Meaning of Revelation 1:6

Revelation 1:6 declares that believers have been transformed into a "kingdom and priests" by Christ, a profound designation that elevates their status and purpose within God's redemptive plan. This verse, situated at the opening of the apocalyptic vision, establishes the identity and destiny of those who belong to Jesus. The author, John, is not merely describing a future hope but a present reality for the faithful, emphasizing their royal and priestly functions in service to the triune God. The declaration of "glory and power for ever and ever! Amen" underscores the eternal dominion of God and the enduring significance of this new identity bestowed upon believers.

Context and Background

This verse is part of John's epistolary prologue to the book of Revelation, a complex prophetic work that offers visions of cosmic conflict, divine judgment, and ultimate redemption. John begins by identifying himself and the source of his revelation – Jesus Christ, who sent his angel to make known these things to his servant John. The immediate context (Revelation 1:5) highlights Jesus' redemptive work: "To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood." Revelation 1:6 flows directly from this act of liberation, detailing the results of Christ's sacrifice for the faithful. The recipient of this revelation is the church, the community of believers scattered throughout Asia Minor, who were facing persecution and needed assurance of God's sovereignty and their ultimate victory.

Key Themes and Messages

• Royal Priesthood: The dual designation of "kingdom and priests" is central.
  • Kingdom: This signifies rulership, authority, and a place within God's eternal reign. Believers are not merely subjects but co-heirs with Christ, destined to rule alongside him.
  • Priests: This denotes a mediatorial role, the ability to approach God directly and to offer spiritual sacrifices. It echoes the Old Testament Levitical priesthood but expands it to encompass all believers, enabling them to serve God and intercede for others.
• Divine Ownership and Service: The phrase "to serve his God and Father" emphasizes that this new identity is not for self-aggrandizement but for dedicated service to God. Believers are His possession, called to fulfill His purposes.
• Eternal Glory and Power: The doxology ("to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen") shifts the focus to God, acknowledging His supreme majesty and the eternal nature of His reign and power, which underpins the believers' hope and calling.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, Revelation 1:6 is a powerful reminder of their exalted status in Christ. It calls them to live with a sense of dignity, purpose, and authority derived from their union with the King of Kings. This understanding should inspire:

• Confident Worship: As priests, believers can approach God with boldness, offering their lives and praises as sacrifices.
• Active Service: Recognizing their role in God's kingdom, they are called to participate in His work in the world, reflecting His justice and love.
• Enduring Hope: The assurance of ruling with Christ and the eternal glory of God provide steadfast hope in the face of present difficulties.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This concept of a royal priesthood for God's people has roots in the Old Testament. Exodus 19:6 speaks of Israel as a "kingdom of priests," a nation set apart. However, the Levitical system established a distinct priestly class. Revelation 1:6, along with passages like 1 Peter 2:9, fulfills this ancient promise, declaring that through Christ's sacrifice, all believers are now incorporated into this spiritual kingdom and priesthood. It signifies a new covenant reality where the distinction between laity and clergy in the Old Testament sense is transcended, and all redeemed individuals share in Christ's priestly and kingly office.

Analogies

• A Royal Family: Imagine a monarch whose children are not just subjects but are also given roles within the royal court, entrusted with responsibilities and sharing in the family's prestige. Believers are part of God's royal family, made kings and priests.
• A Company of Officers: In an army, officers are not only part of the fighting force but also lead, strategize, and represent the commander. Believers are called to be spiritual officers in God's army, leading lives of faith and service.

Relation to Other Verses

• Exodus 19:6: "You shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel." This Old Testament promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament church.
• 1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." This verse from 1 Peter echoes the language of Revelation 1:6, reinforcing the identity of believers.
• Hebrews 4:14-16: This passage speaks of Jesus as our great High Priest through whom we can draw near to God, aligning with the priestly function described in Revelation.
• Revelation 5:10: "and you have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth!" This verse further elaborates on the destiny of the redeemed, confirming their dual role.