Revelation 1:4

KJV

John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace [be] unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne;

KJV (with Strong's)

John {G2491} to the seven {G2033} churches {G1577} which {G3588} are in {G1722} Asia {G773}: Grace {G5485} be unto you {G5213}, and {G2532} peace {G1515}, from {G575} him which {G3588} is {G5607}{G3801}, and {G2532} which {G3588} was {G2258}{G3801}, and {G2532} which {G3588} is to come {G2064}{G3801}; and {G2532} from {G575} the seven {G2033} Spirits {G4151} which {G3739} are {G2076} before {G1799} his {G846} throne {G2362};

Complete Jewish Bible

From: Yochanan

To: The seven Messianic communities in the province of Asia:

Grace and shalom to you from the One who is, who was and who is coming; from the sevenfold Spirit before his throne;

Berean Standard Bible

John, To the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace to you from Him who is and was and is to come, and from the seven Spirits before His throne,

American Standard Version

John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace, from him who is and who was and who is to come; and from the seven Spirits that are before his throne;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 1:4 serves as the formal salutation of John's apocalyptic letter, addressed to seven specific Christian congregations located in the Roman province of Asia. This opening immediately establishes the divine origin of the message, conveying a profound blessing of "grace and peace" to the churches. The source of these blessings is revealed as God the Father, described by His eternal and sovereign nature ("him which is, and which was, and which is to come"), and the Holy Spirit, symbolically represented as "the seven Spirits which are before his throne," signifying His perfect and complete presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 1:4 initiates the epistolary framework of the Book of Revelation, following the introductory verses that declare the revelation's divine source and purpose ([Revelation 1:1-3](/revelation/1-1-3 "Revelation 1:1-3 - The Revelation of Jesus Christ")). It functions as a formal address, similar to ancient letters, but imbued with rich theological meaning. This salutation sets the stage for the specific messages to the seven churches in chapters 2 and 3, and the broader apocalyptic visions that follow. The mention of "him which is, and which was, and which is to come" is immediately echoed in [Revelation 1:8](/revelation/1-8 "Revelation 1:8 - The Alpha and the Omega"), reinforcing God's eternality, while the "seven Spirits" reappear in the throne room vision of [Revelation 4:5](/revelation/4-5 "Revelation 4:5 - Seven Spirits of God") and in connection with the Lamb in [Revelation 5:6](/revelation/5-6 "Revelation 5:6 - The Lamb with Seven Eyes and Seven Horns"), underscoring the Holy Spirit's pervasive role.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The letter is addressed to seven actual churches in the Roman province of Asia (modern-day western Turkey): Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. These cities were significant centers of Roman administration, commerce, and pagan worship, including the imperial cult. John, the author, was likely exiled to the island of Patmos ([Revelation 1:9](/revelation/1-9 "Revelation 1:9 - John on Patmos")) due to his testimony for Christ, indicating a period of Roman persecution or intense pressure on Christians to conform. The greeting "grace and peace" was a common Christian salutation, combining the Greek "charis" (grace) with the Hebrew "shalom" (peace), but here it is elevated by identifying its divine, triune source, providing profound comfort and assurance to believers facing external hostility and internal spiritual challenges.

* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces several foundational themes that permeate Revelation. Firstly, it highlights the **Divine Authority and Sovereignty** of the message, emphasizing that the blessings and subsequent revelations come directly from God. Secondly, the phrase "him which is, and which was, and which is to come" powerfully declares God's **Eternality and Immutability**, a bedrock truth offering stability amidst the chaotic visions to follow. This title echoes the divine self-revelation in [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - I AM WHO I AM") and establishes God's absolute control over all time. Thirdly, the mention of "the seven Spirits" underscores the **Active Presence and Perfection of the Holy Spirit**, who empowers and guides the churches, and whose multifaceted ministry is crucial for understanding and enduring the prophetic events. Finally, the verse implicitly points to the **Triune Nature of God**, with the Father and Spirit explicitly mentioned here, and Jesus Christ introduced immediately in [Revelation 1:5](/revelation/1-5 "Revelation 1:5 - Jesus Christ, the Faithful Witness"), setting the stage for a comprehensive understanding of God's redemptive plan.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Grace (Greek, _cháris'_):** From a root meaning "to rejoice," this term signifies graciousness, unmerited favor, or divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life. In this context, it speaks of God's undeserved kindness and benevolence bestowed upon the churches, essential for their spiritual sustenance and endurance.
* **Peace (Greek, _eirḗnē'_):** Derived from a verb meaning "to join," this word denotes a state of wholeness, well-being, and harmony, rather than merely the absence of conflict. It encompasses spiritual tranquility, reconciliation with God, and prosperity in the fullest sense, a divine gift that transcends earthly circumstances.
* **Spirits (Greek, _pneûma'_):** Meaning "breath," "wind," or "spirit," this term refers to the Holy Spirit. In the context of "the seven Spirits," it symbolizes the Holy Spirit's complete, perfect, and multifaceted nature, actively present before God's throne and ministering to the churches.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"John to the seven churches which are in Asia":** This clause identifies the human author, John, and the immediate recipients of the letter: seven literal Christian congregations located in the Roman province of Asia. This direct address grounds the apocalyptic visions in the real-world experiences of specific communities.
* **"Grace [be] unto you, and peace":** This is a standard Christian epistolary greeting, combining the Greek salutation of "grace" (God's unmerited favor) with the Hebrew greeting of "peace" (shalom, denoting wholeness and well-being). It is a divine blessing, not merely a human wish, essential for the spiritual health of the churches.
* **"from him which is, and which was, and which is to come":** This profound phrase describes God the Father, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His sovereignty over all time—past, present, and future. It is a powerful circumlocution for the divine name YHWH ("I AM"), asserting God's unchanging presence and ultimate authority.
* **"and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne":** This refers to the Holy Spirit. The number "seven" symbolizes perfection and completeness, indicating the Holy Spirit's full and perfect ministry. His position "before his throne" signifies His perfect knowledge, active presence, and readiness to execute God's will, empowering and guiding the churches.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 1:4 employs several significant **Literary Devices**. The most prominent is the **Epistolary Opening**, which frames the entire book as a letter, making the profound prophetic visions accessible and personally relevant to its original audience. The phrase "him which is, and which was, and which is to come" functions as a powerful **Circumlocution** for God's eternal name, echoing the divine self-revelation to Moses in Exodus. This device emphasizes God's timeless sovereignty without directly using the sacred Tetragrammaton. Furthermore, the "seven Spirits" utilizes **Symbolism** and **Numerology**, where the number seven signifies completeness and perfection, representing the Holy Spirit in the fullness of His being and ministry. This symbolic language prepares the reader for the rich tapestry of imagery that defines the rest of the book.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 1:4 profoundly establishes the triune God as the ultimate source of all spiritual blessings, particularly grace and peace, which are foundational for believers navigating a fallen world. The description of God the Father as "him which is, and which was, and which is to come" asserts His absolute eternality, immutability, and sovereign control over all history. This declaration provides immense theological stability, assuring believers that despite earthly turmoil and persecution, God remains steadfast and actively present. The inclusion of "the seven Spirits" highlights the Holy Spirit's perfect and complete ministry, emphasizing His active role in empowering, guiding, and comforting the church, a crucial truth for the churches facing severe challenges. This verse thus lays the groundwork for understanding the divine authority behind the entire Revelation and the unwavering support available to God's people.

* [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God's Name Revealed")
* [Revelation 4:5](/revelation/4-5 "Revelation 4:5 - Seven Lamps of Fire Before the Throne")
* [Romans 1:7](/romans/1-7 "Romans 1:7 - Paul's Greeting to the Romans")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 1:4 offers timeless truths that resonate deeply with believers today, providing a powerful anchor in a world often characterized by uncertainty and strife. The opening blessing of "grace and peace" reminds us that our spiritual well-being is not dependent on our circumstances or efforts, but flows directly from the unmerited favor and reconciling power of God. In a rapidly changing world, the declaration of God as "him which is, and which was, and which is to come" provides an unshakeable foundation for our faith. It assures us that our God is consistent, eternally present, and sovereign over every moment of history—past, present, and future. This truth invites us to rest in His unchanging character, knowing that His purposes will prevail. Furthermore, the mention of "the seven Spirits" underscores the active and perfect ministry of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He is not a distant force but an ever-present Helper, Counselor, and Empowerer, perfectly attuned to God's will and perfectly equipped to guide us through life's complexities and challenges. This verse encourages us to continually draw upon the divine resources of grace, peace, and the Spirit's power as we navigate our spiritual journeys and face the realities of our world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God as "who is, and who was, and who is to come" impact your trust in Him during uncertain or challenging times?**
* **In what specific ways do you experience God's "grace and peace" flowing into your life today?**
* **How does the concept of the "seven Spirits" (symbolizing the Holy Spirit's perfect and complete ministry) encourage you in your reliance on divine guidance and empowerment?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "seven churches which are in Asia"?**

Answer: The "seven churches which are in Asia" refer to seven literal Christian congregations located in the Roman province of Asia Minor (modern-day western Turkey). These churches were Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Each church receives a specific message from Christ in [Revelation chapters 2 and 3](/revelation/2 "Revelation 2-3 - Messages to the Seven Churches"), addressing their unique spiritual conditions, challenges, and triumphs.

**What is the meaning of "him which is, and which was, and which is to come"?**

Answer: This profound phrase is a divine title for God the Father, emphasizing His eternal, unchanging nature and His absolute sovereignty over all time—past, present, and future. It is a powerful circumlocution that echoes the divine name YHWH ("I AM WHO I AM") revealed to Moses in [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God's Self-Revelation"). This title underscores God's self-existence, His timelessness, and His active presence throughout all of history, providing a foundational truth for the entire book of Revelation.

**Who are the "seven Spirits which are before his throne"?**

Answer: The "seven Spirits which are before his throne" are widely interpreted as a symbolic representation of the Holy Spirit in His fullness, perfection, and multifaceted ministry. The number seven in biblical numerology often signifies completeness or perfection. This imagery reappears in the throne room vision of [Revelation 4:5](/revelation/4-5 "Revelation 4:5 - Seven Lamps of Fire") and in connection with the Lamb in [Revelation 5:6](/revelation/5-6 "Revelation 5:6 - The Lamb with Seven Eyes and Seven Horns"), underscoring the Holy Spirit's perfect knowledge, active presence before God, and His comprehensive work in empowering and guiding the churches.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Revelation 1:4 primarily introduces God the Father and the Holy Spirit as sources of grace and peace, its Christ-centered fulfillment becomes immediately apparent in the subsequent verses and throughout the entire book. The very next verse, [Revelation 1:5](/revelation/1-5 "Revelation 1:5 - Jesus Christ, the Faithful Witness"), explicitly names Jesus Christ as the third divine source of these blessings, completing the implicit Trinitarian salutation. The title "him which is, and which was, and which is to come," though applied to the Father here, is also ascribed to Jesus Christ in [Revelation 1:8](/revelation/1-8 "Revelation 1:8 - Jesus as Alpha and Omega") and [Revelation 22:13](/revelation/22-13 "Revelation 22:13 - Jesus as the Alpha and Omega"), affirming His co-eternality and shared sovereignty with the Father. Jesus, as the incarnate Word, is the ultimate embodiment of God's grace ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")) and the bringer of true peace ([John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Jesus' Gift of Peace")). Through His atoning sacrifice and victorious resurrection, He secured the very grace and peace that are now poured out upon His church. Furthermore, the "seven Spirits" are explicitly linked to Christ as "the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth" in [Revelation 5:6](/revelation/5-6 "Revelation 5:6 - The Lamb with Seven Eyes and Seven Horns"), indicating that the Holy Spirit's perfect ministry flows from and is directed by the exalted Christ. Thus, the divine blessings of grace and peace in Revelation 1:4 are not merely abstract concepts but are concretely mediated and fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the one who was, and is, and is to come.

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

Isaiah 11:2

And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;

Psalms 90:2

Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou [art] God.

John 1:1

¶ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Hebrews 13:8

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.

Revelation 4:5

And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and [there were] seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.

Revelation 5:6

¶ And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.

Revelation 1:8

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.