What does Revelation 2:11 mean?

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. Revelation 2:11

Explanation

Revelation 2:11 is part of the message to the seven churches found in the Book of Revelation, which is the last book of the New Testament in the Bible. The phrase in question presents a conditional promise. “He that hath an ear, let him hear” is an admonition to pay close attention and be receptive to the message being delivered, implying that the teachings are significant and require discernment to understand. It draws attention to the metaphorical need to listen with spiritual discernment to what the Spirit is communicating to the churches. “The Spirit” here is commonly understood to represent the Holy Spirit, whose guidance is believed to be essential for understanding divine messages.

“He that overcometh” points to a Christian who remains steadfast in their faith despite challenges and temptations. The “second death” is a concept introduced in the Book of Revelation, generally interpreted as the final and eternal death, which stands in contrast to the first, physical death all humans experience. To “not be hurt of the second death” is a promise of eternal life and spiritual safety for those who remain faithful to Christ and his teachings, indicating that they will not be subject to the condemnation and suffering associated with this “second death.”

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation is traditionally attributed to John the Apostle and was likely written toward the end of the 1st century AD. It was a time when early Christians faced persecution from Roman authorities and within the broader society. Revelation 2:11 is addressed specifically to the church in Smyrna, one of the several early Christian congregations located in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). The “second death” concept would have resonated with a community familiar with persecution and the possibility of martyrdom for their beliefs. The message offers comfort and encouragement to persevere in their faith despite the threats of suffering and mortality.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, the verse has been interpreted in various ways depending on one’s eschatological views:

• Premillennialists might see this as an assurance tied to Christ’s return and the subsequent resurrection of believers.
• Amillennialists could interpret the “second death” more symbolically, suggesting a spiritual rather than a physical phenomenon.
• Postmillennialists might view the verse in light of a future period of Christian prosperity and dominance before the return of Christ.

The “second death” is commonly understood among Christians to mean damnation or the eternal separation from God. Thus, the promise of not being hurt by this “second death” is significant as it provides believers with hope for salvation and eternal life through perseverance in faith.

Practical Applications

The verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, regardless of the challenges they face. It reminds Christians of the ultimate reward for faithfulness—a reprieve from eternal damnation. In practical terms, believers can draw strength from this promise to overcome daily struggles and temptations, recognizing that their actions and resilience have both temporal and eternal significance.

Cross-References

• Revelation 20:14 – “And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”
• Revelation 3:6 – “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.”
• Revelation 21:7 – “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.”

Language Study

The phrase “he that hath an ear” (ὁ ἔχων οὖς) is an idiomatic expression to prompt careful listening and understanding. The term “overcometh” (νικῶν) comes from the Greek word “nikao,” meaning to conquer or prevail. The concept of the “second death” uses the term “death” (θάνατος) in a sense that is distinct from its typical usage, applying to an eternal state rather than temporary physical death.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a “second death” is not unique to Christianity. Similar ideas are found in various religious and cultural traditions dealing with afterlife judgments and final fates of souls. For example, in ancient Egyptian religion, the wicked were said to be destroyed in the afterlife, which can be seen as a form of “second death.” However, these concepts differ significantly in their specifics and context.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse speaks to matters of faith and the spiritual realm, which are outside the purview of empirical science. Science does not address issues like the afterlife or spiritual death, as these fall into the category of metaphysical beliefs. However, discussions around the nature of consciousness and what happens after physical death can sometimes touch on related themes, although from a purely materialistic perspective.

Commentaries

Commentators have widely discussed Revelation 2:11. Some emphasize the consolatory nature of the verse to Christians facing trials, offering reassurance of ultimate spiritual safety. Others focus on the eschatological significance, debating the timing and nature of the “second death.” The promise of immunity from the “second death” is also seen as a call to moral and spiritual vigilance. Collectively, commentators agree that the verse serves as an encouragement for believers to persist in their faith, with the hope of eternal life being a central tenet of Christian doctrine.