In the beginning [before all time] was the Word [Christ], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself. He was present originally with God. All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him was not even one thing made that has come into being.
   [John wrote:] "I was put on the island named Patmos because I had proclaimed God's word and the truth that Jesus revealed. On the Lord's day the Spirit took control of me, and I heard a loud voice, that sounded like a trumpet, speaking behind me . . . I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, and among the lampstands was someone 'like a Son of Man,' dressed in a robe reaching down to His feet and with a golden sash around His chest. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of rushing waters. He held seven stars in His right hand, and a sharp two-edged sword came out of His mouth. His face was as bright as the midday sun. When I saw Him I fell down at His feet like a dead man. He placed His right hand on me and said, 'Don't be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever. And I hold the keys of death and Hades . . .' "
   [Later in his vision, John saw Him again:] "Then I saw heaven open, and there was a white horse. Its Rider is called Faithful and True; it is with justice that He judges and fights His battles. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and He wore many crowns on His head. He had a name written on Him, but no one except Himself knows what it is. The robe He wore was covered with blood. The name by which He is called is 'The Word of God.' " [The prophet Daniel saw Him:] "In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a Son of Man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and His kingdom is one that will never be destroyed."

Taken from Jn. 1, Mt. 1, Rev. 1, 19, Dan. 7, The Amplified Bible, The Everyday Bible,
Today's English Version and The New International Version. For free Lifescope book,
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