The Vision of the Glorified Christ is a profound and awe-inspiring revelation found in the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 1:9-20. This vision is given to the Apostle John while he is exiled on the island of Patmos. It serves as the opening to the apocalyptic messages that follow, setting the stage for the unveiling of divine mysteries and the ultimate triumph of Christ over evil.

Context and Setting

John, the beloved disciple, finds himself on Patmos "because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus" (Revelation 1:9). It is here, on the Lord's Day, that he is "in the Spirit" and receives a vision that transcends earthly realms. The vision is not merely a dream but a divine encounter, a revelation of the glorified Christ in His majestic and exalted state.

Description of the Vision

In Revelation 1:12-16, John describes the vision with vivid imagery:

· Seven Golden Lampstands: John first sees seven golden lampstands, which are later explained as the seven churches (Revelation 1:20). These lampstands symbolize the presence and light of the church in the world, with Christ in their midst.

· The Son of Man: At the center of the vision stands "one like a son of man" (Revelation 1:13), a title that echoes Daniel 7:13 and emphasizes both the humanity and divinity of Christ. He is clothed in a long robe with a golden sash around His chest, signifying His priestly and kingly roles.

· His Appearance: The description of Christ is filled with symbolic elements:
· His head and hair are "white like wool, as white as snow" (Revelation 1:14), representing purity, wisdom, and eternal existence.
· His eyes are "like a blazing fire," indicating His penetrating insight and judgment.
· His feet are "like polished bronze refined in a furnace" (Revelation 1:15), symbolizing strength and stability.
· His voice is "like the roar of many waters," conveying authority and power.

· In His Right Hand: He holds seven stars, which are identified as the angels of the seven churches (Revelation 1:20), signifying His sovereign control and protection over the church.

· From His Mouth: A sharp double-edged sword proceeds from His mouth, representing the power and authority of His word to judge and to save.

· His Face: It shines "like the sun shining at its brightest" (Revelation 1:16), reflecting His divine glory and holiness.

John's Reaction and Christ's Assurance

Upon witnessing this overwhelming vision, John falls at Christ's feet "as though dead" (Revelation 1:17), a common biblical response to divine encounters. Christ, however, lays His right hand on John, offering comfort and assurance with the words, "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last, and the Living One. I was dead, and behold, now I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of Death and of Hades" (Revelation 1:17-18). This declaration affirms Christ's eternal nature, His victory over death, and His authority over the realm of the dead.

Significance

The Vision of the Glorified Christ serves as a powerful reminder of the majesty and sovereignty of Jesus Christ. It reassures believers of His presence among His church and His ultimate authority over all creation. This vision sets the tone for the messages to the seven churches and the unfolding of prophetic events, emphasizing the centrality of Christ in the divine plan of redemption and judgment.