John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him who is, and who was, and who is to come; and from the seven Spirits who are before his throne;
All Commentaries on Revelation 1:4 Go To Revelation 1
Oecumenius
AD 990
The seven spirits are seven angels, but they are neither equal in honor nor coeternal as to be included to the Holy Trinity, but as genuine and faithful slaves. For the prophet says to God, “For all things are slaves of yours.(Ps. 118:91)” In all things the angels are included too. Also the same prophet says concerning them, “Bless the Lord, all his host, his ministers doing his will.(Ps. 102:21)” Likewise, the apostle mentions to Timothy when writing the first letter, “I charge you before God, and Christ Jesus, and the elect angels.(1Tim. 5:21)”
Further, by saying which are before his throne John gives more testimony to their position as servants and ministers, and not as having the same honor.
