Revelation 1:5-8

Identifying Jesus

This letter is also from Jesus, who is the "faithful witness" of God's will (Revelation 1:5; John 3:31-32; John 8:14; John 18:36-38). Jesus was also the first one to be raised from the dead to die no more (1 Corinthians 15:20; Colossians 1:18). This would be a source of great encouragement since Antipas had already died for the faith and others would likely soon follow (2:13). Knowing that God can raise the dead should give us courage, even in the face of death (Romans 8:11).

Christ is likewise the ruler over all who are in authority on the earth (Romans 13:1; Ephesians 1:20-21). It might have seemed that no one could control Rome, but the Lord was in authority and would judge them for their misdeeds (John 19:10-11). Certainly, no one has ever loved any of us more than Jesus did and does (John 5:13; Romans 5:6-8). Because of that love, He gave His blood that our sins might be washed away (Hebrews 9:14; Hebrews 9:28; Ephesians 5:25-26).

We are kings in that we are a part of the body of the King and shall rule over all (Revelation 1:6; Ephesians 1:22-23; 1 Peter 2:9-11; 1 Corinthians 6:1-3). We are, furthermore, made a priesthood that we might offer up sacrifices of praise to God's name (1 Peter 2:5-9; Hebrews 13:15). At the mention of God the Father, John breaks forth in praise to His name (Ephesians 3:20-21).

John was there when the men in white apparel promised that Jesus would return in a manner like He left (Acts 1:9-11). Now, he further reveals that every eye shall see Him come again. Lest there be any doubt whether the wicked are included with the righteous in that sighting, John tells us that they who pierced him will see along with all the families of the earth, who will wail because He is coming back and they are unprepared. Jesus is eternal and his saints need not fear temporary powers like Rome because He is also Almighty (Revelation 1:7-8).