Before we get into the messages to the seven churches (Rev 2:1-3:22), John begins by capturing our attention with a big view of Jesus (Rev 1:9-20). The assumption seems to be, if we are to have any ability to carry out the call to the churches in 2:1-3:22, we need to be captivated by a big view of Jesus as found in 1:9-20.

Or to reverse this logic, when we fail to “patiently endure,” as John and the book of Revelation call us to, it’s because our view of Jesus is too small. Do we go after false teaching? Our view of Jesus is too small. We do not view him as sufficient and true. Do we crumble under the pressure of opposition? Our view of Jesus is too small. We don’t trust he is faithful or consider him worth the cost. Are we tempted with materialism and affluence? Our view of Jesus is too small, as we fail to find our satisfaction in him. Are we putting our hopes in things like politics and the state of society? Our view of Jesus is too small, because we are not finding our confidence and hope solely in him.