How to Read the Revelation of Jesus Christ
In the sacred tapestry of scripture, the name "Jesus" weaves threads of both earthly and celestial significance.
It is a name that echoes through time, resonating with profound meaning for believers and skeptics alike.
But beyond the surface-level understanding lies a higher revelation—one that transcends flesh and bone, reaching into the very fabric of existence.
When you read the Bible, especially Paul’s letters, you will see the name written a couple different ways:
“Jesus Christ” or “Christ Jesus”.
The syntax is used as a mechanism for reading the text.
The Name "JESUS": Earthly Veil, Universal Recognition
When Jesus was born and circumcised, he was given the name "JESUS."
This name encapsulates his earthly identity—the tangible, fleshly form that walked among us.
It is the name by which he is universally known, recognized by believers and unbelievers alike.
In this name, we encounter the human Jesus—the carpenter's son, the healer, the teacher, the friend.
But this surface-level form is only the beginning—a veil that conceals the boundless depths of his being.
Keep in mind when reading the Bible, there is often a surface-level understanding of the text as well as a higher interpretation.
CHRIST: The Heavenly Unveiling
Beyond the earthly veil lies the celestial reality—the higher level of existence.
In the name "CHRIST," we glimpse the divine essence of Jesus.
To see on this level requires insight—an illumination bestowed by the Most High.
Let us explore the facets of this heavenly revelation:
The Way: Jesus is not merely a guide; he is the very path we tread. His life exemplifies the way to communion with God—the bridge between the heavenly and earthly.
The Truth: In Christ, truth finds its embodiment. His teachings resonate with eternal verities, piercing through the illusions of this world. He is the Word made flesh, revealing the ultimate reality.
The Life: Beyond biological existence lies life abundant. Christ breathes life into our souls, offering resurrection beyond the grave. His sacrifice opens the door to eternal communion with the Divine. Life is understanding the word and Death is ignorance of the word.
The Door: Jesus is the threshold—the entryway to divine mysteries. Through him, we step into the presence of God. His name beckons us to cross the threshold of transformation.
The Bread: He nourishes our spirits—the sustenance for our journey. As the Bread of Life, he satisfies our deepest hunger, filling us with spiritual sustenance.
Parables: Heavenly Meanings in Earthly Forms
Jesus, in his wisdom, taught through parables.
These seemingly simple stories carried profound truths—the heavenly meanings concealed within earthly narratives.
Just as a seed contains the potential for a towering tree, so did his words hold cosmic significance.
And so, when we read the Bible and Christian scriptures, we must peel back the layers.
Beneath the surface, we find the celestial threads woven into the fabric of human experience.
The mundane becomes sacred; the ordinary, extraordinary.
The Logos
The concept of 'Logos' holds a central place in the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Logos as Divine Reason and Word:
Logos, derived from ancient Greek philosophy, embodies both divine reason and creative word. It represents the cosmic intelligence that underpins the universe—a force that shapes existence and imparts meaning.
In the Gospel of John, we encounter the profound declaration: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). Here, 'Word' translates to 'Logos'.
Logos transcends mere language; it is the divine expression—the bridge between the ineffable and the tangible.
Logos Incarnate: Jesus Christ:
The Gospel continues: "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:14). This encapsulates the incarnation of Logos in the person of Jesus.
Jesus embodies the divine reason—the cosmic blueprint—made tangible. He is the Word made flesh, revealing God's heart to humanity.
His teachings, parables, and actions carry the imprint of Logos—the wisdom that transcends earthly limitations.
Logos as Cosmic Harmony:
Logos harmonizes creation. It is the symphony that orchestrates galaxies, atoms, and souls.
Through Jesus, we glimpse this cosmic harmony. His miracles—calming storms, healing the sick, feeding multitudes—reveal the underlying order.
His life exemplifies the alignment of earthly existence with divine purpose.
Logos and Redemption:
Jesus, as Logos, bridges the gap between humanity and the Creator. His sacrifice on the cross redeems our understanding.
The cross becomes the ultimate expression of divine love—the Word etched in blood.
Through Christ, we find reconciliation—a restoration of the cosmic balance disrupted by ignorance.
Logos Within Us:
As believers, we carry a spark of Logos within. The indwelling Spirit illuminates our minds, granting insight into truth.
We participate in the ongoing revelation—the unfolding cosmic drama—by aligning our lives with divine reason.
Just as Jesus taught in parables, we, too, become vessels of Logos, sharing timeless truths in everyday language.
He is the Way; He is the Pattern
See if you notice the syntax pattern in your reading.
For example:
When you start reading the book of Revelation,
“This is the Revelation of Jesus Christ”
The syntax used here implies that he is about to take surface-level images to talk about higher-level topics.
It’s blatantly obvious that the book is entirely written with symbols and imagery.
You have heard of “a bird’s-eye view”.
It’s Earthly understanding to Heavenly understanding.
In the revelation of Jesus Christ, we discover that heavenly meanings can indeed be carried in surface-level forms.
The name "JESUS" bridges the gap between the seen and the unseen, inviting us to explore the depths of existence.
May our hearts be open to both the earthly and the celestial—the revelation of Jesus Christ, forever echoing through eternity.