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Revelation 19:10
Verse
Context
The Marriage of the Lamb
9Then the angel told me to write, “Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.”10So I fell at his feet to worship him. But he told me, “Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who rely on the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I fell at his feet to worship him - Great as this angel was, St. John could not mistake him either for Jesus Christ, or for God the Father; nor was his prostration intended as an act of religious worship. It was merely an act of that sort of reverence which any Asiatic would pay to a superior. His mistake was, the considering that he was under obligation to the angel for the information which he had now received. This mistake the angel very properly corrects, showing him that it was from God alone this intelligence came, and that to him alone the praise was due. I am thy fellow servant - No higher in dignity than thyself; employed by the same God, on the same errand, and with the same testimony; and therefore not entitled to thy prostration: worship God - prostrate thyself to him, and to him give thanks. The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy - As this is a reason given by the angel why he should not worship him, the meaning must be this: I, who have received this spirit of prophecy, am not superior to thee who hast received the testimony of Christ, to preach him among the Gentiles; for the commission containing such a testimony is equal to the gift of the spirit of prophecy. Or, the spirit of prophecy is a general testimony concerning Jesus, for he is the scope and design of the whole Scripture; to him gave all the prophets witness. Take Jesus, his grace, Spirit, and religion out of the Bible, and it has neither scope, design, object, nor end.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
at--Greek, "before." John's intending to worship the angel here, as in Rev 22:8, on having revealed to him the glory of the new Jerusalem, is the involuntary impulse of adoring joy at so blessed a prospect. It forms a marked contrast to the sorrowful wonder with which he had looked on the Church in her apostasy as the harlot (Rev 17:6). It exemplifies the corrupt tendencies of our fallen nature that even John, an apostle, should have all but fallen into "voluntary humility and worshipping of angels," which Paul warns us against. and of thy brethren--that is, a fellow servant of thy brethren. have the testimony of Jesus--(See on Rev 12:17). the testimony of--that is, respecting Jesus. is the spirit of prophecy--is the result of the same spirit of prophecy in you as in myself. We angels, and you apostles, all alike have the testimony of (bear testimony concerning) Jesus by the operation of one and the same Spirit, who enables me to show you these revelations and enables you to record them: wherefore we are fellow servants, not I your lord to be worshipped by you. Compare Rev 22:9, "I am fellow servant of thee and of thy brethren the prophets"; whence the "FOR the testimony," &c., here, may be explained as giving the reason for his adding "and (fellow servant) of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus." I mean, of the prophets; "for it is of Jesus that thy brethren, the prophets, testify by the Spirit in them." A clear condemnation of Romish invocation of saints as if they were our superiors to be adored.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I fell at his feet to worship him,.... Being transported with the news he brought him of the marriage, or conversion of his countrymen the Jews, and struck with reverence and awe of the glory and majesty in which the angel appeared to him; and forgetting himself, that worship was only due to God, he behaved in this manner; which is not to be excused nor justified, as appears from the angel's words: and he said unto me, see thou do it not; the words are in the original very short and concise, and are spoken in an abrupt manner, and in great haste; as fearing he would be guilty of idolatry, before he could speak all his mind, and use the arguments that were necessary to dissuade from it: I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus; if this was one of the ministering spirits, he was a servant of the same Lord as John; and if he was a minister of the Gospel, he was still more literally a fellow servant of his, and of the apostles, and preachers of the Gospel; which is meant by the testimony of Jesus, that bearing testimony to the person, office, grace, obedience, sufferings, and death of Christ, and the glory following; and therefore being but a servant, and a servant in common with John and his brethren, was by no means to be worshipped; not the servant, but master; not the creature, but the Creator: worship God and him only, even God the Father, Son, and Spirit; not the Father to the exclusion of the Son, the firstborn, whom all the angels are called upon to worship; nor of the Spirit, who is equally joined with the Father and Son in baptism, a part of religious worship, and in other parts of it also; but this excludes all creatures, angels, and men, things animate or inanimate, and images of them; the worshipping of which will now be no more, or at least will be quickly at an end. For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy that is, the testimony of Jesus, or the Gospel which John and his brethren had, is the very spirit, life, and soul of the prophecy of this book; for as all the prophets bore witness to Christ, so does the Spirit of God in this; or the testimony which they had, and bore to Christ, was equal to the spirit of prophecy with which this angel was endowed; so that he and they were upon an equal foot; and he was no more a proper object of divine and religious adoration than they were.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
19:10 The angel issues a stern warning against misdirected worship (cp. 22:8-9).
Revelation 19:10
The Marriage of the Lamb
9Then the angel told me to write, “Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.”10So I fell at his feet to worship him. But he told me, “Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who rely on the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
K-536 Defining the Prophetic Call (1 of 2)
By Art Katz1.8K58:55Prophetic CallJER 23:10JHN 2:1ACT 13:11CO 13:9REV 19:10In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the miracle of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. He suggests that this miracle has a deeper meaning, pointing to the future and the last days. The speaker emphasizes the importance of obeying Jesus' words, as Mary advised, and highlights the role of prophets like Elijah and Jeremiah in warning Israel of impending judgments. He also reflects on the value of personal experiences in delivering messages, even when they may be embarrassing, and discusses the seriousness and requirements that God is now placing on the church.
01 New Wine in New Wineskins the Difference Between the Old and the New
By Zac Poonen1.6K59:17PSA 139:23EZK 36:22MAT 7:14JHN 14:15ROM 8:13GAL 6:16COL 1:18REV 19:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of hallowing God's name and living in a way that glorifies Him. It discusses the need for a new heart, filled with the Holy Spirit, to overcome sin and idolatry. The focus is on seeking a new covenant life, walking in God's commandments, and loathing one's own sinful ways. The goal is to have the church resemble the Garden of Eden, a testimony of God's holiness and power.
Testimony of Jesus - Present Testimony - Part I
By Stephen Kaung1.3K1:13:30TestimonyEXO 16:33PSA 119:2PSA 119:14ACT 2:42HEB 1:1REV 1:1REV 19:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of bearing witness and reporting the truth. They explain that in order for something to be considered a testimony, it must be seen and heard by the person giving the testimony. The speaker uses the example of a car accident to illustrate how people often shy away from being involved and reporting what they have witnessed. They also highlight the testimony of Jesus Christ and how he connects humanity with God and the angels. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the Lord to help close the gap in believers and enable them to be faithful witnesses.
The Three Prayers (Part 3)
By Ron Bailey1.2K45:27Prayer ExamplePRO 8:1PRO 8:12PRO 8:22JHN 17:5JHN 17:24REV 19:10REV 21:5In this sermon, the speaker begins by describing a scene of chickens and a rooster in a courtyard, which transitions to the sound of Frank Sinatra singing "Strangers in the Night." The speaker then moves on to discuss John chapter 17, specifically verse 5, which highlights the relationship between Jesus and God the Father. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus willingly gave up his close relationship with the Father so that humanity could be reconciled with God. The sermon concludes with a call to prayer and a reminder that God can make all things new.
The 1st Vision: The Testimony of Jesus
By Stephen Kaung1.1K1:06:04TestimonyREV 1:1REV 1:9REV 6:9REV 11:7REV 12:17REV 19:10REV 20:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the testimony of Jesus Christ as revealed in the book of Revelation. The speaker highlights that it is God's pleasure and duty to reveal his Son to us through the Holy Spirit. However, the speaker also points out that many people receive little of this revelation due to their lack of faithfulness. The theme of the book of Revelation is not just about future events, but rather the spirit of prophecy and the testimony of Jesus.
The Truth About Prophecy - New Testament - Part 3
By Zac Poonen9751:00:30JER 23:16MAT 7:15ACT 11:271CO 14:32PE 2:1REV 19:10REV 22:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of discerning true prophets from false prophets in both the Old and New Testaments. It highlights the characteristics of true prophets, such as edification, exhortation, and consolation, while warning against deceptive practices like directive prophecy and seeking personal gain. The message stresses the need to focus on Jesus, be faithful with money, guard the tongue, and maintain purity in thoughts and actions to avoid deception and false teachings.
Seeing Christ as Heir of All Things - Revelation
By Stephen Kaung9381:16:02ZEC 12:10MAT 6:33REV 1:1REV 19:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses how throughout history, whenever God entrusts his revelation to man, man quickly loses it. The book of Revelation is highlighted as the final revelation of Jesus Christ in relation to mankind. The speaker explains that mankind is divided into three groups: the Jews, the Greeks, and the Church of God. The book of Revelation is described as a book of prophecy, with many prophetic words on coming events, but the speaker emphasizes that the spirit of prophecy is the testimony of Jesus.
Is Jesus Your First Love
By R. Edward Miller64135:39JesusMAT 3:17MAT 12:18MRK 12:30JAS 2:10REV 19:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of putting God first in our lives and not allowing any idols to take His place. He shares a story about a young lady named Jackie who knew what God wanted her to do, but chose to go against His will and live in His permissive will instead. The preacher also highlights the example of Paul and Silas, who praised God even when they were imprisoned, showing the importance of praising God in all circumstances. The sermon concludes with the reminder that Jesus is to be exalted and glorified in our lives, and that we should align ourselves with His purposes and desires.
What Angels Long to See!
By Phillip Jensen61841:59GospelACT 2:17ROM 8:92TI 3:161PE 1:11REV 19:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses three verses from the book of Daniel that may seem strange at first but are actually important teachings of the Bible. The verses mention various subjects, including angels, spirits, and the universe. The speaker emphasizes the need to compare these verses with the rest of the Bible to fully understand their implications. The sermon concludes with a promise to explore eight far-reaching implications of these verses in future discussions.
Word & Spirit Conference, Session 2, Part 1
By David Ravenhill3446:34Prophetic MinistryChristian LifeUnity of Word and SpiritJOL 2:28MAT 22:29JHN 4:24ACT 2:171CO 12:1EPH 4:111TH 5:202TI 3:16HEB 4:12REV 19:10David Ravenhill emphasizes the essential unity of the Word and the Spirit in his sermon, highlighting the dangers of separating the two. He reflects on the historical divide between evangelicals and Pentecostals, urging a return to a balanced understanding that both the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit are vital for spiritual growth. Ravenhill shares personal experiences with prophetic words, illustrating their significance and the need for proper interpretation and application. He encourages the congregation to earnestly desire spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy, as a means of edification for the church. Ultimately, he calls for a fresh appreciation of both the Word of God and the Spirit of God, as they work together to fulfill God's purposes.
The Revelation of Jesus: Bridegroom, King, and Judge (Rev. 1)
By Mike Bickle1457:00The Majesty of JesusThe Role of the Church in End TimesDAN 7:13MAT 16:18MAT 28:18JHN 14:13ROM 8:37EPH 5:272PE 3:121JN 4:18REV 1:1REV 19:10Mike Bickle emphasizes the revelation of Jesus as the Bridegroom, King, and Judge in Revelation chapter 1, highlighting the importance of understanding His majesty to equip believers for the challenges ahead. He outlines 18 facets of Jesus' majesty that are essential for the church to prepare for His second coming and the end-time events. Bickle stresses that the church is not waiting for Jesus but is called to actively participate in the unfolding of God's action plan, which includes the Great Tribulation and the preparation of the bride. He encourages believers to embrace their role in this divine narrative, recognizing the significance of prayer and unity in hastening the coming of the Lord. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of Jesus' character and His plans for the world.
The Gift of Prophecy
By Brian Guerin346:06ProphecySpiritual GiftsZEC 4:7MAT 7:16ACT 2:17ROM 12:61CO 13:11CO 14:1EPH 4:111TH 5:201PE 4:10REV 19:10Brian Guerin emphasizes the significance of prophecy in the Christian life, encouraging believers to pursue a personal relationship with God and to be open to the gifts of the Spirit, particularly prophecy. He illustrates the importance of bearing fruit in one's life as a reflection of one's walk with the Lord, and he shares personal anecdotes to highlight the necessity of encouragement and edification within the church community. Guerin also addresses the misconceptions surrounding prophecy, advocating for a healthy approach that allows for growth and learning, while emphasizing that prophecy should be rooted in love and aimed at building up the church. He encourages the congregation to eagerly desire the gift of prophecy, assuring them that mistakes are part of the learning process, and ultimately, the goal is to glorify God and strengthen one another.
Talk Ye of All His Wondrous Works.
By F.B. Meyer1WorshipSharing God's Works1CH 16:9PSA 66:16PSA 77:12PSA 105:2PSA 145:5MAL 3:16LUK 24:32ACT 2:111PE 2:9REV 19:10F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of discussing God's wondrous works among Christians, noting that there is often a reluctance to speak about God in favor of other topics. He reflects on the biblical example from Malachi, where those who feared the Lord spoke often to one another, suggesting that a lack of conversation about God may stem from hearts filled with distractions. Meyer encourages believers to focus on God's past, present, and future works, as seen during Pentecost when the Spirit inspired the proclamation of God's wonders. He calls for a shift in conversation to reflect the abundance of God's goodness in our lives, fostering a deeper connection with Him and each other.
King of Kings and Lord of Lords
By Paris Reidhead1REV 19:10Paris Reidhead preaches a powerful sermon on Revelation 19:11-16, highlighting the majestic return of Jesus Christ as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering to Christ's sovereignty and submitting to His Word, as well as the inevitable judgment that will come upon those who reject Him. Reidhead urges the congregation to examine their hearts and ensure they have truly bowed before the Son of God, acknowledging Him as Lord and Savior.
The Chief Cornerstone
By G.W. North0The Role of Prophets in the ChurchThe Gift of ProphecyJER 1:5AMO 3:7ACT 2:171CO 12:281CO 14:1EPH 2:201TH 5:20HEB 1:12PE 1:21REV 19:10G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the gift of Prophecy within the Church, highlighting its esteemed position as second only to the apostles. He explains that the Church is built on the foundation of apostles and prophets, with Jesus Christ as the chief cornerstone. North points out that the title 'Prophet' is derived solely from the gift of Prophecy, underscoring its importance over other gifts. He illustrates this by referencing Elijah, who, despite performing miracles, was recognized primarily as a prophet. Ultimately, North encourages believers to seek the gift of Prophecy as the most valuable tool for communicating God's word.
The Spirit of Praise and Holiness
By Zac Poonen0Praise and HolinessSpiritual Warfare2CH 20:12PSA 23:1PSA 106:12JHN 19:11ROM 8:8HEB 2:12JAS 1:5REV 19:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the power of prayer and praise in spiritual warfare, using King Jehoshaphat's example from 2 Chronicles 20. When faced with overwhelming enemies, Jehoshaphat led Judah in fasting and prayer, acknowledging their weakness and placing their trust in God. His declaration, 'Our eyes are on Thee,' exemplifies the faith needed to invite God's intervention, which resulted in victory through praise. Poonen warns against the extremes of emotional praise without holiness and serious living without joy, urging believers to embody both praise and holiness as they follow Christ. Ultimately, he encourages a faith-filled praise that acknowledges God's sovereignty, even amidst trials.
Praising the Lord in Holy Attire
By Zac Poonen0PraiseHolinessPSA 30:12PSA 34:1PSA 100:4PSA 150:6ROM 8:8EPH 5:19COL 3:161TH 5:16HEB 2:12REV 19:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of praising the Lord in holy attire, highlighting that true praise, combined with holiness, drives away the enemy. He points out the extremes in the church: some believers praise loudly without living holy lives, while others live righteously but lack a spirit of praise. Poonen reminds us that Jesus exemplified both proclaiming the Father's name and singing His praises, and encourages believers to follow His example in worship. He warns against preaching for personal recognition and stresses that genuine praise is essential, as demonstrated by the one leper who returned to thank Jesus after healing. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a balance of holiness and joyful praise in the life of the church.
Rev. 19:10. the One Witness and the One Testimony
By Horatius Bonar0Unity of ScriptureTestimony Of JesusJHN 5:39JHN 14:6ROM 3:23EPH 2:82TI 3:16HEB 1:11PE 1:3REV 19:10REV 20:15REV 22:20Horatius Bonar emphasizes the singularity of the testimony of Jesus as the central theme of the Bible, highlighting that it is the unified message from one God, delivered through one messenger, and focused on one Savior. He illustrates that the testimony spans from creation to revelation, consistently portraying God's character, humanity's sinfulness, the singular way of salvation, and the hope of resurrection. Bonar warns against idolatry, urging believers to worship God alone and recognize the angelic messenger's role as a servant. The sermon culminates in the understanding that the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy, binding the entire scripture together in a cohesive narrative. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a recognition of the oneness of God's message throughout history.
Rev. 19:10. the Great Prophetic Theme
By Horatius Bonar0The Testimony of JesusThe Centrality of Christ in ScriptureLUK 24:27JHN 5:39HEB 1:1REV 19:10Horatius Bonar emphasizes that the central theme of all prophecy is Jesus Christ, asserting that the Holy Spirit inspires prophets to testify about Him. He explains that the Bible, history, Psalms, and prophecies all point to Jesus, who is the answer to humanity's deepest needs. Bonar highlights Jesus' dual role as both the subject of prophecy and the one who fulfills it through His work as Prophet, Priest, and King. He calls for believers to search the Scriptures for Jesus and to bear witness to His glory, especially in a world that often overlooks Him. Ultimately, Bonar urges the Church to boldly proclaim the testimony of Jesus as the spirit of prophecy.
Of the Creation of Angels.
By John Gill0Divine AssistanceCreation of AngelsGEN 2:1JOB 38:7PSA 104:5DAN 4:35MAT 26:53LUK 2:13LUK 24:4COL 1:16HEB 12:22REV 19:10John Gill discusses the creation of angels, emphasizing their significance as the chief of God's works in the heavens. He notes that while the creation of angels is not explicitly mentioned in Genesis, it is implied within the creation narrative, as they are part of the heavenly host created by God. Gill elaborates on the nature, qualities, and roles of angels, highlighting their holiness, wisdom, and power, as well as their ministerial functions towards God, Christ, and humanity. He concludes that angels, being created beings, should not be worshipped but valued for their divine roles and assistance in the lives of believers.
The Contrast Between the Old Dispensation and the New
By T. Austin-Sparks0Old vs New CovenantThe Role of the Holy SpiritACT 1:6ACT 13:27REV 19:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significant contrast between the Old and New Dispensations, illustrating how the Jewish rulers in Jerusalem failed to recognize the deeper meaning of the Scriptures, despite their familiarity with them. He argues that the coming of the Holy Spirit introduced a new understanding and application of God's Word, moving beyond mere verbal statements to the living voice of God. Sparks highlights that true spiritual insight requires the Holy Spirit's guidance, which reveals the divine implications of Scripture, ultimately pointing to Jesus Christ. He warns against the dangers of rigid adherence to tradition and the letter of the law, advocating for a dynamic relationship with the Spirit that fosters genuine spiritual growth and understanding. The sermon calls believers to yield to the Holy Spirit, ensuring that their inner lives align with God's eternal purpose.
The Gift of Prophecy
By Smith Wigglesworth0Discernment in the SpiritGift of ProphecyACT 2:17ROM 12:61CO 12:101CO 14:1EPH 4:111TH 5:20HEB 4:121JN 4:1REV 19:10REV 22:18Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the significance of the gift of prophecy in the church, highlighting its role in edification, exhortation, and comfort for believers. He warns against false prophecies that do not glorify Christ and encourages discernment through the Scriptures to differentiate between true and false voices. Wigglesworth stresses that true prophecy, inspired by the Holy Spirit, brings revelation and power, while also cautioning against pride and self-exaltation that can lead to deception. He calls for humility and the need for prophetic utterances to be judged within the community of believers, ensuring they align with God's truth. Ultimately, he encourages the church to seek the Spirit's guidance in prophecy to uplift and strengthen the body of Christ.
The Remnant Principle - 4
By Chip Brogden0DAN 3:17DAN 4:26DAN 5:22JHN 3:30EPH 1:10PHP 3:21COL 1:18HEB 12:6REV 19:10Chip Brogden preaches on the theme 'The heavens do rule' from Daniel 4:26b, highlighting the spiritual conflict faced by the Remnant in Babylon, where the enemy attacks but the Lord delivers, demonstrating the establishment of the Testimony through adversity. The Testimony is not just words but a life lived, overcoming by the word of the Testimony, showing Christ's preeminence over sin, self, and satan. The sermon emphasizes that Heaven governs Earth through the Remnant, with God refining and subduing all things to Christ's preeminence, even using the enemy to accomplish His purposes.
The Crisis of a Christless Christianity
By Chip Brogden0JHN 1:3JHN 3:30GAL 2:20EPH 1:3EPH 4:13COL 2:6REV 12:11REV 19:10Chip Brogden emphasizes the importance of living a Christian life in Christ, highlighting that Christianity is about a relationship with Jesus, not just religious teachings. He explains that spiritual growth involves decreasing self and increasing Christ, guarding against distractions that lead us away from Christ. Brogden challenges believers to focus on Christ in evangelism, ministry, fellowship, spirituality, and spiritual warfare, rather than getting caught up in religious activities or distractions. He calls for a restoration of Christ as the central focus of Christianity, urging believers to simplify their lives and return to their foundation in Christ.
The Testimony of Jesus Christ–a Mistaken Identity (Pt. 3)
By Allan Halton0JHN 5:19JHN 15:26JHN 16:92CO 3:18PHP 2:5HEB 1:1REV 1:1REV 19:10REV 22:8Allan Halton delves into the testimony of Jesus Christ as revealed in the book of Revelation, emphasizing how the Spirit of Christ enabled John to convict others of sin, leading to his exile on the isle of Patmos. The prophecy of The Revelation of Jesus Christ was given to John by God through an angel, who clarified that the testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of prophecy. John's encounters with the angelic messenger highlight the importance of discerning between heavenly angels and human messengers, ultimately pointing to the shining forth of Jesus Christ through those who bear His testimony.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I fell at his feet to worship him - Great as this angel was, St. John could not mistake him either for Jesus Christ, or for God the Father; nor was his prostration intended as an act of religious worship. It was merely an act of that sort of reverence which any Asiatic would pay to a superior. His mistake was, the considering that he was under obligation to the angel for the information which he had now received. This mistake the angel very properly corrects, showing him that it was from God alone this intelligence came, and that to him alone the praise was due. I am thy fellow servant - No higher in dignity than thyself; employed by the same God, on the same errand, and with the same testimony; and therefore not entitled to thy prostration: worship God - prostrate thyself to him, and to him give thanks. The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy - As this is a reason given by the angel why he should not worship him, the meaning must be this: I, who have received this spirit of prophecy, am not superior to thee who hast received the testimony of Christ, to preach him among the Gentiles; for the commission containing such a testimony is equal to the gift of the spirit of prophecy. Or, the spirit of prophecy is a general testimony concerning Jesus, for he is the scope and design of the whole Scripture; to him gave all the prophets witness. Take Jesus, his grace, Spirit, and religion out of the Bible, and it has neither scope, design, object, nor end.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
at--Greek, "before." John's intending to worship the angel here, as in Rev 22:8, on having revealed to him the glory of the new Jerusalem, is the involuntary impulse of adoring joy at so blessed a prospect. It forms a marked contrast to the sorrowful wonder with which he had looked on the Church in her apostasy as the harlot (Rev 17:6). It exemplifies the corrupt tendencies of our fallen nature that even John, an apostle, should have all but fallen into "voluntary humility and worshipping of angels," which Paul warns us against. and of thy brethren--that is, a fellow servant of thy brethren. have the testimony of Jesus--(See on Rev 12:17). the testimony of--that is, respecting Jesus. is the spirit of prophecy--is the result of the same spirit of prophecy in you as in myself. We angels, and you apostles, all alike have the testimony of (bear testimony concerning) Jesus by the operation of one and the same Spirit, who enables me to show you these revelations and enables you to record them: wherefore we are fellow servants, not I your lord to be worshipped by you. Compare Rev 22:9, "I am fellow servant of thee and of thy brethren the prophets"; whence the "FOR the testimony," &c., here, may be explained as giving the reason for his adding "and (fellow servant) of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus." I mean, of the prophets; "for it is of Jesus that thy brethren, the prophets, testify by the Spirit in them." A clear condemnation of Romish invocation of saints as if they were our superiors to be adored.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I fell at his feet to worship him,.... Being transported with the news he brought him of the marriage, or conversion of his countrymen the Jews, and struck with reverence and awe of the glory and majesty in which the angel appeared to him; and forgetting himself, that worship was only due to God, he behaved in this manner; which is not to be excused nor justified, as appears from the angel's words: and he said unto me, see thou do it not; the words are in the original very short and concise, and are spoken in an abrupt manner, and in great haste; as fearing he would be guilty of idolatry, before he could speak all his mind, and use the arguments that were necessary to dissuade from it: I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus; if this was one of the ministering spirits, he was a servant of the same Lord as John; and if he was a minister of the Gospel, he was still more literally a fellow servant of his, and of the apostles, and preachers of the Gospel; which is meant by the testimony of Jesus, that bearing testimony to the person, office, grace, obedience, sufferings, and death of Christ, and the glory following; and therefore being but a servant, and a servant in common with John and his brethren, was by no means to be worshipped; not the servant, but master; not the creature, but the Creator: worship God and him only, even God the Father, Son, and Spirit; not the Father to the exclusion of the Son, the firstborn, whom all the angels are called upon to worship; nor of the Spirit, who is equally joined with the Father and Son in baptism, a part of religious worship, and in other parts of it also; but this excludes all creatures, angels, and men, things animate or inanimate, and images of them; the worshipping of which will now be no more, or at least will be quickly at an end. For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy that is, the testimony of Jesus, or the Gospel which John and his brethren had, is the very spirit, life, and soul of the prophecy of this book; for as all the prophets bore witness to Christ, so does the Spirit of God in this; or the testimony which they had, and bore to Christ, was equal to the spirit of prophecy with which this angel was endowed; so that he and they were upon an equal foot; and he was no more a proper object of divine and religious adoration than they were.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
19:10 The angel issues a stern warning against misdirected worship (cp. 22:8-9).