Study Notes for Revelation 1:4-8 (key)
Grace and Peace from Jesus
Matt Olson
May 21, 2025

Grace and Peace from Jesus

Revelation 1:4-8

This section helps us to understand John’s purpose in writing the letter. We find his introductory statements lead to a confidence in the Triune God.

How can we Trust in the Triune Nature of God?

  1. God the Father expressed as the one “who is, who was, and who is to come”
    a. This phrase is only found in Revelation (4:8; 11:17; 16:15)
    b. Reflects the Old Testament truth of Yahweh from the Law (Exodus 3:14; 6:3)
    c. Reflects the Old Testament truth of Yahweh from the Prophets (Isaiah 41:4; 43:10; 44:6; 48:12)

  2. God the Holy Spirit is expressed in the Seven Spirits
    a. This phrase is repeated in Revelation 3:1; 4:5; and 5:6 (7 is a number that represents fullness, completion, perfection: much like 100%)
    b. References the Old Testament (Isaiah 11:2 & Zechariah 4:1-6, 10)
    c. Some have attributed this phrase to Jewish tradition of the seven archangels (Uriel, Raphael, Raguel, Michael, Saraguel, Gabriel, and Remiel)

  3. God the Son, Jesus Christ, is expressed in:
    a. The Revelation as Faithful Witness (John 14:9)
    b. The Resurrected Firstborn (Colossians 1:18 and Psalm 89:27)
    c. The Ruler with Authority (Rev. 11:15; 17:14; 19:16 & Mt. 28:16-20)
    d. The Redeemer (Galatians 2:20)
    e. The Reign of Royal Priests (Exodus 19:5-6; 1 Peter 2:5)
    f. The Return (Daniel 7:13; Mt. 11:2-3; 24:30; Acts 1:11; Zechariah 12:10)

How do we know that Jesus is God?
- Isaiah 44:6-8 Who is speaking?
- Revelation 1:8 Who is speaking?
- Revelation 1:17-18 When did God die?
- Revelation 21:6-7 Who is speaking?
- Revelation 22:12-13 Who is speaking?
- Revelation 22:16,20 I, Jesus!