Revelation 1:1

1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants-things which must shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John,

A. This is a single “Revelation”, not multiple revelations. Most books of prophecy describe multiple scenes, visions, or dreams. This book is one revelation. It contains one motion picture in living color.

B. John does not claim this work to be original with him. It is the revelation of Jesus Christ. Jesus does the unveiling. John gives the “chain of authority” - - God - Jesus Christ - his angel - John - written form.

C. Purpose is given clearly. To show things that will happen shortly. There is much division on the word “shortly”. It could mean in the next months or years. It could mean shortly as God counts time.

D. The word “must” is an important word. These things are not a guess. They are sure. These are things that must happen. The Greek word here is an impersonal verb that indicates that a moral necessity is involved. God has issued the decree. God does not lie. These things will happen.