Revelation 2:17

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

Revelation 2:17 (KJV)

Context

Revelation is a prophetic book written by the apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos. It contains a series of visions and messages given to John by Jesus Christ. In Revelation 2, Jesus addresses seven churches in Asia Minor, delivering specific messages to each church. This verse is part of the message to the church in Pergamum, a city known for its pagan worship and pressure on believers to compromise their faith.

Meaning

The verse begins with a call to hear: “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” This invitation emphasizes spiritual discernment and attentiveness to God’s message. It implies that the message is not only for the seven churches in the book of Revelation but also for all believers throughout time. The call is not merely for intellectual understanding but for personal application and transformation.

Jesus promises a reward to the one who overcomes. In biblical context, an “overcomer” refers to a believer who remains faithful to Christ despite challenges, trials, and temptations. The promise of the reward signifies the ultimate victory and eternal blessings that await those who persevere in their faith.

The first promise is “hidden manna.” Manna was the supernatural food provided by God to the Israelites during their wilderness journey (Exodus 16). It was also kept in the ark of the covenant (Hebrews 9:4). Hidden manna represents the spiritual sustenance and satisfaction that believers will experience in God’s kingdom, contrasting with the earthly manna that perished.

The second promise is a “white stone.” In biblical times, a white stone was often used as a token of acceptance, favor, or victory, and in some ancient contexts as a token of acquittal or admission to a feast. It can symbolize forgiveness, purity, and a restored relationship with God. The white stone also holds significance as a mark of admission or membership in a heavenly community.

The white stone bears a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it. In the Bible, a name signifies one’s identity, character, and relationship with God. The new name represents a transformation and a unique, personal relationship between the individual and God. It signifies a new identity and a deep, intimate connection with the Lord.

Biblical connections

The promise of hidden manna directly connects to the manna given to Israel in the wilderness, which was a type of God’s provision. The white stone and new name echo the promise of a new identity and intimate relationship with God, as seen in Isaiah 62:2 and Revelation 3:12.

Application

Believers today are called to listen to the Spirit’s voice and to persevere in faithfulness, even when facing pressure to compromise. The promises of hidden manna and the white stone assure us of spiritual nourishment and a personal, eternal reward from Christ. This encourages us to remain steadfast, knowing that our relationship with God is unique and deeply personal.

Reflection

The secret new name reminds us that God knows each of us intimately and personally. Our identity in Christ is not just a collective truth but a deeply personal one. As we overcome through faith, we can look forward to the eternal blessings that await us, including a place in God’s presence and a name that signifies our transformed identity.