What does Revelation 1:20 mean?

Explanation

Revelation 1:20 serves as a key to understanding the vision of the seven stars and the seven golden lampstands (candlesticks) John saw in his revelation, which is recorded in the book of Revelation.

Literally, the verse identifies the seven stars as the angels (or messengers) of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands as the seven churches themselves.

Symbolically, stars are often associated with guidance (since stars were used for navigation) and angels with divine messages.

The lampstands symbolize the light that the churches are meant to shine into the world, being representations of the presence and witness of the Christian communities.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written in the late first century A.D., at a time when Christianity was spreading in a world dominated by the Roman Empire.

The seven churches referenced in Revelation, Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea, were actual historical congregations located in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).

The early Christian communities often faced persecution and hardship, which is reflected in the letters written to these churches earlier in Revelation (chapters 2 and 3).

Theological Insights

Theologically, Revelation 1:20 has been interpreted in various ways.

One perspective is that the stars represent the divine protection and authority given to the angels or leaders of the churches.

Another view considers that the angels of the churches may refer to the spiritual essence or collective spirit of each church.

The imagery of lampstands as churches highlights the idea that churches are bearers of light, tasked with the mission to illuminate the world with the message of the gospel.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Revelation 1:20 can inspire modern readers to reflect on their role in their faith communities and the broader society.

Churches and their leaders are reminded of their responsibility to be light-bearers in the world and to provide guidance, similar to the stars for navigators.

Individual believers can find a call to support their communities and to maintain the vibrancy of their faith to ensure the churches continue to be strong beacons of light.

Cross-References

• Revelation 2:1 - "Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write..."
• Revelation 3:1 - "And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write..."
• Matthew 5:14 - "Ye are the light of the world.

A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid."

• Philippians 2:15 - "That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;"

Language Study

In the original Greek text of Revelation 1:20, the word translated as "angels" (ἄγγελοι | angeloi) can mean both celestial beings or human messengers.

The term for "stars" (ἀστέρες | astéres) is more straightforward, generally referring to celestial bodies.

"Candlesticks" or "lampstands" (λυχνίαι | lychniai) were used for holding lamps, and in the context of the vision, each represents a church.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the ancient world, stars and celestial events often held religious or spiritual significance, indicating divine messages or omens.

The connection between stars and angels or spiritual beings is also found in other religious traditions.

For example, Zoroastrianism features celestial beings watching over mortals.

In the broader context of religious symbolism, light is nearly universal as a metaphor for knowledge, purity, and divinity.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, stars are understood as massive, luminous spheres of plasma held together by gravity, far removed from the spiritual interpretations of the past.

However, the metaphorical use of stars as guides or sources of light remains potent even today, resonating with the practical use of stars for navigation throughout human history before modern technological advancements.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have offered interpretations of Revelation 1:20.

Some see the "angels" as patron saints or heavenly representatives for the churches, while others interpret them as human leaders or bishops of the churches.

Commentators note that John's use of rich symbolism is meant to convey comfort and instruction to the persecuted Christian communities, assuring them of their place in God's providence despite their earthly trials.

There is also consensus that the imagery of lampstands communicates the intended role of churches to shine forth the truth and light of the gospel.