What does Revelation 5:10 mean?

And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. Revelation 5:10

Explanation

Revelation 5:10 speaks of a vision in which the recipients of God’s favor—often interpreted as the faithful followers of Christ—are elevated to a regal and priestly status, serving God and exercising dominion on Earth. This verse encapsulates a promise of empowerment and reflects a profound transformation in the role and destiny of believers. The literal meaning identifies the recipients as kings and priests, metaphorically highlighting the authority and sanctity that they are granted. On a deeper level, it suggests a future where these individuals will actively participate in God’s kingdom, administering both governance (as kings) and spiritual guidance (as priests).

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation, also known as the Apocalypse of John, was written during a time of intense persecution of Christians, likely around the end of the 1st century A.D. John, the author, is traditionally understood to be on the island of Patmos, possibly exiled there because of his faith. The immediate historical context was one in which Christians were facing Roman oppression, and many of the symbols and visions in Revelation address the struggles and hopes of the early Christian communities. Revelation 5:10 is part of a larger visionary scene that presents a triumphal view of God’s ultimate plan, offering hope and vindication for the suffering believers.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Revelation 5:10 reflects various interpretations across Christian denominations. For some, the verse substantiates the doctrine of the ‘priesthood of all believers,’ which implies that Christians have direct access to God through Christ, negating the necessity of an earthly mediator. Others see it as an eschatological promise, pointing to an end-times fulfillment where Christ reigns on Earth with his faithful followers—a millennial kingdom. Additionally, the verse is seen as affirming the dual role of Christians as both leaders (kings) and intercessors (priests) in spiritual and secular realms.

Practical Applications

Revelation 5:10 can be applied in daily life by encouraging believers to see themselves as valued and empowered participants in their faith communities and the world. This can foster a sense of responsibility for spiritual leadership and proactive engagement in societal issues, reflecting the kingly and priestly roles. Moreover, it can inspire a hopeful perspective, especially during times of hardship, reinforcing the belief in a future vindication and reign of good over evil.

Cross-References

• 1 Peter 2:9: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;”
• Revelation 1:6: “And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
• Revelation 20:6: “Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.”

Language Study

The original Greek text uses the terms “βασιλεῖς” (basileis) meaning “kings” and “ἱερεῖς” (hiereis) meaning “priests.” The word “βασιλεῖς” conveys the idea of sovereignty and authority, while “ἱερεῖς” expresses a role of mediating and offering sacrifices to God. The concept of reigning, “βασιλεύω” (basileuō), indicates exercising kingly power or rulership. Analyzing the original language, we see an emphasis on the elevated and honorable positions granted to believers in the vision.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, kings and priests often held prominent and complementary roles. For example, in ancient Egypt, Pharaohs were considered both political and religious leaders, embodying the confluence of power similar to the kings and priests in Revelation 5:10. In other religious traditions, such as Hinduism, there is also the concept of a divine kingdom and a class of individuals serving both kingly and priestly functions, although the roles and implications differ from those in Christian eschatology.

Scientific Perspectives

Revelation 5:10, as part of apocalyptic literature, does not directly intersect with scientific understandings, as it deals with metaphorical and theological concepts rather than empirical observations. Science itself does not comment on eschatological beliefs or the assignment of divine roles to humans. However, the impact of such beliefs on human behavior and culture can be a subject of study in the fields of psychology, sociology, and anthropology.

commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have provided insights into Revelation 5:10:

• Matthew Henry sees the verse as indicative of the honor and dignity bestowed upon the saints, emphasizing that they shall reign with Christ and suggesting that their priestly role is both to offer spiritual sacrifices and intercede for others.
• Craig S. Keener, in his commentary on Revelation, refers to the Old Testament backdrop where the nation of Israel was meant to be a kingdom of priests (Exodus 19:6), and John’s vision extends this privileged status to all who are redeemed by Jesus.
• G. K. Beale, an expert on the Book of Revelation, perceives the roles of kings and priests as a restoration of the believers’ original purpose in creation, looking back to Adam who was appointed to rule and serve in the Garden of Eden.

These commentaries reflect a general consensus that Revelation 5:10 encapsulates a transformative vision that elevates believers to share in Christ’s reign and service, each with its own nuances based on denominational and scholarly perspectives.