This chapter consists of three general parts; first, an inspiration. {Re 1:1,2,3} Secondly, a direction of the prophecies of this book. {Re 1:4,9} Thirdly, the first vision of these revelations. {Re 1:9,20}

In the first verse we have the title of this book,

"The Revelation of Jesus Christ"

As the whole scripture being given by inspiration of God, is the revelation of his holy will, {Eph 3:4,5} so this last part of the Holy Scripture is the Revelation of Jesus Christ: Also the author of this revelation,

"which God gave unto him"

that is, God the Father gave unto his Son Jesus Christ

"To show unto his servants"

First, his sanctified servants, called saints: {Ro 6:12 1Co 1:2} Second, his suffering servants, called martyrs. {Re 19:2} Thirdly, all his ministering servants, called angels (or elders) of his churches, {Re 1:20 1Co 4:1,2}

"Things that must shortly come to pass"

that is, the dispensations of God both touching his Church, and his and their enemies.

"And he sent and signified it by his Angel unto his Servant John"

The holy angels are God's ministering spirits. {Heb 1:7-14} John was the ministering servant of Jesus Christ to his churches; the ancient learned and godly writers called him "John the Divine," because he wrote so profoundly of the divinity of Jesus Christ both in his gospel and in his epistles.

"Who bare Record of the Word of God"

{Joh 1:1,2,3 1Jo 1:2,3 5:7} The Word made Flesh. {Joh 1:14 1Ti 3:16} God manifested in the flesh; God over all blessed for ever. {Ro 9:5} His name is called the Word of God. {Re 19:13}

"And of the Testimony of Jesus Christ"

that is, the witness, which the prophets, apostles, ministers, and martyrs of Jesus Christ have testified of Christ, his life, sufferings, and glory, that should follow. {1Pe 1:9,10,11}

"And of all things that he saw"

that is, all those things which Jesus Christ showed his servant John in the visions and prophecies of this his revelation.

"Blessed is he that readeth"

"And they that hear the Words of this Prophecy"

that is, They that are diligent hearers, who hear what the Spirit speaketh thereby to the churches, {Isa 55:3 Re 2:7,11,17} not being forgetful hearers, but believing hearers, {Heb 4:2} and doers, {Jas 1:22,25} "and keep those things which are written therein".

Those seven churches in the lesser Asia, were the true visible constituted particular churches of Jesus Christ. And such were the churches in Judea, in Achaia, in Galatia, and all the churches of Christ that were in the apostles days, that we read of in the Holy Scripture of the New Testament; whom John thus saluted

"Grace be to you, and peace," etc.

All having grace, and all spiritual peace floweth from God, and was, and is, and is to come; through the mediation and intercession of the Lord Jesus Christ, by the operation of the Holy Eternal Spirit into the hearts of saints and churches of saints. By the grace of God, we are to understand not only the love and favor of God, but also all grace, {1Pe 5:10} more and greater measure of every grace; {Jas 4:6} truth of grace; {Col 1:6} growth in grace; {2Pe 3:18} and perfection of grace at last. {Eph 4:13} And by peace, spiritual peace, which is peace with God; {Ro 5:1} peace in ourselves {Ro 15:13 1Th 5:13} among ourselves. By the seven spirits, which are before his throne, we are to understand the Holy Eternal Spirit with his diversity of gifts, operations, and administrations, {1Co 12:4,5,6,11} there called seven, which is a prophetical number in this prophecy, signifying both variety and perfection.

"And from Jesus Christ"

who is here described by his prophetical office,

"who is the faithful witness"

{Re 3:14} God gave Christ for a witness unto the people. {Isa 55:4} Christ was that great Prophet, {Ac 3:21 7:37} who did faithful testify the whole will of God. {Joh 15:15 17:6,8,26}

"And the first-begotten of the dead"

the description of the priestly office. There are two parts of his priestly office. Satisfaction {1Ti 2:5,6} and intercession; {Heb 7:24,25} Christ is called God's first-born from the dead.

"And the Prince of the kings of the Earth"

These words are a description of Christ's kingly office. There are two sorts of persons called kings of the earth; first, the great potentates and powers of this world, {Re 9:19} who give their power, strength and kingdom to the beast. {Re 17:12,13,17} Christ is the Prince of these kings, therefore called the only potentate, the King of kings, the Lord of lords. {1Ti 6:15} Secondly, Christ's redeemed ones out of all nations, are made unto God, kings and priests, who shall reign on earth; {Re 5:9,10} Christ is King of saints; {Re 15:3} King of Sion; {Ps 149:1,2} and King of nations. {Jer 10:7,10 Zec 14:9 Re 11:15}

"Who hath loved us"

The love of Christ to his redeemed ones, is the same wherewith the Father loved him; {Joh 17:10,23,26} everlasting love. {Jer 31:3 Joh 13:1}

"And washed us from our Sins in his own blood"

This blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin; {1Jo 1:7,9} purgeth our conscience from dead works; {Heb 9:14} sanctifieth us; {Heb 13:12} justifieth us. {Ro 5:9} Thereby we are redeemed. {Eph 1:7 Heb 9:15}

This verse contains a doxology, wherein is ascribed glory and dominion unto the Lord Jesus Christ for all the blessings and benefits of his Mediatorialship, kings and priests basileion ierateuma. Read. 1Pe 2:5,9 Da 2:44 7:12,13,18,22,27 The first to Judah. Mic 4:6,7,8 Isa 61:6 Re 11:15 The kingdom of his father David. Lu 1:31,32,33 Zec 14:9

John doth not say, Christ is come, the primitive saints did know that, 1Jo 5:20 nor doth he say Christ will come, Heb 10:37 though that is certain. Heb 9:28 But he saith

"Behold, he cometh"

Christ is preparing to come a second time, he is making way for his kingdom and coming.

"And every eye shall see him"

Job testified his faith in this matter. Job 19:25,26,27 Also the Prophet Zechariah. Zec 12:10 Christ's second coming, and of the faith and hope of the saints therein, Re 22:20 Even so come Lord Jesus.

"Alpha and Omega"

that is, the first and the last. Re 22:13

"The beginning and the end"

Isa 46:9,10 both eternal and unchangeable.

"Which is, and was, and is to come"

Heb 13:8 Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.

"The Almighty"

Re 4:8,11 whose name is JEHOVAH. Jer 23:6 God over all blessed for ever. Ro 9:5

"I John"

a servant of Jesus Christ, and apostle of Christ Mt 10:2 and an elder. 1Pe 5:1,2 Joh 1:1

"Who also am your Brother"

in the faith and fellowship of the gospel, called the Brotherhood. 1Pe 2:17 Why should not John, as well as Jesus, Christ's ministers as well as their Lord, call the saints brethren? Heb 2:11,12 He was not ashamed to call them brethren,

"And Companion in Tribulation"

fellow citizens with the saints are fellow sufferers with the saints Eph 2:19, with Php 1:29, also 2Th 1:3,4,5,6,7; and Heb 10:33.

"And in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ"

They that are fellow heirs with the saints in the kingdom of glory, must be fellow sufferers in the kingdom of patience trough tribulation. Ac 14:22

"Was in the Isle that is called Patmos, for the Word of God, and for the Testimony of Jesus"

Patmos is an island in the Aegean Sea, near the coast of the lesser Asia, into which island John was banished in the reign of Domitian a Roman, pagan emperor; not for treason, nor rebellion, nor any other crime against civil government; but for the word of God, which he preached, and the testimony of Jesus Christ that John bare. Joh 21:24 This is the disciple who testified of those things, and we know that his testimony is true.

"Spirit"

To be in the "Spirit" here, is not only to be in a spiritual frame, as the true worshippers are, who worship God in spirit and truth, Joh 4:23, praying in the spirit, and signing in the spirit, {as 1Co 14:15} but also to be in a spiritual rapture, or ecstasies, as Peter was, when he fell into a trance, and saw heaven opened; {Ac 10:10,11} or, as Paul was, when he was caught up into the third heaven into the visions and revelations of Christ. {2Co 12:1,2,4,7}

"on the Lord's day"

The time when John was in the "Spirit" is here called, "the LORD'S DAY." Had the text been here, "in the day of the LORD" or, "in that day of the LORD;" it might have been understood and expounded of any notable day of the LORD recorded in the Holy Scripture; (as 1Co 5:5 2Co 1:14 1Th 5:2; and 2Pe 3:10). But the text here being "on the LORD'S day," it must be understood and expounded of that day only and most properly so called; which was well known to all the churches of saints to belong peculiarly unto Christ, then being the day of His resurrection, on which day the disciples met together to break bread, Ac 10:7 being the first day of the week. The like propriety of speech we have so expressed by the apostle; {1Co 11:20,25} "the LORD'S Supper;" which was indeed Instituted by the LORD himself. And the Lord's Day, properly so called here, was the first day of the week, {as Mt 28:1} In the end of the Sabbath; that was, the seventh day Sabbath, which then was done away, as it began to dawn "towards the first of Sabbaths;" {so Mr 16:12} Valde mane une Sabbatrum; the Sabbath being finished,( to which, the seventh day Sabbath being now ended) very early in the morning, that is, early of the first of Sabbaths. And the reader may observe, that where in our English translation the LORD'S day is called the first day of the week, it is in the Greek text called the first of Sabbaths. This is the gospel Sabbath that remaineth unto the people of God, from the day of Christ's resurrection unto His Second Coming. As the Lord's Supper ought to be celebrated in remembrance of Christ's death; {1Co 11:24,25} so the Lord's Day ought to be observed in remembrance of his resurrection from the dead.

"And heard behind me a great Voice, as of a Trumpet"

This vision (and all the visions of God) consists of two parts, viz., something heard and something seen. That which the apostle heard was a voice behind him, (according to God's promise, Isa 30:20,21) an articulate voice, words that he understood, and whereby he was directed what he ought to do in the day of his exile; when he could not preach unto the churches in Asia; which direction is given in the next verse. It is called a great voice, to wit, the voice of the great God our Saviour Jesus Christ; as of a trumpet, {as Isa 58:1} that is, a loud voice, and thereby a certain and distinct sound and voice of words in a tongue or language, which John did well understand, as appears by the verse following.

In this verse, we have the former description of Jesus Christ, his deity and eternity repeated, {see Re 1:8} that John might know, first, whose voice it was that spake unto him, and that he heard behind them. Secondly, from whom he had commission (as formerly to Preach, so now) to write. Thirdly, that the churches might know that this Book of the Revelation is also that part of the Holy Scripture of truth, unto which nothing is to be added, nor any thing taken away. {Re 22:18,19,10,21}

"What thou seest, Write in a Book"

It is the liberty of the ministers of Christ, when they cannot edify the churches of God by preaching unto them, to endeavor their edification by writing unto them.

"and send it unto the Seven Churches which are in Asia" etc.

Those seven churches were planted by the apostles in the seven principle cities in the lesser Asia, here named, and hence each particular church denominated, as appears in the second and third chapters of this Book, {Re 2} {Re 3} in the exposition whereof, more will be spoken of this matter: All that I shall say in general touching these, (and other churches of God mentioned in the Holy Scripture) in this place is,

First, that each church contained and comprehended, the whole number of them that believed in Jesus Christ, confessed the faith of the gospel, and walked in the order and ordinances of the Lord in one city and suburbs thereof; and had the denomination of that city, and was called the church of God in that city. Search these Scriptures, Ac 1:1,5 1Th 1:1 Re 2:1,8,12,18 3:1,7,14.

Secondly, although the church in any city, at the beginning and first planting of it, was but one congregation, and assembled themselves together in one place, {Ac 2:1 4:31 1Co 14:23} yet when the number of the disciples was multiplied, {Ac 4:32 6:1,2} and multitudes both men and women were added to the Lord, and by the Lord to the church, {Ac 2:41,47 4:4 5:14} then the church was necessitated, for the edification of the multitude, and great number of the members thereof, to assemble themselves together in particular congregations, and became distinct companies, of whom we read, {Ac 4:19,23} Peter and John had their own company or congregation, and so had Paul and Barnabas, and each company or congregation had their elders and deacons, {Php 1:1} and the denomination of the church, {1Co 16:1} and are called churches. {1Co 16:16} The apostles writing to the saints in the Church of Corinth, said, Let your Women keep silence in the Churches. {1Co 14:34 2Co 8:24} Shew ye to them, and before the Churches, the proof of your Love.

Thirdly, church is an homogenial word, as water in the sea, in a river, in a well, and in a spoon, is called water; so the assembly or congregation of sanctified believers in the general assembly, is called the church, {Heb 12:23} and the particular assemblies or congregations in any city is called the church, {1Co 1:1,2} so in any village or town, {Ro 16:1} yea, in and house. {Col 4:15}

"to see the voice"

To "see the Voice" of God, is figuratively and prophetically put for hearing, understanding, and receiving that truth or word of God, which by the "Voice" was spoken to him, as Isa 2:1,2. The Word that Isaiah the Son of Amos saw; that is, the prophecy that Isaiah heard, understood and received by the word of the Lord.

"That spake with me"

"And being turned, I saw Seven Golden Candlesticks"

Here begins the second part of this first vision, to wit, that which the apostle saw: Those "Seven Candlesticks" are interpreted by Christ himself, {Re 1:20} to be the seven churches unto whom John was commanded to send this Book. {Re 1:11} The seven churches are called "Candlesticks" for their visibility {Mt 5:14,15,16} and "Golden Candlesticks;" First, from the purity of the worship of God administered in the churches of saints {Joh 4:23,24} according to Christ's institutions. {1Co 11:1,2} Secondly, from the holiness of the ministers and members in the churches of God, upon whom was written holiness to the Lord, and therefore called the churches of saints. {1Co 14:33} Thirdly, from the purging power, and purifying efficacy of church censures, to wit, admonition of offending unruly persons, suspension of those that walked disorderly, and excommunication of wicked, ungodly, and obstinate sinners. {1Th 5:14 2Th 3:6,15 1Co 5:7,13}

The LORD Jesus Christ (who is the Mediator) is here personally described after his ascension, as he was before his resurrection. {Da 7:13} Such a discovery of Christ Stephen had. Ac 7:55-56 He was real, this mystical, as appears by metaphorical description of Christ here following.

"Clothed with a Garment down to the Foot," etc.

Long garments were worn among the Jews by two sorts of persons, and both for distinction from others, and for dignity above others; namely, kings and priests. {Le 8:6-9 Isa 22:20-23}

"And girt about the Paps with a Golden Girdle"

"His Head and his Hairs were white like Wool, as white as Snow"

The whiteness of his Head and Hairs signify, that Christ is co-eternal with the Father, who is called the Ancient of Days. {Da 7:9-13} Because HE was from everlasting before the earth was. {Pr 8:22,23}

"And his Eyes were as a flame of Fire"

The prophet Daniel had such a representation of Christ in his vision. {Da 10:6} And his Eyes as lamps of Fire. So Re 19:12,13 hereby is described Christ's omnisciency. {Heb 4:12,13} His Eyes are like a flame of Fire, which hath a piercing, purging, and purifying nature. {Mal 3:2,3,4 Re 2:18-23}

"And his feet like unto fine brass, as having been refined in a furnace," etc.

By the "Feet" of Christ here, we may understand the paths or ways of his feet, called his footsteps, which the saints ought to follow, {1Pe 2:21} both in suffering and in doing the Father's will. Christ's active and passive obedience hath been tried, as "refined brass," and all Christ's proceedings in the world, against his, and his churches and peoples enemies and adversaries, are righteous, firm, and stable. {De 32:4 1Co 15:24,25}

"And his Voice as the sound of many Waters"

Christ's "Voice" is either the voice of his word, or the voice of his rod. First, the WORD is his voice. {Jer 26:1,2} either commanding, {Ps 33:9,10} effecting {Joh 5:25} or forbidding, {Ex 20:13-17} and hindering. {Ge 20:6} Secondly, the rod is his voice, {Mic 6:9} The Lord's voice crieth unto the city-Hear ye the rod; and who hath appointed it; viz. The rod of correction wherewith he chasteneth his own children in love and measure, {Re 3:19 Ps 89:30-32-37} or his iron rod, the rod of his wrath, wherewith HE breaketh in pieces all his enemies. {Ps 2:9,10 Lu 19:14-27 Re 2:27} Christ's "Voice" is compared to "the sound of many Waters," with respect unto the majesty and power thereof. {Ps 29:3-5} The Voice of the LORD is powerful, the Voice of the Lord is full of Majesty. {Re 1:10} The LORD sitteth upon the flood; yea, the Lord sitteth King for ever. Christ is King of saints, {Re 15:3} King of Zion, {Ps 149:2} and King of nations, {Jer 10:7-10 Re 11:15} and Everlasting King. {1Ti 6:15} Now where the word of a king is, there is power. {Ec 8:4}

"And he had in his right hand seven stars," etc.

These "seven stars" are interpreted, {Re 1:20} to be the seven angels of the seven churches See KNOLLYS "Rev 1:20" and Re 2:1,8,12,18, etc. See KNOLLYS "Rev 2:1"

See KNOLLYS "Rev 2:8"

See KNOLLYS "Rev 2:12"

See KNOLLYS "Rev 2:18" who are called "Stars" metaphorically, as the church of God is called heaven {Mt 16:18,19} and Christ is called the Sun, {Mal 4:2} so his ministers are called stars {Da 12:3} for their shining both in doctrine and conversation. {Mt 5:14,15,16} And they are said to be in Christ right Hand to teach us, first, that Christ only hath authority and power to call, appoint, and send ministers to preach the gospel. {Mt 28:18,19,20 Ro 10:15} Secondly, that Christ is with his ministers in their work. {1Co 3:9 Ac 11:19-22} The Hand of the Lord was with them. {Re 3:7,8} Thirdly, that Christ preserves his faithful ministers, and keeps them safe from the rage of devils and wicked men. Their rage shall turn to his praise, and the remainder he will restrain. {Ac 26:17-22}

"And out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword," etc.

Christ's kingly and priestly offices were signified by his robe and girdle, {Re 1:13} and his prophetical office is represented here by his "sword," {Re 19:15-21} the Sword that proceedeth "out of his Mouth, which is the Word of God." {Eph 6:15 Heb 4:12} It will discover to sinners and to saints the thoughts and intents of their hearts, cutting them to the heart, {Ac 7:51-54} and pricking them in the heart. {Ac 2:36,37} So shall the word of the LORD be that goeth out of his mouth, it shall accomplish that which he pleaseth, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto he sends it {Isa 55:11}

"And his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength"

When the sun shineth in its strength it produceth various effects upon the earth; the trees, the corn and the grass, etc. grow and spring, so doth the countenance of the LORD Jesus Christ: I shall instance in three various effects, first, the clear shinning of the sun after rain, causeth the tender grass to spring out of the earth, {2Sa 23:4} so doth the clear manifestations of the love and grace of God in Christ (called the Light of his Countenance; Ps 11:7 42:5), clear the hearts of sanctified believers, and doth make them exceeding glad, {Ps 21:6 Ac 2:28} yea those lights and shinings of Christ makes a spring of grace, joy, and peace of the Lord, and the excellency of our God. Secondly, the clear shining heat of the sun, when the rain and dews are withheld, scorcheth and withereth the grass, and burns it up, {Mt 13:6} so doth the rebukes of God, and his angry countenance. {Ps 80:15,16} The frowns of the Almighty are dreadful, so was his fiery countenance unto Pharaoh's host {Ex 14:24,25,28} Read Ps 2:9,10,11,12, Kiss the Son, least HE be angry, and ye perish, etc. Thirdly, the clear and bright-shining of the sun in its full strength dazzleth our natural eyes (especially if they before are weak sighted). So did the shining glory of Christ cause the prophet to cry out, Woe is me, for I an undone. {Isa 6:1,3,5 Joh 12:41} This shining glory of the sun of righteousness amazed Christ's three disciples, Peter, James and John, so that they fell on their faces and were afraid to look up. {Mt 17:1,2,6} And the like effect had this vision of Christ's glorious countenance upon the apostle, as is testified by him in the next verse.

"And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead," etc.

The apostle was not "dead" not in a swoon, but rather in a trance, as Peter was, {Ac 10:10} and astonished, as Daniel was, {Da 8:27} whose comeliness was turned in him to corruption. {Da 10:5,6,8} Did not God hold back the face of his throne, as Job speaketh {Job 26:9} or put us into the cliff of the rock, as he did Moses, while his glory passeth by, {Ex 33:22,23} we should not be able to behold the glimpses of his glory; nor can sanctified believers behold the shining light of the glory of God, but in the face of Christ, {2Co 4:6} and that glory of the LORD, they must behold in the glass of the gospel. {2Co 3:18} Such raptures and ravishments of soul in the revelations, and manifestations of Jesus Christ put Paul into so great an ecstasy, that he knew not, whether he was in the body of out of the body. {2Co 12:1,2,3,4}

"And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not, I AM the First, and the Last"

John the servant of Jesus Christ now lying at his "feet," not only as one deeply humbled, but as one "dead," not at all alive, but a mere passive creature; his gracious LORD showed him mercy, and laid his right hand upon him to strengthen him with strength in his soul, (as he did his poor worm Jacob; Isa 41:8-10), saying unto him,

"Fear not, I AM the First and the Last"

Christ's deity "I AM," and his eternity "the First and the Last" revealed and believed, and by himself applied unto sanctified believers, will abate their fears, and remove them. {Ps 56:3,4 Isa 8:12,13-14 Mt 14:27 Mr 5:36 1Pe 3:14}

"I am he that liveth, and was dead, and behold I am alive for evermore, AMEN," etc.

In these words Christ asserteth, first, his being crucified, "I am He that was dead;" Secondly, his resurrection from the dead "I am He that liveth;" both which great gospel truths the apostle Paul received from Christ also be revelation, {1Co 15:3,4,8} Thirdly, his exhortation to consider, that "HE lives for evermore," and sets his "AMEN" unto it. One end of Christ's "living for evermore" is, that the saints may live eternally, {Joh 14:19} another end thereof is to make intercession for the saints, and save them to the uttermost in coming to God by him. {Heb 7:24,25,26}

"And have the keys of hell and of death"

That this, the LORD Jesus Christ hath authority, power, and dominion over "hell and death," that is, over the first and second death. {Ac 17:31 Re 20:13,14 Lu 12:5} HE hath "the keys of death" and of the grave, to let in, and shut up whom and when he will; and to call out of the grave, and raise from the dead, whom and when he will; as he did Lazarus: And HE hath the "keys of hell" and the second death, into which all the wicked shall be turned, {Ps 9:17} and at Christ's command hell must give up the souls that are in it, to be returned to their own bodies and appear before the Judgment Seat of Christ, and receive that final sentence of the eternal judgement. {Mt 25:41-46} The whole power of these "keys" are expressed. {Re 20:11,12,13,14,15}

The commission which Jesus Christ gave his servant John, {Re 1:11} is here repeated and enlarged; wherein also we have a summary division of this whole Book of the Revelation into three parts. First, the then present state and condition of the church of God, and particularly of the seven churches in Asia;

"the things which are,"

as then they were represented unto John in the first three chapters of this book. {Re 1} {Re 2} {Re 3} Secondly,

"the things which thou hast seen"

which were not yet come to pass, touching the Roman pagan state, and, the condition of the church of God under those heathen powers, and their persecutions and revolutions, as they were represented unto John in the 4, 5, 6, Chapters of this Book. {Re 4} {Re 5} {Re 6} Thirdly,

"and the things which shall be hereafter"

That is, to say, the Roman, Asian, and papal state, and the condition of the church of God under those anti-Christian powers, and their persecutions, together with all the great revolutions which shall be in states, kingdoms and churches, from the apostles days unto the end of this present evil world, in order unto the setting up the everlasting kingdom of the LORD Jesus Christ, and the coming down of the New Jerusalem from God out of heaven, which shall be hereafter in that world which is to come; together with Christ's coming to Judgment, (called the eternal judgment; Heb 6:1,2), which things John had revealed unto him by Jesus Christ, in the other chapters of this book; especially {Re 13} {Re 16} {Re 18} {Re 19} {Re 20} {Re 21} {Re 22} of this prophecy of the Revelation.

"The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks"

A mystery implies, first, some secret or hidden thing, not obvious unto every eye, {Col 1:26,27 Ro 16:25,26} until it be revealed and made known. Secondly, some real and excellent thing, {1Ti 3:16} worth our knowledge and understanding, being profitable to us. {1Ti 4:8} Thirdly, some practical thing, and applicable for our use and behalf, {1Ti 4:7,8 Col 1:26,27} when we know it.

"The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches"

Why the ministers of the gospel are called "stars" see Re 1:16. The ministry of the law was cloudy and dark, in comparison of the ministry of the gospel {2Co 3:6,11} This excelled it in glory, therefore the ministers of the gospel are called "stars," and they are also called angels, because they are the special messengers of God, whom He sendeth to preach the glad tidings of salvation by Jesus Christ unto the people. {Mr 16:15 Lu 9:52} And the Churches received the Ministers of Christ as Angels. {Ga 4:14}

Christ puts this name of dignity upon his ministers, that the churches and people to whom they preach, should count them worthy of double honor, {1Ti 5:17} therefore called and diligent labor: The churches and saints should have such ministers in reputation, and esteem them highly in love for their works sake. {Php 2:19 1Th 5:13} These names of dignity should put the ministers of Christ in mind of their duty, to wit, to let their light shine before men, for they are called stars {Mt 5:16} and to wait on their ministry, {Ro 6,7,8,11} not slothful in business, but fervent in Spirit, serving the Lord, for they are called angels (who are God's ministers and his ministering spirits; Heb 1:7,14), such ought Christ's ministers to be, his and his churches ministering servants.

"And the seven candlesticks which thou sawest, are the seven churches"

The candlestick in God's tabernacle, {Ex 25:31,37,40} was pure gold, with seven lamps lighted, according to the pattern which God shewed Moses in the mount. The church of God under the first and old covenant, and Mosaical dispensation of the law, being national and but one church, tabernacle and temple was represented by a golden candlestick. {Zec 4:2} The church of God under the second and new covenant and apostolical dispensation of the gospel, being congregational, were represented unto John by two candlesticks {Re 11:4} and hereby seven. {Re 1:12,20}

The churches of saints under the gospel and new covenant of grace, are fitly resembled unto candlesticks, because the shinning and glorious light, first, of the knowledge of salvation to sinners; Secondly, of the pure spiritual worship of god by his saints; Thirdly, of the manifold wisdom of God and his glory, is to be made known by the churches throughout all ages, {Eph 3,9,10,11,21} and therefore the church of God, under the dispensation of the gospel, is called the Pillar of Truth, {1Ti 3:15} for the truth, as it is in Jesus, is born forth and declared thereby. As the edicts, and laws, and proclamations of the potentates, kings and princes of this world, are fixed upon pillars to be know and read of all men; so God's truth, Christ's laws, and all his holy ordinances, are given unto the churches, and are to be declared and administered in his churches visibly and publicly, to the glory and praise of God.

"Unto the Angel of the Church of Ephesus, write," etc..

This first epistle written to the Ephesian Church (and all the other six epistles to the other six churches), doth contain three general parts; viz. First, a preface. Secondly, The narrative of the matter either commended or reproved. Thirdly, the conclusion of the epistle.

"Ephesus"

Ephesus was the chief city in Asia the less, situated toward the Ionian Sea, where the Apostle Paul preached the gospel with great success (though not without some opposition; Ac 19:9,10,18,19,20). So mighty grew the word of God and prevailed, that there this church was planted by Paul, and watered by Apollo, Timotheus and Arastus, ministers of Jesus Christ, {Ac 18:24,25 19:1,22} unto which church the Apostle Paul afterwards wrote that epistle, entitled, The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Ephesians. What is said in general touching this and all other gospel churches, you may read in the exposition of Re 1:11.

This Ephesian Church, at the first planting thereof, was a particular congregation consisting of a few baptized believers, who were separated from the profane idolatrous gentiles and their idol temples; also from the formal superstitious Jews and their synagogues, by the ministers of Christ, and congregated together to worship God in spirit and in truth visibly, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of God blamelessly, according to the order of the gospel. {read Ac 19:1,2,3,5,6,7,9 Eph 1:1,2,13,14 2:19-22 4:1,2,3,15,16}

The angel of this church, and the angels of the other six Asian Churches, were not of the holy elect celestial angels of God, those ministering spirits, {Heb 1:14} nor was this angel any one of the apostles of Christ, though there were some in this church at that time, who said they were apostles, but were not, as appears from Re 2:2. Nor was this angel any one individual man or minister, that had the superintendence over, or precedence above all the other ministers in this church, as being the Apostle John's delegate or substitute in his absence; for we read not of any such in this prophecy of the Revelation.

"Angel,"

"These things saith be, that holdeth the Seven Stars in his right hand," etc.

By holding ministers "in his right hand" is signifying Christ's powerful and gracious protection over them for their safety and preservation: {see Re 1:16} Did not Christ by his Almighty power, hold up and keep safe his faithful ministers, the powers of this world would soon cast down those stars from the ecclesiastical heaven, silence the ministers of the gospel, and exile them, and persecute them even unto death; as the Roman, pagan emperors did, and as the Roman powers and prelates did, when God suffered then so to do, but Christ hath these "Stars in his right hand" and none can pull them out of his hand: And when Christ sets before his faithful ministers an open door, none can shut it. {Re 3:7,8}

"Who walketh in the midst of the seven golden Candlesticks".

Christ's walking "in the midst of the Candlesticks" implies, first, his special and spiritual presence in the Christian saints, according to his gracious promise. {Mt 18:20} Secondly, his inspection into the church's condition, administrations, gifts, operations, and ordinances; seeing and observing their order and the steadfastness of their faith; also beholding their decent and reverent behavior and gesture in the public worship of God; and especially looking into and taking notice of the holy, spiritual, and heavenly frame of the hearts of his ministers and members. {Re 2:23} Thirdly, his protection and preservation of his churches in their liberties, privileges and administrations. {Re 3:8,9,10} Fourthly, his observation of what disorders, corrupt opinions, false doctrines, male-administrations, and what formality, contentions, divisions, schisms, or sinful separations are among his churches; as appears by what he commanded his servant John to write unto these seven churches, in the second and third chapters. {Read Re 2:5,14,20,23 3:2,15,16,17}

There is a special and spiritual presence of Christ with his churches of saints, and his peculiar providence and protection is towards them for their preservation in all his ways. {Mt 18:20 Re 3:8,9,10,11}

"I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience," etc.

In the narrative of this epistle, from Re 2:2-6, we have, first, Christ's approbation and commendation of all the good things in the angel and church of Ephesus. {Re 2:2,3} Secondly, Christ's gentle reproof of what HE found amiss in them. {Re 2:4} Thirdly, his wholesome and spiritual counsel, and exhortation to repent and reform, urged and amplified by a commination threatening to unchurch them, if they did not repent and amend. {Re 2:5} And, fourthly, the reason why Christ gave this church this fair admonition and exercised his forebearance and patience towards them. {Re 2:6}

It is the duty of the ministers and members of Christ in the churches of saints, to exercise patience in all their trials of affliction and persecution. {Re 13:10,12,14 Jas 1:3,4 Lu 21:18,19 Col 1:11 Heb 10:32,33,34,36}

"And how thou canst not bear with them that are evil," etc.

Christ commended this church, her ministers or members, who would not bear with, nor forbear those ministers or members among them "that were evil," that is to say, who were corrupted by evil manners, or wicked opinions, whereby others might be leavened and corrupted by their false doctrines or sinful practices; but did exercise the authority and power which the church had received from Christ; first, in admonishing them. Secondly, in withdrawing from them; and thirdly, in excommunicating them, according to the laws of Christ recorded. {2Th 3:6,15 Tit 3:10,11 1Co 5:4,5,12,13}

"And thou hast tried them, that say they are apostles, and are not; and hast found them liars".

Some of the teachers in this church pretended to be apostles of Christ "which say they are apostles," as did also some of the teachers in other churches, who were false apostles and deceitful workers, {2Co 11:13} Transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ, who upon trial were found to be liars, i.e. false apostles. "Thou hast tried them," viz. First, what call and commission they had from Christ "and found them liars," for they had not Christ's commission, nor were they called by Christ to be apostles by office. Secondly, what apostolical gifts they had given and received from Christ, and in what respect "also found them liars." Thirdly, what doctrine they preached in the name of Christ "and found them liars," in that respect likewise, for they preached not the doctrine of the apostles, but the doctrine of the Nicolaitans. {Re 2:15, etc.} Fourthly, what manner of life they lead and what conservation they lived in, and in that respect "found them liars," for they lived not like the apostles, nor had their conservation as became the gospel in simplicity and godly sincerity, {2Co 1:12} but they practiced the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which Christ and this church hated. {Re 2:6}

The churches of saints have power and authority from Christ to try the calling, gifts, doctrine, and conservation of their teachers. {1Jo 4:1 2Co 13:3 Ac 11:2,3,4,12,18}

"And hast borne"

This church and her ministers did bear and endure reproaches, persecutions, and sufferings for the gospel and name of Christ, as other churches of Christ did. {1Th 2:14,16 2Th 1:4 2Co 4:8-11}

"And hast patience"

to bear, suffer, endure more for Christ's sake.

"And for my name's sake," etc.

By the name of Christ is meant himself, his gospel, his ordinances, and whatsoever bears his name. {Mt 28:19,20}

"Hast laboured"

viz. In the word and doctrine, and in the work and labour of love, which they shewed towards his name. {Heb 6:10}

"And hast not fainted"

in the work of the ministry, {2Co 4:1,8,9,10} because they received mercy {2Co 4:1} and God received glory, {2Co 4:15} for which cause we faint not, {2Co 4:16,17,18} nor in the way of Christianity.

Christ's faithful ministers, and sanctified members, are preserved from fainting under all their tribulations and burdens, which they suffer patiently in the course of their ministry, and in the way of Christianity. {2Co 1:8-10,15,16}

That which keeps them from fainting, is, first, the serious consideration of the contradictions of sinners, which Christ himself suffered. {Heb 12:3} Secondly, an open vision and spiritual fight of unseen glory. {2Co 4:18} Thirdly, That Divine Power, which God in Christ by the Holy Spirit doth suitably and seasonably communicate unto them. {Col 1:11 Isa 40:28,29,30,31}

"Nevertheless"

or not withstanding all these good things in which Christ found and approved in this Church, yet all was not well, something was blame-worthy, for which Christ did gently reprove her, and call her to repent and to reform.

"thou has left thy first love"

She had not left the object of her love, the LORD Jesus, whom she loved, {Re 2:2,3} but she had cooled in her spiritual affections to Christ and to his saints, which she had manifested in the day of her first espousals; which Christ well remembered and here minds of, as God did his Israel of old {Jer 2:2,3} They were not so kind to Christ and his saints formerly. Christ takes it unkindly, when his churches, ministers, or saints cool their spiritual affections towards himself, or any of his.

This verse contains, first, Christ's counsel unto this church and her angel. Secondly, his commination if they repent not and reform. To "remember" in this place, implies, first, a calling to mind their former lively acts, fruits, and exercise of love to Christ and his saints, etc. and secondly, to compare them with the heartless, lifeless acts and fruits of their love to Christ and his saints, now, and of late days; and thirdly, to consider from whence they were fallen.

"And repent"

To repent is to sorrow after a godly manner, as they did, {2Co 7:9,10,11} which worketh repentance to salvation: And to

"do the first works,"

implies a performing with zeal and confidence those duties of love to Christ and his saints etc. which this church, her ministers and members did at their first conversion, and in the day of their first espousals.

"Or else, I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent"

In this commination, we have, first, the punishment which Christ threatened, ``and will remove thy candlestick out of his place.'' Secondly, his patient waiting for their repentance; or else, except thou repent.

"remove thy candlestick out of his place"

Christ may be said to "remove the candlestick out of its place," first, when he suffers and adversaries or enemies either by hostility or persecution, so to disperse and scatter them, that they cannot meet together as a church with one accord in any one place, or part of that city visibly to worship God in the administrations and ordinances of the gospel. Secondly, when Christ suffers and false teachers or brethren among them, to cause divisions, schisms, and sinful separations through errors, contentions and heresies, whereby the church is divided and broken in pieces; so that the ministers and members do utterly refuse to assemble themselves together to worship God: Or, thirdly, when Christ forsakes the church, and will not walk with them any longer, but denies them his spiritual presence, and refuseth to hold communion with them, because they refute his counsel, will not repent nor reform what is amiss, but hold fast their sin obstinately; whereby they provoke the Lord to reject them. {Re 3:16}

A true, visible, constituted, particular church of Christ may sin away their church estate by their iniquity and impenitency. {Ho 2 1,2,3,4,5 Re 3:16} And a church of Christ may become a synagogue of Satan, God hath removed those and other golden candlesticks out of their places, for their impenitency added unto their Transgressions.

"Nicolaitanes"

The Nicolaitans were so called, either from that Nicolas, {Ac 6:5} a proselyte of Antioch, from whose faith and manners they had degenerated; or rather from some other man of that name (different from Nicolas the Deacon, both in faith and holy life) from whose corrupt doctrine and wicked deeds, those here, and in Re 2:15 are called Nicolaitans. Though neither the doctrine, nor the deeds of those Nicolaitans be here named, yet we may conclude they were unsound and damnable doctrines, and ungodly wicked deeds, for Christ again and again testified that he hated them. {Re 2:6,15} And so did this church which Christ took notice of, saying "Which I also hate;" and therefore he exercised this great patience towards this church-"this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans."

"He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches"

This verse contains the conclusion of this epistle, which consists of two general parts; first, an exhortation. Secondly, a promise. In the exhortation, Christ, first, requires ever one to hear. {Isa 55:3} Incline your ear, come unto me, hear and your soul shall live. Secondly, he exhorts them to hear what the Spirit speaketh in the word written and read in the churches, unto which a promise of blessing is annexed. {Pr 8:34,35} Blessed is the Man that heareth me, waiting at the Posts of my doors. {Re 1:3} Those epistles were not preached, but written to the seven churches, and the promise of blessing is annexed to the reading and hearing of them read. {Re 1:3} Likewise, the epistles of Paul and other of the apostles were not preached, but written unto and read in the churches of saints. {Col 4:16} And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read in the Church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea.

The Holy Spirit is not limited unto the preaching of the word; but he also speaketh and teacheth in the reading of the Holy Scriptures. So then, the Holy Scriptures ought to be read in the churches of saints. See KNOLLYS on "Re 1:3" "To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God"

In these words we have, first, the qualification of the person unto whom the promise is made,

"to him that overcometh"

a metaphor taken from the athletes, who strive for victory by running or fighting, {1Co 9:26,27} that is to say, to every one that getteth the victory over all his soul enemies, his spiritual antagonists, to with, the world, {1Jo 5:4,5} the beast, {Re 15:2} Satan {1Jo 2:13,14} and sin. {Ro 12:21} That tree of life is Jesus Christ, {Re 22:2,14} who was typed out by that material tree of life in the Garden of Eden. {Ge 3:22,24} This spiritual tree of eternal life, yields all manner of fruit that is good for our soul's food. {Joh 6:57}

"Which is in the midst of the paradise of God"

Eden had in it, an earthly paradise, to wit, the garden that God planted there. {Ge 2:8} In Heaven there is a celestial paradise, {2Co 12:2,4 Lu 23:43} where Christ is. Paradise, is originally a Persian word, which the Hebrews and the Greeks have by use made theirs, {see Ec 2:5 Re 2:7} and so have the Latins, and we also in English: It signifies a place of pleasure called the paradise of God by way of excellency, as, the city of God, the temple of God, the people of God, etc.

"And unto the Angel of the Church in Smyrna, write," etc.

Smyrna was a city of Iconia in Asia the less near the sea-side, where the gospel was preached, and where this church was planted, unto whom this epistle was written by Christ's command. {Re 1:11} See the exposition thereof, See KNOLLYS "Re 1:11" and upon Re 2:1, See KNOLLYS "Re 2:1" concerning the word "angel," and "church".

"These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive"

See the exposition of Re 1:8,11,17,18, See KNOLLYS "Re 1:8"

See KNOLLYS "Re 1:11"

See KNOLLYS "Re 1:17"

See KNOLLYS "Re 1:18" which Christ repeated again, as a divine encouragement to the ministers and members of this church to endure their tribulations; and not to fear any of those things which they must suffer (testified in Re 2:10). See the exposition thereof. As if Christ had said ( totidem verbis ) they persecuted me to death, I was dead, nevertheless, I live, and live for evermore {Re 1:18} being raised from the dead by the power of God the Father: And, if any of you shall be persecuted and suffer death for my sake and the gospels, I will quicken you and raise you from the dead, {Re 20:4,5,6} and because I live you shall live also. {Joh 14:19}

"I know thy works,"

Thus Christ testified unto all the seven churches; "I know thy works," see Re 2:2. The knowledge of Christ (as He is God, and the only wise God our Saviour, Jude 25), is, first, the knowledge of perfection, whose understanding is infinite, {Ps 147:5} whereby he doth perfectly know himself, {Re 19:12 Pr 30:4} and all things else, being the wisdom of the Father. {Pr 8:12 1Co 1:24} Secondly, the knowledge of approbation, or reprobation (Ro 9:11,12,13 compared with Ac 13:48 and Jude 4), whereby he doth know distinctly both persons and things good and bad; so Christ knew the works of this church with approbation, and the works of the church of the Laodiceans with rejection, {Re 3:14,15,16} I will spue thee out of my mouth.

"And tribulation, and poverty"

By "tribulation" here, we may understand either their outward afflictions and persecutions, which they had or should endure, which Christ took notice of, {2Th 1:6} or their inward griefs and sorrows, their troubles of soul, {Ps 88:4 143:11} which Christ also looks upon, {Ps 102:2,17,19,20,21} and by "poverty" here we may understand the low and poor condition this church was in at this time in respect of temporal things, the wants and straits that some of her ministers or members were in, the church not having wherewith to supply them, which was the condition of the church at Jerusalem and the churches in Judea in the apostles days; Read 1Co 16:1,2,3 and 2Co 8:3,4,6,13,14,15.

"But thou art rich"

Though Christ knew her outward poverty, yet he acknowledged her spiritual riches; which God knows is the state and condition of very many of his precious saints in this world, {Jas 2:5} rich in spirituals, rich in grace, rich in faith, rich in good works, etc. but poor in temporals.

"And I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not," etc.

These blasphemers said they were Jews, but were not. A Jew is one of Abraham's seed, either after the flesh, and so were they, {Joh 8:31,33} who vainly boasted in a fleshly confidence, and so did these who say they are Jews, or after the spirit, such are the children of promise, {Ro 9:8} even all them that are Christ's, {Ga 3:29} so were not these, though they said so, they did lie, {Re 3:9} though they were Jews outwardly, whose circumcision is outward in the flesh, yet they were not Jews inwardly, whose circumcision is inward, that of the heart in the spirit. {Ro 2:28,29}

"But are the synagogue of Satan"

It is likely the Jews had a synagogue in this city of Smyrna, where they worshipped God according to the Mosaical administrations, mixed with the traditions of their fathers, which Christ testified against as vain and false worship, {Mt 15:8,9} and therefore he calls them the synagogue of Satan. {Re 3:9} Some of those Jewish worshippers blasphemed the Lord Jesus Christ, and the doctrine and worship which the Christians in this church professed, by speaking some evil, opprobrious, and slanderous words against them, which Christ took notice of, and called "blasphemy:" See the exposition of Re 3:9. See KNOLLYS "Re 3:9"

Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer

Those sufferings were part of this churches tribulation, which Christ foreknew, and he testified in this verse. First, the kind of their sufferings, to wit, imprisonment. Secondly, the time thereof ten days. Thirdly, the end why God permitted them to suffer, to try them. Fourthly, the instruments of their sufferings, "the devil," the adversary, etc. Fifthly, their duty to be "faithful unto Death:" And sixthly, their reward, to wit, "a crown of life." Suffer thou must, if thou be a true visible church of God. {1Th 2:14} If thou be a faithful minister of Christ. {2Ti 2:10,11} If thou be a sanctified believer, who lives godly, {2Ti 2:12} fear thou should not, {Isa 8:11,12,13} nor be terrified by the adversaries. {Php 1:28,29}

Behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, etc.

That ye may be tried, etc.

that your faith may be tried, {1Pe 1:7} and your patience, {Re 13:10} and all other graces, {Ro 5:3,4,5} which was commended by the apostle in the primitive suffers. {2Th 1:4,5} The saints may expect fiery trials, {1Pe 4:12} which they ought not to thing strange, but to rejoice in. {Jas 1:2,3,4}

"And ye shall have tribulation ten days."

Times of persecution are times of "tribulation," so it was with the apostles and saints. {2Co 4:8,9,10} We are troubled on every side, etc. "Ten days, " that is, a certain time put mystically for the ten bloody persecutions under the heathen emperors, as Dioclesian, or for some other times of persecution, which are here numbered by Christ; so that the times of the saint's churches, and ministers sufferings are in the hand of the Lord, {Ps 31:15} not in the adversaries power. The time when the churches, ministers, or saints shall suffer persecution and imprisonment, or any other kind of ``tribulation'' is appointed of God, and ordered and measured out by our Lord Jesus Christ.

Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

The faithfulness of the church ministers, and saints of Christ consists, first, in a bold confession of the faith of Christ, when they are thereunto called. {Ac 24:13,16} Secondly, in enduring sufferings for Christ's sake, not loving their lives unto death. Thirdly, {Re 12:11} in not accepting deliverance upon any sinful terms. {Heb 11:35,38} ``The Crown of life'' which Christ promiseth is an eternal weight of glory. {1Co 4:16,17,18} ``For which cause we faint not, but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory: While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen, are temporal; but the things which are not seen, are eternal.''

See the exposition of the seventh verse of this chapter. See KNOLLYS "Re 2:7" The first death is usually a painful separation of the body from the soul for a time. {Ac 2:24} The second death is a penal separation of the soul from God for evermore. {2Th 1:9 Mt 25:32,41} Those that overcome the world, the beast, Satan, and sin, shall not be hurt of the second death: That death, which the second death, shall have no power over them. {Re 20:6}

And to the Angel of the Church in Pergamos.

See KNOLLYS on "Re 1:20", and See KNOLLYS on "Rev 2:1" touching the word "Church," and the word "Angel." Pergamos was a city of Ætolia, in Asia the less, where the Attalian kings kept their court and residence in ancient times, and the Roman governors over that providence had their residence there in John's time. Some writers say, that there was in this city a temple, wherein the devil, by the name of Gsruiapius, used to give answers unto the priests who worshipped in that temple. Certain it is, there was a true visible constituted church of God planted in this city in the apostles days. {Re 1:11}

``These things saith he, which hath the sharp sword with two edges''

The two-edged sword is the written word of God, {Heb 4:12} which is quick and powerful, mighty in operation and sharper that a two-edged sword; call the sword of the Spirit, {Eph 6:17} which sword Christ is here said to have, because this sharp two-edged sword is elsewhere said to come out of Christ's mouth, {Re 19:15,21} and is called the sword of his mouth in Re 2:16 1:16. See the exposition thereof.

See KNOLLYS "Re 2:16"

See KNOLLYS "Re 1:16"

The ministry of the written word of God, when managed by the hand of the Lord is sharp, powerful, and mighty in the operation thereof; by the Holy Spirit upon the consciences and in the hearts of sinners and saints. {Ac 2:37 1Th 1:5 Heb 4:12}

"I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is," etc.

The matter of this epistle contains, first, Christ's commendation of this church and her angel. Secondly, his reproof of their faults. {Re 2:14,15} Thirdly, an exhortation to repentance. {Re 2:16} Christ takes notice of their works; so as to approve them, that were good works, done according to his revealed will in his written word, {Re 2:13} and so as to reprove them that were evil. {Re 2:14,15} And Christ also took notice where they dwelt, to wit, the nation, country and city, viz. Asia, Ætolia and Pergamos, where Satan's throne then was; that is to say, where iniquity and idolatry was practiced and established by law, which Christ here call Satan's throne, because the devil gave the Roman, pagan emperors (as he did afterwards the anti-Christian beast; Re 13:2) his power, and throne, and great authority, as appears in Re 12 and Re 13.

"And thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith," etc.

By Christ's name here we may understand his word, his ordinances, his doctrine, his gospel, and whatsoever bears his name: and to hold fast his name is to cleave to the Lord, his truth, is ordinances of divine worship; and not to deny the faith of Christ and his gospel, once delivered to the saints, {Jude 3} but contending earnestly for the faith, striving together for the faith of the gospel. {Php 1:27}

"Even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth"

Who this Antipas was is not recorded in holy writ; some historians say, he was one of the ministers of this church: Christ testifieth he was a martyr and faithful unto death.

Jesus Christ takes notice, and keeps a record in heaven of all the sufferings, and death of his faithful servants. {Ps 116:15 1Jo 5:7 Re 6:9,10,11 20:4}

"But I have a few things against thee," etc.

Those few things were not sins of infirmity, for God useth to pass by the transgressions of his churches, ministers and saints of that kind, {Mic 7:18} but sins of enormity, gross pollutions, and defiling abominations, which Christ saw amongst them in this church that were held by some of her teachers and members, which his soul loathed, as appears by those iniquities Christ charges them with, in Re 2:14-15.

"Because thou hast there them that hold the Doctrine of Balaam," etc.

You may read the doctrine of Balaam, Nu 31:16 to wit, the wicked counsel he gave to the Midianitish women, which occasioned the people of Israel to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab, and to commit idolatry also etc., {Nu 25:1,2,3} for which wicked counsel Balaam was killed. {Nu 31:8} And Moses was wroth with the commanders and captains of the host of Israel, because they saved those Midianitish women alive who followed Balaam's counsel, and caused them to be put to death. {Nu 31:14,15,16,17}

"cast a stumbling block"

Some teachers in this church, by their false doctrines and opinions, did (like Balaam) "cast a stumbling block" before the members of this church, which became a sin and a snare unto them, as Balaam's doctrine and counsel did unto the people of Israel.

The doctrine of the Nicolaitans

Touching "the doctrine of the Nicolaitans," and their deeds, See KNOLLYS on "Re 2:6". It's probable their doctrine allowed of spiritual and corporal whoredom, both which Christ hateth; and that which Christ chargeth upon this church and her angel, as their sin, which he was offended with them for, was because they were suffered in the, and not cast out, and put away as wicked and ungodly persons.

It is a sinful fault in any church to suffer those ministers or members to continue in their society, and to have communion with them who teach such doctrines, or practice such deeds as Christ hateth. {1Co 5:2,5,7,13} See KNOLLYS on "Re 2:20"

Repent,

that is to say, let the angel repent, and the church repent, and these ministers and members especially, who are guilty of those doctrines which I hate, repent and sorrow after a godly manner.

Or else I will come unto thee quickly,

to wit, in a way of visitation and correction.

And will fight against them

that hold the doctrine of Balaam, and the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, that is to say, erroneous, false, and damnable doctrines, such teachers and such doctrines, as the apostles prophetically foretold and testified against. {1Ti 4:1,2,3 2Pe 2:1,2}

With the sword of my mouth

See KNOLLYS on "Re 2:12" and See KNOLLYS on "Re 2:16": Christ fights against a church and people "with the sword of his mouth," first, when he sends some Boanerges with awakening, thundering word of God, who shall so preach and declare his righteous judgments unto them, that shall sew and cut as a sharp sword. {Ho 6:4,5} Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets, I have slain them by the words of my mouth. Secondly, when he, by the hand of his divine judgments upon them for their sins and impenitency; {Jer 21:5} And I my self will fight against you with an outstretched hand, and with a strong arm, even in anger, and in fury, and in great wrath.

This verse contains the conclusion of this epistle. See the exposition of Re 2:7.

See KNOLLYS "Re 2:7"

Manna

"Manna" is the corn and bread of heaven, {Ps 105:40} called angel's food. {Ps 78:24,25} This was the bread which God gave the children of Israel in the wilderness, some whereof was put in a pot, and laid before the testimony. {Ex 16:33,34} And by this hidden manna we are to understand Jesus Christ who is called the Bread of Life that came down from heaven, {Joh 6:48,49,50,58} which life is hid with Christ in God, {Col 3:3} therefore called hidden manna, that is, those inward secret communications of Christ's love, grace, etc., which they that sup with Christ are nourished and refreshed with, {Re 3:20} whereby he feeds and strengtheneth their souls.

And will give him a white stone

There was among the Romans a two-fold use of "a white stone." First, he that was victor, and overcame in their Olympic games and wrestlings, had "a white stone" given him, which he did bear as a badge of honor and victory. Secondly, he that being accused of any crime in their civil courts and judicatories was found innocent, and so was acquitted of that crime, had "a white stone" given to him as a sign of absolution: Both these uses of the "white stone" will fitly quadrate with Christ's act of grace here, where Christ doth promise "him that overcometh" by wrestling against sin and Satan, {Eph 6:11,12} that he will give him a crown of glory, {2Ti 4:7,8} and also a full and open absolution before men and angels at the day of judgment. {Re 20:11,12}

And in the stone a new Name written, etc.

Whereby is meant some spiritual dignity, or something very eminently honorable, which Christ will confer upon them that overcome. {Zep 3:20} For I will make you a name, and a praise among all people of the earth.

A new name

is that name of dignity and honor which Christ himself will name upon them {Isa 62:2} and it shall be an everlasting name, {Isa 56:5} that is to say, they shall be partakers of the divine nature, {2Pe 1:4} and shall have the communications of his saving sanctifying grace, {Eph 4:7} and also the indwelling presence of his Holy Spirit. {Ga 4:6} The witness and seal thereof, by the promises of the new covenant in their hearts is this new name in the with stone, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. {1Co 2:9} The spiritual senses of the new man only is capable to know and understand the divine nature of Christ's ``new name'', {1Co 2:9,13,14} written in this white stone {Re 2:17} of absolution and pardon of sin, and gracious promises of eternal life. And this is Christ's own hand-writing, {Re 3:12} in which respect believers are said to be the epistle of Christ written by the Spirit of the living God in the fleshly tables of the heart. {2Co 3:3}

"Thyatira"

Thyatira was a city which lay on the borders of the regions of Lydia and Mysia, opposite unto Macedonia, and southwards of Pergamos, in Asia the less, where Lydia was born, whom Paul converted at Philippi {Ac 16:13,14} in which city this church was planted. See KNOLLYS on "Re 2:2" and See KNOLLYS on "Re 2:12" Touching the title that Christ here again takes unto himself, suitable unto this angel and churches condition. See exposition on Re 1:14-15

See KNOLLYS "Re 1:14"

See KNOLLYS "Re 1:15"

This verse contains Christ's commendation of what was good in this church, her ministers and members. First, in general, "thy works." Secondly, in particular, their charity towards the poor saints, and services of love to God, Christ, his churches and people; also their faith and patience in all the perfections and tribulations which they endured for his names sake; yea, and their "works," to wit, their renewed acts, or works of obedience, of faith to God and charity to the saints, etc.

And the last to be more than the first

It was with this church as it was with the church of the Thessalonians; (compare 1Th 1:3 with 2Th 1:3,4) for whose work of faith, labor of love and patience, of hope in the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the fight of God the Father, the apostle acknowledged and praised God that their faith did grow exceedingly, and the charity of every one of them all towards each other abounded.

"Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee," etc.

Christ in this verse, and in the three following verses, doth reprove this church and her ministers for suffering corrupt and false doctrine to be preached amongst them, whereby his servants were seduced, that is, drawn away from the truth, and led into errors both of judgment and in conversation. See Exposition on Re 2:14 2:15.

See KNOLLYS "Re 2:14"

See KNOLLYS "Re 2:15"

"Because thou sufferest that Woman Jezebel, which calleth her self a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants"

Not that there was such a woman in the church called Jezebel, or any other woman that pretended to be a prophetess, who taught or spake publicly in the church, for that was against the law of Christ and command of the apostle, {1Co 14:34 2Ti 2:22} and it's probable would not have been suffered by the angel or ministers of this church: But rather as Christ used the name of Balaam {Re 2:14} to make the doctrine of the Nicolaitans odious to the saints in Pergamos; so he useth the name of this painted woman, Jezebel, who was infamous for idolatry, and other wickedness, {1Ki 16:31, etc.} to make that doctrine whereby his servants were seduced to be the more odious and hateful unto the saints in Thyatira, or else by the ``woman Jezebel who called her self prophetess'', we are to understand those false teachers who called themselves prophets and ministers of God, who taught corrupt and false doctrine in this Church, to wit

"to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols,"

which was the doctrine of Balaam and of the Nicolaitans, and their deeds also which Christ hated and here reproved sharply; which opinion I rather cleave unto, because that false teachers and false prophets in the church of Rome are called a woman, and the great whore. {Re 17:1,3,5,7 19:20}

Here followeth the manifestation of Christ's patience; "I gave her space to repent of her fornication," that is, Christ did forbear to punish her for a time, expecting that she should repent both of her corrupt doctrine, and also of her wicked life. "And she repented not," notwithstanding all his patience and long suffering, she remained impenitent. {Re 9:21 16:9}

Behold,

that is, consider what I say, and how I threaten this false prophetess, or wicked woman, and lay it to heart; she is past recovery, having lived impenitently in her whoredoms, both corporal and spiritual fornications; but yet those that have been seduced and enticed by her doctrine to commit fornication, shall have some longer time of repentance. This "bed" is a bed of great tribulation, some corporal and some spiritual judgments are hereby threatened. {as Eze 32:25} They have set her bed in the midst of the slain, with all her multitude.

And I will kill her children with death, etc.

"Her children" were the children of whoredoms, begotten by corrupt doctrine, and in the sense, born of fornications; not that there was such a woman in the church, not that these "her children" were begotten by corporal fornication: But as the mother is a mystical woman, so "her children" are those that she seduced by her doctrine to commit fornication. And by children here, we are to understand some members of this church, who being seduced by Jezebel's doctrine, did commit fornication, that is, both spiritual and corporal whoredom, which is called by Christ "their deeds." As the Nicolaitans had their doctrine and their deeds, so Jezebel had her doctrine and her deeds. By "killing her children with death" is meant, that they shall be destroyed by God's just and righteous judgments. {Jer 18:21} Therefore deliver up her children to the famine, and pour out their blood by the force of the sword.

And all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts, etc.

This is another testimony of Christ's omnisciency. Before he told the churches that he knew their works; and now he gives them to understand, that he knows their hearts also: And the Churches shall know, that is, shall understand, confess and acknowledge that Christ hath been trying, searching, and examining the reins and hearts, that is to say, the inward bent and frame of the spirits of men. {Jer 17:10} I the Lord search the hearts, and try the reins.

And I will give unto every one of you (ministers and members) according to your works.

Those works faith, love, patience, charity and service, which Christ commends, shall be rewarded; Christ will own them and crown them with acceptance, and with reward of grace and glory, saying, Well done good and faithful Servant, enter into the joy of thy Master. And those works or deeds of fornication and other evil doings, which Christ reproved and gave them space and time to repent of, and they repented not, Christ will also reward by executing his righteous judgments upon them, even unto death and eternal condemnation {Ro 1:18 2Co 5:10 Ro 2:5,6,11} except they repent.

"But unto you,"

that is, ministers

"and unto the rest,"

to wit, the members of the church

"in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine"

to wit, of the Nicolaitans, that is to say, as many of you members as have not received that doctrine, and which have not known, that is, have not owned, nor approved

"the depths of Satan, as they speak."

"They," that is the false teachers, or they that taught this false and corrupt doctrine of the Nicolaitans; and they, to wit, those that were seduced by that doctrine, and received it and approved it. "They speak," as if there were a depth of wisdom and mystery in that doctrine; but saith Christ it is

"the depths of Satan." Such false doctrines the apostle calls the doctrine of devils, {1Ti 4:1} and the mystery of iniquity. {2Th 2:7,11}

"I will put upon you none other Burden,"

saith Christ, that is, no other duty or yoke.

That doctrine of faith, that command of holy life, which ye have already received from Christ and his apostles, was the yoke and burden of Christ which he would lay upon them; And the yoke of Christ is easy, and his burden light {Mt 11:28,29,30} and Christ will put no other burden upon them, only chargeth them to hold fast that doctrine and commandment which they had received, till he come.

The conclusion of this epistle followeth in the four last verses of this chapter, wherein you have an addition annexed unto the ordinary qualification of those persons, to whom Christ in these epistles maketh great and precious promises (as in Re 2:7,11,17), which addition annexed, is perseverance in the works of Christ, viz., the work of faith, the labor of love, the service of charity, and all the works of piety which god commandeth in the Holy Scripture of truth to be done or performed by his ministers and saints. {Mt 28:20} "Unto the end," that is, to the end of their lives, or until he comes again.

To him will I give power over the Nations.

There is no power that we read of in the Holy Scripture, which the saints have been given by Christ over the nations (or gentiles or heathens), but that power and dominion of rule and government, which he hath purchased, and God hath promised to give them in the last days; the power which Christ purchased for his redeemed ones, over the nations and kingdoms of the world, is a kingly power and authority. {Re 5:9,10} Thou hast redeemed us with thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people and nation and hath made us unto our God kings and priests, and we shall reign on earth. Likewise, the power which God hath promised to his saints over the nations, is a kingly power and dominion. {Da 7:27} And the kingdom and dominion, and greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most high. But for any other power, either spiritual or ecclesiastical, which the saints should have over the nations, we know not how it can be proved by scripture; but many scriptures do bear a clear testimony, that the saints shall have a kingly power over the nations when Christ comes the second time. See the exposition of Re 1:6 5:9 5:10 20:4. See KNOLLYS "Re 1:6"

See KNOLLYS "Re 20:4"

"And he shall rule them with a rod of iron," etc.

He, that is Christ, {Ps 2:9} and, he that overcometh by Christ, {Re 2:26} to whom God will give power or kingly dominion over the nations, to wit, Christ and the righteousness, who shall have the dominion in the morning. {Ps 49:14} He shall rule them and govern them with an iron rod, that is to say, according to the laws of God, with the kingly power of Christ, which is signified by his "rod of iron," {Ps 2:9 Re 19:15} and that kingly power is given unto the saints. {Re 12:5} And she brought forth a Man-Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron; which is Christ and his saints, as one mystical Body.

"As the Vessels of a Potter shall they be broken to shivers"

They, who shall not have Christ and his saints to reign over them, {Lu 19:27} and who will not serve Christ and his saints. {Isa 60:12}

"Even as I received of my Father"

The same rule, authority, dominion and power which Christ received of God his Father, he will give to his saints over the nations at his second coming, which is undeniably his kingly power. The saints are joint heirs with Christ. {Ro 8:17} In all the blessings and dignities of the New Covenant, whereof that of the kingdom is one. The saints are joined in commission with Jesus Christ in his kingdom, {Re 11:15} and they shall judge the world. {1Co 2:3}

"morning star"

That is, Himself. {Re 22:16} I am the bright Morning Star, The Day Star, {2Pe 1:19} which doth arise, and shine gloriously in the hearts of the saints. {Isa 60:1,2}

That is, attend and labor to understand what the Spirit saith unto the Churches, expounded before. {Re 2:7,11}

And unto the Angel of the Church in Sardis, write, etc.

Sardis was a city in Lydia, where King Cræsus sometime had his court and residence, in which city the gospel also was preached, and had good success, for there was this church planted, among whom the holy ordinances were administered; neither were any such errors in doctrine, nor evil deeds in conversation, charged by Christ upon the ministers of this church, or members thereof, as was found in Ephesus, Pergamos, and Thyatira. This church had some renown, and name of praise among the churches of God, yet all was not well, some among them were dead, and others ready to die. The titles which Christ take here unto himself in the inscription of this epistle, are two. First,

"He that hath the seven Spirits of God"

See exposition of Re 1:4.

See KNOLLYS "Re 1:4"

Secondly, and

"the seven Stars"

See Re 1:16-20.

"I know thy works, that thou hast a name, that thou livest and art dead"

By a "name" to live, is meant, the great and honorable esteem which other churches of saints and ministers of Christ had of this church, her ministers and members. For, first, the appearance of the graces and gifts of the Spirit of God, which did shine forth and were perspicuous in some of the ministers of this church, made her renowned among other churches. {as Eze 16:14} Secondly, the soundness of doctrine, purity of gospel-administrations in the worship of God, and the strictness of discipline in this church, did give her a name and a praise among other churches. {as Zep 3:20} "And are dead." Whatsoever were the apprehensions which other churches had of this, or whatever her own ministers and members did esteem of her state and condition, yet our Lord Jesus (who best new the present state of this church) testified, that there was not that reality and sincerity found in some of her ministers or members that ought to be in the church of God; for some of her ministers or members were dead in trespasses and sins, {as Eph 2:1,5 Col 2:13} others were ready to die; withering, decaying, backsliding, and much deadness, was seen by Christ among them.

Here followeth the directions that Christ gives this church, in order to their recovery out of that dead state and decaying condition that they were in, which directions are two sorts; the first respecteth their present duty, and their future behavior or carriage for the time to come.

"Be watchful"

which doth more especially concern the Ministers of the church who are her watchman, {Eze 3:17 33:2,6,7} and watch for their souls, {Heb 13:17} which doth imply, that they were not so diligent in this duty as they ought to be; for there were some poor and precious souls under their charge in this church, who were neglected, and not so looked after, not watched over, as they ought to be. The Second direction respecteth what was past, and teacheth them what to do in regard to that.

"And strengthen the things which remain"

is meant, First, some remainders of the work of God's Holy Spirit and word in the hearts of some members of this church, which the ministers did not endeavor to nourish, cherish, and establish, as they should have done; and so partly through the security of those weak members, and partly through the negligence and carelessness of their ministers not visiting them, and not inquiring into their backsliding condition, they were ready to die: Or, Secondly, some work, or beginning of grace in some poor souls, which was the fruits of the ministry; and these poor souls, not being fed with the sincere milk of the word, and nourished up with good and sound doctrine, began to decay and cool, and were ready to die; that is, to cast away their confidence, to give over their hopes, and comforts and promises; and so began to decay in their gifts, to cool in their affections, and to neglect holy duties, in which respect they are said to be ready to die.

"The things which remain,"

to wit, the Spiritual gifts that remained, the saving grace that remained, the saving grace that remained, the heavenly comforts that remained, the holy duties that remained, the lively affections that remained, and the gracious desires, heart-pantings, soul-longings, and sincere hungerings, thirstings, sighnings, groanings, mournings, and feelings after Christ, which remained, (though ready to die and to be extinguished) ought to be strengthened, First, by spiritual counsel. {Isa 35:3,4} Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees, say to them that are of a sorrowful heart, be strong. Secondly, by spiritual food; administering a word in season to the weary soul. {as Zec 10:12} And I will strengthen them in the Lord, and they shall walk up and down in his name,

"For I have not found thy works perfect before God".

Here followeth the reasons of Christ's former counsel and direction. Christ had examined and tried the works of this angel and church, and found some imperfection in them, whereupon he bears this testimony against them. There are three things necessary to make any perfect in the sight of God. First, It must be a work of faith, to wit, such a work as God hath commanded in his word; and the work of God must be the ground of our faith. {Heb 11:6} For whatsoever is not of faith is sin. {Ro 14:23} Secondly, It must be a labor of love, that is, the love of Christ must constrain believers to be fruitful and laborious in every good work, else it will not be acceptable to God, duties done from a principle of love to Christ, and service done from the same spiritual love to the saints, are well-pleasing to God. {Heb 6:10} Thirdly, It must be done in singleness and sincerity of heart. {2Co 1:12}

And especially the angel's work (or the work of the ministry) must be done, First, in sincerity. {2Co 2:17 1Co 2:3,5} Secondly, with zeal to God's glory: And, thirdly, with affection to the souls of the people, {Col 4:12,13} by improving all their ministerial gifts, graces, and abilities to the utmost; making full proof of their ministry for the conversion of sinners unto Christ, the edification of the saints in faith, love, and good works; and the feeding, ruling the church according to the word of God. {2Ti 4:5 1Ti 4:13,14,15 Col 1:28,29 Col 4:17} Say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.

"Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard", etc.

This verse contains another word of counsel, which consists of theses particular directions. First, to call to mind what they had heard and received. Secondly@, to retain and hold fast what remains: And, thirdly@, to repent wherein they had been defective. That which they had received, was, first the gospel. {1Co 15:1} Secondly@, Jesus Christ. {Col 2:6} Thirdly@, the Holy Spirit. Fourthly, saving and sanctifying grace. Fifthly, spiritual gifts: And, sixthly, commandments how to walk and please God. {1Th 4:1,2 Php 4:8,9} Those things which ye have both learned, received and heard, etc.

"Hold fast".

First, The form of sound words. {2Ti 1:13} Secondly, the profession of faith, {Heb 10:23} also, your Christian confidence and hope. {Heb 3:6} And, thirdly, all spiritual good things received. {1Th 5:21}

"And Repent".

First, that which the angel and this church were to repent of, was their formality; for there appeared much more of the form of godliness amongst them than of the power. {2Ti 3:5} Secondly, the hypocrisy of some that seemed to be what indeed they were not; they seemed to be religious, they had a name to live amongst men, but their works were not perfect in the sight of God.

"If therefore thou shalt not watch".

Here followeth a sharp threatening, whereby Christ presseth his former exhortation and direction to be watchful. {Re 3:2, See exposition of that verse} See KNOLLYS "Re 3:2" This communication is amplified by a secret and sudden visitation;

"I will come on thee as a thief", etc.

This visitation threatened here, is general, and may include any one, yea, every one of the former corrections wherewith Christ visited the other churches. {Re 2:5,16,22} To come as a thief, is to come with sudden destruction. {1Th 2:5 3:6} Therefore let us not sleep as do others, but watch, be sober. {Re 16:15}

"And thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee".

This notes the secrecy of Christ's visitation; At an hour when they think not of it, or in an hour that they know not of, will Christ come upon them, and visit them with his corrections and judgments.

This verse contains a word of consolation, and encouragement unto this angel and church from Christ; which consists of three parts. First, a description of the persons in this church whom Christ would comfort. Secondly, the promise that he makes concerning them: And, Thirdly, the reason Christ gives why he makes this gracious promise.

The persons were some eminent and noted men among the ministers and members of that church; therefore "names" are here put for persons, or men of name, to wit, some in this church, which were more excellent for grace and holiness than the rest in Sardis. Lot and Job, in their generation, or such as Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, who were the chief men among the brethren, {Ac 15:22} and so the word names is put for persons or men of name Among the disciples of Christ, there were above five hundred brethren met together at once, that is, at one time, and in one place, unto whom Jesus Christ did appear after his resurrection, {1Co 15:6,7} where, of them a hundred and twenty, {Ac 1:15} were the number of names or number of the men of name. So those persons here in this church of Sardis, though very eminent above others, yet they were but few. A few Names, the special notice of them, for the encouragement of this angel and church, as well as for their particular commendation.

"Thou hast a few Names even in Sardis".

And for a minister to have but a few members in the church, who are eminent for grace and holiness is more commendable, and more comfortable, than to have many that have a name to live, and are yet dead, and a few that are indeed alive, but their works, duties and gifts, withering, decaying, and ready to die.

"Which have not defiled their garments".

By "garments" we may not understand their outward profession, and form of godliness only, (no, nor chiefly), for in that respect, there were some formal professors in this church, who seemed as religious, and were eminent for gifts and parts; for they had a name to live, although some of them might be hypocrites, {Isa 33:14} and denied the power of Godliness, and so defiled the garments of their profession, etc. But by "garments" here is meant their white robes, even that inward purity of heart, and that spiritual power of Godliness in their life, which is called the brides array of fine linen, clean and white, which is the righteousness of saints, {Re 19:8} to wit, of Christ's righteousness, of justification, sanctification and holiness; the saint's garments of salvation, {Isa 16:10} which these "few" kept undefiled, unspotted, uncorrupted, unpolluted, that is, pure and clean by faith, {Ac 15:9} not only in the sight of men, but also in the sight of God. Not that these few eminent saints in Sardis lived without sin in the sight of god, or that they kept their garments of fine linen so white and clean, that they were never defiled in any respect; but they were not polluted, corrupted, nor defiled with such enormities as others were, which were not the spots of God's children. {De 32:5} And, if at any time they contracted any filth of sin upon their fine Linen, then they washed their Robes, and made them white in the blood of Christ. {Re 7:13,14}

"And they shall walk with me in white".

Here Christ promised those saints in Sardis two things. First, communion and fellowship with himself, signified by walking with Christ. {So 2:4,5,6} He brought me into the Banqueting-house, and his Banner over me was love; (compare Col 2:6 with 1Jo 1:3). In which walking and communion with Christ the saints enjoy his spiritual presence in his word preached, and in his holy ordinances administered unto them, which fills them with joy and peace through believing. {Ps 16:11} In thy presence is fullness of joy. Secondly, conformity unto Christ; Christ was cloathed in white raiment {Mt 17:2 Re 19:8,14} and his saints shall be cloathed also in white, {Re 19:8,14} that is, they shall be like Christ. What marvelous love is this- that we shall be like him? {1Jo 3:1}

"For they are worthy"

Not in themselves, with respect to any merit of their own; for when we have done all, we are unprofitable servants, because we have left something of our duty undone; and also, because we have done our Master's will no better. The saints can merit nothing of God, {Job 9:15,21,23 35:7} but yet they may be accounted worthy, First, through God's gracious acceptance of their persons and services in his Son Jesus Christ; in which respect, as the saints are said to be righteous in Christ, so they may be said to be worthy in Christ, that is, so accounted of God. Secondly, through that meetness which is found in the saints to partake of Christ's favor and free-grace, to walk with him in white, Christ having granted them to be clothed in fine linen, clean and white, {Re 19:8} and they being watchful to keep their garments undefiled (as these few did), he is well-pleased to account them worthy, that is meet to walk with him in white. And the Greek word here used, is translated meet, {Mt 3:8} meet or suitable unto repentance. And indeed, there was in some proportion a meetness in those few saints in Sardis, even in Christ's own gracious and righteous judgment, to walk with him in white who had kept their garments undefiled.

"He that overcometh," etc.

This is one of the promises which Christ made to him that overcometh, whether he was any one of the ministers or members of this church, or of any other church of saints, or any particular Christian whosoever, that did or shall repent of his cooling, decaying, and backsliding condition, and be watchful, and so recover and overcome the world, Satan, and sin; and also overcome the beast, and get victory over his image, his name, his mark, and the number of his name,

"the same shall be clothed in white raiment",

that is as before, he shall have communion with Christ; and be arrayed like the bride in fine linen, clean and white. {Re 19:8} Though they had defiled their garments with their defection and decaying, being ready to die, yet they should recover and wash their robes, and make them white in the blood of the Lamb, and so shall walk with him in white, or shall be clothed in white raiment;

"and I will not blot out his name out of the book of Life"

By "the book of life," is meant, First, the decree of Gods election. {Php 4:3} Whole names are in the book of life, that is, in the record or decree of election. Secondly, Christ's record or memorial of those that the Father hath given to him before the foundation of the world, which is called the Lamb's Book of Life. {Re 21:17} Thirdly, the gospel and new covenant of grace, according to which, every one that liveth under that dispensation, shall be judged at the last day (Compare Ro 2:16 with Re 20:12). Now Christ promising him that overcomes, that he "will not blot out his name out of the book of life," doth mean, that he will not put his name out of his memorial, but bear his name upon his breast-plate among the names of all the Israel of God, as a perpetual memorial before the Father, as one of the election of grace, whom the Father gave unto him before the foundation of the world; and he shall be judged at the last day according to the gospel, and new covenant of the grace of God, whose name is written in the book of life.

"But I will confess his name before my Father, and before his Angels".

To wit, in the day of judgment Jesus Christ will own him that overcometh, and acknowledge him before God his Father, and before all his holy angels: That he is one of the election of grace, whom God the Father gave unto his Son Jesus Christ, for whom Christ laid down his life; and hath promised him eternal life. {Tit 1:2} In hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lie, promised before the world began. {1Jo 2:25} And this is the promise which he hath promised us, even eternal life; {also 1Jo 5:11,12} And this is the Record, that is to say, The Holy Scripture is the book of record that God hath given us, (namely, who believe) eternal Life; and this life is in his Son, and that he that hath the Son hath this life.

See the exposition upon Re 1:3 2:7

See KNOLLYS "Re 1:3"

See KNOLLYS "Re 2:7"

"And to the Angel of the Church in Philadelphia, write," etc.

Philadelphia (that is brotherly love, so named by one Attalus Philadelphias) a was a City in Mysia, poor and mean, in comparison of some other Cities in Asia; and yet famous for one of the most pure and uncorrupted Churches in Asia. Smyrna and Philadelphia were the poorest and weakest among all the Churches in Gifts and other Externals, but they were the most rich and excellent in spirituals

The Titles which Christ here taketh to himself, are, First, Some Attributes of his Divine Nature, "he that is holy, he that is true;" and Secondly, Some Characters of his Kingly Power, and the Dignity of his Mediatorial Kingdom:

"He that is holy"

Christ is the holy one, that is, the holy God, {Isa 43:14,15} I am the Lord your holy ONE, the Creator of Israel, your King: And Christ is the holy one, that is, the holy Child or Son of God. {Ac 4:27,30 Mr 1:24} The holy ONE of God. {Ac 3:14} The holy ONE and the just ONE, for Christ was holy, and without Sin.

"He that is true"

Christ is the true God, {Joh 1:1} very God, {1Jo 5:20} who is God blessed for ever, {Ro 9:5} the only wise God ou