Revelation 1:5
And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,
Revelation 1:5
This verse zooms in on Jesus Christ, describing him as the faithful witness, firstborn from the dead, and ruler of earthly kings. The faithful witness underscores Jesus’ reliable testimony about God and his own life and ministry. “Firstborn of the dead” proclaims his supremacy over death and his authority as the inaugurator of a new creation. “Prince of the kings of the earth” signals his sovereign authority over political powers, assuring believers that even rulers are subject to Christ. The verse then acknowledges Christ’s love and his cleansing work—“loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.” This includes the atonement—Jesus’ death providing purification and reconciliation. The verse prepares readers to anchor faith in Christ’s saving work, who is the central figure of Revelation’s message.
The verse weaves together Christology and soteriology: Jesus is the faithful witness, the victor over death, and sovereign over rulers, who saves people through his blood. The language of love and cleansing highlights the believer’s identity as forgiven and purified, enabling worship and faithful witness under pressure.
Center your life on Jesus’ lordship. In decisions about politics, power, and public life, remember Christ’s ultimate authority. Rest in the cleansing power of his blood when dealing with guilt or shame. Let the church’s mission be shaped by Jesus’ example of faithful witness and royal authority, serving with steadfast love even when confronted with opposition. Practice regular confession and gratitude for forgiveness, living as a people who belong to the crucified and risen Christ.
Cross-References: Colossians 1:15–20; Hebrews 12:1–2; Romans 8:1–2; 1 Peter 2:9–10; Revelation 5:9–10