The Plumb Line Press – Episode 2 Companion Blog: The Greeting of Glory
Segment 1: What We Just Read
“John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come…” (Revelation 1:4–8)
This passage is the heavenly salutation—it’s not fluff and formalities. This isn’t the “Dear Friends” you get in a Christmas card. This is the thunder of eternity packaged in a greeting.
John greets the churches in Asia with words straight from the throne:
– Grace and peace — not from himself, but from the One who always was, who is now, and who is coming soon.
– The seven spirits—a symbol of God’s complete, all-seeing presence (see Isaiah 11:2).
– Jesus Christ—faithful witness, firstborn of the dead, ruler of the kings of the earth.
This is a Trinitarian introduction drenched in sovereignty. And it should stop us in our tracks.
Companion Blog: Revelation 1:4-8 The Greeting of Glory
Segment 2: Symbols and Meaning
– Seven Churches: Literal churches in Asia Minor, but also representative of the complete Church—including us.
– Who is, who was, who is to come: A declaration of God’s eternal nature. Past. Present. Future. He does not change.
– Seven Spirits: Not seven different spirits, but the fullness of the Holy Spirit.
– Faithful witness: Jesus tells the truth even when it costs everything. He testifies not just of facts, but of who God is.
– Firstborn from the dead: He leads the way into resurrection life.
– Ruler of kings: Let this hit—He doesn’t just reign in heaven. He reigns over every government on earth.
Segment 3: Connection
Why does this matter to us today?
Because we live like we’re at the mercy of politicians, bosses, bank accounts, or bad luck. But Revelation 1:4–8 reminds us who’s really in charge.
This greeting is not just a hello—it’s a war cry and a lullaby all at once. It says:
“You are seen.
You are held.
You are ruled by the only One worthy of ruling.”
John doesn’t start by warning or condemning—he starts by rooting us in God’s truth and identity.
Before we are corrected, we are comforted.
Segment 4: Reflection
Ask yourself (and listeners reflect):
1. Who have I crowned as king in my life that doesn’t deserve the throne?
2. Do I live like Jesus is ruler of the kings of the earth—or just a religious figure?
3. Where do I need to receive grace and peace right now?
4. What would it look like if I believed that God is “who was, and is, and is to come”?
