The 14 Faces of Christ

Ron Beard
Cover Image for The 14 Faces of Christ

The 14 Faces of Christ in the Revelation

John’s letter to the seven churches has been around for just about two thousand years and there is still no generally accepted interpretation. Think about that. In the last 2,000 years, how many genuine scholars have come and gone? how many Holy Ghost filled bible expositors, wise teachers, powerful Spirit-lead prophets, people with gifts of discernment and real prayer warriors? The answer is multiple thousands. Add to that all the linguists, archeologists, and experts from every field, diligently studying this letter. Shouldn’t we have the actual, correct understanding by now? And while there have been a multitude of attempts (There are four main interpretative views. Please see Appendix 1), no one has produced a universally accepted interpretation. Maybe it doesn’t have to be “interpreted” in the usual sense. In 2025, I’m taking the first 5 words (The Revelation of Jesus Christ) and focusing on the big picture, not the linear picture. The book IS “Christ-centric”. It begins with “The revelation of Jesus Christ”, but soon gets overwhelmed with seals, trumpets, vials, dragons, beasts and more. Throw in Babylon, a harlot and Armageddon, and you begin to wonder “What happened to Jesus? Here is my answer called “The Fourteen Faces of Christ in the Revelation” [Not THE way, but a way to look at it]. My prayer is that Jesus blesses you the way He blessed me through this study (No AI, no copilot, just a believer sharing his thoughts).

The Fourteen Faces of Christ

I Jesus Christ in Relation to the Universe
1 The Almighty (Power)
2 The Holy One (Purity)
3 The Alpha and Omega (Presence)
4 King of Heaven (Preeminence)
II Jesus Christ in Relation to the World
5 King of Kings and Lord of Lords
6 Judge of all the Earth
III Jesus Christ in Relation to the Church
7 The Seed of the Woman (promised victor)
8 The Root of David (covenant keeper)
9 The Lamb (Savior, Redeemer, Healer)
10 The Shepherd
11 Son of Man (King and kingdom builder)
12 Firstborn from the Dead (resurrected Lord)
13 The Word of God (Eternal Truth)
14 Husband

I. Jesus in Relation to the Universe

[ This section is the outer ring of the three. It includes all lifeforms in the created universe. Of course, it includes all believers and all non-believers but applies especially to non-human beings more than the rest. ]

  1. The Almighty: 1:8, 4:8, 11:17, 15:3, 16:7,14, 19:6, 15, 21:22 Nine times in Revelation this word “pantokrator” is used to describe Jesus and the Father. It literally means ‘All-ruling’, absolute and universal in sovereignty. Used 10 times in the New Testament, all but once in Revelation. Translated Almighty or Omnipotent. This is our God. Not most powerful, but All powerful. Limitless in power and therefore limitless in dominion and jurisdiction. Infinitely supreme in every area and in every sphere of reality. In every realm and in every field. For all time and throughout the universe. There is no other power unless God wills it. His authority is unquestionable. If God has complete power, who else has power? No One! If God has unlimited power, what can’t He do? From the introduction (1:8), I am Almighty, to the four living beings crying out “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty” (4:8), to the twenty-four elders crying out “We give thanks to you O Lord God Almighty (11:17), to those who had the victory over the beast singing “Great and marvelous are your works Lord God Almighty (15:3), and an angel from the altar saying “True and righteous are your judgements Lord God Almighty” (16:7), And again, in 19:6, the multitudes around the throne, like mighty thunder, crying out “Alleluia, the Lord God omnipotent reigns”, this is a certainty, our God is ALL powerful and in complete control. In the end there is a battle called “The great day of God Almighty” (16:14). No one in their right mind wants to be on the wrong side of this battle! At this time, the Word of God will tread the winepress of the fierceness of the wrath of Almighty God (19:15). After those days have ended, the Lord God Almighty will be our temple forever (21:22). See Appendix 2.

  2. The Holy One: 3:7, 4:8, 6:10, 15:4 “These things saith He that is Holy…” From the Greek word hagios; Sacred, pure in substance, morally blameless, perfect, infinite moral perfection. Holy has two aspects. 1. Set apart; God is separate and distinct from His creation and everything that isn’t perfect. 2. Whole; meaning entire and flawless. No mar, no imperfection, no blemish, no lack. Perfect, and therefore worthy of worship and complete devotion. Jesus calls Himself holy, the four living beings cry out “Holy, Holy, Holy” around the throne, and the saints call Jesus “Holy and True”. Jesus’ claim to be “THE TRUTH” in John 14:6 is based on His Holiness. Truth is a byproduct of holiness. There is no higher perspective, no superseding philosophy. He was, and still is, Holy and True. It follows that His justice (15:3) and His judgements (16:7) are infallible as well. There is an aspect of this that is often overlooked. Because God’s judgements are Holy and True (3:7, 6:10), we aren’t required to repay evil for evil, to extract justice or even the score. God is the ultimate judge, jury and executioner. The True avenger (6:10, 15:3, 16:7, 19:2, 19:11).

  • Holiness is the foundation of loving God with your whole heart, soul, mind and strength (Matt.22:37).
  • Glory is holiness unveiled. It is often associated with worship in Revelation. In 4:8-10 The living beings cry “holy, holy, holy” v.9 calls that “giving glory” and in response, the elders worship Him. When the Lamb takes the scroll all of heaven says “Worthy is the Lamb”…to receive glory…and the 24 elders worship Him…
  • This was a new concept for the New Testament world. The Gods of the nations were revered (feared) respected and considered “divine” (immensely powerful and influential) but not holy in the bible sense. Jesus is Holy, incorruptible in his nature, unlimited in integrity and uprightness. I would fear an almighty immoral entity. But Jesus is trustworthy in every sense because His power is fused with holiness! 14:7 says, “worship Him who made heaven and earth”.
  • Everything that ‘goes over’ into eternity must be holy. The holy Trinity, the holy angels (14:10), the holy apostles (18:20, 20:6), the holy Word (Matt.24:35), and our works (14:13). God shares His holiness with us. In the end, we have a holy city, and we are called “blessed and holy”.
  • There is an expectation for us to be holy. He washed us in His blood (1:5). The saints are clothed in white linen washed in the blood of the Lamb (7:14), This linen represents the righteousness of the saints. Saints in white linen are mentioned in 4:4, 6:11, 7:9, 13, 14, 19:8 and 19:14. White linen is promised in 3:4, 3:5 and 3:18. In the natural, Linen is anti-biotic and anti-microbial. See Appendix 3

  1. The Alpha and Omega: 1:8, 1:11, 1:17, 2:8, 21:6, 22:13 Only in Revelation is this title used. In every case where it is used, it is followed by “the first and the last” or “the beginning and the end” or both. These descriptive titles are used in Isaiah 41:4, 44:6 “Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel and His Redeemer the Lord of hosts: I am the first and I am the last; Besides Me, there is no God.” And 48:12. It is clear that Jesus is being identified as Jehovah. Maybe to some realizing for the first time that The Stone that the builders rejected was God Himself! Seeing Isaiah 7:14 as literally, “God with us”. This “Signature of Deity” is rich in implication. First, it means that Jesus Christ is the Creator. He created time, space, matter and life (not a small feat). He is “THE LIFE”. He alone sustains, governs and directs and is sovereign over His creation. “All things are made through Him and by Him”. “All things have been created for His pleasure” (4:11). He holds the keys of hell and death. In His time, He is the one who will cause time, space and matter to come to an end. At that time, living entities will be separated to their eternal destinies. Second, this title indicates that Jesus Christ was before time, eternal, having no beginning Himself, yet with the absolute power to create on the grandest scale. And that His existence will continue infinitely past human history. Therefore, His plan transcends time and space. He is eternal; therefore, His plan is eternal. It cannot be disrupted, it cannot fail. As the seals are opened, the gospel goes forth, conquering. History is the errand boy of the church. The church is the key to understanding and explaining history. Leaders and nations are tools employed by God to fulfill His purposes in Christ Jesus. Third, Ever-present, omnipresent, working, making intercession for us, moving in hearts, answering prayer, changing things, building His church. “I know your works”, I’m actively responding. As present in my life and your life as He was in the seven churches, in John’s life. Contemporary, the same yesterday, today and forever. Fourth, This Divine Signature should convince anyone (you) to surrender to Jesus Christ, His lordship and His purpose. He is “THE WAY”, Find it, submit wholly to it and see what you were truly made for. He will (absolutely) be your redeemer or your judge.

  2. King of Heaven: 4:1-11 John is taken up to heaven in a vision. The focal point is the throne. Psalms 103:19 says “The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all”. It’s a throne, not a consortium, not an HR office. There is no doubt in the vision that He who sits on the throne controls the universe. He is worthy of glory, honor and power because He reigns in holiness for eternity. The four living beings and 24 elders that surround the throne worship Him. The entire universe is governed from the throne. There are no rival kings or powers in heaven. We’ve been blessed with every spiritual blessing as we are seated in the heavenly places (1:3, 2:6). No weapon formed against us will prosper. According to Ephesians 6:12, “We (still) wrestle against principalities, powers and rulers in heavenly places”. Why are WE still wrestling? We wrestle for patience, for strength, for knowledge and for experience. To test us, prove us, refine us and prepare us to reign.

II. Jesus Christ in relation to the world

[This section is the second ring of the three. It applies to all humanity. Again, of course it applies to Christians but especially to unbelievers]

  1. King of Kings and Lord of Lords: 17:14, 19:16 This title describes Jesus Christ as the singular, unparalleled, matchless authority over all the affairs of humanity. Kings and Lords are titles of those with the greatest influence and authority over nations, regions, societies or cultures. Yet, the Jesus we serve is above, far above, more powerful than, and even directs and limits the influence and control of any and all rulers of this world. No earthly king can sway or prevent God’s will from coming to pass. Jesus ultimately controls all nations because He rules over leaders. He establishes their times and measure of influence. He changes them or exchanges them to serve His purpose. It has been said “History is the handmaiden of the church”. Looking at the results of history, it becomes clear, God’s perfect will is being fulfilled and everyone in history is playing their part. Chapter 17 describes the woman dressed in scarlet and the beast that carried her (v.7). The seven heads are 7 kings and the beast is the 8th. The 10 horns are 10 more kings that all “make war” with the Lamb (v.14) AND THE LAMB OVERCOMES THEM because He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords and we, the fighters, are “Called, Chosen and Faithful” (v.14). “Fight the good fight”. The only fight we should be involved in (because souls are worth fighting for). This is an ongoing fight. Generation after generation, century after century, every generation will face these “kings” (all who live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution) but our King is undefeated! In chapter 19 the rider on the white horse reappears. His mission is almost complete. This time He rides against seen and unseen forces of evil and deception. This time He rides in judgement and wrath (v.15). And we, the armies of heaven, ride with Him (v.14). If there was ever any doubt about who would win, the deception quickly disappears, and Truth prevails. The sword out of His mouth, The Word of God, is victorious. Jesus Christ casts them all into the lake of fire which is the second death. 11:15 states “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever”. See Appendix 4

  2. The Judge: 20:11-15 “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead small and great standing before God, and the books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” There is a lot of judgement in this book! Revelation is a sad story of the whole world being deceived into thinking the beast systems are good and God is to blame when things go wrong. An endless cycle of blaming God, judgements, attacking the church, enduring more judgements, blaming God and never able to realize their answer was in Jesus the whole time. 12:9 tells us that the dragon, “That serpent of old”, the devil and satan “that deceives the whole world” was cast to the earth. 12:12 …Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows he has a short time. This is how he deceives the world. It’s right here in front of us! 13:14 Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea…and all the world marveled and followed the beast. So they worshipped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; And they worshipped the beast saying “who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?” Compare this with Daniel’s vision of the beasts out of the sea in Dan.7:1-8. This is anti-Christian government. Deceiving the multitudes and persecuting believers. Act II follows…13:11-14 Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth…he causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast…And he deceives those who dwell on the earth…Anti-Christian religion, philosophy, false science etc. Our response: “Here is the patience and faith of the saints” (13:10). Patience: fortitude, longsuffering and endurance; against governmental persecution. And Faith: Trust in Jesus and the promises in His word, and wisdom against false teaching. Ultimately, the dragon, and both beasts receive God’s wrath 19:20, 20:10.

    This is a series of wrath verses. Each seems to be describing the final day (Second Coming).

    6:12-17 When the 6th seal is opened, the sun, moon and stars cease to operate, the sky rolls up, and the earth is severely shaken. V.15 says all men cried out for the rocks to smash them and hide them from “The Lamb who sits on the throne because the great day of His wrath has come.”

    11:18 The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come, and the time of the dead that they should be judged, that You reward Your servants…and destroy those who destroyed the earth.

    14:14-20 Then I looked and behold a white cloud and on the cloud sat One like the Son of Man…having in His hand a sharp sickle…So He who sat on the cloud thrust in His sickle on the earth and the earth was reaped…and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God.

    16:1-21 Pouring out the bowls of wrath.

    19:15 Jesus, the white horse rider “Treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.

“We wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers, rulers of the darkness and spiritual wickedness in high places” Eph.6:12. This is why we need supernatural vision when responding to terrible people. They’re still guilty, but they may be reachable.

III. Jesus Christ in Relation to the Church

[This is the third ring, the center ring. This is our message, the family message]

  1. The Seed of the Woman: 12:17 Chapter 12 begins a new vision surrounding two “great signs”. The woman, described as “clothed with the sun, the moon under her feet and a garland of 12 stars” is interpreted by most as Israel. She is giving birth to Messiah, to whom the dragon (2nd great sign) is waiting to devour. Her child is born, and caught up to God and his throne (vs.1-5). God provides safety for the woman (v.6), but the dragon, being cast out of heaven, begins to “make war with the remnant of her seed”.* The manner in which this is accomplished is described in chapter 13. Using two powerful entities, government and culture, the “god of this world” deceives and controls all those whose names are not written in the Lamb’s book of life. This deception includes persecuting and killing the saints. The dragon and the two beasts ultimately are cast into the lake of fire, which is the second death (20:10). *See Appendix 5

  2. The Lion of the tribe of Judah, The Root of David: 5:5, 22:16 “The Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David has prevailed to open the book and loose the seven seals thereof” (5:5). “I Jesus have sent my angel to testify to you…I am the root and offspring of David, the bright and morning star” (22:16). Jesus is introduced in 5:5 as The Lion, but when John looks, he sees a lamb. The lion imagery began in Genesis 49 as Jacob “calls his sons… to tell them what shall befall them in the last days”. Verse 9 says Judah is a lion’s whelp…the scepter shall not depart from Judah. Later, in 2 Samuel 7, God makes promises to king David (from the tribe of Judah). God promised to establish his seed’s house, his kingdom and his throne forever. These promises were then repeated to Mary, in Lk. 1:31-33, that her son would be called ‘Son of the Highest’, and God would give Him the throne of his father David and that He would reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there would be no end. Matthew confirms this lineage. In the first verses, he anchors Jesus to David and Abraham as heir to the covenant promises and the throne (Matt.1:1-17). Jesus confirms to the church at Philadelphia that He has “the key of David that opens and no man shuts; and shuts and no man opens” (This is an allusion to Isaiah 22:22 where Eliakim is given the key of “David’s house” which does the same thing). See Appendix 6

  3. The Lamb: 5:6-14, 6:1-16, 7:9-17, 12:11, 13:8,11, 14:1-4,10, 15:3, 17:14, 19:7,9, 21:9,14,22-23,27, 22:1,3 The Lamb is the predominant and most accurate representation of Jesus Christ in the Revelation, mentioned 29 times! “You are worthy because you were slain” 5:9. “Lambism” (not sure if that’s a word) is largely ignored by bible teachers today. It is based on the biblical concept of victory through suffering, not overwhelming strength. Although God has always been able to stop satan’s advances with a word, He chose a method in which Christ, our redeemer suffered greatly. This idea was initially revealed in Genesis 3:15 (He shall bruise your head and you shall bruise His heel). It was typified in the legal system (Passover), and confirmed by John the Baptist “Behold the Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world”. Many biblical instances and countless historical examples attest “Those who live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution”. The Lamb is our model, our perfect illustration. The price of eternal life is often high, but well worth it. The Lamb “as if it had been slain” (5:6), is symbolism for Jesus’ death on the cross. Having seven horns and seven eyes. Seven horns mean all authority: “Worthy is the Lamb to receive power, riches, wisdom and strength, honor, glory and blessing” (5:12). The seven eyes mean all seeing. “I know your works” x7. Heb.4:12 states Jesus is the discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart”. Through His suffering, death and resurrection, The Lamb is able to offer us salvation. The multitude cry out (7:10) “Salvation belongs to our God…and to The Lamb”. And 12:10 “Salvation and strength and the kingdom of our God, and power of His Christ have come” Again in 19:1 “Salvation and glory and honor and power belong to the Lord our God. The Lamb is our redeemer. The 24 elders, the 4 living ones sing a new song (5:9) “You are worthy…You have redeemed us to God by your blood…and made us kings and priests”. The Lamb is our high priest. A priest forever after the order of Melchisedec, set on the right hand of the throne (Heb.7:21,8:1, Rev.7:17). The mediator of a better covenant (Heb.8:6), offering one sacrifice forever (Heb.10:12), sets down at the right hand of God (Heb.12:2, 1Pet.3:22, Rev.3:21, 5:6,13, 7:9,10,17, 21:5). In John’s vision, it is the Lamb that receives the scroll, See Appendix 7 and then proceeds to open the seals (not the Lion, the Son, the king, the Alpha & Omega) See Appendix 8. The Lamb sits on the throne and receives glory honor and power. The Lamb surrounds himself with (is in the midst of) the saints who have overcome and have been cleansed by His blood, whose names are written in the “Lamb’s Book of Life”. The Lamb also makes war with the beast and his army. The Lamb defeats them and eternally destroys them. And it is the Lamb that we marry. The church is described as a bride, “The Lamb’s wife”.

  4. The Eternal Shepherd: 1:5,11-20, 2:27, 5:6, 7:17, 12:5, 19:15 “The Lord is my shepherd” David proclaimed a thousand years before Jesus came. “Give ear O Shepherd of Israel” Psalms 80 begins. “He shall feed His flock like a shepherd” Isaiah 40:11 continues. When Jesus taught, He claimed to be “The Good Shepherd that gives His life for the sheep” (John10:11). He loves us and washes us from our sins in His own blood (1:5). See how the Revelation portrays Jesus first with the seven stars in His right hand and walking amidst the seven churches like a shepherd. Then the imagery of Jesus with seven horns and seven eyes (5:6) depicting His complete authority over the church and His ability to see everything clearly, telling the seven churches, “I know your works”. The seven eyes imagery is interpreted for us as “The Seven Spirits of God” being, of course, the Holy Spirit working throughout the earth, as well as in us and through us. The letters to the seven churches leave no doubt that Jesus is our Great Shepherd (interesting that Jesus doesn’t say “Listen to what I’m telling you” but “Hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches”). In 12:5 the man-child will “tend like a shepherd” His flock with a rod of iron, to defend the sheep. In 7:17 The Lamb is called The Shepherd who will lead us to living fountains of water. And again in 19:15 a sword goes out of His mouth to smite the nations and rule (shepherd) them with a rod of iron.

  5. Son of Man: 1:13, 14:14 This title for Jesus Christ is used more often than all other titles combined. Many have falsely explained that this is speaking of Jesus’ humanity (and Son of God is speaking of His divinity). This is shallow and not well thought out. This title is taken from Daniel’s vision recorded in chapter 7:13-14. This Son of Man comes with the clouds of heaven and is given dominion, glory and a kingdom in the hope that all peoples, nations and languages will serve Him. His dominion is everlasting, and His kingdom will never be destroyed (this is in contrast to the four beasts in v.3 whose dominion ultimately fails). This is a powerful eschatological promise of a ‘divine being’ establishing a kingdom that will last forever. He is called “The Son of Man”. Jesus made certain to establish this title calling Himself Son of man often. He reinforces His divine identity with statements like: “The Son of Man has authority to forgive sins” Matt.9:6, Mark 2:10, Luke 5:24; The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath Matt.12:8, Mark 2:28, Luke 6:5. “They shall see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with power and great glory” Matt. 24:30, Mark 13:26. It can’t get any clearer that this! “I’ve been here 3 years preaching the Kingdom of God…It’s Me…From Daniel. How many times in the gospels is Jesus talking about the kingdom or sending His disciples out to preach the kingdom? 127 times! He is the King of the saints Rv.15:33. In Revelation 1:13 is the beautiful image of the Son of Man in the midst of the churches The King reigning, not from far away, but with the leaders in His nail-scarred hand. “And has made us unto our God kings and priests and we shall reign on earth” (5:10) and in 20:4 the departed saints reign with Christ until the end of the age. The second mention is in 14:14 where the Son of Man is seen with a golden crown, and a sharp sickle. He ‘reaps the earth’ and casts the grapes into the winepress of the wrath of God vs.14-19. This is where “The kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of our Lord and Christ (11:15). This imagery of the winepress of the wrath of God is repeated in 19:15. The rider, Faithful and True, treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. Isaiah 63:3 has a similar tone. “I have trod the winepress alone…I will tread them in my anger and trample them in my fury, and their blood shall be on my garments…Also Joel 3:13. “Put the sickle in for the harvest is ripe…the press is full…their wickedness is great” speaking of the nations at the day of judgement.

  6. First begotten of the Dead: 1:4, 1:5, 1:8, 1:18, 2:8, 4:8 “Faithful witness, first born from the dead, Prince of Kings” (1:5). Jesus Christ, Prophet, Priest and King. The testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of prophecy. He is the high priest who made us a priesthood with uninhibited access to God and thus, His representatives in the world. And kings, who reign on earth, defeat sin, self-govern and promote the kingdom. Jesus is the first “self-begotten” from the dead. Others were raised by Jesus and the prophets, but none of them claimed “I lay My life down and will raise it back up” (John 10:17). Not first in time, but in preeminence (Col.1:18). What does it mean that Jesus rose from the dead? He was bruised for our iniquities and died on a cross. He descended to hades (Acts2:27), then ascended (Eph.4:9,10) and lead captivity captive (Eph.4:8). He rose with the keys of hell and death, (Rev.1:18) with all power and authority in heaven and on earth (Matt.28:18). “I am He that lives and was dead and is alive forevermore” (1:4, 5, 8, 18, 2:8, 4:8). I have dominion over death. Jesus Christ, first born to rise in a glorified, eternal body. As the forerunner, first in a series, Jesus’ resurrection is the basis for all other resurrections. By His power, He will raise His people. Because Jesus was seen alive by hundreds of witnesses after His crucifixion, we can be certain He has paved the way for us. He conquered death, so we will too. We live and reign with Him on earth as kings 1:5, 5:10. We who take part in the first resurrection reign with Him 20:6 , and we will reign with Him forever 22:5.

  7. The Word of God: 1:16, 2:12,16, 19:10,13,15,21, 22:10,18,19 The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. Blessed is he that keeps the sayings of this book, Don’t add to it, don’t take away from it. His name is called “The Word of God” (19:13). Our Jesus IS The Word of God. In 1:2 John begins his letter by saying he is bearing record to the Word of God and Jesus’ testimony and in 1:9 he is exiled because of the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. In 6:9, at the opening of the 5th seal, John sees the souls of them slain for the Word of God and their testimony. And in 20:4 those who reigned with Jesus had been beheaded for the witness of Jesus and the Word of God. Ephesians 6:17 tells us “The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God”. We see how this explains the imagery in 1:16 of the sharp two-edged sword coming out of Jesus’ mouth. How His words (the Word of God) are unleashed to accomplish His will and purpose. Again in 2:12 Jesus claims are backed up by “The sword of His mouth”, and 19:15 after Jesus is called “The Word of God, “the sharp sword to smite the nations” comes out of His mouth. This is confirmed to be successful in 19:21, where it is said “the remnant were slain by the sword out of His mouth. This image of Jesus Christ depicts Him as the unchallenged, most powerful, faithful and true witness (3:4). The heavens and earth began with The Word, and they will end with The Word.

  8. Husband: 21:2, 21:9, 22:17 Chapter 21 begins with John seeing the new heavens and the new earth (v.1). His attention is immediately focused on this magnificent glorious “holy city” (called new Jerusalem) coming down out of heaven from God as a bride adorned for her Husband. The city is further described from vs.11-27. The imagery depicts the eternal covenant represented by marriage. Marriage is God’s idea and the marriage covenant is tied to the eternal blood covenant of Hebrews 13. Paul uses the marriage covenant to describe our union with Christ. In Ephesians 5:22-33, husbands are to love their wives as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for it. It was Jesus’ intention to “sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the Word in order to present to Himself a glorious church without spot or wrinkle. Then, quoting Genesis 2:24 “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh” Paul calls this “a great mystery concerning Christ and His church”. The goal of Christianity isn’t to become sanctified or righteous (prepared), that’s our part, but the ultimate goal is to become one with Christ (married). Eternally united “The two become one!” This is our destiny. Our crown, our treasure, our great reward IS Jesus Christ, who loves us, and gave Himself for us. The city comes down out of heaven from God. Like a wedding on earth where the father walks the bride down the aisle. What beautiful imagery. See Appendix 7

Appendix

Appendix 1

Historically, there have been four major schools of interpretation for Revelation. They are:

  • Futurist; Most events are yet to happen.
  • Preterist; Most events have already happened (with some variations).
  • Chronological; Events are sequential (first to second coming)
  • Symbolic; Events depict recurring principles (not specific events). Most Christians are familiar with these four views, but aren’t as familiar with their roots. The chronological and symbolic views have their roots in the early church. These were the two interpretations born of exegesis and genuine research. The other two were born much later out of a desire to take the heat off the Catholic church. During the reformation most all protestants saw the Catholic church as the beast and the harlot. In order to provide an alternative to this, the pope commissioned two Jesuit priests, Francisco Ribera and Luiz deAlcazar to submit alternate interpretations of Revelation to be sanctioned by the Catholic church. Ribera refined the futurist view where the anti-christ and Babylon represented future trouble, and Luiz fostered the preterist view that chapters 4-11 were about the church vs. Jews and chapters 12-19 the church vs. Rome. These ideas have been around for years, but never organized and promoted as true exegetical works. They are interpretations imposed into the text. Of course, futurists and preterests downplay these facts, but hermeneutics demand honesty and integrity. We, as Bible believers, are striving to discover what the authors mean by what they say. These two are more eisegetic than exegetic. Not to say they couldn’t be right, but one should look into the history of these, and prayerfully decide how much weight they should carry.

Steve Gregg has compiled a wonderful work called “Revelation Four Views” in a parallel commentary. My favorite, and the only book like it. I’ve taught the book of Revelation using his book as a textbook. It’s a great way to teach the content without ‘offending’ anyone.

Appendix 2

Some expositors try to distinguish between the Father, and the Son as to who is Almighty. This is apocalyptic literature, and imagery. Jesus states in John 10:30 “I and the Father are one”. Our joy is to believe who He is, believe what He says (fear is faith in the enemy). When you see Jesus as Almighty, you will fear nothing! Overcome your fear with Truth. We do not fear evil, demons or wicked humans. We walk in victory, no fear, no anxiety, no jealousy no anger, no doubt, because Jesus Christ is Almighty.

Appendix 3

The Power of Purity. Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.

  1. We no longer have power, because we no longer have purity.
  2. When you empty your mind from worldly/sinful/sexual impurity, you MUST replace those thoughts with spiritual things.
  3. There is power you’ve never known in purity. "Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God." (Matt 5:8). Purity is necessary for close relationship. Once you develop a relationship with Jesus, you won’t want to fellowship the world anymore.
  4. The enemy will make daily attempts to destroy your new relationship, but our weapons pull down strongholds.

Appendix 4

“The battle” is mentioned three times in Revelation*. All three times associated with a final battle the whole world against the saints. First in 16:14 “The battle” of that great day, also called Armageddon. Second, 19:19 translated “make war” here, but the same Greek words “ton polemon”, the rider on the white horse with the sharp two-edged sword riding to “the battle” against the beast and the kings of the earth. Third, 20:8 “The battle” between Gog and Magog, the whole world, against the camp of the saints. These all have a sense of finality about them. Three times, at the end of the world, the enemy gathers the whole world to a battle against the saints? And the world severely loses three times? Most likely all three of these “battles” are actually the same battle expressed under three sets of imagery. The other issue, while we are deep in thought, is notice this battle is won by the sword; ‘which is the Word of God’. When we think of battle, we think of guns, tanks and bazookas. Do you think the imagery in Revelation looks more like a battle of ideas, philosophies? More like when Jesus was “tempted” in the wilderness? The two great superpowers fighting with the most powerful weapon in the universe. The Word of God. How do we win? In 12:11 “They overcame by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony” (not an AR15). Something to think about. {“Study to show yourselves approved”}

  • The word for battle, ‘polemon’ in Greek, is used 9 times in Revelation, sometimes translated ‘war’ and pertains to different conflicts. Only three times ‘ton polemon’, “the” battle.

Appendix 5

The SEED Promise. This is a prophetic thread that has its root in Genesis 3:15 (the first prophecy). God promised the serpent (who was never identified until here in v.9) that there would be enmity between the seeds of the serpent and the woman. “He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel”. The seed promise continued through Noah, Abraham Gen. 22:18, Issac Gen.26:4, and Jacob Gen.28:14. The seed promise continued through King David’s prophecy, that his seed’s house, throne and kingdom should be forever (2Sam.7:12-14). When the angel Gabriel visited Mary (of the lineage of David), he told her she would bear a son who would reign over the house of Jacob forever. This was a supernatural event. “The Holy Spirit will provide the promised ‘seed’ and the One who is born will be called The Son of God” (Luke 1:33-35). The dragon thought killing Jesus would limit his effectiveness; not knowing that God was laying all the sins of the world on Jesus at the cross (1Cor.2:8). What looked like a victory for evil, crushed satan’s head. He is no longer able to accuse anyone. Jesus took all our sins upon himself, then gives us His righteousness when we are born again. Rev. 1:5, 19:8.

Appendix 6

The Key of David 3:7 Not a title or description, but an interesting symbol to be sure. When Jesus addresses the church at Philadelphia, He begins with “These things say He who is holy, He who is true, He who has the key of David, He who opens and no man shuts, and shuts, and no man opens”. This is undoubtedly a reference to Isaiah 22:22 where Eliakim is given the ‘key of the house of David’ that does the exact same thing. Many comparisons and explanations have been offered over the years. I’m offering mine beginning with Isaiah’s condemnation of the nation of Israel. In the first 14 verses of chapter 22, at the threat of destruction because they had rejected their God v.11, God had removed His protection (v.8). But instead of returning to Him in sackcloth and weeping (v.12), they had resigned themselves to die eating and drinking in gladness (v.13). God’s reply was “There will be no atonement for this iniquity” (v.14). Then from vs.15-24 the prophecy shifts from the nation to two people seeming to be much the same; Shebna and Eliakim. “A tale of two servants”. Isaiah rebukes Shebna vs.15-19 for selfish ambition and pride (apparently Shebna is building a monument to himself and gathering a personal security force instead of trusting in God, while controlling who gets an audience with the king). God says Shebna will be destroyed, and He will raise up Eliakim to replace him. Eliakim is a faithful, humble servant of the king with a heart toward the land, the king and the temple. Now he will have the power to grant access to the king (who really needs godly advice at this time). This is what is represented by ‘the key of the house of David’. Now, take this whole story back to Revelation. The church in Philadelphia is facing persecution from the Jews and Rome. Jesus, holy and true, IS the house of David, (and now, they are too), He has the key to ‘open doors’ and has in fact given them an open door that no man can shut v.8. They have the mindset of Eliakim; humble, faithful willing to persevere and therefore they would be successful in spreading the gospel and spared the from the ‘hour of trial’ much like Israel was spared from the Assyrian invasion in Eliakim’s day.

Appendix 7

The Scroll: The scroll is introduced in chapter 5. No one is able to take the scroll and open its seals. The Lion of the tribe of Judah is able to (Salvation is of the Jews). John hears Lion but sees a Lamb ‘as if it had been slain’. To understand the significance of this imagery, some backstory is needed. What is the New Testament about?.... The New Testament! The Old Testament is divided into two parts. Genesis 1-3 talks about God’s beautiful creation and how the serpent and the dust-couple screwed it up. Genesis 4 to the end of the O.T. talk about God’s plan to restore His Eden. Prophecies throughout, promise a new day and a new way. From Genesis 3:15 to Jeremiah 31:31 to Daniel 9:24-27, and many more, this New Covenant was on its way. Galatians 4:4 “In the fulness of time, God sent forth His Son”. Jesus Christ the permanent solution to the sin problem for all people for all time. “What the Law couldn’t do…God sent His Son…to condemn sin in the flesh” (Rom.8:3). “The law was a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ” (Gal.3:24). “Christ spoiled principalities and powers triumphing over them” (Col.2:15). “This is the New Covenant in my blood” (Matt.26:28). “The mystery kept secret since the world began” (Rom.16:25). Every New Testament book talks about what Jesus Christ did and how believers should live now. The Revelation is no different. It is like the book of Acts. The book of Acts tells us what happened. The Revelation is showing us why it’s happening. It is a beautiful look at imagery showing what Jesus has done and how we are to respond.

(Just a note here; when you make the Revelation about the future and the anti-christ, you destroy it’s beauty, it’s relevance and it’s blessing (but that’s what dispensationalists do).

Okay, back to the scroll. The most important event on earth in the Bible is the crucifixion where Jesus paid the price for the sins of all people. If you don’t realize this is THE eternal plan, that Jesus is making all things new through the blood of the everlasting covenant (Heb.13:20), then you’re in the right place. God bless you for reading this (I hope it helps you). The scroll represents this Plan of Redemption. It has always been the plan. Throughout human history, God has been setting all things in motion to redeem mankind from the curse. What you are allowed to see in chapter 5 is the most beautiful and consequential moment in heaven. The Worthy One is allowed to receive the plan and begin to put it into operation. This occasion is met with all the heavenly host falling down in worship and singing “You are worthy to take the scroll and open it, because you were slain and have redeemed us to God by your blood…” Following that, John sees millions of angels join in saying “Worthy is the Lamb”. And thus begins the gospel going forth to the whole earth with the message of hope and reconciliation through Christ Jesus.

This would have been so thrilling for John. I imagine Jesus telling John “This is what it was all about John. This is why we suffered through all that we did, day after day, year after year. This is why I was crucified. This is why you are still suffering. I brought you up here so you could see God’s eternal plan being instituted in heaven. See how the heavens are rejoicing and everyone here is preparing to make it happen.”

The first four seals depict the sphere in which Believers will operate (see Appendix 8). The 5th seal shows the results of those who accept the message, and the sixth seal shows the results of those who don’t. The 7th seal is the conclusion of the plan. Silence in heaven means it is empty. All the entities that were there have moved to the new heavens (Rev.21). The plan of redemption was the purpose for history. The bride of Christ was the only focus of the heavenly host. Check out my article on the new heavens and the new earth.

Appendix 8

The Four Horseman of the Apocalypse Perhaps taken from, or an allusion to Zechariah 1:1-10 and/or 6:1-5? If you get the scroll right, you’re on your way to getting the Revelation right. The scroll is God’s Plan of Redemption being set in motion by the Lamb that was slain. The Lamb opens each seal. The four living beings take part, each taking a turn saying “come”.

The Gospel Going Forth 6:1-2 White horse rider: “Having a bow, given a crown (stephanos)”. The Gospel going forth “conquering and to conqueror” (Same word in 5:5, The Lion has conquered). The clearest and most abundant in imagery is the gospel message in Revelation. Beginning in 1:2 Jesus “bearing record of the Word of God”, exiled for the Word of God (1:9). Jesus commends the church in Philadelphia for keeping His word, and their ‘testimony’ (used 9 times). Also, there is this beautiful imagery of the sharp two-edged sword (“the sword of the Spirit IS the Word of God”) out of Jesus mouth in 1:16, 2:12, 2:16, 19:15 and 19:21 depicting active, living powerful words going forth in real time directing the churches, striking down every argument against the gospel (19:15), and conquering every enemy of the cross (19:21). Also, there is the prophecy imagery. “You must prophecy concerning many peoples, nations, tongues and kings” 10:11. The two witnesses will prophecy 11:3-13. An angel with the everlasting gospel to preach to every nation, tribe tongue and people (14:6). The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy 19:10. And in the end, the white horse rider called “The Word of God” leads heaven’s army (also on white horses) to destroy the beast and his army (19:11-21).

The Sword of Division 6:3-4 Red horse rider: Granted to take peace from the earth and was given a great sword (machaira) that they will slay one another. This is exactly what Jesus foretold in Matthew’s gospel. “Don’t suppose that I’ve come to bring peace to the earth, but a sword (machaira)”. I have come to set a man against his father…Matt.10:34-36. Luke corroborates this in Luke 12:51; “Do you suppose that I came to give peace on the earth? I tell you, not at all, but division”. Division is caused by deception. The source of this division is highlighted throughout the letter. Exiled for the Word of God (1:9), slain for the Word of God (6:9), beheaded for the Word of God (20:4). The dragon was cast out; that serpent of old, called the devil and satan who deceives the whole world (12:9). The beast system deceives all who dwell on the earth (13:14). For by your sorcery all the nations were deceived (18:23). Eventually, the beast and false prophet who deceived all who received the mark are cast into the lake of fire (19:20) and as satan goes out to deceive the nations…and gather them to battle (20:7-15), he is destroyed as well.

Economic Disparity 6:5-6 Black horse rider: The rider has a pair of scales. Prices of wheat and barley are given (a day’s food for a day’s wage); but do not injure oil or wine. This is Economic Disparity. No famine ever spared oil and wine! These prices show economic oppression. While the wealthy enjoy their prosperity, the believers have been cut off. Jewish families disinherit believers. Trade guilds turn away believers because they refused to worship idols. See how this plays out in the letter. Rich and poor must receive the mark (13:6). No one buys or sells without the mark, the number or the name (13:17). The merchants become rich by drinking the wine of her wrath (18:3)

A Matter of Life and Death 6:7-8 the Pale horse rider: The ‘chloros’ horse with Thanatos riding and hades following; With power over one-fourth the earth to kill by sword, hunger, death and beasts. A percentage of believers will pay the ultimate price for their faith. Forfeiting this present life is a small price to pay for what is being offered. What is being offered to human beings is indescribable and priceless. Not just Everlasting Life in the presence of the creator of the universe, but Everlasting Life as part of His FAMILY! We have an invitation to be a part of something that the most powerful people that ever lived couldn’t have dreamed of! “He that overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne” 3:21. Killed by sword (from 6:4), by hunger (from 6:6), Through death (from 6:8), and beasts (from chapter 13). All for promoting the gospel; exiled for the Word of God (1:9), slain for the Word of God (6:9), beheaded for the Word of God (20:4). Again, throughout the letter, death and hell show up. This vision is blunted somewhat, knowing death and hell’s power is delegated. That in 1:18 Jesus states “I have the keys of death and hell, “Be faithful to death and I’ll give you a crown of life” (2:10).

Death can’t randomly go around picking off Christians. In the end, death and hell give up their dead and are cast into the lake of fire (20:13,14). So, they are just tools. And remember, the second death is much worse than regular death (2:11, 20:6, 20:14, 21:8).

This is the sphere in which the gospel goes forth. This is what takes place in families, in cities and nations throughout the church age. When the gospel finds acceptance, there will always be division (the gospel is divisive because darkness hates light), followed by economic hardship (you will be fired from your job and disowned by your family), and not everyone will survive the hatred. (See Appendix 7 for comment on seals 5-7)

Appendix 9

Bridegroom: 18:23 Although Jesus called Himself the Bridegroom during His earthly ministry, He isn’t referred to as such in Revelation, only by Husband. The word bridegroom is mentioned in 18:23. John saw a great millstone being thrown into the sea and an angel proclaiming that it represented Babylon being thrown down and disappearing (18:1). In v.23 the angel proclaimed, “The light of a lamp shall not shine in you anymore, and the voice of the bridegroom and bride shall not be heard in you anymore”. I don’t think this is speaking of Jesus and the church (bride) not being heard in the world anymore. Surely this is an allusion to Jeremiah speaking in the same manner 7:34; “Then I will cause to cease from the cities of Judah and from the streets of Jerusalem the voice of mirth and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom and the voice of the bride”. And again in Jeremiah 16:9 and 25:10.

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