Revelation 11:17

Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.

Revelation 11:17 (KJV)

Context

Revelation 11:17 belongs to the Book of Revelation, the final book of the Christian Bible, which records prophetic visions given to the Apostle John. This verse occurs within the larger passage describing the sounding of the seventh trumpet by the seventh angel, a moment that signals the consummation of God’s redemptive plan and the inauguration of His eternal kingdom. In the immediate setting, the twenty-four elders respond to God’s decisive action with a song of praise and thanksgiving.

Meaning

The verse begins with an expression of gratitude and worship: “We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty.” The title “Lord God Almighty” emphasizes God’s omnipotence, His all-powerful nature. The phrase “which art, and wast, and art to come” acknowledges God’s eternal existence, affirming that He has always been and always will be, and reflects His timeless nature beyond the constraints of time. The reason for the thanksgiving is stated: “because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.” This indicates that God has now actively and visibly exercised His sovereign power to establish His rule. The Greek verb for “hast reigned” (ebasileusas) is an ingressive aorist, suggesting the beginning of a reign, which many translations render as “begun to reign” or “have begun to rule.” This marks a pivotal moment where God’s kingdom is manifested in power.

Biblical connections

The verse underscores the transition from temporal powers to the everlasting rule of God, offering believers assurance of God’s ultimate sovereignty and the fulfillment of His divine purpose. Some commentaries identify the person addressed as the Lord Jesus Christ, noting that His works of creation, preservation, redemption, and raising Himself from the dead declare Him to be truly and properly God, the Almighty.

Application

This passage serves as an encouragement for believers to trust in God’s ultimate reign, to offer Him heartfelt gratitude and worship, and to find hope and assurance in His eternal nature and sovereign rule. It reminds us that God is in control, regardless of the circumstances we may face, and points to the fulfillment of God’s plan and the assurance that His kingdom will be established.

Reflection

God’s eternal nature and omnipotence are the foundation for His righteous reign, and the appropriate response to His sovereign acts is thanksgiving and worship. As we await the full realization of His kingdom, we join the elders in acknowledging that He has taken to Himself His great power and has begun to reign.