The Book of Revelation: I-II

Sem. Roger Ryan D. Alba, STB II

SS8: New Testament III: Johanine Literature, March 21, 2024

The opening of Revelation serves as a grand introduction, akin to an elaborate title, setting
the stage for the prophetic message that follows. Unlike other apocalyptic writings, the author
boldly identifies himself as John, a Christian prophet, underscoring the authenticity of the
revelation he presents. This revelation, characterized as prophecy, emanates from God with Jesus
Christ as its primary witness.1

Addressed to Christian communities in the Roman province of Asia, Revelation functions

as a pastoral letter meant to be read aloud during worship services. 2 John invokes blessings upon
both the reader and the community members who heed the message, emphasizing the chain of
communication from God to Jesus to angels to readers and hearers. The urgency of the
impending crisis permeates the text, compelling listeners to heed its warnings.

While John's expectation of the imminent end may seem misguided in hindsight, his sense
of urgency serves as a timeless reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of
fulfilling one's calling. Just as each of us faces our own limited time on earth, John's message
urges us to recognize the preciousness of each moment and the significance of living faithfully in
the eyes of the divine.

John's epistolary opening in Revelation mirrors the formalities found in Paul's letters,
invoking the customary wish of "grace and peace" upon the recipients. Addressing seven
Churches symbolizes the broader Christian communities in Asia, 3 with the blessing flowing from
the active and present God, particularly manifest in Jesus Christ, the Messiah. In the face of
impending persecution, Jesus serves as the ultimate example of fidelity and hope, providing
strength for patient endurance.

The generosity of Jesus is displayed not only in the future but also in the past and present,
as he liberates believers from sin and elevates them to a royal priesthood. This inclusivity
extends to both men and women, affirming their equal status in Christ's redemption. Such
generosity merits honor and glory for Jesus, worthy of admiration.

1
Ibid. 48
2
Cf. Wilfrid Harrington . Revelation. SP. (Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 1993) 46
3
Cf. Wilfrid Harrington . Revelation. SP. (Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 1993) 4
 Looking ahead to Christ's return, John emphasizes his role as Judge, 4 whose mercy extends
even to those who had opposed him. This divine presence and power are evident in the sacrificial
love displayed on the cross,5 where God's might is revealed in apparent weakness. Despite the
awe-inspiring nature of God, believers find comfort in encountering him through Jesus, who
demonstrated love by laying down his life for them.

Revelation's intended use in liturgical settings underscores its rich imagery of heavenly
worship, suggesting a dialogue between heaven and earth. As believers engage with this
apocalyptic text, they are reminded of their priestly obligation to humanity, inspired by the God
who reigns over all.6

Reflection
The opening of Revelation invites us into a profound encounter with divine revelation,
masterfully crafted by the Christian prophet John. Unlike other apocalyptic works, John boldly
steps forward, claiming his identity and grounding his message in the witness of Jesus Christ, the
ultimate bearer of divine revelation.

Addressed to Christian communities facing persecution in Asia, Revelation serves as a

pastoral letter infused with urgency. John's invocation of blessings upon readers and hearers
underscores the sacred chain of communication from God to humanity, urging us to heed the
impending crisis with vigilance.

Though John's anticipation of the end may seem misplaced to some, it carries a timeless
truth about the fleeting nature of life and the urgency of fulfilling our divine calling. Just as
John's recipients faced uncertainty, so too are we reminded of the preciousness of each moment
and the imperative to live faithfully in the sight of God.

Drawing on formalities found in Paul's letters, John extends grace and peace to the seven
Churches, symbolizing broader Christian communities. In Jesus Christ, believers find the
epitome of fidelity and hope, inspiring them to endure patiently in the face of persecution.

The generosity of Jesus knows no bounds, liberating believers from sin and elevating
them to a royal priesthood. This inclusive redemption extends to all, regardless of gender,
deserving honor and glory for the boundless love displayed on the cross.

4
. Cf. Wilfrid Harrington . Revelation. SP. (Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 1993) 43 and see. Bieder, “Die
Sieben Seligpreisungen in der Offenbarung des Johannes.” TZ 10 (1954) 13-30

5
Bart D. Ehrman, “The New Testament: A Historical Introduction to the Earlt Christian Writing,” 2nd ed.
(New York: Oxford University Press, 2000), 336.
6
Cf. Wilfrid Harrington . Revelation. SP. (Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 1993) 68.
 Looking ahead to Christ's return, John portrays him as a merciful Judge, whose divine
power is revealed in apparent weakness on the cross. Despite the awe-inspiring nature of God,
believers find solace in encountering him through Jesus, who exemplified sacrificial love.

Revelation's use in liturgical settings invites believers into a rich tapestry of heavenly worship,
bridging the gap between heaven and earth. As we engage with this apocalyptic text, we are
reminded of our priestly obligation to humanity, inspired by the God who reigns over all.