John, exiled on the island of Patmos, receives a revelation from Jesus Christ, sent by God to show what will soon happen. He greets the seven churches of Asia with grace and peace from the eternal Lord. John praises Jesus, who loved us, freed us from sin with His blood, and made us kings and priests to God. Suddenly, he hears a loud voice saying, “I am Alpha and Omega.” Turning, he sees Jesus standing among seven golden lampstands, holding seven stars. His face shines like the sun, His eyes are flames of fire, and His voice is like rushing waters. John falls at His feet, but Jesus says, “Do not fear. I am the First and the Last. I was dead, but now I live forever.” He commands John to write what he sees and send it to the seven churches. The stars are the angels of the churches, and the lampstands are the churches themselves.