This symbolic passage displays the resurrected Jesus standing among lamp stands, which are his churches (v.13). This picture serves to encourage churches who are experiencing tribulation.

Jesus is in the midst of his churches.

1. Church. We learn in verse 9 that John, the elderly and beloved Bishop, has been exiled onto the island of Patmos. He calls himself a “partner in the tribulation.” This is likely written around 95 AD and Emperor Domitian was persecuting Christians for refusing to worship him. 

2. Christ. John hears a voice and turns around to see it. He is shocked at the awe-inspiring glory of Jesus. He is reduced to using analogies to explain what words cannot fully describe. The symbols indicate Jesus as High Priest, with purity and wisdom, eyes of fire, solid feet, powerful speech, etc. (see verses 12-16). Jesus no longer looks like the meek and very human rabbi John was familiar with. He is glorified.

3. Crisis. Upon seeing Jesus, John “fell at his feet as though dead” (v.17). To see God’s face is to die (see Exodus 33:20), and John clearly saw Jesus’ face. It felt like death, but John was spared by Jesus’ mercy. Jesus says, “fear not, I died and behold I am alive.” Jesus died for our sins and made a once-for-all atonement as our Great High Priest. Therefore, John is able to live and continue serving Jesus. It’s worth noting that Jesus did not alleviate John’s suffering or end his exile, but encouraged him through it.

Taking It Home: We can tend to domesticate Jesus in our imaginations, limiting him to the gentle ways in which he ministered around Galilee. See him how he IS rather than how he WAS. Surrender to his sovereignty, even in suffering.