Revelation 1:19 — “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse is Jesus speaking directly to John, giving him clear instructions about what to do with the incredible vision he’s just experienced. Jesus tells him to write — this isn’t just a private moment between John and God; it’s a message that needs to be shared.
Jesus lays out the structure of what John is to write:
- “What you have seen” — refers to the vision John just had of the glorified Jesus (Revelation 1).
- “What is now” — refers to the current state of the seven churches (chapters 2-3).
- “What will take place later” — points to the future events described in the rest of Revelation (chapters 4-22).
This instruction acts like an outline for the whole book of Revelation. It helps the reader know that this message is not only about the past, but also about the present and the future.
Historical Context
John received this instruction while exiled on the island of Patmos for preaching the gospel. The Church was under pressure from Roman persecution, and believers were confused, discouraged, and in need of hope.
At this moment in history, God chose to speak clearly to His people through John. Instead of removing John from his difficult circumstances, Jesus gave him a mission — to write. God wanted His people to know He hadn’t forgotten them and that He was still working through time for His glory and their good.
Theological Implications
This verse shows that God cares deeply about communicating with His people. He gives revelation not for mystery’s sake, but for instruction, encouragement, and warning. Scripture is not man’s imagination — it is God’s message.
The fact that Jesus breaks the message into what was, what is, and what is to come shows that God is Lord over all time. He holds the past, present, and future in His hands, and He wants His people to see history through His eyes.
This verse also reminds us that God’s Word is meant to be recorded, preserved, and passed down — not just experienced privately.
Literary Analysis
This verse is short, but it serves as a hinge point in the chapter. It moves the focus from the vision of Jesus (Revelation 1) toward the letters to the churches (Revelation 2-3) and the prophetic visions that follow (Revelation 4-22).
The three-part command — what you have seen, what is now, and what will take place later — is clear and balanced. It introduces the past-present-future framework that carries through the entire book.
The word “therefore” connects this verse back to the previous one (v. 18). Because Jesus is the Living One who holds the keys to death and Hades, John is to write. The authority of Christ gives weight to His command.
Cross-References
- Habakkuk 2:2 – “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.”
- 2 Peter 1:21 – “Prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets… spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
- Revelation 1:11 – “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches…”
- Revelation 22:6 – “These words are trustworthy and true.”
- John 16:13 – “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth… and he will tell you what is yet to come.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For us today, this verse reminds us that the Bible — including Revelation — is not outdated or irrelevant. It was written for real people in a real world with real problems. And it still speaks today.
It tells us that God cares about our current situation (what is now), but He also reminds us of the past (what you have seen) and prepares us for what’s coming (what will take place later). In a world that often feels chaotic, this is grounding truth.
We’re also reminded that God’s message isn’t to be kept to ourselves. Just like John was told to write, we’re called to share what God reveals through His Word.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t leave His people in confusion. He speaks clearly and purposefully. He doesn’t just care about the big picture — He cares about every stage of time: our history, our present struggles, and our future hope.
Instead of leaving His Church in the dark during hard times, He gives them light — truth that will guide them through suffering and uncertainty. His love is seen in His willingness to reveal His plans and His heart.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse flows directly from the authority of Jesus. He is the Living One who died and rose again. Because of who He is, He has the right to command, and His Word has the power to change lives.
Jesus doesn’t just give John a private experience — He gives him a mission. That’s what Jesus does: He meets us where we are, reveals truth, and then sends us to carry it forward.
This verse shows us the heart of Jesus — not only ruling in glory but also speaking to His Church with love and urgency.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Jesus wanted John to write down everything he saw and heard?
- How does this verse help you trust the reliability of the book of Revelation?
- In what ways does the past, present, and future shape your view of God’s work in your life?
- Are there parts of your faith that you’ve been keeping private instead of sharing?
- How can you be more intentional about passing on the truth of God’s Word to others?