How does Revelation 1:1 emphasize the divine source of the prophecy? The Divine Chain of Communication • “The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants … He made it known by sending His angel to His servant John” (Revelation 1:1). • Five-link progression underscores heavenly authorship: 1. God the Father – ultimate source. 2. Jesus Christ – receives, owns, and conveys the message. 3. Angel – divine messenger, not a human intermediary. 4. John – inspired human writer. 5. Christ’s servants – the believing readers. • Each link verifies that what follows is not human speculation but a message originating in the throne room of God. Affirmed by the Rest of Scripture • John 17:8 – Jesus testifies He received words “from the Father” and passed them on. • Hebrews 1:1-2 – God spoke “in His Son,” consistent with Revelation’s opening. • 2 Peter 1:21 – “Men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit,” matching John’s role here. • 1 Corinthians 2:10 – “God has revealed it to us by the Spirit,” showing the Spirit’s confirming work throughout revelation. Purposeful Revelation, Not Private Opinion • Phrase “what must soon come to pass” roots prophecy in God’s sovereign timetable, not in personal prediction. • “Show” (Greek deiknymi) indicates clear disclosure; God intends comprehension, not obscurity. • The angelic courier signals supernatural authenticity and safeguards against human error. Christ at the Center • Title “revelation of Jesus Christ” means: – From Jesus: He is the Revealer. – About Jesus: He is the Revealed One. • Revelation’s visions consistently spotlight His lordship—see Revelation 1:12-18; 5:6-14; 19:11-16. Reliability Guaranteed • God initiates; therefore the prophecy is infallible. • Jesus transmits; therefore the message carries divine authority. • The angel safeguards the content; therefore accuracy is preserved. • John records; therefore believers possess a trustworthy written witness. Takeaway for Today • Because the source is divine, we approach Revelation with confidence, expecting literal fulfillment. • The chain God → Christ → angel → John → us invites reverent study and ready obedience, knowing every promise and warning come straight from God’s heart to ours. |
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