At first read we might be tempted to think that the phrase these things
refers to the statements of the preceding verses—and indeed those verses are primarily in view. But given the obvious connection to Revelation 1:1–3, the term must refer to the totality of the things that must soon take place
(Revelation 1:1), that is, all that the Lord has revealed in the entirety of this Revelation. Those who follow the deceiver may opt to minimize or ignore this Revelation (Revelation 22:15), but the faithful witness (Revelation 1:5–6) reveals ultimate Truth.
16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.”