Revelation 1:8
Verse
Context
John Greets the Seven Churches
7Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen. 8“I am the Alpha and the Omega, ” says the Lord God, who is and was and is to come—the Almighty.
Sermons
Art Katz
Vance Havner
C.H. SpurgeonVance HavnerArt Katz
Walter MartinSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I am Alpha and Omega - I am from eternity to eternity. This mode of speech is borrowed from the Jews, who express the whole compass of things by א aleph and ת tau, the first and last letters of the Hebrew alphabet; but as St. John was writing in Greek, he accommodates the whole to the Greek alphabet, of which Α alpha and Ω omega are the first and last letters. With the rabbins מא ועד ת meeleph vead tau, "from aleph to tau," expressed the whole of a matter, from the beginning to the end. So in Yalcut Rubeni, fol. 17, 4: Adam transgressed the whole law from aleph to tau; i.e., from the beginning to the end. Ibid., fol. 48, 4: Abraham observed the law, from aleph to tau; i.e., he kept it entirely, from beginning to end. Ibid., fol. 128, 3: When the holy blessed God pronounced a blessing on the Israelites, he did it from aleph to tau; i.e., he did it perfectly. The beginning and the ending - That is, as aleph or alpha is the beginning of the alphabet, so am I the author and cause of all things; as tau or omega is the end or last letter of the alphabet, so am I the end of all thinks, the destroyer as well as the establisher of all things. This clause is wanting in almost every MS. and version of importance. It appears to have been added first as an explanatory note, and in process of time crept into the text. Griesbach has left it out of the text. It is worthy of remark, that as the union of א aleph and ת tau in Hebrew make את eth, which the rabbins interpret of the first matter out of which all things were formed, (see on Gen 1:1 (note)); so the union of Α alpha and Ω omega, in Greek, makes the verb αω, I breathe, and may very properly, in such a symbolical book, point out Him in whom we live, and move, and have our being; for, having formed man out of the dust of the earth, he breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and he became a living soul; and it is by the inspiration or inbreathing of his Spirit that the souls of men are quickened, made alive from the dead, and fitted for life eternal. He adds also that he is the Almighty, the all-powerful framer of the universe, and the inspirer of men.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Greek, "I am the Alpha and the Omega." The first and last letters of the alphabet. God in Christ comprises all that goes between, as well as the first and last. the beginning and the ending--omitted in the oldest manuscripts, though found in Vulgate and Coptic. Transcribers probably inserted the clause from Rev 21:6. In Christ, Genesis, the Alpha of the Old Testament, and Revelation, the Omega of the New Testament, meet together: the last book presenting to us man and God reconciled in Paradise, as the first book presented man at the beginning innocent and in God's favor in Paradise. Accomplishing finally what I begin. Always the same; before the dragon, the beast, false prophet, and all foes. An anticipatory consolation to the saints under the coming trials of the Church. the Lord--The oldest manuscripts read "the Lord God." Almighty--Hebrew, "Shaddai," and "Jehovah Sabaoth," that is, "of hosts"; commanding all the hosts or powers in heaven and earth, so able to overcome all His Church's foes. It occurs often in Revelation, but nowhere else in the New Testament save Co2 6:18, a quotation from Isaiah.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I am Alpha and Omega,.... These are the words of Christ himself, appearing at once, and confirming what John had said of him, concerning his person, offices, and future coming: Alpha is the first letter, and Omega the last in the Greek alphabet, and signifies that Christ is the first and the last, as it is interpreted in Rev 1:11, and is a character often given to the divine Being in prophetic writings; see Isa 41:4; and is no small proof of the proper deity of Christ. Alpha is used by the Jews for the chief of persons or things, "Macmas and Mezonicha (names of places) are , "Alpha for fine flour"; that is, the best fine flour is there, they are the chief places for it: and again, "Tekoah is , "Alpha for oil", or the chief place for oil; the best oil was to be had there (s): so Christ, he is the Alpha, the chief as to his divine nature, being God over all, blessed for ever; and in his divine sonship, none, angels or men, are in such sense the Son of God as he is; and in all his offices, of prophet, priest, and King; he is the prophet, the great prophet of the church, never man spake like him, or taught as he did; he is the most excellent priest, that exceeds Aaron and all his sons, having an unchangeable priesthood; and he is the King of kings, and Lord of lords; he has the chief place in the church, he is the head of it, and has in all things the preeminence; he is the chief in honour and dignity, is at the right hand of God, and has a name above every name: he also in some sense may be said to be the Omega, the last and the lowest; as in his state of humiliation, he was not only made lower than the angels, but than man; he was despised and rejected of men, and scarcely reckoned a man, a worm, and no man; and he humbled himself, and became obedient to death, even the death of the cross. Moreover, these letters, Alpha and Omega, being the first and the last in the alphabet, may stand for the whole; and it seems to be a proverbial expression taken from the Jews, who use the phrase, from Aleph to Tau, for the whole of any thing, which two letters in the Hebrew alphabet stand in the same place as these; accordingly the Syriac version renders it Olaph and Tau; and the Arabic version Aleph and Ye. It is said in Eze 9:6, "begin at my sanctuary", "R. Joseph taught, do not read "my sanctuary", but "sanctified ones", these are the children of men who confirm "the whole law", , "from Aleph to Tau"; the same as from Alpha to Omega, or from one end to the other: and a little after, "says R. Levi, Tau is the end of the seal of the holy blessed God, for says R. Chanina, the seal of the holy blessed God is "truth": says R. Samuel bar Nachmani, these are the children of men who confirm the whole law "from Aleph to Tau" (t). So Christ, he is the Alpha and Omega, the first and last, the chief, the whole of things; as of the covenant of grace, he is the first and last of it, he is the Mediator, surety, and messenger of it, and the ratifier and confirmer of it, he is the covenant itself, all its blessings and promises are in him; he is the sum and substance of the Scriptures, both of the law and of the Gospel; he is the fulfilling end of the law, and he is the subject matter of the Gospel; he stands in the first verse in Genesis, and in the last of the Revelation; he is the Alpha and Omega, the first and last, the whole and all in the business of salvation, in the affair of justification before God, in the sanctification of his people, in their adoption, and eternal glorification; he stands first and last in the book of God's purposes and decrees, in the book of the covenant, in the book of the creatures, or creation, being the first cause, and last end of all things, in the book of Providence, and in the book of the Scriptures: likewise, as these two letters include all the rest, this phrase may be expressive of the perfection of Christ, who as God has the fulness of the Godhead, all the perfections of the divine nature in him; and, as man, is in all things made like unto his brethren; and, as Mediator, has all fulness of power, wisdom, grace, and righteousness in him, in whom all the saints are complete; and this may also denote his eternity, he having none before him, nor any after him; and which also is signified by some other following expressions: the beginning and the ending; the Alexandrian copy, the Complutensian edition, the Syriac and Ethiopic versions, leave out this; which seems to be explanative of the former clause, Alpha being the beginning of the alphabet, and Omega the ending of it; and properly belongs to Christ, who knows no beginning, nor will he have any end with respect to time, being from everlasting to everlasting; and agrees with him as the first cause of all things, both of the old and new creation, and the last end to which they are all referred, being made for his pleasure, honour, and glory: these things now saith the Lord; that is, the Lord Jesus Christ; the Alexandrian copy, the Complutensian edition, and the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Arabic versions, read, "the Lord God"; and the Ethiopic version only God: which is, and which was, and which is to come; who is God over all, "was" God from all eternity, and is to come as such; which he will show by: his omniscience and omnipotence, displayed in the judgment of the world: who "is" now a Saviour of all that come to God by him; "was" so under the Old Testament dispensation, being the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world; and "is to come", as such, and shall appear a second time unto salvation to them that look for him: particularly this phrase is expressive of the eternity of Christ, who is, was, and ever will be; and of his immutability, who is the same he was, and will be for ever the same he is, and was, unchangeable in his person, in his love, and in the virtue of his blood, righteousness, and sacrifice; he is the same today, yesterday, and for ever. This same phrase is used of God the Father in Rev 1:4; and is a further proof of the deity of Christ; and which is still more confirmed by the following character, the Almighty; as he appears to be, by creating all things but of nothing; by upholding all creatures in their beings; by the miracles he wrought on earth; by the resurrection of himself from the dead; by obtaining eternal redemption for his people; and by his having the care and government of them upon him, whom he keeps, upholds, bears, and carries to the end, through all their infirmities, afflictions, temptations, and trials, (s) Misn. Menachot, c. 8. sect. 1. 3. & Bartenora in ib. So Alpha penulatorum, "the chief of beggars", in Martial, l. 50. 2. Ep. 57. (t) T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 55. 1. & Avoda Zara, fol. 4. 1. Echa Rabbati, fol. 52. 1. Baal Hatturim in Deut. xxxiii. 21. & Raziel, fol. 9. & 12. & Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 70. 1, 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:8 I am is the name of God in the Old Testament (Exod 3:13-14; 6:2; Deut 6:4). Jesus applied this name to himself (cp. John 4:26). Alpha and Omega are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet; they signify that God’s actions are all-encompassing. God is fully in control.
Revelation 1:8
John Greets the Seven Churches
7Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen. 8“I am the Alpha and the Omega, ” says the Lord God, who is and was and is to come—the Almighty.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Making of an Apostle
By Art Katz3.7K1:11:54ApostleISA 46:10MAT 6:33ACT 9:1GAL 1:8GAL 1:15REV 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of crying out to God from the depths of our being rather than living superficially. He warns against receiving messages from men and encourages seeking what can only come from God. The speaker criticizes the reduction of faith to a formula and urges believers to express the grandeur of the gospel rather than cheaply expressing it. The sermon also highlights the need for believers to contend for the faith and not be influenced by the self-conscious spirituality of the present age.
The Lordship of Christ
By Vance Havner3.3K32:18Lordship Of ChristZEC 9:9MAT 14:16MRK 4:35JHN 6:66ACT 9:62CO 4:5REV 1:8In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the concept of the Lordship of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that while many people may claim to believe in Jesus as Lord, not all are truly willing to submit to his authority in their lives. The preacher highlights the importance of not just proclaiming Jesus as Lord with our lips, but also obeying him in our actions. He explains that salvation is free, but becoming a disciple of Jesus requires a total surrender of everything we have. The preacher references biblical passages such as 2 Corinthians 4:5, Mark 4:35-41, and Luke 14:25-33 to support his points.
His Name -- the Mighty God
By C.H. Spurgeon3.2K39:28PSA 90:2PSA 102:27ISA 9:6MAL 3:6MAT 6:33HEB 13:8REV 1:8In this sermon, preached by Charles Haddon Spurgeon in 1859, he emphasizes the divinity of Jesus Christ. Spurgeon highlights the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection, stating that if the divinity of Christ is not proven, then all the hope and joy believers have in his atoning blood is meaningless. He challenges his audience to examine their beliefs and confess their sins before casting their souls before the omnipotent Jesus. Spurgeon concludes by urging both Christians and sinners to put their trust in Jesus, emphasizing that he is the mighty God who can bear their burdens, forgive their sins, and provide deliverance.
Survival of Christianity
By Vance Havner2.5K28:31LUK 9:62JHN 3:1REV 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of one's relationship with Jesus Christ. He highlights that worldly possessions and achievements hold no value in God's eyes if one does not know Jesus. The preacher also criticizes the lack of dedication and commitment among Christians compared to athletes and musicians who give their all for their craft. He concludes by urging listeners to reflect on their priorities and ask themselves how they are aligning their lives with Jesus.
The Antiochal Church
By Art Katz2.5K1:19:56ApostolicMAT 13:9MRK 13:37JHN 9:4ROM 11:251CO 2:9EPH 1:17REV 1:8In this video, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not missing the mind of God in every occasion, especially when it comes to hearing the word of God. The speaker mentions that there have been extraordinary statements made recently that reveal how far God is going and the urgency of the times. The theme of the mystery of Israel and the church is central in these discussions, and the speaker encourages people to consult the inspirational tape library for more information. The speaker concludes by praying for the impact of God's word on the listeners, both those present and those who will hear the tape.
Jehovah Witnesses - Part 2
By Walter Martin2.2K27:38Jehovah WitnessesACT 17:312CO 13:14HEB 1:5REV 1:8REV 22:7REV 22:12REV 22:20In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the triple point of water, where water exists simultaneously as a solid, liquid, and gas. He uses this scientific phenomenon to illustrate the complexity and mystery of the Trinity in Christianity. The speaker emphasizes that while the Trinity may be difficult to fully comprehend, it is a fundamental belief in Christianity that there is one God who exists as three distinct persons: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He also argues that rational proof is not always necessary for belief, using examples like sitting on atoms and the nature of light. The speaker encourages the audience to accept the existence of God as revealed in the Bible, even if it cannot be fully understood or explained rationally.
(Depressed Disciples) Mormonisn and Jehovah Witnesses
By Willie Mullan2.2K1:09:35Jehovah WitnessesPSA 141:1MAT 6:33REV 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of accepting and not being upset by the things we cannot understand. He shares a story about a man who tried to challenge the teachings of the Bible but was ultimately proven wrong. The preacher then discusses the significance of baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He encourages the congregation to focus on the simplicity of the word and to seek contentment in their faith.
Prayer Matthew 6
By Leonard Ravenhill2.0K1:02:53Prayer LifeMAT 6:33LUK 24:27JHN 1:1JHN 20:31ROM 15:4JUD 1:3REV 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of contending for the faith once delivered to the saints, as mentioned in the book of Matthew, chapter six. He addresses the misconception that the Old Testament is not relevant today, which has caused upset among some people. The preacher highlights the significance of recognizing our spiritual poverty and need for God, even if we may have material wealth or social status. He references the book of Revelation to illustrate how a church that appeared rich and successful in the world's eyes was actually lacking spiritually.
High Doctrine
By C.H. Spurgeon1.9K43:32MAT 6:33ACT 20:24ROM 8:282CO 5:18EPH 2:8JAS 1:17REV 1:8The sermon transcript is a summary of the preaching of Reverend C.H. Spurgeon on the topic of salvation being of God's will and not man's free will. He emphasizes that all things, including every mercy and blessing, are entirely from God. The sermon highlights the dedication and sacrifice of missionaries who leave their comforts and face persecution to spread the gospel. Spurgeon concludes by stating that everything good in believers, including their ability to suffer for Christ, is a result of God's work in them.
A Shocking Christmas Message
By Shane Idleman1.9K06:30MAT 5:29LUK 13:3JHN 3:16JHN 5:14JHN 8:11JHN 8:24JHN 11:25JHN 14:6REV 1:8
This sermon emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance, highlighting Jesus' direct commands to 'go and sin no more' to individuals caught in sin. It challenges the misconception of Jesus as merely a passive, nice figure, emphasizing that He came to save us from our sins. The message stresses the importance of acknowledging Jesus as the Son of God and the sole path to salvation, contrasting the cultural reluctance to address sin's gravity with the essentiality of recognizing Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.
The Arm of the Lord - Part 8
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K39:11God's WorkMAT 28:18JHN 14:6COL 2:9HEB 1:1REV 1:8REV 21:6REV 22:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that Jesus provides a pattern and design for life, giving it meaning and explanation. He states that many people struggle to make sense of life and find it confusing and chaotic. However, when they come to Jesus, their lives become ordered and they begin to understand their purpose. The speaker also highlights that Jesus speaks to us through the life He gives us, which is a powerful communicator and solves our problems.
The Names of Christ by Mike Yeager - Part 1
By Michael H Yeager1.6K06:50ISA 9:6MAT 16:15JHN 10:11PHP 2:9COL 1:15REV 1:8
This sermon delves into the various names and attributes of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the significance of who He is in our lives. From being the Alpha and Omega to the Good Shepherd, each name reveals a different aspect of His character and role in our salvation. The exploration of over 400 names of Jesus showcases His divinity, power, and eternal nature, inviting us to reflect on our personal relationship with Him.
(Revelation) No Trumpets Sounding
By Willie Mullan1.5K1:00:43SilenceGEN 48:8GEN 48:15REV 1:1REV 1:8REV 1:12REV 1:15REV 10:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and authority of the Lord over all creation. He describes how the Lord has control over the land and sea, and how no angel can compare to Him. The preacher also mentions the significance of the number seven and its connection to the Lord's power in the midst of storms. He encourages the audience to hold onto their Bibles as a source of strength and assurance, despite the darkness and challenges of the world. The sermon concludes with a reference to the seventh angel and the unveiling of God's plans for the Earth.
The Great "I Am"
By Mariano Di Gangi1.3K32:47Character Of GodGEN 17:7EXO 3:1MAL 3:6MAT 6:33JHN 8:58HEB 13:8REV 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that God is knowable and desires to make himself known to us. He distinguishes between natural revelation, where God reveals himself through the world he has created, and supernatural revelation, where God reveals himself through his word. The speaker highlights the importance of having a proper understanding of God, as it impacts our worldview, ethics, and beliefs about life and death. He acknowledges that our knowledge of God is limited due to our finite nature, but asserts that God reveals himself in ways that we can trust. The sermon references the story of Moses and the burning bush in Exodus 3 as an example of God making himself known to humanity.
Absolutes - Part 1
By David Adams1.2K42:38AbsolutesThe Nature of TruthEXO 3:14PSA 102:25ISA 40:28MAT 11:28JHN 8:21JHN 8:58COL 1:17HEB 1:10JAS 1:17REV 1:8David Adams addresses the concept of absolutes in his sermon, emphasizing the importance of recognizing that truth is absolute despite contemporary beliefs that deny this notion. He highlights the significance of Jesus' declaration, 'Before Abraham was, I am,' as the ultimate absolute, affirming Christ's eternal existence and divine authority. Adams argues that while society may claim there are no absolutes, the very act of labeling something as a lie acknowledges an absolute truth. He encourages the congregation to understand the implications of believing in Jesus as the I AM, the changeless Lord of eternity, who remains the same throughout all ages.
Christmas - Jesus the Liberator
By Erlo Stegen1.1K45:14ISA 1:18JHN 4:24ROM 7:24ROM 8:11JN 4:1REV 1:8
This sermon delves into the significance of Jesus coming in the flesh, emphasizing the need for discernment amidst false prophets. It explores the confession of Jesus coming in the flesh as a key indicator of the Spirit of God, contrasting it with the Spirit of the Antichrist. The dual nature of Jesus as both God and man is highlighted, underscoring the preciousness of His divine blood and the transformative power it holds over sin and death.
Holl-08 De Dood en Opstanding Van Israël (The Death and Resurrection of Israel)
By Art Katz90548:18HollandMAT 6:33EPH 5:16HEB 9:271PE 4:7REV 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing the prophetic reality in our daily circumstances. He believes that God uses seemingly accidental experiences to convey specific messages to us. The speaker also mentions the need to pray for various individuals, including a doctor, a psychologist, and a bicycle maker. He shares a conversation he had with a man on a train, discussing the breakdowns of modern civilization. The speaker then encourages the listener to read Psalm 82 and 83, as he plans to speak on them in the future. He concludes by stating that the current crisis of violence in Israel is just the beginning and will not improve.
The Preeminence of Christ
By Erlo Stegen7461:28:54PRO 14:21MAT 22:39LUK 10:30JHN 19:17COL 1:17REV 1:8The video is a sermon transcript discussing the impact of Jesus' birth and death on the world. It emphasizes that the birth of Jesus has changed the world, while also highlighting the significance of his death. The speaker mentions a booklet written by the CFT branch in Pretoria, which summarizes the teachings of Dr. Kennedy on this matter. The sermon also touches on the connection between the Gospel and modern economic progress, stating that those involved in missions have experienced economic and educational advancement. Additionally, the speaker warns against prioritizing politics over Jesus Christ, emphasizing the eternal significance of Christ's preeminence.
Behold I Am Alive Evermore
By Bakht Singh7111:27:46ResurrectionREV 1:3REV 1:8REV 1:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the subject of the second coming of Jesus Christ as mentioned in the Holy Quran. The preacher highlights how this topic is repeatedly mentioned in the book of Revelation, with phrases like "which is to come" and "which is, and was, and which is to come." The main purpose of the book of Revelation is seen as preparing believers for the second coming of Jesus. The preacher emphasizes that this subject should not be approached merely as an academic exercise, but rather as a source of abundant joy and the secret to a triumphant life.
The God of the Bible - Part 2
By Richard Owen Roberts49640:23Character Of GodGEN 1:1GEN 21:33ISA 57:15JER 10:10DAN 4:3HAB 1:12COL 1:16HEB 1:2HEB 13:81JN 1:1REV 1:8REV 22:13In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the concept of time and its significance in our lives. He emphasizes that everything in the physical world, including our lives, has a beginning and an end, but God is eternal and not bound by time. The preacher quotes from Ecclesiastes chapter 3, highlighting the various seasons and purposes that exist under heaven. He also ponders on what God was doing before the creation of man and emphasizes that God's existence is from everlasting to everlasting. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the brevity of human life and the need to seek wisdom and mercy from God.
The First Word
By John Vissers25832:29Christian LifeMAT 6:33ACT 4:12ROM 10:9PHP 2:9COL 1:15REV 1:8In this sermon, the pastor begins by acknowledging the significance of first words in various aspects of life. He reflects on the importance of his first words as the new pastor of Knox Church. The pastor shares a personal experience of his childhood, where he was deeply impacted by the words that spoke about the Lordship of Jesus. He then addresses the expectations of the congregation, stating that he will not share his personal testimony or lay out a vision for the future of the church at this time. Instead, he assures the congregation that he will not give a theological lecture, despite his background in teaching theology.
Fearful in Praises
By G.W. North14323:45PraiseEXO 15:11PSA 99:3MAT 28:18LUK 24:49ACT 1:8ROM 8:15REV 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the true meaning of the baptism in the Spirit. He explains that it is not just about receiving power for service, but rather about entering into the heart of Christ and experiencing the love that burned in Jesus' heart on the cross. The preacher highlights the tremendous fire of God's judgments against sin and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. He also mentions the future judgment of God, where the earth and all living things will be incinerated, emphasizing the need to be baptized in the fire of Calvary.
Colossians 1
By Leonard Ravenhill621:03:48The Preeminence of ChristRedemption and ReconciliationColossiansJHN 1:10ROM 14:11COL 1:12HEB 1:2REV 1:8Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the centrality of Christ in all aspects of life and history, as illustrated in Colossians 1. He highlights that everything was created by Him and for Him, and that true redemption and reconciliation come through His blood. Ravenhill critiques the modern world's reliance on knowledge and power, contrasting it with the eternal significance of Christ's sacrifice and His role as the head of the church. He urges believers to recognize that Christianity is fundamentally about a personal relationship with Christ, who is the source of hope and glory. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of Christ's majesty and the importance of making Him the center of our lives.
He Is
By Michael Koulianos3320:48Identity of ChristJesusRelationship with JesusMAT 3:17JHN 10:9JHN 11:25JHN 14:6JHN 15:1ACT 5:302CO 9:15COL 3:4HEB 10:5REV 1:8Michael Koulianos passionately proclaims the multifaceted identity of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His roles as the suffering Savior, the great evangelist, and the living Word. He reflects on the profound significance of Christ's sacrifice and resurrection, urging the church to return to its first love and recognize Jesus as the ultimate source of life and truth. Koulianos highlights that Jesus is not only our mediator and offering but also the embodiment of God's love and the fulfillment of Scripture. He calls believers to embrace the reality of Christ's presence within them, encouraging a deeper relationship with the Lord who is both the way and the truth. Ultimately, he reminds the congregation that Jesus is the answer to every need and the foundation of their faith.
Jesus as the Alpha and Omega (Rev. 1:11; 22:13)
By Mike Bickle261:11:44Sovereignty Of GodTrust in God's PromisesPSA 29:10PSA 139:7ISA 40:28JHN 16:15PHP 1:6COL 1:162TH 2:8HEB 1:3REV 1:8REV 22:13Mike Bickle emphasizes the profound significance of Jesus being the Alpha and Omega, highlighting His sovereignty and eternal nature as the beginning and the end of all things. He explains that this title encapsulates God's absolute power, wisdom, and love, which should instill confidence in believers amidst trials and tribulations. Bickle urges the congregation to deeply reflect on this truth, as it is foundational to understanding God's character and His plans for humanity. He reassures that Jesus' sovereignty means He is in control of all events, and believers can trust in His promises for their lives. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a personal engagement with Jesus, encouraging the faithful to seek a deeper relationship with the Alpha and Omega.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I am Alpha and Omega - I am from eternity to eternity. This mode of speech is borrowed from the Jews, who express the whole compass of things by א aleph and ת tau, the first and last letters of the Hebrew alphabet; but as St. John was writing in Greek, he accommodates the whole to the Greek alphabet, of which Α alpha and Ω omega are the first and last letters. With the rabbins מא ועד ת meeleph vead tau, "from aleph to tau," expressed the whole of a matter, from the beginning to the end. So in Yalcut Rubeni, fol. 17, 4: Adam transgressed the whole law from aleph to tau; i.e., from the beginning to the end. Ibid., fol. 48, 4: Abraham observed the law, from aleph to tau; i.e., he kept it entirely, from beginning to end. Ibid., fol. 128, 3: When the holy blessed God pronounced a blessing on the Israelites, he did it from aleph to tau; i.e., he did it perfectly. The beginning and the ending - That is, as aleph or alpha is the beginning of the alphabet, so am I the author and cause of all things; as tau or omega is the end or last letter of the alphabet, so am I the end of all thinks, the destroyer as well as the establisher of all things. This clause is wanting in almost every MS. and version of importance. It appears to have been added first as an explanatory note, and in process of time crept into the text. Griesbach has left it out of the text. It is worthy of remark, that as the union of א aleph and ת tau in Hebrew make את eth, which the rabbins interpret of the first matter out of which all things were formed, (see on Gen 1:1 (note)); so the union of Α alpha and Ω omega, in Greek, makes the verb αω, I breathe, and may very properly, in such a symbolical book, point out Him in whom we live, and move, and have our being; for, having formed man out of the dust of the earth, he breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and he became a living soul; and it is by the inspiration or inbreathing of his Spirit that the souls of men are quickened, made alive from the dead, and fitted for life eternal. He adds also that he is the Almighty, the all-powerful framer of the universe, and the inspirer of men.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Greek, "I am the Alpha and the Omega." The first and last letters of the alphabet. God in Christ comprises all that goes between, as well as the first and last. the beginning and the ending--omitted in the oldest manuscripts, though found in Vulgate and Coptic. Transcribers probably inserted the clause from Rev 21:6. In Christ, Genesis, the Alpha of the Old Testament, and Revelation, the Omega of the New Testament, meet together: the last book presenting to us man and God reconciled in Paradise, as the first book presented man at the beginning innocent and in God's favor in Paradise. Accomplishing finally what I begin. Always the same; before the dragon, the beast, false prophet, and all foes. An anticipatory consolation to the saints under the coming trials of the Church. the Lord--The oldest manuscripts read "the Lord God." Almighty--Hebrew, "Shaddai," and "Jehovah Sabaoth," that is, "of hosts"; commanding all the hosts or powers in heaven and earth, so able to overcome all His Church's foes. It occurs often in Revelation, but nowhere else in the New Testament save Co2 6:18, a quotation from Isaiah.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I am Alpha and Omega,.... These are the words of Christ himself, appearing at once, and confirming what John had said of him, concerning his person, offices, and future coming: Alpha is the first letter, and Omega the last in the Greek alphabet, and signifies that Christ is the first and the last, as it is interpreted in Rev 1:11, and is a character often given to the divine Being in prophetic writings; see Isa 41:4; and is no small proof of the proper deity of Christ. Alpha is used by the Jews for the chief of persons or things, "Macmas and Mezonicha (names of places) are , "Alpha for fine flour"; that is, the best fine flour is there, they are the chief places for it: and again, "Tekoah is , "Alpha for oil", or the chief place for oil; the best oil was to be had there (s): so Christ, he is the Alpha, the chief as to his divine nature, being God over all, blessed for ever; and in his divine sonship, none, angels or men, are in such sense the Son of God as he is; and in all his offices, of prophet, priest, and King; he is the prophet, the great prophet of the church, never man spake like him, or taught as he did; he is the most excellent priest, that exceeds Aaron and all his sons, having an unchangeable priesthood; and he is the King of kings, and Lord of lords; he has the chief place in the church, he is the head of it, and has in all things the preeminence; he is the chief in honour and dignity, is at the right hand of God, and has a name above every name: he also in some sense may be said to be the Omega, the last and the lowest; as in his state of humiliation, he was not only made lower than the angels, but than man; he was despised and rejected of men, and scarcely reckoned a man, a worm, and no man; and he humbled himself, and became obedient to death, even the death of the cross. Moreover, these letters, Alpha and Omega, being the first and the last in the alphabet, may stand for the whole; and it seems to be a proverbial expression taken from the Jews, who use the phrase, from Aleph to Tau, for the whole of any thing, which two letters in the Hebrew alphabet stand in the same place as these; accordingly the Syriac version renders it Olaph and Tau; and the Arabic version Aleph and Ye. It is said in Eze 9:6, "begin at my sanctuary", "R. Joseph taught, do not read "my sanctuary", but "sanctified ones", these are the children of men who confirm "the whole law", , "from Aleph to Tau"; the same as from Alpha to Omega, or from one end to the other: and a little after, "says R. Levi, Tau is the end of the seal of the holy blessed God, for says R. Chanina, the seal of the holy blessed God is "truth": says R. Samuel bar Nachmani, these are the children of men who confirm the whole law "from Aleph to Tau" (t). So Christ, he is the Alpha and Omega, the first and last, the chief, the whole of things; as of the covenant of grace, he is the first and last of it, he is the Mediator, surety, and messenger of it, and the ratifier and confirmer of it, he is the covenant itself, all its blessings and promises are in him; he is the sum and substance of the Scriptures, both of the law and of the Gospel; he is the fulfilling end of the law, and he is the subject matter of the Gospel; he stands in the first verse in Genesis, and in the last of the Revelation; he is the Alpha and Omega, the first and last, the whole and all in the business of salvation, in the affair of justification before God, in the sanctification of his people, in their adoption, and eternal glorification; he stands first and last in the book of God's purposes and decrees, in the book of the covenant, in the book of the creatures, or creation, being the first cause, and last end of all things, in the book of Providence, and in the book of the Scriptures: likewise, as these two letters include all the rest, this phrase may be expressive of the perfection of Christ, who as God has the fulness of the Godhead, all the perfections of the divine nature in him; and, as man, is in all things made like unto his brethren; and, as Mediator, has all fulness of power, wisdom, grace, and righteousness in him, in whom all the saints are complete; and this may also denote his eternity, he having none before him, nor any after him; and which also is signified by some other following expressions: the beginning and the ending; the Alexandrian copy, the Complutensian edition, the Syriac and Ethiopic versions, leave out this; which seems to be explanative of the former clause, Alpha being the beginning of the alphabet, and Omega the ending of it; and properly belongs to Christ, who knows no beginning, nor will he have any end with respect to time, being from everlasting to everlasting; and agrees with him as the first cause of all things, both of the old and new creation, and the last end to which they are all referred, being made for his pleasure, honour, and glory: these things now saith the Lord; that is, the Lord Jesus Christ; the Alexandrian copy, the Complutensian edition, and the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Arabic versions, read, "the Lord God"; and the Ethiopic version only God: which is, and which was, and which is to come; who is God over all, "was" God from all eternity, and is to come as such; which he will show by: his omniscience and omnipotence, displayed in the judgment of the world: who "is" now a Saviour of all that come to God by him; "was" so under the Old Testament dispensation, being the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world; and "is to come", as such, and shall appear a second time unto salvation to them that look for him: particularly this phrase is expressive of the eternity of Christ, who is, was, and ever will be; and of his immutability, who is the same he was, and will be for ever the same he is, and was, unchangeable in his person, in his love, and in the virtue of his blood, righteousness, and sacrifice; he is the same today, yesterday, and for ever. This same phrase is used of God the Father in Rev 1:4; and is a further proof of the deity of Christ; and which is still more confirmed by the following character, the Almighty; as he appears to be, by creating all things but of nothing; by upholding all creatures in their beings; by the miracles he wrought on earth; by the resurrection of himself from the dead; by obtaining eternal redemption for his people; and by his having the care and government of them upon him, whom he keeps, upholds, bears, and carries to the end, through all their infirmities, afflictions, temptations, and trials, (s) Misn. Menachot, c. 8. sect. 1. 3. & Bartenora in ib. So Alpha penulatorum, "the chief of beggars", in Martial, l. 50. 2. Ep. 57. (t) T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 55. 1. & Avoda Zara, fol. 4. 1. Echa Rabbati, fol. 52. 1. Baal Hatturim in Deut. xxxiii. 21. & Raziel, fol. 9. & 12. & Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 70. 1, 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:8 I am is the name of God in the Old Testament (Exod 3:13-14; 6:2; Deut 6:4). Jesus applied this name to himself (cp. John 4:26). Alpha and Omega are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet; they signify that God’s actions are all-encompassing. God is fully in control.