1. Revelation 19:10 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

Why does the angel protest John’s worship?

Revelation 19:10 (ESV)

10 Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, “You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God.” For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

Though he was a messenger of incredibly wonderful news, he insists he is “a fellow servant” and thus not worthy of receiving worship. God alone is worthy of worship for “salvation and glory and power characterize our God” (Revelation 19:1), a salvation so glorious that it entails union with Christ, marriage with the divine Bridegroom. John’s focus must be undividedly on this glorious God alone.