Main idea: The risen Lord Jesus Christ, who has authority even over death, is both powerfully present among and sovereign over His Church.
Outline:
1) John sets the scene (Revelation 1:9-11)
2) A terrifying vision (Revelation 1:12-16)
3) A clarifying explanation (Revelation 1:17-20)
Secondary sources cited:
Dennis E. Johnson, Triumph of the Lamb: A Commentary on Revelation (Phillipsburg: P&R, 2001).
Grant R. Osborne, Revelation, BECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002).
G. K. Beale, The Book of Revelation, NIGTC (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1999).