Revelation
1:12-16 In his visionary condition, John turns to see Jesus, the Son of Man (huio
anthropou). (See Daniel 7:13, Matthew 24:27-31) The symbolism of all the
elements of His appearance speaks to us.
The lamp stands represent the Holy Spirit in Zechariah 4:2-6, but here
they represent the seven churches (Rev 1:20). The golden girdle speaks of
divinity or royalty. (See Exodus 25:10-21) White hair, with presumably a white
beard as well (His whole head was like white wool), implies age, as of the
Ancient of Days. (See Daniel 7:9) Fire in His eyes implies purification. (See
Luke 3:17) Bronze feet symbolize judgment (see Daniel 10:6) The voice sounding
like many waters links to Ezekiel 43:2, but represents a change from the voice
sounding like a trumped (Rev 1:10). The seven stars are the messengers to the
seven churches (Rev 1:20).
The
important message of this vision is that Jesus is in the midst of the churches;
He is right there, not distant. And the messengers to the churches are in His right hand. Although the Greek word aggeloi
is usual translated angels, the messengers to the seven churches could just as
easily mean the pastors or prophets who spoke to these local churches. These
who speak to the people of Jesus are in the His right hand.
Out
of His mouth came a sharp, two-edged sword, clearly identifying this as the word of God (Ephesians 6:17, Hebrews 4:12), which
John had previously identified as Jesus. (John 1:1 & 12) His face was shining like the sun, just as in
the transfiguration on the mount.
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