Jesus Christ The Faithful Witness

Verse 4 From John to the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace be yours from God, who is, who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits in front of His throne,

The greeting is addressed to the seven churches which are in Asia. The seven churches were near the Mediterranean Sea. John's entire message was directed to these seven churches.

Ancient people regarded the number seven to represent the perfect number because it stands for completeness. The seven churches could also represent the characteristics of the church of Jesus Christ. Some believe the seven churches also represent the church age from the beginning of the church to the present age.

In verse 5 John makes the statement that the Revelation is also from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first-born Son who was raised from death, who is also the ruler of the kings of the earth. He loves us, and by his death he has freed us from our sins.