What does Revelation 3:7 mean?

And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; Revelation 3:7

Explanation

Revelation 3:7 addresses the Christian church in Philadelphia and is part of a series of messages to seven churches in ancient Asia Minor, which is present-day Turkey. This verse specifically conveys words from Jesus Christ, who self-identifies with four descriptors: “he that is holy,” “he that is true,” “he that hath the key of David,” “he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth.” The literal meaning refers to Christ’s authority to grant access to God’s kingdom; the doors he opens lead to salvation and the ones he closes result in exclusion. The phrase “key of David” symbolizes supreme power and control over entry, often interpreted as Christ’s authority over the New Jerusalem. Deeper meanings suggest assurance of protection and reward for the faithful, as well as divine control over destiny.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation, also called The Apocalypse, was written by the apostle John while he was in exile on the island of Patmos, around the late first century AD. The churches named in Revelation chapters 2 and 3, including the one in Philadelphia, were real congregations of the early Christian era. Each message, although tailored to the immediate needs of the church it addressed, also fits into a grander prophetic framework. The descriptions of Christ in this verse evoke the Davidic Covenant, where a descendant of David would have an everlasting kingdom—fulfilled in Jesus according to Christian belief.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse speaks of the divine prerogative and messianic fulfillment in Jesus. “He that is holy, he that is true” emphasizes Christ’s sinlessness and reliability. The “key of David” is frequently interpreted in messianic terms: Jesus, the descendant of David, holds the means to grant or deny entry into the Kingdom of Heaven. The concluding phrases speak to the irrevocability of Christ’s decisions, reflecting a belief in his ultimate sovereignty.

Practical Applications

Revelation 3:7 carries practical implications for the Christian believer. It can be seen as an encouragement to trust in the sovereignty and faithfulness of Jesus. Knowing that he has ultimate control can bring comfort in times of uncertainty. The exhortation also carries a charge to align one’s life with Christ’s teachings, given that he has the authority to open and close doors in one’s life.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 22:22: “And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open.”
• Matthew 16:19: “And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
• John 14:6: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

Language Study

The key words in this verse, written in Koine Greek, include:

• Holy (ἅγιος, hagios): Means set apart, sacred, or divine. Inclusively used in the New Testament to describe God’s nature.
• True (ἀληθινός, alēthinos): Conveys the sense of being genuine, authentic, or real as opposed to what is false or illusory.
• Key (κλείς, kleis): A symbol for authority or control over access.
• David (Δαυίδ, Dauíd): Typically references the historical King David, but in this context, it is messianic, alluding to the heir of David’s throne.
• Openeth/Shutteth (ἀνοίγω/κλείω, anoigō/kleiō): These terms literally mean to open or close and metaphorically refer to granting or denying access.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a specific individual holding the keys to a kingdom, realm, or divine access is not unique to Christianity. Various cultures and religions have similar figures. For example, in Greek mythology, Hades possessed a helm that granted access to the underworld. The idea of a key-bearer reflects a common ancient perception of authority figures who control entry to sacred or significant places.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives on Revelation are generally not directly related to its content, as scientific methods do not verify spiritual or supernatural claims. However, science may provide insights into the environmental phenomena described in apocalyptic literature, lending context to the symbols and metaphors used therein, or may study the psychological and societal effects of religious beliefs on individuals and communities.

Commentaries

Commentators like Matthew Henry have viewed this verse as a depiction of the supreme authority of Christ, particularly in his role in admitting souls to heaven or casting them out. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary notes the encouragement given to the church of Philipi through these words, painting a picture of Christ as an advocate and protector. Other scholars focus on the eschatological implications, seeing it as a promise of the eventual triumph of God’s kingdom as prophesied in the Old Testament with allusions pointing back to the covenant with David.