Revelation 1:11

saying, "Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea."

Study Bible

saying
The Greek word used here is "λέγων" (legōn), which is a present participle of "λέγω" (legō), meaning "to say" or "to speak." This word indicates a continuous action, suggesting that the message is not just a one-time command but an ongoing directive from Jesus to John. It emphasizes the authority and immediacy of the communication, underscoring the divine nature of the revelation being imparted.

Write
The Greek word "γράψον" (grapson) is an imperative form of "γράφω" (graphō), meaning "to write." This command highlights the importance of recording the vision accurately. In the ancient world, writing was a means of preserving and transmitting important information. Here, it underscores the permanence and authority of the revelation, ensuring that the message is faithfully communicated to the intended recipients.

on a scroll
The term "βιβλίον" (biblion) refers to a scroll or a book. In the first century, scrolls were the primary medium for written communication. This phrase indicates that the message is to be documented in a formal and enduring manner, suitable for distribution and public reading. The use of a scroll also connects the revelation to the Jewish tradition of sacred writings, reinforcing its divine origin.

what you see
The phrase "ὃ βλέπεις" (ho blepeis) emphasizes the visionary nature of the revelation. John is instructed to write down not just words but the entire visual experience. This highlights the prophetic and apocalyptic genre of the book, where visions are a primary means of divine communication. It also underscores the importance of faithful witness, as John is to record exactly what he perceives.

and send it
The Greek word "πέμψον" (pempson) is another imperative, derived from "πέμπω" (pempō), meaning "to send." This command indicates that the message is not just for John's personal edification but is intended for a wider audience. It underscores the communal aspect of the revelation, as it is meant to be shared and disseminated among the churches.

to the seven churches
The number seven is significant in biblical literature, often symbolizing completeness or perfection. The seven churches mentioned here represent the entirety of the Christian community at the time. This phrase indicates that the message is comprehensive and relevant to all believers, not just those in the specific locations mentioned.

to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea
These were actual cities in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), each with its own unique challenges and characteristics. By addressing specific churches, the message becomes both personal and contextual. Each church represents different aspects of the Christian experience, and the specific mention of these cities underscores the historical reality of the early church and its diverse circumstances. This phrase invites readers to consider the universal application of the message, as the issues faced by these churches are reflective of challenges encountered by believers throughout history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. John the Apostle
The author of the Book of Revelation, who receives the vision from Jesus Christ while exiled on the island of Patmos.

2. Seven Churches
Specific congregations in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) that are addressed in the Book of Revelation. They are Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.

3. Jesus Christ
The speaker in this verse, who instructs John to write down the vision and send it to the seven churches.

4. Patmos
The island where John receives the revelation. It is a place of exile, symbolizing isolation and persecution.

5. Scroll
The medium on which John is instructed to write the vision, signifying the importance and permanence of the message.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Revelation
The instruction to write on a scroll signifies the importance of preserving divine revelation. As believers, we should value and study the Scriptures as God's revealed word.

The Role of the Church
The message is directed to specific churches, highlighting the role of the church as the body of Christ. Each church has unique strengths and challenges, and we should learn from their examples.

Obedience to God's Command
John's obedience in writing and sending the message serves as a model for us to follow God's commands, even when they require effort or sacrifice.

Community and Accountability
The interconnectedness of the seven churches reminds us of the importance of community and accountability within the body of Christ. We should support and learn from one another.

Perseverance in Trials
John's situation on Patmos reflects the reality of trials and persecution. As believers, we are called to persevere and remain faithful, trusting in God's ultimate plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the specific mention of the seven churches, and how does this apply to our local church community today?

2. How does the instruction to write on a scroll emphasize the importance of Scripture in our daily lives?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are obedient to God's commands, as John was in writing and sending the message?

4. How can we foster a sense of community and accountability within our church, similar to the interconnectedness of the early churches?

5. What lessons can we draw from John's perseverance on Patmos that can help us in our own trials and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 19
Provides background on the church in Ephesus, one of the seven churches, highlighting its early growth and challenges.

Colossians 4:16
Mentions the church in Laodicea, encouraging the sharing of letters between churches, which reflects the interconnectedness of early Christian communities.

1 Peter 1:1
Addresses believers in Asia Minor, showing the broader context of Christian communities in the region.

Matthew 28:19-20
The Great Commission, which underscores the mission to spread the gospel, similar to the instruction given to John to communicate the vision to the churches.

Isaiah 30:8
Speaks of writing down a vision, emphasizing the importance of recording divine revelations for future generations.