The Vision of the Son of Man is a profound and pivotal revelation found in the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 1:9-20. This vision is granted to the Apostle John while he is exiled on the island of Patmos. It serves as the opening theophany of the apocalyptic visions that follow, setting the stage for the messages to the seven churches and the unfolding of eschatological events.

Context and Setting

John, the beloved disciple, introduces the vision by describing his circumstances: "I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance that are in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and my testimony about Jesus" (Revelation 1:9). This context underscores the persecution faced by early Christians and highlights John's role as a witness to the divine revelation.

Description of the Vision

In Revelation 1:10-16, John recounts the vision with vivid imagery:

"I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, saying, 'Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.'

Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking with me. And having turned, I saw seven golden lampstands, and among the lampstands was One like the Son of Man, dressed in a long robe, with a golden sash around His chest. The hair of His head was white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like a blazing fire. His feet were like polished bronze refined in a furnace, and His voice was like the roar of many waters. He held in His right hand seven stars, and a sharp double-edged sword came from His mouth. His face was like the sun shining at its brightest" (Revelation 1:10-16).

Symbolism and Interpretation

The vision is rich with symbolism, each element conveying aspects of Christ's divine nature and authority:

· Seven Golden Lampstands: Represent the seven churches to which the messages are addressed (Revelation 1:20). The presence of Christ among them signifies His intimate relationship and oversight of the Church.

· One Like the Son of Man: This title, echoing Daniel 7:13, affirms Jesus' messianic identity and His role as the exalted, divine-human figure.

· Long Robe and Golden Sash: These garments suggest priestly and kingly authority, emphasizing Christ's role as the eternal High Priest and King.

· White Hair: Symbolizes purity, wisdom, and eternity, aligning with the Ancient of Days in Daniel 7:9.

· Blazing Eyes: Indicate penetrating insight and judgment, reflecting Christ's ability to see and judge the hearts of men.

· Feet Like Polished Bronze: Suggest strength and stability, refined through suffering, and His ability to tread down His enemies.

· Voice Like Roar of Many Waters: Conveys power and majesty, reminiscent of God's voice in Ezekiel 43:2.

· Seven Stars: Identified as the angels of the seven churches (Revelation 1:20), symbolizing Christ's sovereign control and protection over His Church.

· Double-Edged Sword: Represents the power of His word, which judges and discerns truth from falsehood (Hebrews 4:12).

· Face Shining Like the Sun: Reflects divine glory and holiness, reminiscent of the transfiguration (Matthew 17:2).

Response and Commission

John's reaction to the vision is one of awe and fear: "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, 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 reassurance underscores Christ's victory over death and His authority over life and death.

John is then commissioned to write the things he has seen, the things that are, and the things that will take place (Revelation 1:19). This charge establishes the framework for the prophetic messages and visions that follow, affirming the divine origin and authority of the Revelation.