Meaning of Revelation 5:10

Revelation 5:10 describes the redeemed as having been made into a "kingdom and priests" by Christ, who is the Lamb who was slain. This transformation signifies their elevated status and divine commission, moving them from a state of servitude or separation to one of intimate access and authoritative participation in God's eternal plan. They are not merely subjects of God's kingdom but are now integral to its functioning, serving as both royalty and spiritual intermediaries. The promise of reigning "on the earth" points to their future role in a renewed creation, reflecting God's ultimate dominion and their co-regency with Christ.

Context and Background

This verse is found within the vision of the heavenly throne room in the book of Revelation. John, the author, is shown a scroll sealed with seven seals, which only the Lamb, Jesus Christ, is found worthy to open. The opening of the seals unleashes God's judgment and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Revelation 5 specifically focuses on the Lamb's worthiness to take the scroll and its seals, leading to a powerful song of praise from the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders. It is in response to the Lamb's victory and cosmic authority that the elders proclaim the redemptive work accomplished through His sacrifice, resulting in the transformation of believers into this royal and priestly company. The "kingdom and priests" are the redeemed from every nation, tribe, people, and language, signifying the universality of God's salvation.

Key Themes and Messages

• Redemption and Transformation: The verse highlights the profound change that Christ's sacrifice brings about. Believers are no longer ordinary individuals but are fundamentally altered, elevated to a new status.
• Royal Priesthood: The dual designation of "kingdom and priests" is crucial. As a kingdom, they share in Christ's rule and authority. As priests, they have direct access to God and serve as mediators, offering spiritual sacrifices and representing God to others.
• Divine Commission: The redeemed are not passive observers but are actively engaged in serving God. This service is not burdensome but is a privilege stemming from their new identity.
• Future Reign: The promise of reigning "on the earth" points to a future reality where believers, in resurrected bodies and in a restored creation, will participate in the governance of God's kingdom.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, Revelation 5:10 is a powerful reminder of their identity in Christ. It underscores that salvation is not merely an escape from judgment but an empowerment for service and participation in God's eternal purposes. This passage calls believers to live with the awareness of their royal status and priestly calling. It encourages them to approach God with boldness (Hebrews 4:16) and to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God (Romans 12:1). Furthermore, it instills a hope for the future reign with Christ, motivating perseverance through present trials.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse echoes themes present throughout Scripture. The Old Testament concept of Israel as a "kingdom of priests" (Exodus 19:6) finds its ultimate fulfillment and expansion in Christ for all believers. The priestly role of mediating between God and humanity, previously carried out by a select few, is now extended to all who are in Christ. The theme of kingship and reigning with God is also present from Genesis (humanity's dominion mandate) to the prophecies of a Davidic king reigning eternally. Revelation 5:10 synthesizes these threads, presenting the redeemed as co-heirs with Christ, participating in His reign and His mediatorial work.

Analogies

One analogy to understand the "kingdom and priests" concept is to consider a royal court. The king is the supreme ruler, but he has a royal family and appointed officials who share in his authority and have specific roles in governing. The redeemed are part of God's royal family, sharing in Christ's reign. Their priestly function can be likened to the ministers or ambassadors of the king, who have direct access to him and represent his interests to the people. Another analogy is that of a well-functioning body, where each part has a unique and vital role in the overall health and operation of the whole.

Relation to Other Verses

• 1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." This verse directly parallels Revelation 5:10, emphasizing the believers' identity as a "royal priesthood" called to proclaim God's excellencies.
• Exodus 19:6: "You will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." This Old Testament declaration foreshadows the New Testament reality described in Revelation 5:10, showing the continuity of God's redemptive plan.
• Romans 8:17: "Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." This verse speaks to the inheritance and co-reigning aspect of the redeemed's future.
• Revelation 1:6: "and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen." This earlier verse in Revelation also affirms the same truth about believers' identity.