Revelation of John 1:12-16
Summary for Rev 1:12-20: 1:12-20 a John’s first vision is a symbolic picture of Christ as the wise, secure, and powerful agent of God who always cares for his people. 1:12 b I turned to see who was speaking: This statement refers to the loud voice of 1:10 c.• seven gold lampstands: The lighted menorah was a symbol of God’s presence among his people (Exod 27:21 d; Lev 24:1-4 e) and of his all-seeing eyes in the world (Zech 4:10 f).
1:13 g the Son of Man (or a son of man.): Son of Man is a title Jesus used for himself (see Dan 7:13 h; Matt 8:20 i; 9:6 j; 16:13 k; Mark 2:28 l; 9:9 m; 14:41 n; John 1:51 o; 3:13 p; 5:27 q).
• The long robe and gold sash give Christ an authoritative appearance (see Rev 19:13-16 r; Dan 10:5 s). The robe was a priestly garment symbolizing purity and holiness.
1:14 t White hair represents wisdom and maturity; this vision reflects Daniel’s vision of the Ancient One (Dan 7:9 u).
• His eyes ... like flames of fire pierce through pretense; the One who knows everything will judge everyone (see Dan 10:6 v; Heb 4:13 w).
1:15 x Refined or hardened bronze in the feet implies stability, firmness, and security (cp. Dan 10:6 y).
• The thundering voice suggests God’s power—when he speaks, he will be heard (cp. Ezek 43:2 z).
1:16 aa The seven stars represent the complete church. The church is secure in the right hand (i.e., in the acceptance and blessing) of the Son of Man.
• The sharp ... sword coming from his mouth is his effective message and his judgment (see 19:15 ab; Gen 3:24 ac; Eph 6:17 ad; Heb 4:12 ae). Jesus proclaims both grace and judgment, but here the emphasis is that he carries out judgment (see Rev 2:12 af, 16 ag; 19:15 ah, 21 ai; cp. Isa 11:4 aj).
Copyright information for
TNotes