Revelation 1:1

KJV

¶ The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified [it] by his angel unto his servant John:

KJV (with Strong's)

The Revelation {G602} of Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}, which {G3739} God {G2316} gave {G1325} unto him {G846}, to shew {G1166} unto his {G846} servants {G1401} things which {G3739} must {G1163} shortly {G1722}{G5034} come to pass {G1096}; and {G2532} he sent {G649} and signified {G4591} it by {G1223} his {G846} angel {G32} unto his {G846} servant {G1401} John {G2491}:

Complete Jewish Bible

This is the revelation which God gave to Yeshua the Messiah, so that he could show his servants what must happen very soon. He communicated it by sending his angel to his servant Yochanan,

Berean Standard Bible

This is the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants what must soon come to pass. He made it known by sending His angel to His servant John,

American Standard Version

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show unto his servants, even the things which must shortly come to pass: and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 1:1 serves as the foundational prologue to the final book of the biblical canon, immediately establishing its divine origin, Christ-centered focus, and urgent purpose. It unveils the authoritative chain of communication, revealing that this "apocalypse" is not a human invention but a direct disclosure from God the Father, given to Jesus Christ, conveyed through an angel, and finally entrusted to His servant John, all designed to reveal future events that are soon to occur for the benefit and preparation of God's people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 1:1 functions as a programmatic statement for the entire book, setting the stage for the visions, prophecies, and theological declarations that follow. It immediately identifies the nature of the writing ("The Revelation") and its ultimate source (God the Father) and subject (Jesus Christ). The subsequent verses in chapter 1 elaborate on the identity of the revealer (Jesus Christ in His glorified state, [Revelation 1:12-18](/revelation/1-12-18 "Revelation 1:12-18 - Vision of the Son of Man")), the recipients (the seven churches in Asia Minor, [Revelation 1:4](/revelation/1-4 "Revelation 1:4 - Greeting to the Seven Churches")), and the blessing pronounced upon those who read, hear, and heed its words ([Revelation 1:3](/revelation/1-3 "Revelation 1:3 - Blessed are those who read and obey")). This opening verse thus provides the hermeneutical key for understanding the entire apocalyptic narrative, emphasizing its divine authority and Christological focus.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Revelation was written by the Apostle John, traditionally believed to be while he was exiled on the island of Patmos, a small, rocky island in the Aegean Sea, likely during the reign of Emperor Domitian (c. AD 95-96). This period was marked by escalating Roman persecution of Christians, who refused to participate in emperor worship and other pagan cults. The cultural milieu was one where imperial power was increasingly asserted as divine, creating immense pressure and suffering for early believers. John's audience, the seven churches in Asia Minor, were facing various challenges, including doctrinal error, spiritual apathy, and external persecution. The book, therefore, served not only as a prophetic unveiling of future events but also as a pastoral letter, offering comfort, exhortation, and hope to a beleaguered church, assuring them of God's ultimate sovereignty and Christ's final triumph over all oppressive powers.

* **Key Themes:** This opening verse introduces several overarching themes that permeate the entire Book of Revelation. Firstly, the theme of **Divine Sovereignty** is paramount, as the revelation originates from God and is given to Christ, underscoring that all history, including future events, is under God's ultimate control. Secondly, the **Centrality of Jesus Christ** is immediately established; though often perceived as a book about the end times, Revelation is fundamentally "The Revelation of Jesus Christ," focusing on His glory, His victory, and His coming reign ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - The Rider on the White Horse")). Thirdly, the theme of **Prophetic Disclosure** is highlighted by the phrase "to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass," emphasizing God's intention to reveal His plans to His faithful followers, providing both warning and assurance. Lastly, the theme of **Imminence and Urgency** is conveyed by "must shortly come to pass," indicating that these events are not distant or irrelevant but are set in motion and will unfold according to God's appointed time, calling believers to watchful expectation and faithful endurance ([Revelation 22:7](/revelation/22-7 "Revelation 22:7 - Behold, I am coming soon!")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Revelation (Greek, _apokálypsis'_):** G602. From `apokalyptō`, meaning "to uncover," "unveil," or "disclose." This term signifies that the book is not a hidden mystery but a divine unveiling of truths previously unknown or dimly perceived. It implies a purposeful act of God to make known His plans and purposes, particularly concerning Jesus Christ and the consummation of His kingdom. It contrasts with human speculation, asserting that the following content is a direct divine disclosure.
* **Servants (Greek, _doûlos'_):** G1401. This word denotes a slave or bond-servant, emphasizing a position of complete submission and obedience, whether voluntary or involuntary. In the New Testament, it often refers to believers who willingly submit to Christ's lordship, serving Him faithfully. Here, it highlights the intended audience of the revelation – those who are devoted to God and Christ, for whom this unveiling is both a privilege and a call to faithful action. John himself is identified as a "servant," placing him in solidarity with the recipients of the message.
* **Signified (Greek, _sēmaínō'_):** G4591. This verb means "to indicate," "to show by signs," or "to make known." It suggests that the revelation was conveyed not through plain, propositional statements alone, but through symbolic language, visions, and enigmatic imagery. This term prepares the reader for the rich tapestry of symbols, metaphors, and allegories that characterize the Book of Revelation, indicating that its truths are often communicated through visual and symbolic means that require spiritual discernment to interpret.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The Revelation of Jesus Christ":** This phrase immediately identifies the book's nature and its central subject. It is an "unveiling" (apokalypsis) that belongs to Jesus Christ, meaning it is either a revelation *from* Him, *about* Him, or both. Given the context, it is primarily a revelation from Him, as the one who receives it from God the Father, and also about Him, as He is the central figure of the entire prophetic narrative, revealing His glory, power, and ultimate triumph.
* **"which God gave unto him":** This clarifies the ultimate source of the revelation. It originates with God the Father, who then entrusts it to His Son, Jesus Christ. This establishes the divine authority and truthfulness of the message, emphasizing that it is part of God's sovereign plan for history. It also highlights the unique relationship between the Father and the Son in the divine economy of revelation.
* **"to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass":** This clause states the primary purpose and content of the revelation. It is given to "shew" (deiknýō, to make visible or known) to God's faithful "servants" (doûlos) events that are divinely decreed ("must," deî) and are imminent ("shortly," tákhos, in haste or quickly). This indicates that the prophecies are not merely for intellectual curiosity but for the practical guidance and preparation of believers, providing insight into God's unfolding plan.
* **"and he sent and signified [it] by his angel unto his servant John":** This completes the chain of communication, detailing the precise method of transmission. Jesus Christ, having received the revelation from the Father, then "sent" (apostéllō, dispatched on a mission) and "signified" (sēmaínō, conveyed by signs/symbols) the message. The intermediary is "his angel" (ángelos, messenger), who delivers the symbolic visions to "his servant John," the human author on Patmos. This hierarchical and precise transmission underscores the authenticity and divine authority of the entire book.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 1:1 employs several significant **Literary Devices** that set the tone for the entire book. The very title, "The Revelation," is a form of **Apocalypse**, a genre characterized by symbolic visions, angelic mediation, and an eschatological focus on God's ultimate triumph over evil. This verse also establishes a clear **Chain of Revelation**, functioning as a literary framework: God the Father -> Jesus Christ -> Angel -> John -> Servants. This hierarchical structure not only authenticates the message but also highlights the orderly and purposeful nature of divine communication. Furthermore, the phrase "signified [it] by his angel" is an instance of **Metonymy** or **Symbolism**, indicating that the message will be conveyed through signs and symbols rather than literal, straightforward prose. This immediately signals to the reader that the book's content will require interpretation and that its truths are often veiled in rich, evocative imagery. The emphasis on "things which must shortly come to pass" also introduces the literary device of **Imminence**, creating a sense of urgency and expectation that permeates the prophetic narrative.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 1:1 is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition of divine revelation, echoing Old Testament prophetic patterns where God communicates His will and future plans through chosen intermediaries. It establishes the ultimate authority of the Book of Revelation as a divine word, not a human invention, ensuring its reliability and significance for believers across all generations. The emphasis on Jesus Christ as both the subject and the mediator of this revelation firmly anchors the book within a Christocentric worldview, affirming His preeminence in God's redemptive plan and His active role in directing history towards its appointed end. This verse underscores God's commitment to His "servants," demonstrating His desire to prepare and equip His people by disclosing what is to come, offering both comfort in tribulation and a call to faithful endurance and readiness.

* [Daniel 2:28](/daniel/2-28 "Daniel 2:28 - God reveals mysteries")
* [Amos 3:7](/amos/3-7 "Amos 3:7 - The Lord God does nothing without revealing His secret to His servants the prophets")
* [John 15:15](/john/15-15 "John 15:15 - I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 1:1 invites believers into a posture of humble reception and eager anticipation. Understanding that this book is "The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him" should instill profound confidence in its truthfulness and divine authority. It reminds us that God is actively involved in human history, orchestrating events towards a glorious culmination centered on His Son. For us today, this means we are not left in the dark about the future; God, in His grace, has chosen to unveil His purposes to His servants. This calls us to diligent study and prayerful discernment, recognizing that the symbolic language requires careful interpretation guided by the Holy Spirit and the broader biblical narrative. Ultimately, this verse encourages us to live with a sense of urgency and hope, knowing that Christ's victory is assured and that He is coming soon. It compels us to live as faithful servants, prepared for His return and committed to His mission until that day.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the divine origin of Revelation impact your trust in its message and prophecies?**
* **In what ways does understanding Revelation as "The Revelation of Jesus Christ" change your perception of the book?**
* **What does it mean for you personally to be one of God's "servants" to whom these things are revealed?**
* **How should the phrase "things which must shortly come to pass" influence your daily living and spiritual priorities?**

### FAQ
**What does "The Revelation of Jesus Christ" mean?**

Answer: This phrase, [The Revelation of Jesus Christ](/revelation/1-1 "Revelation 1:1 - The Revelation of Jesus Christ"), primarily means the revelation *from* Jesus Christ, which He received from God the Father. It signifies that Jesus is the active agent in disclosing these truths. Secondarily, it is also a revelation *about* Jesus Christ, unveiling His glory, His victory over evil, and His ultimate reign as King of kings and Lord of lords, as seen throughout the book, particularly in passages like [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - The Rider on the White Horse").

**Why does it say "things which must shortly come to pass" if some events seem to be in the distant future?**

Answer: The phrase [must shortly come to pass](/revelation/1-1 "Revelation 1:1 - Must shortly come to pass") (Greek: _en táchei_) conveys a sense of divine urgency and imminence from God's perspective. It does not necessarily mean "immediately" in human chronological terms, but rather that these events are decreed by God ([must](/revelation/1-1 "Revelation 1:1 - Things which must come to pass")) and will unfold swiftly and certainly according to His sovereign timetable, without delay from His standpoint. This perspective is reiterated in [Revelation 22:6](/revelation/22-6 "Revelation 22:6 - These words are trustworthy and true. And the Lord, the God of the spirits of the prophets, has sent his angel to show his servants what must soon take place.") and [Revelation 22:12](/revelation/22-12 "Revelation 22:12 - Behold, I am coming soon!"), urging believers to live in watchful expectation and readiness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 1:1, by declaring itself "The Revelation of Jesus Christ," immediately establishes the entire book as a Christ-centered unveiling, not merely of future events, but of the glorified Son of God Himself. This echoes the Old Testament prophetic tradition where prophets spoke of a coming Messiah, but now, in the New Testament, Jesus is revealed as the ultimate fulfillment of those prophecies. He is the one through whom God the Father chooses to disclose His final plans, underscoring His unique mediatorial role ([1 Timothy 2:5](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - There is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus")). The "things which must shortly come to pass" are not random occurrences but are intricately tied to Christ's ongoing work of redemption and His ultimate triumph over sin, death, and all opposing powers. This prologue sets the stage for the book's profound portrayal of Jesus as the [Lamb who was slain](/revelation/5-6 "Revelation 5:6 - The Lamb Standing as if Slain") yet [is alive forevermore](/revelation/1-18 "Revelation 1:18 - I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades."), the [faithful witness](/revelation/1-5 "Revelation 1:5 - The faithful witness"), the [firstborn from the dead](/revelation/1-5 "Revelation 1:5 - The firstborn from the dead"), and the [ruler of the kings of the earth](/revelation/1-5 "Revelation 1:5 - The ruler of the kings of the earth"). Every vision and prophecy within Revelation ultimately points to the consummation of Christ's kingdom and His glorious return, fulfilling the promises of [Matthew 24:30](/matthew/24-30 "Matthew 24:30 - They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven") and [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Revelation 22:16

I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, [and] the bright and morning star.

Revelation 22:6

¶ And he said unto me, These sayings [are] faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done.

Galatians 1:12

For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught [it], but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Amos 3:7

Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.

Daniel 2:28

But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days. Thy dream, and the visions of thy head upon thy bed, are these;

Daniel 2:29

As for thee, O king, thy thoughts came [into thy mind] upon thy bed, what should come to pass hereafter: and he that revealeth secrets maketh known to thee what shall come to pass.

Ephesians 3:3

How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,