Revelation 1:9-20. John was taking a beating. They'd already tried to kill him several times, to no avail, so they exiled him to the rocky island of Patmos, 6 miles wide, 10 miles long, off the coast of modern-day Turkey, where all of his churches were located. The letter of Revelation would be read in each. They were all being persecuted by the Romans and needed this encouragement. What form of encouragement would come? I can think of no more brilliant means than providing a current picture of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in glory. It's something to get excited about, folks. I know you're hurting. I know you're suffering. I know we aren't in heaven yet and this is a continued struggle, but take a look at the portrait of Jesus and let your heart be strengthened and encouraged.
When John turned to see the source of the voice speaking to him, he could barely discern the details due to the dazzling, bright light. He could tell the form was of someone like a son of man- a term reserved for Jesus alone. He was dressed in high priest clothing: a robe down to his feet (garment of judgment), golden sash across his chest (strength), pinning the ephod to his breast and back. His head and hair were white like wool (eternal existence), as white as snow, and his eyes were lie blazing fire (penetrating eyesight and knowledge). His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, (redeemed from walking in the flesh and able to sympathize with us) and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters (authority). Seven stars were in his right hand (complete, fullness of Spirit controlling the universe). Out of his mouth came a sharp double-edged sword (His Word). His face shone as like the sun shining in all its brilliance (Glory). John fell at his feet as though dead.
This is what He looks like today, in glory. This is who's hearing your prayers. This is who's preparing a place for you in heaven. This is the One who has won the victory and will continue to win, all the way to the end. This is the source of our patient endurance as we hold on through our trials and challenges. This is the One who is for us and loves us. Oh, how I need this picture of Him today, in my struggles. Amen for the cross and what He looked like hanging there. Amen for the picture of Him washing feet. Amen for the soft, compassionate healer. Amen for the ultimate preacher of truth. But I need this current picture of Him in glory and power today.
"Don't be afraid," are His first directions after John saw Him. I don't have any lofty idea that I'll be any better off than John when I see Him face to face. The sight is too overwhelming for our flesh to handle. If it weren't for His right hand touching me, I cannot even exist in His presence. He holds my life in His hands. Of course He's alive! There's no denying that when we see Him! He's the only living god in all of religions. All others that are considered religious gods are dead and are staying dead. He's truly alive! That means so much more than having to worship a dead god or an image that reminds us of one that used to be alive.
There's no reason for a Christian to fear death or to fear this current life, for that matter. He's in charge. Nothing gets to us without going through Him first. He's sovereign and has our best interest in mind all the time. He's always thinking about us and wants nothing but the best for us. Let's get over this fear of the boogey man getting us and live without fear. We have placed our complete trust and faith in Jesus. Our life is hidden in Him now. We have nothing to fear or worry about.
So here is a picture of the Son of Man, standing among lampstands. Jesus is the ultimate Lampstand, made of pure gold. On his branches are lamps of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit's job is to illuminate the glory of Christ. He always points to Jesus. Jesus explains the lampstands to be the seven churches. As we get into the letters to the seven churches, we will see that these churches represent us as a people. Remember, He created us in His image? Remember, the Rabbi chose us, saying He believes we have what it takes to become like Him? So, here is Jesus the Lampstand, standing among us other lampstands.
Here's where we have to have a hard talk. There's an element of Jesus' ministry that is unpopular, even today. One characteristic of light is that it illuminates and reveals darkness. It unveils shadows. He has a ministry of inspection. His Holy Spirit shines light on our darkness and convicts us of sin. Jesus intends to have that sin removed so He can create His character within us. We resist this process. There's nothing like going to someone to point out there lacking and observe their getting angry at you. The human heart resents criticism. It rebels against judgment passed upon it. "Human nature purrs like a kitty cat when flattered, but bristles like a porcupine when failure to do a job is noted." This is why inspection is not popular and largely ignored in the church today. Jesus doesn't flatter. He doesn't ignore what He sees. He doesn't shut His eyes to sin. His constant charge is "Repent!". "Change or I'll come remove your lampstand," (Rev. 2:5)
Rev. 1:19 is the key to dividing the book of Revelation. It is in sections of things that are in the past, present, and future. We will be using that structure as we go through the study.
Keep in mind, the most amazing vision of reality came to John while he was in a most desperate location and situation. Consider that possibility in your current circumstances. God has not left you alone. He knows exactly when to reveal Himself to you to accomplish His purposes. May we be committed to bringing Him glory in every thing we do, in every place we walk, and in every situation He allows us to work through. Have faith and don't be afraid. Receive the work of His inspection and allow Him to change you from the inside, out.
