphor. The use of an angel as a mediator is a hallmark of apocalyptic literature, where angels often interpret divine visions for human recipients (e.g., Daniel 8:16; Zechariah 1:9). This angel, unidentified here but possibly recurring throughout Revelation (e.g., Revelation 22:8), serves as a link in the chain of revelation, ensuring that the divine message reaches John untainted. The designation of John as “his servant” (doulos) mirrors the earlier reference to believers as “servants,” placing John in solidarity with his audience as one devoted to Christ. Traditionally, this John is identified as John the Apostle, though the text does not explicitly confirm this, and some scholars suggest a different John, possibly a prophet in the early church. Regardless, his role as a servant emphasizes his humility and obedience in receiving and conveying the revelation.

The historical context of Revelation enhances our understanding of this verse. Written around AD 95 during the reign of Emperor Domitian, Revelation was addressed to seven churches in Asia Minor (Revelation 1:4) facing varying degrees of persecution and compromise. The Roman Empire’s imperial cult, which demanded worship of the emperor as divine, posed a significant challenge to Christians, who faced social, economic, and physical consequences for their allegiance to Christ. In this context, Revelation 1:1 serves a pastoral purpose, assuring believers that God is sovereign over history and that Christ’s revelation offers hope and guidance amidst trials. The emphasis on things that “must soon take place” would have resonated with an audience experiencing immediate pressures, encouraging them to persevere with the assurance that God’s plan is unfolding.

Theologically, Revelation 1:1 establishes the divine authority and Christocentric focus of the book. The chain of revelation—from God to Jesus Christ, through an angel, to John, and ultimately to God’s servants—underscores the reliability of the message and the collaborative roles of the Father, Son, and angelic messengers in communicating God’s will. The emphasis on Jesus Christ as both the source and subject of the revelation highlights His supremacy, a central theme of Revelation, where He is depicted as the victorious Lamb and King of kings (Revelation 17:14; 19:16). The phrase “things that must soon take place” introduces the eschatological framework of the book, affirming God’s sovereignty over history and the certainty of His ultimate victory, a message of hope for persecuted believers. The reference to “servants” fosters a sense of communal identity, reminding the audience that they are part of God’s covenant people, called to faithfulness in a hostile world.

Literarily, Revelation 1:1 is a masterful opening that combines clarity and mystery, inviting readers into an apocalyptic world of divine disclosure. The verse’s structure, with its clear delineation of the revelation’s origin, purpose, and transmission, provides a roadmap for the book’s complex visions. The use of terms like apokalypsis and esēmanen signals the symbolic and visionary nature of what follows, preparing readers for the vivid imagery and layered meanings of the text. Rhetorically, the verse establishes the authority of the message while fostering a sense of urgency and anticipation, engaging the audience’s imagination and faith.

In the broader context of Revelation, this verse sets the stage for the epistle’s dual focus on warning and encouragement. The revelation of Jesus Christ is not merely a prediction of future events but a call to faithful witness, as seen in the letters to the seven churches (Revelation 2–3) and the visions of judgment and salvation that follow. The emphasis on divine initiative and Christ’s mediation reassures believers that their struggles are part of a larger divine plan, culminating in the new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21–22). The verse also reflects the pastoral heart of the book, as John, a fellow servant, shares the revelation to strengthen his brothers and sisters in faith.

In conclusion, Revelation 1:1 is a theologically rich and literarily powerful introduction that establishes the divine origin, Christocentric focus, and eschatological urgency of the book. Through its careful articulation of the revelation’s transmission—from God to Christ, through an angel, to John, and to God’s servants—the verse underscores the authority and reliability of the message. In a context of persecution and spiritual challenge, this opening offers hope and assurance, inviting believers to trust in the sovereign God and the victorious Christ who reveals the things that must soon take place.

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Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the faithful witness who has overcome the world. I greet you, dear brothers and sisters, as one called to proclaim the truth of His Word, in the hope that we might together grow in the knowledge of Him who holds the keys of death and Hades.

Beloved, I write to you concerning that which was given to our brother John, the servant of God, on the isle of Patmos—a revelation not of man’s devising, but of Jesus Christ Himself. As it is written: “The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending His angel to His servant John” (Revelation 1:1). Let us ponder this together, for in these words lies a treasure of divine purpose, a beacon of hope, and a call to steadfastness for all who name the name of Christ.

First, consider the source of this revelation: it is of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, whom the Father has exalted above every name. This is no mere vision of human imagination, nor a riddle born of earthly wisdom, but a gift from the throne of God. The Father, in His infinite love, delivered this unveiling to His Son, that we, His servants, might not walk in darkness but in the light of His coming. O blessed truth! That the God who spoke the worlds into being should stoop to reveal His will to us, sinners redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Let this stir your hearts to worship, for He has not left us as orphans but has spoken through His Word.

Second, mark well the purpose: to show His servants what must soon take place. Some among you, dear friends, may stumble at the word “soon,” saying, “It has been nigh on two millennia, and still the end has not come.” But do not be dismayed, nor let your faith waver. For with the Lord, a day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as a day. His “soon” is not measured by our frail reckoning, but by His eternal counsel. What He has promised, He will perform; what He has spoken, He will bring to pass. This revelation is given not to satisfy idle curiosity, but to prepare us, to awaken us, to call us to holiness and vigilance. For the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, and blessed is the one found watching.

Third, see the manner of its giving: through His angel to His servant John. Herein is a mystery and a comfort. The Lord, who once walked among us, now reigns in glory, yet He employs messengers—both heavenly and earthly—to make His will known. John, a brother and companion in the tribulation and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was chosen to bear this witness. So too, beloved, are we called to receive and proclaim what has been handed down. The chain of grace extends from the Father to the Son, to the angel, to John, and now to us. Let us not despise the means by which God speaks, whether through Scripture, the preached Word, or the testimony of His saints.

Now, I exhort you, dear ones, as those who have been justified by faith and sealed by the Spirit: let this revelation be not a cause of division or fear, but of unity and hope. Some among you may seek to unravel every symbol, to chart every woe, and to name the day of His return. Others may shrink from these pages, fearing their strangeness. Yet I say to you all: fix your eyes on the One revealed—Jesus Christ, the faithful and true, who was, and is, and is to come. The book of Revelation is not chiefly about beasts or seals or trumpets, but about Him—His victory, His reign, His promise to make all things new.

Therefore, stand firm in the grace that has been given you. Let the unveiling of Christ stir you to prayer, to love, to good works, as you await the blessed hope of His appearing. For He has said, “Behold, I am coming soon,” and His reward is with Him. May you be found faithful, washed in His blood, and clothed in His righteousness.

I commend you to the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ. The peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

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O Eternal and Almighty God, Creator of heaven and earth, whose majesty fills the cosmos and whose mercy knows no end, we bow before Your glorious throne, lifting our hearts in humble adoration. You are the Alpha and the Omega, the One who is, who was, and who is to come, and we stand in awe of Your divine purpose revealed through Your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. As we meditate on the sacred words of Your revelation, given to Your beloved servant John, we are stirred with reverence and hope, for You have unveiled the mysteries of Your will to Your people, that we might know the things that must soon come to pass.

Father of all grace, we give You thanks for the gift of Your Son’s apocalypse, the unveiling of truth that pierces the darkness of this world. You, in Your infinite wisdom, entrusted this vision to Jesus Christ, Your faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. Through Him, You have spoken, not to conceal, but to reveal, that Your servants might be strengthened, Your church edified, and Your kingdom proclaimed. We praise You for Your steadfast love, which seeks to draw all people into the light of Your eternal plan, calling us to readiness and faithfulness in these fleeting days.

O Lord, we beseech You to pour out Your Holy Spirit upon us, that our eyes may be opened and our hearts attuned to the message of Your revelation. Grant us, Your humble servants, the courage to receive what You have shown, the wisdom to discern its meaning, and the zeal to live as witnesses to Your coming glory. As You sent Your angel to John, send Your Spirit now to guide us, that we may walk in obedience and proclaim Your truth with boldness. Let us not be swayed by the fleeting temptations of this age, but anchor our souls in the certainty of Your promises, knowing that what You have decreed will come to pass in Your perfect time.

We pray, O God, for all nations and peoples, for those who know You and those who have yet to hear Your name. May the revelation of Jesus Christ resound across the earth, breaking chains of despair, healing wounds of division, and awakening hearts to the hope of Your kingdom. Raise up messengers, like John, who will faithfully declare Your word, undeterred by trial or persecution. Comfort those who suffer for Your name, and strengthen those who falter, that they may stand firm in the assurance of Your victory. Unite Your church, O Lord, that we may be one in purpose, bearing witness to the Lamb who was slain and who reigns forever.

Merciful Father, we confess our weaknesses and our wanderings, for we are but dust, prone to stray from Your path. Forgive us for the times we have neglected Your call, ignored Your warnings, or grown weary in our watchfulness. Renew us by Your grace, and kindle within us a fervent longing for the day when Your Son shall return in glory, when every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Until that hour, keep us steadfast, clothed in the righteousness of Christ, and filled with the joy of Your salvation.

O God, who hastens to fulfill Your word, we entrust ourselves to Your sovereign care. As You have revealed Your purpose through Your Son, reveal Your presence in our lives today. May we live as those who await the fulfillment of all things, with lamps burning brightly and hearts prepared for Your coming. To You, O Father, with Your Son and the Holy Spirit, be all glory, honor, and praise, now and forevermore. Amen.