Commentary on Revelation 1:1

Introduction

The Book of Revelation, often considered one of the most profound and challenging texts of the New Testament, opens with a proclamation of its purpose and source. Revelation 1:1 states, “The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John.” This verse is laden with theological significance and sets the stage for the entire apocalyptic narrative. By examining various public domain commentaries, we gain insights that shed light on its meaning.

Contextual Background

This verse serves as an introduction not only to the book but also to its central theme—the revelation of Jesus Christ. Matthew Henry underscores that the nature of this revelation is divine, asserting that it originates from God and is imparted to Jesus, who then reveals it to His servants. This divine communication emphasizes the authority of the content that follows.

The Divine Origin of the Revelation

• God as the Source: Albert Barnes emphasizes that the revelation is from God, underscoring the divine authority behind the text. The Apostle John, as the recipient, plays the role of a faithful messenger, faithfully transmitting what has been revealed to him.
• Revelation of Jesus Christ: Adam Clarke notes that the term “revelation” signifies an unveiling or disclosure, highlighting that the primary focus is on Jesus Christ. This suggests that the entirety of the revelation is intended to bring understanding of His nature, work, and future events associated with His kingdom.

Purpose of the Revelation

The phrase “to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass” reflects a crucial dimension of the text. According to Matthew Henry, the primary audience for this revelation consists of God’s servants—those who are committed to obeying His word. This serves to encourage and prepare them for the trials and tribulations to come.

Timeliness of the Revelation

• Shortly Come to Pass: The term “shortly” is interpreted by various commentators. Barnes suggests that it indicates the immediacy of the events to follow, especially in the context of the early Christian community facing persecution.
• The Expectation of Events: Clarke elaborates on the anticipation of the imminent returns, reflecting a sense of urgency in the texts that follow. The mention of “things which must shortly come to pass” serves as a reminder for believers to remain vigilant and prepared.

The Role of the Angel

The verse also mentions that the revelation is signified by an angel sent to John. Henry observes that the use of an angel as a mediator illustrates the common practice within the scriptural narrative of divine messages being conveyed through angelic beings. This also underscores the importance of divine assistance in understanding the weighty matters being revealed.

John as the Servant

John identifies himself as a servant of God in this verse, a role that reflects humility and devotion. Matthew Henry compares this to the prophets of the Old Testament, emphasizing that John, like them, was chosen to convey God’s messages. This identification as a servant serves to maintain the focus on God’s sovereignty throughout the revelation.

Theological Reflection

The opening verse encapsulates a profound theological insight into God’s desire for His creation. As Barnes notes, the unveiling of Jesus Christ signifies a relational aspect of God towards humanity, revealing not only the future but also His ongoing engagement with His people. Clarke reminds readers that this revelation is not merely informational but is meant for the transformation of the believer’s life as they understand the character of Christ and His ultimate triumph over evil.

Conclusion

Revelation 1:1 is a critical verse that sets a theological foundation for the entire Book of Revelation. Through the insights derived from the public domain commentaries, we see the importance of divine revelation, the role of the recipient, and the purpose that such insights serve for God’s people. The acknowledgment of God as the source, Jesus as the central figure, and the hoped-for fulfillment of divine promises create a framework that should inspire fervent study and anticipation among pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars alike.