Revelation 1:5 5and from Jesus Christ, the witness, the faithful one, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kingdoms of the earth.
The third source of the grace and peace in verse 4 is Jesus Christ. Through him, God brings about his purposes for creation. Both grace and peace are experienced most fully when we accept Jesus as Savior and Lord. Jesus is described in four ways, each with significance in this book and in Christian theology.
First, he is the witness (martys) who gave his life as a testimony of God’s redeeming love. His birth, life, death, and resurrection revealed God’s grace that brings peace to the world. In the Book of Revelation, Jesus remains the witness through whom God brings about the close of the age. Witnesses often have to sacrifice to remain true to their convictions. Jesus sacrificed himself out of love for his heavenly Father and for the world.
Second, he is the faithful one (pistos). He did not give in to temptation but remained pure and holy (Hebrews 4:15). He depended totally upon the Father. He sets the pattern and goal for how we should live as well. Because he has gone through our struggles, he can intercede and help us. The adjective could go with martyr, forming a pair that shows how Jesus did not compromise his faith and obedience, even to the point of death. He set the pattern for all Christians, particularly the recipients of this book who may have been experiencing growing persecution.
Third, he is also the firstborn from the dead, meaning the first to be raised from the dead. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:20, Jesus is “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” His resurrection ensures that we, too, will someday find victory over death. Those who put their faith in him will experience eternal life in resurrection.
Finally, he is the king. He rules supreme over all kings and kingdoms. The devil thinks he is the king of this world, but his reign is partial and temporary. The devil is the king only over those who reject Jesus and the light. The devil has no control over those who walk in the light of Christ. For the original readers of Revelation, calling Jesus king set them up for persecution because of the claims of the Roman Emperor: Caesar is Lord. To claim another sovereign could be viewed as subversive to imperial power. The opening of this letter is short but gives tremendous hope for our daily lives. When we align our lives with Jesus, we will find grace, peace, hope, and assurance.