Understanding the Deity of Jesus in the Book of Revelation

The Book of Revelation, originally written in Aramaic or Hebrew, has a complex history that involves its Christianization. Over time, it was modified to incorporate Christian elements, including the character of Jesus. This fusion, while enriching the text, can also lead to confusion regarding the role and nature of Jesus within the narrative.

The Original Text and Its Christianization

The book was initially not a Christian document. Its original form was likely written in Hebrew, and it was later adapted to include Christian content, such as the character of Jesus. This adaptation involved adding chapters and modifying existing content to reflect Christianity. Despite these additions, the core essence of the original text, particularly in the first verse (Rev 1:1), remains clear: Jesus received these revelations from God.

Within the Christianized text, it is evident that Jesus and God are distinct entities, with one receiving revelations from the other. This is in contrast to the portrayal in the gospels, where Jesus is depicted as seated at the right hand of God (Heb 1:3). The confusion arises from the use of metaphors and titles, such as the "Lamb," which are explicitly attributed to Jesus in some sections of the book.

Jesus as the Alpha and Omega

The title "Alpha and Omega" is significant as it refers to the beginning and end, symbolizing complete authority and sovereignty. In Revelation 22:6-7, the crucial line reads: "These [things] saith (α?τ?? ? Αλφα? κα? ?ν) I [am] the First and the Last: I [am] the Living One, and was dead; and, behold, I [am] alive for evermore, Amen; and I have the keys of hell and of death." This declares that the one speaking is the ultimate authority, which is Jehovah God, the one who was, who is, and who is to come (Rev 1:8).

In Exodus 3:14, God is explicitly identified as the "I Am." Therefore, the mention of Alpha and Omega in the Book of Revelation is a divine declaration and not a statement about Jesus being God. The text maintains a distinction between Jesus, as the intermediary, and God, whom we worship.

Jesus in Relation to Angels and God

After his ascension, Jesus was given a high position and authority above the angels. Revelation 1:8 clearly states that the Alpha and Omega is God. Furthermore, in Hebrews 1:3, Jesus is described as the reflection of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, indicating that he is subordinate to God. This is consistent with the statement in Hebrews 1:3 that Jesus sat down at the right hand of God, signifying a subservient position rather than divinity.

Throughout the Bible, Jesus consistently refers to his Father as his God. For example, in John 20:17, Jesus says, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?" This further reinforces the idea that Jesus, as one in submission to the Father, worshipped God.

Jesus as King and Intermediary

Jesus is portrayed as the King of Israel and, through his work, the Repurchaser of his people (Isaiah 44:6). He is also identified as the one who will be with his people for eternity, as mentioned in Revelation 3:12. This verse refers to those who conquer (overcome sinful tendencies and attain victory over the world) being made into pillars in the temple of God, a strong symbol of eternal inclusion in God's presence.

It's crucial to note that Jesus’ role is not one of supremacy but of service. He is the one who sits at the right hand of God, not one who is God. This position signifies his rule and authority within the framework of God's plan, not divine nature.

In conclusion, while the Book of Revelation can be confusing due to its complex language and imagery, it is essential to recognize the distinctions made between God, Jesus, and angels. Jesus is not worshipped as God, but as a faithful and obedient servant of the one true God, through whom salvation and eternal life are granted.

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