What does Revelation 1:4 mean?

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; Revelation 1:4

Explanation

Revelation 1:4 is a salutation found in the opening chapter of the Book of Revelation, the final book of the New Testament. The author, traditionally identified as John, addresses the letter “to the seven churches which are in Asia.” The salutation contains a wish for grace and peace from a triune source: God, who is described with the phrase “which is, and which was, and which is to come,” indicating his eternal and unchanging nature; the “seven Spirits” which are before his throne, often interpreted as the Holy Spirit in its sevenfold ministry or a symbol of its fullness and perfection; and from Jesus Christ, though his name isn’t explicitly mentioned until verse 5.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written during a time of persecution of Christians within the Roman Empire, traditionally during the reign of Emperor Domitian around AD 95. Asia, mentioned here, refers to the Roman province in what is now western Turkey, and the seven churches are located in major cities of that region. The letter is both a prophetic vision and an encouragement for these churches to stand firm in the face of adversity.

Theological Insights

This verse has garnered varied theological insights. The title given to God in this passage reflects Jewish apocalyptic literature that emphasizes God’s sovereignty over time and creation. Furthermore, the “seven Spirits” reference has spurred debate, with some theologians associating it with Isaiah 11:2 which describes the attributes of the Messiah, while others suggest that it signifies the Holy Spirit’s complete and diverse work in the church.

Practical Applications

The greeting of grace and peace in this verse can have personal applications for believers today as an ongoing reminder of the peace and favor provided by God. Despite the trials and tribulations of the present world, Christians are assured that God is sovereign over all of history. Additionally, the acknowledgment of the seven churches serves as a model for today’s churches to seek unity and operate as part of a larger, interconnected community.

Cross-References

• 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.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, several words are noteworthy:

• “Asia” (Ἀσίᾳ): Refers to the Roman province of Asia, not the continent.
• “Grace” (χάρις, charis): A common Christian greeting implying favor and kindness.
• “Peace” (εἰρήνη, eirene): Means more than just the absence of conflict; it implies wholeness and well-being.
• “Which is, and which was, and which is to come” (ὁ ὢν καὶ ὁ ἦν καὶ ὁ ἐρχόμενος): Emphasizes the eternal nature of God, echoing the name God gives himself in Exodus 3:14.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Revelation’s apocalyptic language often echoes earlier Jewish works such as Daniel. The concept of a god who reigns over time may also be compared to other ancient myths where deities govern aspects of cosmic order, though the monotheistic emphasis in Revelation is distinct.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse does not directly touch upon scientific topics. However, the language referring to God’s dominion over time intersects with modern concepts of time and the nature of the universe in theoretical physics. The idea of God’s unchanging nature might be compared to scientific principles such as conservation laws or constants in nature.

Commentaries

Commentators offer varied perspectives on Revelation 1:4. Many agree that the purpose of the salutation is to remind the recipients of God’s sovereignty and grace at the introduction of the prophetic visions to come. Some emphasize the Trinitarian interpretation of the passage while others focus on its liturgical and pastoral significance, emphasizing the comfort and hope it affords to beleaguered believers in times of distress.