Revelation 1:17

Letters to the Faithful - Revelation 1:17

Berean Standard Bible

When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man. But He placed His right hand on me and said, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last,

King James Bible

And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:

Greek Text:

Καὶ ὅτε εἶδον αὐτόν, ἔπεσα πρὸς τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ ὡς νεκρός· καὶ ἔθηκεν τὴν δεξιὰν αὐτοῦ ἐπ’ ἐμὲ λέγων, Μὴ φοβοῦ· ἐγώ εἰμι ὁ πρῶτος καὶ ὁ ἔσχατος.

Transliteration:

Kai hote eidon auton, epesa pros tous podas autou hōs nekros; kai ethēken tēn dexian autou ep’ eme legōn, Mē phobou; egō eimi ho prōtos kai ho eschatos.

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When I saw Him,

This phrase refers to the Apostle John's vision of the glorified Christ. The context is the island of Patmos, where John was exiled. The vision is a theophany, a divine appearance, similar to those experienced by prophets like Isaiah and Ezekiel. The sight of Christ in His glory is overwhelming, indicating His divine majesty and holiness.

I fell at His feet like a dead man.

John's reaction is one of utter awe and reverence, common in biblical encounters with the divine. This response is seen in other scriptural accounts, such as Daniel's vision (Daniel 10:8-9) and Paul's encounter on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:4). It signifies the overwhelming power and holiness of God, which often renders humans powerless.

But He placed His right hand on me

The right hand symbolizes authority, power, and blessing. In biblical times, the right hand was often associated with strength and favor. By placing His right hand on John, Christ conveys reassurance and empowerment, indicating His personal care and authority over the situation.

and said, “Do not be afraid.

This command is a common divine reassurance found throughout Scripture, from the Old Testament (e.g., Joshua 1:9) to the New Testament (e.g., Luke 1:30). It reflects God's desire to comfort and encourage His people, especially in moments of fear or uncertainty. The presence of Christ dispels fear, emphasizing His role as the Prince of Peace.

I am the First and the Last,

This title affirms Christ's eternal nature and divine sovereignty, echoing God's self-revelation in Isaiah 44:6. It underscores His preexistence and eternal reign, affirming His deity. This phrase connects to the Alpha and Omega, emphasizing that Christ is the beginning and the end of all things, sovereign over history and creation.

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And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last (Revelation 1:17). This verse, resplendent with divine majesty and tender compassion, stands as a pivotal moment in the apocalyptic vision of John, unveiling the glorified Christ in His transcendent glory and His gracious reassurance to His servant. Set within the opening chapter of the Revelation, where John beholds the risen Lord amidst the lampstands, it captures the overwhelming awe of encountering the divine and the comforting assurance of Christ’s eternal sovereignty. In its vivid imagery and profound declaration, the verse weaves together themes of divine transcendence, human frailty, and redemptive grace, proclaiming the eternal dominion of the One who is the Alpha and Omega, the source and goal of all creation.

The context of Revelation 1:17 lies in John’s inaugural vision on the isle of Patmos, where, exiled for his faith, he receives a divine commission to record the things he sees (Revelation 1:9–11). The vision begins with the appearance of one “like unto the Son of man,” clothed in radiant splendor, with eyes as a flame of fire and a voice as the sound of many waters (Revelation 1:13–15). The phrase “And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead” reflects John’s instinctive response to this overwhelming theophany. The imagery of falling “as dead” conveys the paralyzing awe and dread that accompany an encounter with the divine, a reaction echoed in Scripture when mortals behold God’s glory, as with Isaiah in the temple or Ezekiel by the Chebar River (Isaiah 6:5; Ezekiel 1:28). In the first-century context, such a response underscores the vast chasm between human frailty and divine majesty, as John, despite his apostolic stature, is utterly humbled before the glorified Christ.

The divine response, “And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not,” reveals the tender compassion of the exalted Lord, who stoops to comfort His servant. The act of laying His “right hand” upon John signifies divine favor, strength, and reassurance, a gesture rich with biblical resonance, as the right hand of God denotes His power and protection (Psalm 16:11; Isaiah 41:10). The command “Fear not” echoes the angelic and divine assurances throughout Scripture, spoken to Abraham, Moses, and the shepherds at Christ’s birth, calming the terror induced by divine presence (Genesis 15:1; Exodus 3:6; Luke 2:10). This reassurance transforms John’s fear into readiness to receive the revelation, affirming Christ’s pastoral care for His people, even as He appears in awesome splendor. The juxtaposition of divine majesty and gentle compassion reveals the heart of the Gospel, where the One who reigns in glory is also the Savior who draws near to the weak and fearful.

The declaration, “I am the first and the last,” unveils the eternal identity and sovereignty of Christ, a title that encapsulates His divine nature and dominion over all creation. This phrase, drawn from Old Testament descriptions of Yahweh (Isaiah 44:6; 48:12), asserts Christ’s deity, identifying Him as the eternal God who precedes all things and brings all things to their consummation. In the context of Revelation, where earthly powers and persecution threaten the Church, this title proclaims Christ’s supremacy over history, time, and every opposing force. The “first and the last” signifies not only His preexistence and eschatological triumph but also His comprehensive lordship, as the One who initiates creation and fulfills its redemption. This declaration grounds the entire apocalyptic vision, assuring John and the churches that the risen Christ holds all things in His hand, from beginning to end.

Theologically, Revelation 1:17 stands as a profound testimony to the dual nature of Christ as both divine and human, transcendent and immanent. His appearance, so glorious that it overwhelms John, affirms His deity and exalted state, fulfilling Daniel’s vision of the Son of Man receiving everlasting dominion (Daniel 7:13–14). Yet, His gentle touch and comforting words reflect His humanity and redemptive love, recalling His earthly ministry where He healed the afflicted and calmed the fearful (Mark 5:36; Matthew 8:26). The title “the first and the last” aligns with the prologue’s description of Christ as the Alpha and Omega (Revelation 1:8), reinforcing His eternal sovereignty and the certainty of His promises. The verse also underscores the transformative power of encountering the risen Lord, as John’s fear is replaced with mission, prefiguring the Church’s call to proclaim Christ’s victory amidst tribulation (Revelation 1:9).

In the broader context of Revelation, this verse sets the tone for the epistle’s dual emphasis on Christ’s glory and His care for His people. The vision of the glorified Christ among the lampstands (Revelation 1:12–13) symbolizes His presence with the churches, while His reassurance to John prepares the way for the messages to the seven churches, where He both rebukes and encourages with sovereign authority (Revelation 2–3). The title “the first and the last” recurs in Revelation, affirming Christ’s triumph over death and His ultimate victory over the beast and Babylon (Revelation 1:18; 22:13). The verse thus anchors the apocalyptic narrative in the certainty of Christ’s lordship, assuring believers that the One who comforts them in exile will return to judge the living and the dead (Revelation 19:11–16).

In the wider scriptural narrative, Revelation 1:17 fulfills Old Testament theophanies, where God’s glory evokes awe and His voice brings comfort, as seen in Moses’ encounter at the burning bush or Isaiah’s commissioning in the temple (Exodus 3:2–6; Isaiah 6:1–8). The title “the first and the last” connects to Yahweh’s self-revelation as the sole God, now applied to Christ, affirming the New Testament’s confession of His deity (John 1:1; Colossians 1:15–17). The act of laying His hand upon John echoes Jesus’ earthly ministry, where His touch brought healing and restoration (Mark 1:41), and anticipates the eschatological hope of His return, when He will wipe away every tear (Revelation 21:4). The verse also resonates with the apostolic call to fear not in the face of persecution, trusting in the One who has overcome the world (John 16:33; Acts 18:9–10).

In conclusion, Revelation 1:17 stands as a radiant revelation of the glorified Christ, whose majesty overwhelms yet whose compassion restores, proclaiming His eternal sovereignty as the first and the last. Its vivid portrayal of John’s awe and Christ’s reassurance unveils the heart of the Gospel, where the exalted Lord draws near to His people in grace. Through its profound imagery and divine declaration, the verse assures believers of Christ’s unchanging dominion and tender care, calling them to trust in the One who holds all things from beginning to end. In its timeless testimony, Revelation 1:17 beckons all to fall before the risen King, to hear His voice of comfort, and to proclaim His glory to a world awaiting His return.

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Beloved brethren and sisters, I greet you in the name of Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and who has made us a kingdom, priests unto His God and Father, to whom be glory and dominion forever and ever. I write to you with a heart stirred by the vision of the risen and exalted Christ, that you may be strengthened with all might in the inner man, that you may be steadfast in hope, and that you may walk in a manner worthy of your calling.

For it is written: “When I saw Him, I fell at His feet as though dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying, ‘Fear not, I am the First and the Last.’” — Revelation 1:17.

O beloved, here is the word that we so desperately need to hear in our day—“Fear not.” For the Lord Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, now reigns in glory and holds all things in His sovereign hand. The apostle John, who had walked with Him on earth, who had leaned upon His breast, now beholds Him in His unveiled majesty and falls as one dead before Him. So great is His glory, so overwhelming His holiness, that mortal man cannot stand apart from grace.

Yet see, beloved, the mercy of our Lord. He who is the First and the Last, the Eternal One, lays His right hand upon His servant and speaks words of comfort—“Fear not.” The hand that upholds the universe is the same hand that upholds His people. The voice that commands the stars is the same voice that speaks peace to our trembling hearts.

Brethren, take this word to heart. In the midst of a world shaken by turmoil, in a time when fear grips the hearts of many, the voice of our Savior yet speaks—“Fear not.” The One who was dead and is alive forevermore has conquered sin and death. The keys of Death and Hades are in His hand. Therefore, be not dismayed. Though trials come, though darkness may surround, though the nations rage, our Lord reigns.

Let us, then, live as those who have seen the risen Christ by faith. Let us fall at His feet in reverent worship, acknowledging His lordship over our lives. Let us walk in holy fear—not a fear of condemnation, for there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, but a fear born of awe and love, a fear that delights in His glory and trembles at His Word.

And let us take courage. The One who says “I am the First and the Last” is the One who holds the beginning and the end of all things. He knows the end from the beginning; His purposes shall stand. No power of hell, no scheme of man can thwart His sovereign will. Therefore, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Brethren, remember also that the same Jesus who appeared in glory to John walks among His churches. He knows our works, our trials, our endurance, our love. He calls us to faithfulness, to repentance where needed, to perseverance in hope. Let us therefore keep our garments white; let us hold fast to what we have, that no one may take our crown. Let us look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

And to those who are faint of heart, to those burdened by the weight of sin, to those trembling before the holiness of God—hear again His gracious word—“Fear not.” The blood of Jesus cleanses from all sin. His grace is sufficient. His love is everlasting. Come to Him, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and He will give you rest.

Finally, beloved, may the vision of the risen Christ fill our hearts with hope and holy longing. Let us live in light of that day when we shall see Him as He is, when we shall be like Him, clothed in immortality and glory. Until that day, may we be faithful witnesses, proclaiming the gospel of His kingdom with boldness and joy.

Now unto Him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy—unto Him be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forevermore.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

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O Lord our God, Most High and Holy, who dwells in unapproachable light, who was and is and is to come, the Almighty—we bow before You this day in reverence and awe. You are the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth; You faint not, neither are You weary. Your understanding is unsearchable, Your ways past finding out, Your judgments true and righteous altogether.

For it is written: “When I saw Him, I fell at His feet as though dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying, ‘Fear not, I am the First and the Last.’” O Lord, we come before You mindful of our frailty, mindful of the weight of Your glory. For who can behold Your holiness and stand? Who can look upon the face of the risen Christ and not fall in worship? We confess that we are but dust, and our strength is small. Our hearts tremble at the sight of Your majesty; our lips are unworthy to speak Your praise apart from the cleansing grace of Christ.

Yet, O merciful Lord, we bless You that the hand that holds the stars is the hand that lifts us up. The voice that commands the heavens speaks words of comfort to our weary souls—“Fear not.” We thank You, O God, that You have not left us in our fear, but have drawn near in Your Son, Jesus Christ. He who is the First and the Last, the Living One, has triumphed over death and sin. By His blood we are redeemed; by His resurrection we are raised to new life.

Therefore, O Lord, we come boldly to the throne of grace, not in our own righteousness, but clothed in the righteousness of Christ. We lay before You our burdens and our cares, knowing that You care for us. We confess our sins, trusting in Your faithful promise to forgive and cleanse us. We bring to You our doubts and our fears, asking that You would speak again to our hearts—“Fear not.”

O risen and exalted Christ, grant us grace to live in the light of Your victory. Let not our hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. Strengthen us with all might in the inner man, that we may stand firm in the evil day. Fill us with the joy of Your salvation; renew within us a steadfast spirit. May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

O Lord, when trials assail us, when sorrows press upon us, when the shadows deepen around us—may we remember that You are the First and the Last. You were before all things, and in You all things hold together. You have written the end from the beginning; Your purposes shall stand. Teach us to trust in Your sovereign hand, to rest in Your unfailing love, to hope in Your promised return.

We pray, O God, for Your Church in every place. Strengthen the faithful; comfort the afflicted; embolden the fearful; restore the fallen. May we, as Your people, walk worthy of the calling we have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love. May we shine as lights in the midst of a dark and perverse generation, holding fast the word of life.

Grant, O Lord, that the vision of Your glory would ever be before us. Let the fear of the Lord be the beginning of our wisdom. Let the love of Christ constrain us. Let the hope of Your coming fill us with perseverance and joy. May we fall at Your feet in worship daily, and may we rise in the power of the Spirit to serve You faithfully.

O Jesus, You are the First and the Last. You hold the keys of Death and Hades. You are the Living One who was dead and now lives forevermore. Therefore, we shall not fear. Though the earth give way and the mountains be cast into the heart of the sea, You remain our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Now unto You, who sits upon the throne and unto the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and power forever and ever. And may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God the Father, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all, now and forevermore.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray. Amen.