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 1:6 (KJV)
Context
The book of Revelation is a highly symbolic and apocalyptic 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, revealing events that will take place in the future. In the opening verses, John identifies himself as the writer and addresses the seven churches in Asia Minor, conveying the message of God’s revelation and the things that must soon take place.
Meaning
In Revelation 1:6, John writes about the identity and position of believers in Christ. He says that God has made us “kings and priests.” This statement emphasizes the significant roles and privileges that believers have in their relationship with God. The terms “kings” and “priests” indicate the dual nature of the believer’s identity and function. As “kings,” believers share in Christ’s royal authority and reign. They are given authority over the forces of darkness and are called to exercise spiritual dominion in their lives. As “priests,” believers have direct access to God and are called to offer spiritual sacrifices and intercede on behalf of others. They have a role in worship and in representing God’s righteousness and holiness to the world.
The phrase “unto God and his Father” emphasizes the relationship between God the Father and believers. Through Jesus Christ, believers are reconciled to God and become part of His family. They have a special connection to God and are chosen to serve Him in a unique way. This status is not earned but is a gift from Christ, who has freed us from our sins by His blood and made us a royal priesthood.
Biblical connections
This language draws directly from Exodus 19:6, where God tells Israel, “ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests.” In Revelation, this Old Testament promise is extended to all believers in Christ. As priests, believers are called to serve God, offer spiritual sacrifices, and intercede—roles formerly limited to the Levitical priesthood. As kings, believers share in Christ’s royal authority and will reign with Him, as Revelation 5:10 affirms: “And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”
Application
Revelation 1:6 reminds us of our identity and purpose as believers in Christ. We are called to exercise our authority as kings and priests, representing God’s righteousness and interceding for others. The verse concludes with a declaration of praise and acknowledgment of God’s glory and dominion. It recognizes that all honour and power belong to God forever and ever. It reminds believers of the greatness of God and encourages them to offer their lives in worship and submission to Him, giving glory and honour to God and recognizing His sovereignty and dominion over all things.
Reflection
The doxology “to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen” is directed to Christ, acknowledging His deity, His offices, and His sovereign rule over all creation. The word “Amen” affirms the certainty of this praise. This verse grounds Christian identity in Christ’s redemptive work, calling believers to live as those who belong to God’s kingdom and serve as His priests, while giving all glory and dominion to Him alone.
