A powerful motif emerges from the beginning of the Book of Revelation: the endurance of light in the face of darkness. The vision opens not with chaos, destruction, or judgment, but with seven golden lampstands ablaze with divine light. This is not a small detail. Lamps lit up the night in ancient times, representing hope, clarity, and guidance. Here, banished on the island of Patmos, John the Apostle receives a vision that will define Christian understanding for generations: the light of God remains, no matter what shadows gather.
Revelation does not begin with the cataclysmic catastrophes that people associate with the book, but rather with a reminder of God’s presence, symbolized by these lampstands. The message is simple and universal: God’s light shines brightly in the lives of all believers and in the life of the church, unaffected by circumstances.
Symbolism of Seven: Completion and Fulfillment
The number seven appears throughout the Book of Revelation, beginning with the seven lampstands. Seven churches, seven seals, seven bowls, seven trumpets, and seven angels—this pattern repeats throughout the narrative. Biblically, seven represents completion, as seen in the seven days of creation. Revelation, the Bible’s final book, matches this beginning by representing the conclusion of God’s plan for people and the universe.
The lampstands, then, depict the completeness of God’s presence with His people. Just as the seventh day completes the week, so does God’s church via His abiding presence. The lampstands are more than just symbols; they represent God’s presence among His people, guiding them to ultimate fulfillment.
Genesis-Revelation: The Arc of Light
The motif of light runs throughout the biblical story. Genesis opens with God’s command, “Let there be light.” This first creative act breaks the darkness and establishes order, life, and hope. The book of Revelation finishes with a depiction of the New Jerusalem, where “there will no longer be any night,” and God Himself will be the light for His people. The Bible’s story begins and ends with light—God’s presence converting chaos into purpose, despair into hope.
In John’s conception, the lampstands are living symbols rather than mere antiques. They remind us that, while darkness may exist in the middle chapters of our stories, heavenly illumination defines the beginning and end. Whatever darkness we endure, Revelation promises that the story will finish with God’s light triumphing over all shadows.
Lampstand: From Tabernacle to Church
To comprehend the lampstands in Revelation, one must return to the Hebrew Scriptures, notably the building of the Tabernacle in Exodus. God tells Moses to build a pure gold lampstand (menorah) with seven lamps that will burn in the holy place indefinitely. This menorah brightened the sanctuary’s gloom, representing God’s constant presence among His people.
This motif is carried through until the Book of Revelation. The seven golden lampstands resemble the menorah, symbolizing the church’s mission to shine God’s light in a dark world. The link between the Old and New Testaments is intentional and profound—God’s light was first revealed in the Tabernacle’s hidden chambers, but in Christ, it is intended to shine for all nations.
The lampstand’s light is not for display, but for illumination
A lampstand’s aim is not to be admired for its beauty, but to provide light for others. Similarly, the church’s calling is not to draw attention to itself, but to spread Christ’s light across the world. As Jonathan Cahn points out, churches might get fascinated with the lampstand itself—the programs, structures, and outer forms—rather than the light it was designed to bear. When this occurs, the church becomes an empty house, a lampstand without light, and a shape devoid of substance.
This is both a warning and an invitation: the true life of the church, and of every believer, stems from the presence of Christ at its heart. When we lose sight of Him, the light diminishes. When everything is centered on Him, the darkness cannot overcome.
Menorah and the Mystery of Revelation
The light from the menorah in the Tabernacle was invisible to the outside world; it only lighted the holy area. Similarly, the light of Christ is frequently veiled from the world, visible only to those who come into connection with Him. Revelation is replete with temple imagery, including the menorah, altar, and veils. These photographs serve as a reminder that faith is more than just public spectacle; it is about entering the sacred realm where God’s presence is known.
The term “revelation” literally means “unveiling,” or the removing of something hidden. Just as the high priest in the temple passed through veils to approach the Holy of Holies, believers are encouraged to go beyond superficial appearances and contact God on a deeper level. This encounter is made possible by Christ’s sacrifice as the slain Lamb. His blood unlocks the door into God’s presence, where the light of the world shines brighter than any earthly lamp.
Christ in the Middle: The Center of the Church
In John’s vision, the “Son of Man” stands in the center of the lampstands, robed in majesty and wearing a golden ribbon around his chest. This is the Messiah, the Anointed One, and the source of all genuine light. The lampstands burn with oil, symbolizing the Holy Spirit, but Christ is the center and source.
Here’s an image of the ideal church: not a structure or an institution, but a community with Christ at its core. The presence of the Lord provides the church its light, life, and authority. This essential truth has echoed down the ages: every revival, every season of rebirth, begins not with new plans or tactics, but with a return to Christ as the core.
Losing sight of the center
The tragedy of many churches—and many individual believers—is the gradual detachment from Christ as the core. Activities, traditions, and even missions may become detached from their source of power. When this occurs, the result is a lampstand with no light, an empty form.
Jonathan Cahn warns that it is easy to lose Christ, even when serving Him. Ministry, good actions, and even theological research can become separated from a living relationship with God. The remedy is constant self-reflection: “Am I doing this for Him?” Am I really concentrated on Christ? “Without this focus, the light fades, leaving just a shadow of what could be.
Seven Stars: Angels and Messengers
In the vision, Christ is holding seven stars in His right hand. These stars symbolize the “angels” or “messengers” of the seven churches. The Greek term angelos can refer to either heavenly entities or earthly messengers. There are two possibilities: these could be genuine angels appointed to each church, or spiritual leaders tasked with directing the congregation.
This image is full of meaning. If each church is guarded by an angel, then every meeting of believers—no matter how little or dispersed—is under heaven’s care and protection. People have reported feeling the presence of angels in worship, as well as experiencing unexplainable times of protection or direction. Whether seen or unseen, Scripture and experience confirm that God’s messengers are at work among His people.
Angels among us: testimonies of divine presence
Jonathan Cahn tells personal experiences about people who have experienced what they believe to be angels during worship and ministry. These interactions are frequently startling and sometimes awe-inspiring. In one report, a woman witnesses angels standing behind the preacher during a ceremony. In another, someone hears a mystery tune intermingled with the congregation’s worship—perhaps angels’ voices are joining in.
There are also instances of genuine encounters, such as a couple who offer a hitchhiker a lift only to discover a striking connection between their experience and the Good Samaritan parable. The next day, they receive exactly the finances they require for Bible school, and the man they assisted resembles an example in their family Bible. Such stories serve not as teaching, but as reminders that the unseen world is closer than we realize, and that God’s care is personal and powerful.
The Realities of Spiritual Protection
The Bible states that angels are “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14). Many believers can recall instances of unexplainable deliverance or protection—when calamity was avoided, counsel was provided, or peace was bestowed in the midst of strife. We often have no idea how many perils have been avoided or how many fights have been fought on our behalf.
The book of Revelation demonstrates that God’s people are not alone. The seven stars on Christ’s hand serve as a constant reminder that His church is divinely protected and cared for. This certainty relieves believers’ tension and fear. Whatever issues arise—personal or collective—we are not left to face them on our own.
The Church is More Than a Building
In modern English, the church is sometimes referred to as a building. However, the New Testament word for church is ekklesia, which means the called-out, assembly, or gathering ones. In Hebrew, it is kahila. The substance of the church is found in the living community of believers, assembled in Christ’s name, rather than in the building itself.
This is an important fact: the church is a group of people, not a location. Anyone, anywhere, can join this assembly. This is the center of the Church of Sermons, and it invites anybody who wishes to join, regardless of background, place, or circumstance. Membership is about developing a connection with God and His people, not about performing rituals or meeting requirements. Anyone can become a member of the Church of Sermons and participate in the community, mission, and promise of God’s enduring presence.
Faithfulness in Ministry: God’s Responsibility
Jonathan Cahn’s sermon emphasizes God’s sovereignty in ministry. Human wisdom and strength do not determine the church’s success, mission fulfillment, or the outcome of its efforts. Ministry is God’s task, entrusted to us but not dependent on us. Our role is to be faithful in our calling, service, and witness, but the outcome is up to God.
This viewpoint promotes freedom. Leaders, volunteers, pastors, and members do not need to bear the crushing weight of accountability for outcomes. As Cahn relates, there have been times in his own ministry when conditions were impossible—a new church facility purchased on faith but later rendered unusable due to zoning limitations; a congregation facing eviction with no alternative home in sight. However, in each case, God intervened at precisely the right time, opening doors and paving a way.
Trusting God’s Process: Entering the Unknown
Life and ministry sometimes feel like walking off a cliff: unclear, hazardous, and even dangerous. However, the testimony of Scripture and countless believers is that every step taken in faith is supported on the sure foundation of God’s promise. The psalmist proclaims, “The steps of a righteous person are ordered by the Lord.” In Hebrew, this means “made firm”—each step becomes solid footing as we walk forward in faith.
This is a really peaceful fact. The urge to strive, prosper, and make things work is replaced by an appeal to faithfulness. Our part is to listen, obey, and trust; God’s part is to keep His promises, often in ways we never expected.
Sovereignty of God: From the Ordinary to the Extraordinary
The sermon’s account about the church building demonstrates how human obstacles do not block God’s designs. A building purchased in faith appears lost after a failed zoning vote, but at the last minute, God opens a “mega door” for effective ministry, reversing the decision and providing a home for the congregation. Such experiences are not the exception, but rather the expected of people who walk with God.
Even the most mundane events can become manifestations of God’s providence. Cahn describes a series of meetings with flight attendants named Angela and a pilot named Gabriel, which may serve as reminders of God’s hidden messengers at work. Whether or whether these people were genuine angels, their presence at that moment acted as a symbol of encouragement, a wink from heaven indicating that God is close and watchful.
God’s Presence in all circumstances
Revelation is a book replete with apocalyptic imagery, including war, famine, chaos, and judgment. However, before any of these events occur, John receives a vision of Christ in the midst of His church. This is not an accident. The message is that God is with His people before, during, and after all trials.
This confidence alters everything. The most significant reality, regardless of the darkness or the challenges, is that God is with us. The first vision of Revelation depicts presence rather than calamity. Whatever happens, believers can take comfort in knowing that they are never truly alone.
The Challenge: Keep Christ at the Center
The temptation to stray from this center is ever present. The church’s history is rich with examples of institutions and individuals losing sight of Christ in favor of their own plans, traditions, or ambitions. The end consequence is always the same: the light fades, and the cathedral becomes an empty shell.
The remedy is a continuous return to the center, to Christ Himself. Every activity, ministry, and decision must be grounded in a relationship with Him. Without His presence, there is no power, light, or life. With Him at the heart, even the most difficult situations become chances for His glory.
An Invitation to Light
For those seeking hope, belonging, or a greater feeling of purpose, Revelation’s call is clear: enter the light. The church, as envisioned in Scripture and implemented by communities such as the Church of Sermons, welcomes all. Anyone can become a member of the Church of Sermons, where they will find a welcoming, supportive, and spiritually growing community.
Membership is about relationship, not compliance to an institution—relationships with God, other believers, and the world we are called to serve. Every member of the Church of Sermons is appreciated, every narrative is important, and everyone is part of the mission of bringing God’s light into the world.
Enduring Faith in a Changing World
The message of Revelation, as well as Jonathan Cahn’s speech, is one of faith that endures. The world may be shook by turbulence, uncertainty, and change, but God’s presence is permanent. God is faithful in every crisis and challenge. Our calling is not to know all of the solutions, but to walk in trust, obedience, and faithfulness.
The comparison of a ship in perilous waters is appropriate: the crew may work hard, but it is the captain who ensures their safe return. In ministry, as in life, we must trust our Captain’s expertise. God knows the route; our job is to follow, be faithful, and keep our eyes on the light.
Revelation’s Secret of Victory
In biblical terms, victory is defined by perseverance in the presence of God rather than the absence of hardship. The secret to success lies not in our efforts, but in our relationship with the One who stands in the midst of the lampstands. Christ is our light, direction, and strength. Every story concludes with brightness in His presence.
Revelation begins with the promise of His presence and concludes with the certainty that darkness will be extinguished forever. In between, the trip is fraught with obstacles, setbacks, and fights. But, through it all, God’s people are supported by the unshakeable truth: He is with us, and the light shall triumph.
Conclusion: Walking in the Light
The call of Revelation—and of every real church, including the Church of Sermons—is to walk in the light, maintain Christ at the center, and believe in God’s faithfulness in all seasons. Anyone can participate in this voyage. Anyone can join a church and share in the promise and purpose of God’s people.
Let us then be a lampstand people, glowing with Christ’s light, anchored in His presence, and faithful in all our callings. The world may quake, but the church stays solid, for the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overpower it. In the end, like in the beginning, God’s light will have the final say.
