Revelation 1:11 — which said: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, John hears a voice speaking to him — the same voice from verse 10 that sounded like a trumpet. Now the voice gives clear instructions: “Write on a scroll what you see.” John isn’t just experiencing a vision for his own encouragement — he’s being told to record it, to pass it on.
The message isn’t meant to stay private. It’s a word for the churches, specifically seven churches in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). These churches are named one by one: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. These were real churches at the time John was writing, each with their own strengths, struggles, and situations.
So this verse sets the stage for the rest of Revelation. The visions John will see are not just for his benefit — they’re meant to strengthen, correct, warn, and encourage God’s people across generations, starting with these specific churches.
Historical Context
In John’s day, the Roman Empire ruled the region where these seven churches were located. Christians were often treated with suspicion or hostility. Some churches were standing firm, while others were compromising with the culture around them. Many believers were discouraged, confused, or even persecuted.
These seven churches likely formed a natural circle along a Roman road, which would have made it easy to deliver the message. They also represent a broad picture of the spiritual condition of the Church as a whole — then and now.
Writing on a scroll was the normal method of preserving and sharing messages in that time. This wasn’t a casual note — it was an official document meant to be passed from place to place and read aloud.
Theological Implications
This verse reminds us that God speaks not just to individuals but to His whole people. The message given to John is meant for the Church. It shows that God is deeply involved in the life of His people. He sees what’s going on in each church and cares enough to address it directly.
It also tells us that what John saw and heard was not just for the past. These messages have spiritual truth and relevance for believers in every age. They speak to the heart of what it means to follow Jesus — and how to remain faithful.
The command to write also shows us that Scripture is not man-made. It comes from God, through chosen people, by His Spirit, for His people.
Literary Analysis
This verse is short and straightforward, but it carries great weight. It uses direct speech — “Write on a scroll what you see…” — giving it the feel of a royal command. The list of churches is precise and intentional, preparing the reader for what’s coming next in the letters to each one (chapters 2–3).
The phrase “what you see” reminds us that Revelation is a vision. John is not making up ideas — he’s reporting what he sees under God’s direction.
Also, the use of seven churches is symbolic as well as literal. In Scripture, the number seven often represents completeness. So while these were real churches, they also symbolize the full Church across time and place.
Cross-References
- Revelation 1:19 – “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.”
- Jeremiah 30:2 – “Write in a book all the words I have spoken to you.”
- Romans 15:4 – “Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us.”
- 2 Timothy 3:16 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”
- Hebrews 3:7 – “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that God’s Word is meant to be shared, not hidden. The vision John received wasn’t just for him — it was for the Church. That’s how God works. He speaks to build up, correct, and encourage His people.
It also challenges us to pay attention to what was written. If Jesus took the time to address real churches, and preserved that message in Scripture, we should listen carefully. These messages are still full of truth for us today.
God knows the condition of every church — including ours. And He speaks directly to help us stay faithful.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t leave His people in silence or confusion. He speaks. He reveals. He gives clear instruction.
God doesn’t just see what’s going wrong — He responds. By giving this vision to John, He shows His deep care for the Church. He wants His people to know what He sees, what He expects, and what He promises.
Even when the message includes correction, it’s a loving act. It means God hasn’t given up on His people. He’s calling them — and us — back to Himself.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The voice John hears is the voice of Jesus (as made clear in the next verses). Jesus is the one commanding John to write and deliver the message.
This shows Jesus as active and involved in His Church. He is not a distant figure from history — He is alive, reigning, and speaking to His people.
In John 10:27, Jesus says, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” This verse is a perfect picture of that truth. Jesus speaks to His Church, and His Church is called to listen and respond.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Jesus wanted these messages written down and shared with the churches?
- What does this verse tell you about the importance of Scripture?
- In what ways do you think the seven churches represent challenges still faced by the Church today?
- How can we be more faithful to hear and apply the message Jesus gives to His people?
- What might Jesus want to say to your church today if He were writing a letter to it?