What does Revelation 2:28 mean?

And I will give him the morning star. Revelation 2:28

Explanation

The phrase “And I will give him the morning star” is found in Revelation 2:28, within the context of a letter to the church in Thyatira, one of the seven churches to which the book of Revelation is addressed. On the literal level, the “morning star” is a celestial body, often identified with the planet Venus, that appears brightly in the sky just before dawn. Metaphorically, the morning star symbolizes light, hope, renewal, and the promise of a new day.

In the broader context of the passage, the morning star is offered as a reward to the one who “overcometh” and who keeps Christ’s works to the end. It represents a gift of great value and beauty, possibly a reference to the reception of divine wisdom, glory, or even the person of Jesus Christ Himself, who is later referred to as the “bright and morning star” in Revelation 22:16.

Historical Context

Revelation 2:28 is part of a larger apocalyptic text, the Book of Revelation, traditionally attributed to John the Apostle and penned near the end of the first century A.D. during a time of persecution for early Christians. The seven letters to the seven churches (chapters 2 and 3) offer both encouragement and reproof to these early Christian communities, with a focus on perseverance, repentance, and steadfast faith amidst difficulties.

Theological Insights

The promise of the morning star may have different interpretations in Christian theology:

• Christocentric Interpretation: Some theologians view the morning star as emblematic of Christ Himself, highlighting the personal and intimate reward that the believer will receive.
• Eschatological Reward: Others see it as a symbol of the ultimate victory in the eschaton—the final event in the divine plan; the triumph over darkness and evil.
• Divine Wisdom: Another perspective interprets the morning star as a metaphor for divine wisdom that God imparts to the faithful.

Practical Applications

The teaching of Revelation 2:28 can encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith, with the assurance of a meaningful reward for their perseverance. It suggests:

• Hope and Motivation: The promise of the morning star can provide motivation, especially in times of struggle or spiritual darkness.
• Call to Action: Believers may interpret this verse as a call to maintain good works and to strive towards personal and spiritual growth.

Cross-References

• “I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.” (Revelation 22:16)
• “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:” (2 Peter 1:19)

Language Study

In the original Greek text of the New Testament, the term used for “morning star” is φωσφόρος (phosphoros), which means “light-bringer” or “bringer of dawn.” This further emphasizes the connotation of hope and the arrival of light amidst darkness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Many ancient cultures have seen Venus, the morning star, as significant:

• Roman Mythology: The name “Lucifer” was used for the morning star, associated with the god of light.
• Mesopotamian Mythology: The Venus star was associated with several deities, like Inanna/Ishtar, who represented aspects of fertility, love, and war.

In religious comparisons, interpretations of the “morning star” can widely vary but often include themes of wisdom, new beginnings, and enlightenment.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, the morning star refers to the planet Venus when it is visible in the eastern sky before sunrise. Its association with light and its cyclical appearance may enhance its metaphorical meanings related to predictability, constancy, and guidance.

Commentaries

Various biblical experts offer insights into Revelation 2:28. These include:

• G.K. Beale: Notes the association of the morning star with Christ’s messianic rule and the final redemption of the saints.
• Craig S. Keener: Suggests that the promise of the morning star indicates participation in Jesus’ victory and authority.
• Robert H. Mounce: Views the morning star as a symbol of the assurance of Christ’s return and the believer’s ultimate glorification.