Revelation 1:19

“Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter.”

Revelation 1:19 is a pivotal verse within the book of Revelation as it provides a framework for understanding the structure and contents of the entire book. Let’s break down the verse into three parts:

“Write the things which thou hast seen”:This refers to the visions and revelations that the apostle John had already experienced. In the preceding verses (Revelation 1:10-18), John describes his encounter with the glorified Jesus Christ on the island of Patmos. He is instructed to record what he has witnessed up to that point.

“And the things which are”:This phrase points to the present circumstances of the seven churches in Asia Minor to whom the book of Revelation is addressed. In Revelation chapters 2 and 3, John writes seven letters to these specific churches, detailing their strengths, weaknesses, and exhortations. These letters address both the historical context of the early Church and contain timeless principles applicable to believers throughout history.

“And the things which shall be hereafter”:This phrase signifies the future events that John is yet to see and record. The majority of the book of Revelation, starting from chapter 4 until the end, contains prophetic visions of the future, including the judgments of God, the rise and fall of world powers, the final battle between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ. These future events hold significance for both the early Christians and believers throughout the ages.

In summary, Revelation 1:19 establishes a framework for the book of Revelation, instructing John to record the past, present, and future. It encompasses what he has already witnessed, the present state of the churches, and the future events that will unfold. This verse sets the stage for the unveiling of God’s divine plan and the ultimate victory of Jesus Christ over evil.

It’s important to note that the book of Revelation contains vivid imagery, symbolism, and apocalyptic language. Interpreting the specific details and timelines can be challenging, and various interpretations exist. Therefore, it’s valuable to approach the book of Revelation with humility, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit and relying on other passages of Scripture to gain a comprehensive understanding of its message.