We close this series of meditations considering the Son of Man who is in the midst of the lampstands. These are to give light for Him in the midst of this dark world.

Revelation is a book of judgment, where everything contrary to God is judged, with the ultimate end being His only begotten Son being introduced into this scene.

Consistent with this, in Revelation 2 and 3, which speak of this present time of the Church on earth, seven local assemblies are brought into view and examined, and the Lord gives His judgment of each one. Here we learn, not the practical administrative order of a local assembly, as in 1 Corinthians, but instead what pleases or displeases our Lord in its moral state.

Introductory to this, John first hears a great voice speaking behind Him. As he turns to face the One speaking, he sees One like the Son of Man standing in the midst of these seven lampstands. Some of the features of this Son of Man that John mentions remind us of the description of the Ancient of Days in Daniel 7. Indeed, though the Son of God stooped to become Man, He is still the eternal God. He is the One we today give account to for how the lamp is burning for Him in our local setting.

When John sees Him, he falls at His feet as dead. So great is His glory! Let us never forget this as we gather week by week in His presence! Yet, we find it is still “this same Jesus,” as He reaches out His right hand upon John and says, “Do not be afraid.” Though we should be in awe of Him and His glory, there is no fear for us any longer in His presence. Then He speaks of Himself as the Living One who became dead, but now is living to the ages of ages. He lives for us today!