* Although they are not inspired, paragraph divisions are the key to understanding and following the original author's intent. Each modern translation has divided and summarized the paragraphs. Every paragraph has one central topic, truth, or thought. Each version encapsulates that topic in its own distinct way. As you read the text, ask yourself which translation fits your understanding of the subject and verse divisions.
In every chapter we must read the Bible first and try to identify its subjects (paragraphs), then compare our understanding with the modern versions. Only when we understand the original author's intent by following his logic and presentation can we truly understand the Bible. Only the original author is inspired—readers have no right to change or modify the message. Bible readers do have the responsibility of applying the inspired truth to their day and their lives.
Note that all technical terms and abbreviations are explained fully in the following documents: hyperlink, hyperlink, and hyperlink.
FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five translations above. Paragraphing is not inspired but it is the key to following the original author's intent which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS TO Rev_1:1 to Rev_3:22
A. Rev_1:1-8 forms a prologue to the entire prophecy. The first three verses introduce the author, the time, the genre, and the blessing.
1. The author is John (a common Jewish name).
2. The time is soon (Rev_1:1 b, 3c).
3. The message is communication in visions and by angelic mediation and is called a prophecy (Rev_1:3). The first three chapters are very similar to the normal style for letters of the first century.
4. The blessing is for those who hear its reading and obey its exhortation to faithfulness amidst persecution.
B. The next four verses (4-7) address the recipients in the form of the seven churches (Rev_1:11) and their seven spirits (cf. Rev_1:4; Rev_1:20; Rev_3:1; Rev_4:5; Rev_5:6). This section is marked by
1. YHWH being characterized (Rev_1:4)
2. Jesus being characterized (Rev_1:5-6 b,7)
3. Believers being characterized (Rev_1:6 a)
4. YHWH speaking (Rev_1:8)
C. Verses Rev_1:9 to Rev_3:22 are Jesus' last words to His Church(es). In Rev_1:9-20 and at the beginning of the address to each of the seven Churches, Jesus is characterized by the OT titles used for YHWH.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought provoking, not definitive.
1. Does chapter 1 give any clues on how to interpret the book of the Revelation? If so, what are they?
2. Is the book of the Revelation primarily for its day or the last days? Why?
3. Why did John make so many allusions to the Old Testament but never directly quote from it?
4. Why are there so many different titles used for God in this chapter?
5. Why are the descriptions of Rev_1:12-20 used to introduce each of the seven churches in chapters 2 and 3?
6. Why is the glorified Jesus described so similarly to the angel of Daniel 10?
