I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.
I John - so 'I Daniel' (Rev. 7:28; Revelation 9:2; Revelation 10:2). One of many resemblances between the Old and the New Testament apocalyptic seers. No other Scripture writer uses the phrase.
Also. 'Aleph (') A B C omit "also." In his gospel and letters he mentions not his name, though describing himself as "the disciple whom Jesus loved." Here, with similar humility, he mentions his name, but not his apostleship.
Companion, х sungkoinoonos (G4791)] - 'fellow-partaker in the tribulation;' which is preliminary to 'the kingdom.' It must be borne with 'persevering endurance.' 'Aleph (') A B C omit "in the before "kingdom." All three are inseparable: joined by one article: the tribulation, kingdom, and endurance.
Patience, х hupomonee (G5281)] - 'persevering endurance' (Acts 14:22): 'the queen of graces' (virtues) (Chrysostom).
Of. 'Aleph (') C, Vulgate, read 'IN Jesus;' A, 'in Christ;' B, 'in Christ Jesus.' It is IN Him that believers have the right to the kingdom, and spiritual strength to endure perseveringly for it.
Was, х egenomeen (G1096)] - 'came to be.'
In ... Patmos - now Patmo, or Palmosa. See 'Introduction' on John's exile to it under Domitian, from which he was released under Nerva. Restricted to a small spot on earth, he is admitted into the wide heaven and its secrets. Thus, John drank of Christ's cup, and was baptized with His baptism (Matthew 20:22).
For, х dia (G1223)] - 'on account of the Word of God and testimony.' A C h, Vulgate, omit the second "for," thus joining closely "the Word of God" and "testimony of Jesus." But 'Aleph (') B read it. 'Aleph (') A C, Vulgate, omit "Christ." The Apocalypse has been always appreciated most in adversity. Thus the Asiatic church, from the flourishing times of Constantine, estimated it less. The African church being more exposed to the Cross, made much of it (Bengel).