Template of the Seven Letters
(Revelation 2:1-3:22)
Dennis E. Johnson Triumph of the Lamb: A Commentary on Revelation1. Address
2. A command to write down what is given
3. “Thus says”
4. Identification of the speaker (Jesus)
5. “I know” description of the individual church’s situation
6. Call to repentance or faithfulness (reinforced by a threat or a promise)
7. A summons to hear
8. A promise to the victor
A note from Pastor Mark: I believe that by this outline, helpful though it is, Johnson may be conflating the two separate ways in which God (Jesus) always speaks to us, either by Law or Gospel. Brighton however, maintains the distinction between the two. The Law is that Word from God that commands us to love God and love neighbor, which we fail to do, preventing us from having life with God. The Gospel is that Word from God that comes to us freely from Jesus that, in Him, all our sins are forgiven. This Word empowers us to repent and to believe in Jesus so that His righteousness covers our unrighteousness.
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