We Serve The King of Kings

Chris Danielson -

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The Glorified Christ: A Study of Revelation 1

When we encounter Jesus Christ in His glorified state, our perception of Him often differs dramatically from common cultural depictions. The Jesus revealed in Revelation 1 is far more majestic and awe-inspiring than any artistic representation could capture.

The Vision of Christ Among the Churches

In Revelation 1:12-20, John encounters the risen Christ standing among seven golden lampstands. These lampstands represent churches - both the seven specific churches addressed in Revelation and, by extension, all true churches through history. Their golden composition speaks to the precious nature of Christ's church, while their purpose of bearing light reflects the church's mission to illuminate the world with truth.

Christ stands in the midst of these lampstands, indicating His constant presence among His people. This presence brings protection, direction, and transformation to authentic churches that maintain fidelity to God's Word. When churches compromise Biblical truth, their light begins to dim.

Eight Aspects of the Glorified Christ

  1. His Wardrobe (Rev 1:13) Dressed in a robe with a golden sash, Christ's attire indicates both His role as King and High Priest. As King, He exercises sovereign rule; as Priest, He intercedes for His people before the Father.
  2. His Head and Hair (Rev 1:14) "White as wool, white as snow" speaks to Christ's purity, timelessness, and eternal nature. This description connects Him with Daniel's "Ancient of Days" (Dan 7:9), emphasizing His eternal existence.
  3. His Eyes (Rev 1:14) "Like a fiery flame," His eyes represent omniscience and penetrating judgment. Nothing is hidden from His gaze - every motive, sin, and secret lies exposed before Him.
  4. His Feet (Rev 1:15) "Like fine bronze" indicates judgment authority. These same feet that once walked Earth's dusty roads will return to execute divine judgment.
  5. His Voice (Rev 1:15) Described as "cascading waters," His voice carries unstoppable authority. This same voice that spoke creation into existence will one day command every knee to bow.
  6. His Hand (Rev 1:16) Holding seven stars (representing church messengers), His right hand symbolizes protection and power over His servants.
  7. His Mouth (Rev 1:16) The "sharp double-edged sword" represents the power of His word to judge and execute justice. The Word that brings salvation will also bring judgment.
  8. His Face (Rev 1:16) "Shining like the sun at full strength," His unveiled glory proves unbearable for mortal eyes. The face once approachable in His incarnation now displays unmasked divine majesty.

The Response to Glory

When confronted with this vision, John "fell at his feet as though dead" (Rev 1:17). This response demonstrates the appropriate reaction to encountering Christ's unveiled glory - complete submission. Yet Christ's response reveals His heart toward His people: "Don't be afraid" (Rev 1:17). Though awesome in power and majesty, He extends mercy to those who belong to Him.

This revelation of the glorified Christ should transform how we worship and serve. He is not the domesticated Jesus of popular imagination but the King of Kings who demands and deserves complete dedication. Understanding Christ in His glory leads to deeper reverence, more authentic worship, and fuller submission to His lordship.

The proper response is to bow willingly now in faith rather than being compelled later in judgment. As we serve Christ's church and carry His light, we must maintain this exalted view of our Lord - not a caricature, but the true King of Kings revealed in Scripture.