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Revelation 22:16
Verse
Context
Jesus Is Coming
15But outside are the dogs, the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.16“I, Jesus, have sent My angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the bright Morning Star.”
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I Jesus - The Maker, the Redeemer, and Judge of all men. Have sent mine angel - An especial messenger from heaven. I am the root and the offspring of David - Christ is the root of David as to his Divine nature; for from that all the human race sprang, for he is the Creator of all things, and without him was nothing made which is made. And he is the offspring of David as to his human nature; for that he took of the stock of David, becoming thereby heir to the Jewish throne, and the only heir which then existed; and it is remarkable that the whole regal family terminated in Christ: and as He liveth for ever, he is the alone true David and everlasting King. The bright and morning star - I am splendor and glory to my kingdom; as the morning star ushers in the sun, so shall I usher in the unclouded and eternal glories of the everlasting kingdom.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
mine angel--for Jesus is Lord of the angels. unto you--ministers and people in the seven representative churches, and, through you, to testify to Christians of all times and places. root . . . offspring of David--appropriate title here where assuring His Church of "the sure mercies of David," secured to Israel first, and through Israel to the Gentiles. Root of David, as being Jehovah; the offspring of David as man. David's Lord, yet David's son (Mat 22:42-45). the morning star--that ushered in the day of grace in the beginning of this dispensation and that shall usher in the everlasting day of glory at its close.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I Jesus have sent mine angel,.... As John, the writer of this book, sets down his own name, who was an eye and ear witness of the things contained in it, that they might be more surely believed, Rev 22:8 so Christ, the author of it, puts his name Jesus to it, to engage the greater attention to hear and read, and keep the words of it, as well as to make it plain and manifest, who is the person speaking of his coming, Rev 22:7 and who that has any value for Jesus the Saviour, but will give credit, and pay a regard to this revelation of his, which he sent by his angel, one of his ministering spirits, made by him, and under his command, he being the Creator, Lord, and head of angels: this expresses the dignity of his person, and is no inconsiderable proof of his deity: and this was done, in order to testify, to bear witness to the truth of the things contained in it; to signify and show them, to set them forth in emblems and visions: unto you these things in the churches; to the servants of the Lord, Rev 22:6 to John, and by him to others, to the pastors of the seven churches, who were "over" the churches, as it may be rendered, and to the members of the churches, to all that were in them; for the Alexandrian copy, the Vulgate Latin and Arabic versions read "in"; the Syriac version renders it, "before the churches". What John saw he wrote in a book, and sent it to these churches, Rev 1:11. The words may be rendered, "concerning the churches"; and then the sense is, that the angel was sent to show to John, and by him to others, even to all the saints in all ages, the things relating to the church of Christ, in the several periods of time, represented in succession by the seven churches of Asia. Christ gives a further account of himself, for the greater confirmation of the faith of his people, in the certain accomplishment of the things herein written, by saying, I am the root and the offspring of David. The former of these is mentioned in the note; see Gill on Rev 5:5; and the meaning of it is, either that Christ, as God, is David's Lord and head, from whom he had his being, both in a temporal and spiritual sense, and by whom he was supported and sustained; or that, as man, he sprung from the root of David, or descended from him; and so it falls in with the latter, which may be explanative of it, "the offspring of David"; that is, the soft of David, according to the flesh, a frequent name of the Messiah; See Gill on Mat 1:1. God promised that the Messiah should be of the seed of David, and according to his promise he raised up unto Israel of his seed, a Saviour Jesus, the same person here speaking, Act 13:23 who adds, and the bright and morning star; Christ is compared to a "star", as in Num 24:17 for its light, the light of nature, and of grace, and of the new Jerusalem state being from him; and for its glory, his glory being the glory of the only begotten of the Father, and he having a glory, as Mediator, which his saints will ever behold, and be delighted with; and for its influence, all the blessings of grace, life, and righteousness, being from him; and to a "bright" star, because he is the brightness of his Father's glory, and so splendid, shining, and illustrious, that he is light itself, and in him is no darkness at all; and to a bright "morning" star, which shows the night is going off and the day is coming on, and is the phosphorus, or bringer of light; as Christ by his first coming, who was then the dayspring from on high, put an end to the night of Jewish darkness, and sprung the great Gospel day, so often spoken of by the prophets, and brought life and immortality to light by the Gospel, and showed the way to eternal life by himself; so by his second coming, to which this character refers, he will put an end to the night of antichristian darkness, Pagan, Papal, and Mahometan; so that there shall be no more night, and shall make an everlasting day, and bring such light into the holy city, that it shall need no candle, nor light of the sun or moon. The dawn of light at the Reformation was a presage of this, Rev 2:28 called there the morning star. With great propriety and pertinence are these titles here assumed by Christ, as "the root and offspring of David", or David's son, when he was about to sit on the throne of his father David, and possess his kingdom in the most visible and glorious manner; and "the bright and morning star", when he was going to usher in such light into the new Jerusalem, as would make all other light unnecessary. Aijeleth Shahar, in the title of Psa 22:1 which is a psalm that belongs to the Messiah, is, by some Jewish writers (l), interpreted, , "the morning star", the title of Christ here. (l) Apud Kimchi in loc.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:16 I am both the source of David and the heir to his throne: Jesus validates the message of Revelation (cp. John 21:24) by swearing that he is simultaneously the source of David (see Rev 5:5; Isa 11:10) and David’s heir (see Ezek 37:23-24; Rom 1:3). • The morning star was a name for the Messiah (see Num 24:17; 2 Pet 1:19; cp. Luke 1:78-79).
Revelation 22:16
Jesus Is Coming
15But outside are the dogs, the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.16“I, Jesus, have sent My angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the bright Morning Star.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Christ in You the Hope of Glory - Version 1
By A.W. Tozer4.0K16:21Hope Of GloryPSA 18:2ISA 2:2MAL 4:2JHN 1:29COL 1:271PE 1:10REV 22:16In this sermon, the preacher explores the identity and significance of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that the answer to who Jesus is and why He holds such a high position can be understood by anyone with a humble heart. The preacher refers to various biblical references, such as the sun, stars, mountains, and rock, to symbolize Jesus' role as the healer, the morning star, the great mountain, and the rock of salvation. He explains that Jesus is the fulfillment of God's promises and the mystery of godliness. The preacher also delves into the concept of the Trinity, highlighting the eternal nature of the Father and the Son, and how Jesus, being both fully God and fully human, could assume the created nature.
Winning God's Approval - Part 6
By Zac Poonen2.1K51:26Approval1SA 16:6ISA 49:23ISA 64:4MAT 1:1REV 22:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that God is in control of every aspect of our lives, including our relationships, jobs, and homes. He argues that if God, who runs the universe, cannot provide us with what we need, then He is not the God of the Bible. The speaker uses the example of David and Saul to illustrate the importance of not taking matters into our own hands and seeking revenge. He also highlights the need for humility and surrendering to God's will, acknowledging that even if we are at fault, God can redeem us and work things out for our good.
(Revelation) the Scene in Heaven
By Willie Mullan1.6K1:12:33Throne Of GodMAT 6:331CO 9:92TI 4:7HEB 12:1REV 4:2REV 5:5REV 7:14REV 21:23REV 22:12REV 22:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of working diligently and being fully committed to serving God. He refers to the six wings of the heavenly creatures mentioned in Isaiah chapter six, highlighting their swiftness and completeness. The speaker emphasizes the need to have the characteristics of these creatures, such as being bold like a lion and being diligent like a man. He also mentions the transcendent nature of God's throne and how studying the book of Revelation can bring new understanding and blessings.
Wabanna 1966: Title Unknown 3
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K51:01ConferencePSA 51:1MAT 1:1EPH 1:7EPH 1:18REV 22:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the profound tragedy of Jesus' cry on the cross and the forsakenness he experienced. The sermon highlights the depth of human sorrow and the eternal significance of the cross. The preacher also discusses the connection between the riches of God's grace and the representation of grace in Solomon. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a renewed focus on the cross and a deeper understanding of the grace demonstrated through Jesus' sacrifice.
Fix Your Eyes on the Star - Part 1
By Erlo Stegen1.3K00:00Birth Of JesusEZK 3:18MAT 2:10MAT 16:26LUK 2:18LUK 9:62ACT 20:26REV 22:16In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a captain who passed away while urging his crew to keep their eyes on a star. The preacher uses this story as a metaphor for the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of staying focused on Jesus Christ. He highlights the tragic reality of many people losing their way because they take their eyes off the star, leading to their spiritual downfall. The preacher also warns against the dangers of prioritizing worldly pursuits over following God's will, using examples of parents forsaking the Gospel for the sake of their children and a young man who rejected God's call for the pursuit of a degree. The sermon emphasizes the need to remain faithful to Christ and not make the mistake of taking our eyes off Him.
(Timeless Doctrines) Revelation's Timeless Doctrines - Part 4
By Denny Kenaston1.3K1:20:38DoctrineEZK 9:4MAT 6:33REV 22:7REV 22:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preparing oneself to face persecution and potential martyrdom for the sake of their faith in God. He urges the audience to cleanse their hearts from sin and be filled with the power of God. The speaker highlights the need to love and serve God wholeheartedly every day, not just in times of crisis. He encourages the audience to change their lifestyle if necessary to prioritize their relationship with God. The sermon concludes with a reminder that there is no other God beside the Lord, and that seeking Him with all one's heart and strength is the best preparation for whatever challenges may come.
Purifying Effect of Prophecy
By Carl Armerding1.2K37:00ProphecyMAT 6:33REV 22:7REV 22:10REV 22:16In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the blessings of having a family and grandchildren and the joy of introducing them to the Lord Jesus. He emphasizes the practicality of confessing one's sins to God and the impact it can have on one's life. The announcement of the coming of the Lord inspires fresh energy and a desire to invite those who are thirsty for spiritual fulfillment. The speaker also discusses the concept of rewards in Christianity and how it is legitimate to think about the rewards that God will give according to one's work.
Revelation 12
By Edgar F. Parkyns1.1K1:01:082PE 3:13REV 22:16REV 22:20In this sermon, the speaker explores the identity of a woman mentioned in Revelation chapter 12. Through careful analysis of the text, it is revealed that the woman is a mother with many children. These children are described as those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding this prophecy as it is due to begin fulfillment soon and points to the return of Jesus as the ultimate goal.
Vision of Peter
By Stephen Kaung8241:19:17EXO 25:31MAT 16:16MAT 17:1JHN 1:35REV 1:9REV 21:5REV 22:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a heavenly vision. He refers to himself as the first and the last, the one who leads the race to be whole and the life forevermore honored. He mentions having the key at the end of this world and describes a scene he has seen, involving seven stars in his right hand and seven golden lanterns falling out of seven cities. The preacher also discusses the visions given to Peter, Paul, and John, highlighting that they are all part of the same heavenly vision.
How Righteousness Works Out
By Robert B. Thompson6291:11:03ISA 66:7ROM 6:17GAL 4:19COL 1:27HEB 8:7REV 10:7REV 12:1REV 22:16In this sermon, the preacher criticizes the belief that salvation is solely based on faith in a sovereign and unconditional Christ. He argues that this belief is not scriptural and does not align with reality. The preacher emphasizes the importance of righteousness and obedience to God's teachings in the process of salvation. He warns against relying solely on God's forgiveness without actively striving to live a righteous life. The sermon also touches on the concept of virtual reality and its potential negative impact on society.
(Pdf Book) From Ridicule to Respect
By Sister Joela54800:00Church and Israel RelationsEbooksJewish Identity of JesusRUT 1:16MAT 5:10MAT 10:23MAT 23:39MAT 24:9LUK 22:70LUK 23:3JHN 18:31JHN 18:37REV 22:16Sister Joela emphasizes the need for the Church to acknowledge and respect Jesus' Jewish identity, moving from a history of ridicule to one of reverence. She highlights the significance of Jesus' trial under Pontius Pilate, where political expediency led to His condemnation, and calls for Christians to embrace their Jewish roots and stand against historical persecution. Joela urges believers to actively participate in restoring the relationship between Christians and Jews, recognizing Jesus as both the Son of God and the King of the Jews. She concludes with a call to prepare for Jesus' return, emphasizing the importance of humility and service in this mission.
Seventh Trumpet: Beginning the Second Coming Procession
By Mike Bickle2154:54The Bride of ChristIntercessory WorshipREV 22:12REV 22:16Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of the Seventh Trumpet in Revelation, highlighting the call for the church to embrace its identity as the Bride of Christ and to engage in corporate intercessory worship. He explains that the Holy Spirit will empower the church to cry out for Jesus' return, establishing a partnership where God responds to the prayers of His people. Bickle stresses the importance of teaching the next generation about both the intimacy of being the Bride and the urgency of the end times, as these truths will awaken a spirit of prayer and intercession. He encourages believers to understand the prophetic nature of their calling and to prepare for the coming of the Lord through worship and prayer.
Overview of the Book of Revelation
By Mike Bickle1759:33The Day of the LordEnd TimesJOL 2:11MAT 24:21REV 1:1REV 6:17REV 12:11REV 17:14REV 19:11REV 21:1REV 22:16Mike Bickle provides an overview of the Book of Revelation, emphasizing the dual nature of the 'Day of the Lord' as both great and terrible. He explains that only those in God's favor can endure the coming tribulations, which will be marked by severe judgments and the rise of the Antichrist. Bickle highlights the importance of understanding the straightforward symbols and chronological structure of Revelation, assuring that the book is meant to be comprehensible to all believers. He encourages the church to prepare for the greatest revival and the challenges of the end times, reminding them of God's protection and the ultimate victory of Christ.
"A Man in Christ"
By T. Austin-Sparks0Individuality in ChristHuman DignityPSA 139:14DAN 9:2MAT 7:291CO 12:172CO 10:12CO 12:2HEB 4:15HEB 5:8REV 1:9REV 22:16T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of being 'a man in Christ,' highlighting the dignity and individuality of humanity as conceived by God. He addresses the balance between recognizing man's total depravity and the inherent worth of being created in God's image. Sparks clarifies that the cross does not annihilate our individuality but rather transforms it, allowing us to function uniquely within the body of Christ. He stresses that God's work is performed through individuals, not merely through their roles, and that true spiritual authority comes from personal experience with God. Ultimately, God's primary concern is the development of our character as men and women in Christ, rather than our titles or functions.
The Morning Star and the Sun of Righteousness
By Harry Ironside0Hope in ChristThe Second ComingREV 22:16Harry Ironside emphasizes the contrast between the Old and New Testaments, highlighting that while the Old Testament ends with a curse, the New Testament concludes with the grace of Jesus Christ. He explains that Jesus, referred to as the Bright and Morning Star, signifies hope and the promise of His return, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in faith despite the darkness of the world. Ironside also warns against adding to or taking away from Scripture, stressing the importance of adhering to God's Word. The sermon concludes with a call for believers to eagerly await the return of Christ, affirming that those who thirst for Him will find true satisfaction in His presence. Ultimately, Ironside's message is one of hope, urging the Church to be ready for the imminent return of the Lord.
The Appearance of Christ in Human Nature - Part 1
By John Gill0Salvation and RedemptionThe Light of ChristGEN 3:152SA 23:4ISA 27:4MAL 4:2MAT 1:23LUK 1:78JHN 8:12ACT 8:8COL 1:23REV 22:16John Gill preaches about the appearance of Christ in human nature, comparing it to the light of the morning when the sun rises, emphasizing that His coming dispels darkness and brings joy and hope to humanity. He explains that Christ's arrival was foretold and serves as a beacon of salvation, illuminating the path for lost sinners and fulfilling prophecies that reveal His nature and mission. Gill highlights that this light is not only for the Jewish people but also for the Gentiles, signifying the universal reach of Christ's gospel. The sermon underscores the righteousness of Christ's rule and the peace that comes with His presence, marking the end of the stormy dispensation of the law. Ultimately, Gill points to the transformative power of Christ as the Sun of righteousness, bringing healing and light to all who believe.
The Fear of the Lord
By H.J. Vine0PRO 8:13MAL 4:2MAT 3:16ACT 9:311CO 1:29EPH 5:332TI 2:22HEB 5:7REV 22:16H.J. Vine preaches on the importance of being in the fear of the Lord throughout the day, emphasizing the reverent trustfulness and hatred of evil that comes with it. The presence of the Lord brings joy and reality to those who maintain this fear. By walking in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Ghost, true prosperity and unity are experienced, as seen in the early assemblies in the Acts.
David as a Youth (1 Samuel 16, 17)
By A.W. Pink0Divine ElectionFaithfulness in Service1SA 16:1PSA 132:1ISA 11:1JER 23:5MAT 25:211CO 1:27TIT 1:1REV 22:16A.W. Pink emphasizes the significance of David's youth in God's redemptive plan, illustrating how David was chosen by God as a king despite being the least likely candidate. This selection highlights God's preference for the humble and the overlooked, as seen in David's shepherding role and his faith in God when facing challenges like Goliath. Pink draws parallels between David's life and the coming of Christ, noting that David serves as a type of the Messiah, embodying qualities that reflect God's heart. The sermon encourages believers to recognize God's sovereign grace and the importance of faithfulness in their own lives, regardless of their circumstances. Ultimately, David's story is a testament to God's ability to use the seemingly insignificant for His glorious purposes.
Christ Enthroned Within
By John Hames0GAL 1:16COL 1:27HEB 12:12PE 1:19REV 3:20REV 22:16John Hames preaches on the profound experience of having Christ enthroned within the human heart, emphasizing the mystery of Christ formed within believers as the hope of glory. He delves into the transformation that occurs when Christ is revealed in the innermost being, leading to purity, victory over temptations, and a sense of indescribable sweetness in Christ. Hames highlights the significance of Christ reigning within, bringing constant victory over sin and making the journey towards eternity a glorious and triumphant one.
Recover Us Again
By H.J. Vine0PSA 22:29PSA 85:6ISA 57:15JER 2:2AMO 5:5ZEP 3:20JHN 4:23EPH 5:2COL 1:18REV 22:16H.J. Vine preaches on the theme of recovery and revival, drawing from Psalms 85:6 and Isaiah 57:15 to emphasize God as the great Recoverer who restores the contrite and humble. The sermon highlights the importance of turning to God for recovery, the promise of something higher after restoration, and the need for personal and collective revival. Through the story of Hezekiah's recovery, the preacher illustrates the process of overcoming difficulties, seeking God's grace, and experiencing joy in the Lord. The sermon concludes with a focus on the assembly's recovery to the Lord, the shining path of the just, and the anticipation of Christ's return for His bride.
The Dayspring
By Robert Hawker0PSA 119:105LUK 1:78JHN 1:52PE 1:19REV 22:16Robert Hawker preaches about Jesus as the Dayspring from on high, bringing light to a world covered in darkness and ignorance. He highlights how Jesus fulfilled the shadows of ordinances and continues to bring light to individuals in their journey from nature to grace. Every manifestation of Jesus' love is seen as the Dayspring on their souls, leading them from grace to glory. Ultimately, Hawker emphasizes that Jesus will be the Dayspring and Morning Star in the everlasting day, shining eternally in the hearts of believers.
Shewing the Several Circumstances Which Attend the Messiah's Birth.
By John Gill0Fulfillment of ProphecyThe Birth of ChristNUM 24:17ISA 9:1ISA 11:1JER 31:15HOS 11:1MAT 2:2REV 22:16John Gill preaches on the various prophecies surrounding the birth of the Messiah, emphasizing how these prophecies were fulfilled in Jesus. He discusses the significance of the star that guided the wise men, the flight into Egypt, the massacre of infants, and Jesus' upbringing in Nazareth, all of which align with Old Testament predictions. Gill highlights that these events were not mere coincidences but divine fulfillments of prophecy, showcasing Jesus as the awaited Messiah. He draws connections between the prophecies and their realizations, reinforcing the belief in Jesus' identity as the Savior. The sermon serves to deepen the understanding of the miraculous nature of Christ's birth and the fulfillment of God's promises.
The Midnight Cry
By Andrew Miller0JHN 6:37EPH 1:62PE 3:15REV 3:18REV 5:12REV 22:16Andrew Miller preaches about the long-suffering and patient grace of the Lord Jesus as depicted in the parable of the ten virgins, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for His second coming. The door of mercy is open, and the Lord is waiting in grace to receive and pardon all who come to Him, actively seeking and saving the lost. The parable serves as a solemn warning to the careless and a comforting message to those eagerly awaiting His return, highlighting the urgency of responding to the call of salvation before it's too late.
Jehovah. the "I am."
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0EXO 3:14JHN 4:26JHN 6:35JHN 8:58JHN 9:5JHN 10:11JHN 11:25JHN 14:6JHN 15:1REV 22:16Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the significance of God revealing Himself as the 'I Am' to Moses in the burning bush, a title that Jesus Christ also claimed for Himself in the New Testament, asserting His divinity and eternal existence. Jesus used the 'I Am' title multiple times, causing astonishment and even causing His enemies to fall to the ground in recognition of His power and authority. Beyond these instances, Jesus also described Himself as the Bread of Life, the Light of the World, the Good Shepherd, the Resurrection and the Life, the Way, the Truth, the Life, and the true Vine, emphasizing His multifaceted role in the lives of believers.
Manhood in Relation to the Lord's Testimony
By T. Austin-Sparks0PSA 139:14DAN 10:19JHN 18:341CO 12:172CO 12:2PHP 2:7HEB 2:10HEB 4:15REV 22:16T. Austin-Sparks delves into the concept of 'a man in Christ' as mentioned by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:2, emphasizing the importance of understanding manhood in relation to the Lord's testimony. He highlights the Divine conception of humanity, its eternal significance in God's thought, and the need to correct faulty ideas about man's total depravity and wonderful creation. The sermon also addresses the balance between individuality and identification with Christ, the uniqueness of each individual in the Body of Christ, and the significance of maintaining personal distinctiveness while being part of the collective Body.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I Jesus - The Maker, the Redeemer, and Judge of all men. Have sent mine angel - An especial messenger from heaven. I am the root and the offspring of David - Christ is the root of David as to his Divine nature; for from that all the human race sprang, for he is the Creator of all things, and without him was nothing made which is made. And he is the offspring of David as to his human nature; for that he took of the stock of David, becoming thereby heir to the Jewish throne, and the only heir which then existed; and it is remarkable that the whole regal family terminated in Christ: and as He liveth for ever, he is the alone true David and everlasting King. The bright and morning star - I am splendor and glory to my kingdom; as the morning star ushers in the sun, so shall I usher in the unclouded and eternal glories of the everlasting kingdom.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
mine angel--for Jesus is Lord of the angels. unto you--ministers and people in the seven representative churches, and, through you, to testify to Christians of all times and places. root . . . offspring of David--appropriate title here where assuring His Church of "the sure mercies of David," secured to Israel first, and through Israel to the Gentiles. Root of David, as being Jehovah; the offspring of David as man. David's Lord, yet David's son (Mat 22:42-45). the morning star--that ushered in the day of grace in the beginning of this dispensation and that shall usher in the everlasting day of glory at its close.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I Jesus have sent mine angel,.... As John, the writer of this book, sets down his own name, who was an eye and ear witness of the things contained in it, that they might be more surely believed, Rev 22:8 so Christ, the author of it, puts his name Jesus to it, to engage the greater attention to hear and read, and keep the words of it, as well as to make it plain and manifest, who is the person speaking of his coming, Rev 22:7 and who that has any value for Jesus the Saviour, but will give credit, and pay a regard to this revelation of his, which he sent by his angel, one of his ministering spirits, made by him, and under his command, he being the Creator, Lord, and head of angels: this expresses the dignity of his person, and is no inconsiderable proof of his deity: and this was done, in order to testify, to bear witness to the truth of the things contained in it; to signify and show them, to set them forth in emblems and visions: unto you these things in the churches; to the servants of the Lord, Rev 22:6 to John, and by him to others, to the pastors of the seven churches, who were "over" the churches, as it may be rendered, and to the members of the churches, to all that were in them; for the Alexandrian copy, the Vulgate Latin and Arabic versions read "in"; the Syriac version renders it, "before the churches". What John saw he wrote in a book, and sent it to these churches, Rev 1:11. The words may be rendered, "concerning the churches"; and then the sense is, that the angel was sent to show to John, and by him to others, even to all the saints in all ages, the things relating to the church of Christ, in the several periods of time, represented in succession by the seven churches of Asia. Christ gives a further account of himself, for the greater confirmation of the faith of his people, in the certain accomplishment of the things herein written, by saying, I am the root and the offspring of David. The former of these is mentioned in the note; see Gill on Rev 5:5; and the meaning of it is, either that Christ, as God, is David's Lord and head, from whom he had his being, both in a temporal and spiritual sense, and by whom he was supported and sustained; or that, as man, he sprung from the root of David, or descended from him; and so it falls in with the latter, which may be explanative of it, "the offspring of David"; that is, the soft of David, according to the flesh, a frequent name of the Messiah; See Gill on Mat 1:1. God promised that the Messiah should be of the seed of David, and according to his promise he raised up unto Israel of his seed, a Saviour Jesus, the same person here speaking, Act 13:23 who adds, and the bright and morning star; Christ is compared to a "star", as in Num 24:17 for its light, the light of nature, and of grace, and of the new Jerusalem state being from him; and for its glory, his glory being the glory of the only begotten of the Father, and he having a glory, as Mediator, which his saints will ever behold, and be delighted with; and for its influence, all the blessings of grace, life, and righteousness, being from him; and to a "bright" star, because he is the brightness of his Father's glory, and so splendid, shining, and illustrious, that he is light itself, and in him is no darkness at all; and to a bright "morning" star, which shows the night is going off and the day is coming on, and is the phosphorus, or bringer of light; as Christ by his first coming, who was then the dayspring from on high, put an end to the night of Jewish darkness, and sprung the great Gospel day, so often spoken of by the prophets, and brought life and immortality to light by the Gospel, and showed the way to eternal life by himself; so by his second coming, to which this character refers, he will put an end to the night of antichristian darkness, Pagan, Papal, and Mahometan; so that there shall be no more night, and shall make an everlasting day, and bring such light into the holy city, that it shall need no candle, nor light of the sun or moon. The dawn of light at the Reformation was a presage of this, Rev 2:28 called there the morning star. With great propriety and pertinence are these titles here assumed by Christ, as "the root and offspring of David", or David's son, when he was about to sit on the throne of his father David, and possess his kingdom in the most visible and glorious manner; and "the bright and morning star", when he was going to usher in such light into the new Jerusalem, as would make all other light unnecessary. Aijeleth Shahar, in the title of Psa 22:1 which is a psalm that belongs to the Messiah, is, by some Jewish writers (l), interpreted, , "the morning star", the title of Christ here. (l) Apud Kimchi in loc.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:16 I am both the source of David and the heir to his throne: Jesus validates the message of Revelation (cp. John 21:24) by swearing that he is simultaneously the source of David (see Rev 5:5; Isa 11:10) and David’s heir (see Ezek 37:23-24; Rom 1:3). • The morning star was a name for the Messiah (see Num 24:17; 2 Pet 1:19; cp. Luke 1:78-79).