What does Revelation 2:19 mean?

I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Revelation 2:19

Explanation

Revelation 2:19 is a verse from the book of Revelation in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. The book is traditionally attributed to John the Apostle, and this particular verse is part of a message to one of the seven churches of Asia Minor, specifically the church in Thyatira.

The verse addresses the positive attributes and deeds of the congregation: their “works” (deeds or actions), “charity” (love or agape in Greek, denoting a selfless concern for the welfare of others), “service” (which could denote acts of help or ministry), “faith” (belief and trust in God), and “patience” (endurance or perseverance in the face of trials). The last part of the verse, “and thy works; and the last to be more than the first,” suggests that their later deeds have surpassed their earlier ones, indicating spiritual growth or improvement in their actions.

Historical Context

The book of Revelation was written in a symbolic and apocalyptic genre that was common during the late first century, a time when early Christians often faced persecution by the Roman Empire. Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) was a region with significant Christian communities. The message to the church in Thyatira is one part of a series of seven messages to seven different churches in the region. Each message is tailored to the circumstances of the respective church, often recognizing their virtues and admonishing their vices.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse is significant for its focus on Christian virtues and the idea of progressive sanctification, which is the concept that believers grow in holiness and moral perfection over time. From an evangelical point of view, the verse is affirming that faith is not stagnant but should be evidenced by one’s deeds, which should increase in quality and quantity as one matures in their faith.

The Catholic tradition might see in these words a call to continual conversion and the importance of good works in the life of faith. The Orthodox perspective might emphasize the process of theosis, becoming more like God, which can be seen in the increase of good works.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this verse encourages believers to grow actively in their spiritual lives, increasing in deeds of love, service to others, and steadfastness. It suggests that faith should influence behavior and that individuals should seek to better their actions and character as they mature in their spiritual journey.

Cross-References

• 1 Thessalonians 1:3: “Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;”
• James 2:18: “Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.”
• Hebrews 6:10: “For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”

Language Study

Key words from the original Greek in Revelation 2:19 and their meanings include:

• “Works” (ἔργα, erga): It denotes deeds or actions, emphasizing physical or moral acts.
• “Charity” (ἀγάπη, agape): This term in Greek refers to selfless, sacrificial love that is concerned with the well-being of the other.
• “Service” (διακονία, diakonia): This can imply administration, service, or ministration.
• “Faith” (πίστις, pistis): It suggests trust, belief, or confidence in someone, particularly in God.
• “Patience” (ὑπομονή, hypomonē): This implies steadfastness, endurance, or perseverance.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing this verse to other ancient religious texts, the emphasis on virtues such as charity, service, and patience can also be seen in teachings of Buddhism where compassion and service are key elements of the Eightfold Path, and in Hinduism’s concept of dharma, which includes moral duties and righteous acts. However, Revelation uniquely frames these virtues within the context of the Christian eschatological hope and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Scientific Perspectives

While Revelation 2:19 does not directly intersect with scientific concepts, modern psychological studies on altruism and pro-social behavior corroborate the positive assessment of charity and service as important factors in social bonding and individual well-being, thus supporting the verse’s commendation of these virtues from a secular standpoint.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentators offer explanatory notes on Revelation 2:19. For instance:

• Matthew Henry comments on the increase in their works as a sign of true grace which always grows.
• Adam Clarke observes that the “last to be more than the first” could imply that the Thyatirans were growing in grace, and their last works were more abundant and pure than their first.
• The Pulpit Commentary suggests that the church in Thyatira has learned from previous errors, showing increased zeal and a greater plenitude of good works.