Revelation 1:9

KJV

¶ I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

KJV (with Strong's)

I {G1473} John {G2491}, who {G3588} also {G2532} am your {G5216} brother {G80}, and {G2532} companion {G4791} in {G1722} tribulation {G2347}, and {G2532} in {G1722} the kingdom {G932} and {G2532} patience {G5281} of Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}, was {G1096} in {G1722} the isle {G3520} that is called {G2564} Patmos {G3963}, for {G1223} the word {G3056} of God {G2316}, and {G2532} for {G1223} the testimony {G3141} of Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I, Yochanan, am a brother of yours and a fellow-sharer in the suffering, kingship and perseverance that come from being united with Yeshua. I had been exiled to the island called Patmos for having proclaimed the message of God and borne witness to Yeshua.

Berean Standard Bible

I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance that are in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and my testimony about Jesus.

American Standard Version

I John, your brother and partaker with you in the tribulation and kingdom and patiencewhich arein Jesus, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 1:9 introduces the Apostle John, the author of this prophetic book, by establishing his profound solidarity with his audience. He identifies himself not as a distant authority but as a fellow "brother" and "companion" in the shared experiences of tribulation, the present reality of God's kingdom, and the patient endurance found in Jesus Christ. The verse also reveals his geographical location, the island of Patmos, and the divine reason for his exile: his unwavering commitment to proclaiming "the word of God" and bearing "the testimony of Jesus Christ." This sets a foundational tone for the book, emphasizing that divine revelation often comes amidst suffering for the Gospel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 1:9 immediately follows the opening salutation and doxology of the book, which blesses those who read, hear, and keep its prophetic words ([Revelation 1:3](/revelation/1-3 "Revelation 1:3 - Blessed are those who read and hear")). After establishing the divine authority and purpose of the revelation, John shifts to his personal circumstances, grounding the otherworldly visions that follow in a tangible, relatable human experience. This verse serves as a bridge, connecting the heavenly source of the prophecy to its earthly recipient and the community for whom it is intended. It personalizes the message, showing that the one receiving these profound truths is himself undergoing hardship for his faith, thereby lending credibility and empathy to his subsequent prophetic declarations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Apostle John's exile to Patmos is widely believed to have occurred during the reign of the Roman Emperor Domitian (c. AD 81-96), who initiated a period of intense persecution against Christians for their refusal to participate in emperor worship. Patmos, a small, rocky island in the Aegean Sea, approximately 60 miles southwest of Ephesus, served as a Roman penal colony. It was a place of forced labor and isolation, where political prisoners and other offenders were banished. John's presence there "for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ" clearly indicates that his banishment was a direct consequence of his evangelistic and prophetic activities, highlighting the severe cost of Christian discipleship in the Roman Empire. This historical backdrop underscores the real-world dangers faced by early believers and provides a poignant setting for a book that speaks so powerfully about suffering, perseverance, and divine judgment.
* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces several crucial themes that permeate the book of Revelation. Firstly, the theme of **shared suffering and solidarity** is paramount, as John identifies with his readers in their "tribulation" ([Revelation 1:9](/revelation/1-9 "Revelation 1:9 - John's Shared Tribulation")). This establishes a bond of empathy, assuring believers that their hardships are understood and shared by their spiritual leader. Secondly, the verse highlights the **present reality of the kingdom of God**, indicating that believers are already participants "in the kingdom" even amidst earthly trials, a concept further developed in passages like [Revelation 5:10](/revelation/5-10 "Revelation 5:10 - Priests and Kings to God"). Thirdly, **patient endurance** (patience of Jesus Christ) is emphasized as a necessary virtue for navigating persecution, a call to steadfastness echoed throughout Revelation, particularly in the exhortations to those who "keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus" ([Revelation 14:12](/revelation/14-12 "Revelation 14:12 - Perseverance of the Saints")). Finally, the verse underscores the **centrality of God's Word and the testimony of Jesus Christ** as the very reason for John's suffering and the foundation for the entire prophetic revelation that follows, linking directly to the "spirit of prophecy" being the "testimony of Jesus" ([Revelation 19:10](/revelation/19-10 "Revelation 19:10 - The Testimony of Jesus")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Companion (Greek, _synkoinōnós'_):** This term (G4791) literally means "a co-participant" or "fellow partaker." It emphasizes a deep, shared involvement and fellowship. John uses this word to convey that he is not merely an observer or a detached leader, but one who actively shares in the experiences, struggles, and blessings of his Christian brethren. It signifies a profound bond of solidarity and mutual participation in the Christian journey.
* **Tribulation (Greek, _thlîpsis'_):** Derived from a word meaning "to press" or "to crush," this term (G2347) denotes pressure, distress, affliction, or persecution. In the New Testament, it frequently refers to the hardships and sufferings experienced by believers due to their faith. John's use of this word indicates that he, like his audience, is undergoing severe external pressure and persecution, highlighting the common experience of suffering for Christ in the early church.
* **Patience (Greek, _hypomonḗ'_):** This word (G5281) signifies more than passive waiting; it denotes "cheerful (or hopeful) endurance" and "constancy." It describes an active, steadfast perseverance in the face of adversity, not giving in to despair but maintaining faith and hope. John links this patience directly to Jesus Christ, implying that the endurance required of believers is modeled after and empowered by Christ's own steadfastness through His suffering and ministry.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation":** John immediately establishes his identity and relationship with his readers. He is "John," the known Apostle, but he presents himself humbly as a "brother," emphasizing familial spiritual ties, and a "companion" (co-participant), indicating shared experience, especially in "tribulation" or suffering. This opening fosters empathy and solidarity, assuring his audience that he understands their struggles.
* **"and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ":** This phrase further defines the shared reality of John and his readers. They are companions not only in suffering but also in the present spiritual "kingdom" of God, which is a reality even amidst earthly persecution. This kingdom is intrinsically linked with "patience" (endurance), which is specifically identified as belonging "of Jesus Christ," meaning it is either Christ's own endurance that they share, or the endurance that is empowered by Him and characteristic of His followers.
* **"was in the isle that is called Patmos":** This clause provides the specific geographical context for John's revelation. Patmos, a small, desolate Aegean island, was a place of Roman penal exile. John's physical location underscores his suffering and isolation, setting the stage for the dramatic visions he is about to receive in this challenging environment.
* **"for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ":** This final clause reveals the divine purpose and reason for John's exile. He was banished not for a crime, but "for" (Greek: _diá_, G1223, meaning "because of" or "on account of") his faithful proclamation of "the word of God" (the divine message) and his unwavering "testimony of Jesus Christ" (his witness to Christ's life, death, and resurrection). This highlights the cost of discipleship and the centrality of evangelism and prophetic witness.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Identification** is prominent as John immediately establishes his personal connection to the audience, using "brother" and "companion" to forge a bond of **solidarity**. This creates a sense of shared destiny and experience, crucial for a book that will call for immense perseverance. The phrase "in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ" utilizes **juxtaposition**, placing the harsh reality of suffering alongside the spiritual reality of God's reign and divine endurance. This highlights the paradox of Christian existence: suffering *within* the context of God's present rule. Furthermore, **Metonymy** is evident in "the word of God" and "the testimony of Jesus Christ," where these phrases stand for the entire message and witness of the Gospel, for which John suffered. The mention of Patmos serves as a powerful **symbol** of exile and suffering for the faith, yet paradoxically, it becomes the very place of profound divine revelation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 1:9 profoundly shapes our understanding of Christian identity and mission. John's self-identification as a "brother" and "companion" in tribulation, kingdom, and patience underscores the communal nature of faith. It teaches that suffering for Christ is not an isolated experience but a shared reality among believers, uniting them in a common journey. This solidarity is rooted in their participation in the present, though not yet fully realized, kingdom of God, and empowered by the very endurance of Jesus Christ Himself. John's exile "for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ" elevates the act of bearing witness to Christ as a central, even costly, aspect of discipleship, affirming that faithfulness to divine truth often invites opposition. This verse sets the stage for the entire book of Revelation, which will explore the cosmic conflict between God's kingdom and the forces of evil, and the ultimate triumph of those who persevere in their testimony.

* [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godliness")
* [Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ through Suffering")
* [Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 1:9 offers a powerful reminder that the Christian life, while filled with the promises of God's kingdom, is also often marked by tribulation. John's experience on Patmos teaches us that faithfulness to "the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ" can lead to hardship, isolation, or persecution. Yet, even in such circumstances, God is present, revealing His truth and purpose. This verse challenges believers to embrace a posture of patient endurance, recognizing that our suffering is not meaningless but is shared with Christ and fellow believers, and it contributes to our participation in His kingdom. It calls us to cultivate a deep solidarity with other Christians, especially those facing persecution, and to remain steadfast in our witness, regardless of the cost. John's example encourages us to view challenging circumstances not as obstacles to God's work, but as potential crucibles where divine revelation and spiritual growth can occur, strengthening our resolve to proclaim Christ boldly.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does John's identification as a "brother" and "companion" in tribulation encourage you in your own struggles?**
* **In what ways do you experience "tribulation" for your faith today, and how can you cultivate "patience" in those circumstances?**
* **How does the understanding that you are already "in the kingdom" of Jesus Christ impact your perspective on current difficulties?**
* **What does it mean for you to bear "the word of God, and... the testimony of Jesus Christ" in your daily life, and what might be the cost?**

### FAQ
**Why was John exiled to Patmos, and what was Patmos like?**

Answer: John was exiled to the island of Patmos "for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ," meaning his banishment was a direct consequence of his faithful proclamation of the Gospel and his witness to Jesus. This likely occurred during the reign of the Roman Emperor Domitian, who severely persecuted Christians for their refusal to worship him as divine. Patmos was a small, rocky, and desolate island in the Aegean Sea, used by the Roman Empire as a penal colony. It was a place of forced labor and isolation, designed to punish and silence those deemed a threat to Roman authority. Despite its harshness, Patmos became the sacred ground where John received the profound visions recorded in the book of Revelation, demonstrating that God can reveal His truth even in the most challenging and isolated circumstances, as seen in [Revelation 1:10-11](/revelation/1-10-11 "Revelation 1:10-11 - John's Vision on the Lord's Day").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 1:9, while detailing John's personal experience, is deeply Christ-centered, revealing how John's suffering and steadfastness mirror and participate in the life of Jesus. John's identity as a "companion in tribulation" directly connects him to Christ, who Himself endured immense suffering and persecution, culminating in His crucifixion, as prophesied in [Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - Christ, a Man of Sorrows"). The "kingdom" John shares is the very kingdom inaugurated by Jesus through His death and resurrection, a spiritual reign that transcends earthly powers and invites believers into its present reality, even amidst opposition, as Jesus declared, "My kingdom is not of this world" ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of this World")). Furthermore, the "patience of Jesus Christ" is central; it is His own steadfast endurance through His earthly ministry and ultimate sacrifice that provides the pattern and power for believers to persevere. John's exile "for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ" underscores that his suffering is not arbitrary but a direct consequence of bearing witness to the incarnate Word, Jesus, who is "the faithful witness" ([Revelation 1:5](/revelation/1-5 "Revelation 1:5 - Jesus, the Faithful Witness")). Thus, John's experience on Patmos is a profound echo of Christ's own journey of suffering, faithfulness, and ultimate triumph, inviting all believers to share in this cruciform path that leads to glory.

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

Acts 14:22

Confirming the souls of the disciples, [and] exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

Revelation 3:10

Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

John 16:33

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Revelation 1:2

Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.

Revelation 13:10

He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.

Philippians 4:14

Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.

Revelation 12:11

And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.