This letter is from John to the seven churches in the province of Asia. Grace and peace to you from the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come; from the sevenfold Spirit before his throne; and from Jesus Christ. He is the faithful witness to these things, the first to rise from the dead, and the ruler of all the kings of the world. All glory to him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by shedding his blood for us.
Bible students have wondered and sometimes debated whether the
"sevenfold Spirit" means the Holy Spirit or the seven spirits before the throne.
That is, since the number seven in the Bible represents perfection, the designation could refer to the perfect Spirit that the churches need, or it could refer to the spirits of the angels of the seven churches. Personally, I believe that John is including the nature of God that is sometimes referred to as the Trinity. God is always and perfectly present with us (is, was, is to come,
Revelation 1:8). The Holy Spirit is the full perfection of God who is with us, in us, and for us (sevenfold Spirit or seven spirits). Jesus is the Messiah, is our
Lord and ruler as well as the perfect sacrifice for us. The Holy Spirit is God fully present for us personally and in the churches. Think of it: God is still with us and among us and for us, empowering us through the perfect presence of the Holy Spirit!
God Almighty, you are present with us and for us. You are our Eternal Father, Sacrificial Son, and All-Present Spirit. Forgive me for not seeking your presence. Forgive me for not turning to you in your nearness. Remind me when I feel alone. Convict me when we, your people, doubt your nearness and power. Thank you for being ever near. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
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