The answer is: John

Rev 1 vs 1

The Book of Revelation, often seen as a mysterious and complex text, begins by stating that it is the “Revelation of Jesus Christ.” This phrase hints at the divine origins of the visions and revelations within its pages, showing that nothing here is man-made but rather a celestial experience passed down through a figure who had a profound encounter with the divine—John.

Now, which John are we talking about? In the tradition of the early church, this John is often identified as John the Apostle. He is traditionally believed to be the same one who authored the Gospel and the Letters of John, though some discussion exists among scholars regarding this identification. Historically, matters of identity can uncover layers of meaning: if it is indeed John the Apostle, then we hear from a prominent voice among Jesus' earliest followers, a pillar of the community who had direct experiences with Jesus during his earthly ministry.

The context of Revelation not only adds a gripping backdrop with images of persecution and triumph, but it also uses highly symbolic language that draws echoes from the Old Testament, such as the prophetic works of Isaiah and Daniel. These allusions engage the early believers and provide checks on their interpretations that resonate with figures from their sacred history, all while urging perseverance in times of trials and tribulations. Understanding this background situates Revelation firmly within the scope of a collective spiritual journey towards enlightenment, presenting the message not solely for John’s time but as timeless truth for all who seek deeper understanding. Enjoy unraveling this scroll of heavenly wisdom!