Title [Rev 1:4-6] John's wish
John makes two wishes in the text. These wishes are the wishes, prayers, and fulfillment of all pious Christians.
1. I wished for grace and peace in the church (4-5 phases).
Jesus Christ, the Son of God, played three important roles.
① You were a faithful witness. He became incarnate, died on the cross, was resurrected and testified of heaven until he ascended into heaven, testified of God's love, and testified of the way of salvation. There can be no more convincing evidence than that of Jesus.
② He was the first born from the dead. In other words, he became the first fruits of the resurrection, giving hope to all the saints who died in the Lord and opening the way of resurrection. The resurrection is the only hope for all Christians. We have gained confidence in the resurrection because of the resurrection Jesus showed us, and we are putting more effort into the work of the Lord.
③He became the head of the kings of the earth. Christ is the ruler of all authorities. (Philippians 2:9-10) Even the Roman emperors who persecute the church are giving comfort, encouragement, and hope to the persecuted saints by revealing that they are under the rule of Jesus Christ. In fact, Jesus Christ is the King of kings. We need to know that all the authorities on earth are under the rule of Jesus. Therefore, we must pray to God for those who rule the country.
2. I wished for the glory and power of the Lord forever and ever.