Revelation 5:10

And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

Revelation 5:10 (KJV)

Context

Revelation 5:10 is part of John’s vision of heavenly worship in the throne room of God. John sees a scroll in God’s right hand, sealed with seven seals, which represents God’s purposes and plans for the future. No one is found worthy to open it except Jesus, the Lamb who was slain. In response, the heavenly beings sing a new song, and this verse records part of that song.

Meaning

The verse declares that God has made believers kings and priests, and that they shall reign on the earth. The focus is on the redeemed and their relationship with God. Through Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection, believers are transformed and given a new identity. They are no longer separated from God by their sins but have been reconciled to Him and become part of His kingdom.

The phrase “kings and priests” indicates the exalted position that believers have in God’s sight. As kings, they are granted authority and power in the spiritual realm, sharing in the rule and reign of Christ. As priests, they have the privilege of direct access to God and are called to serve and worship Him. This echoes the Old Testament concept of priests who served as mediators between God and the people, offering sacrifices on their behalf.

The promise that believers will “reign on the earth” points to the future fulfillment of God’s plan, where the redeemed will participate in the glorious reign of Christ over all creation. This reign signifies the establishment of God’s perfect rule and the restoration of His original intentions for the world.

Biblical connections

This language draws on Exodus 19:6, where God tells Israel that they shall be unto Him a kingdom of priests. Revelation 1:6 similarly describes believers as made kings and priests unto God. The future reign with Christ is often understood in connection with the millennial reign described in Revelation 20:4-6, and ultimately in the new earth where righteousness dwells.

Application

Revelation 5:10 conveys the glorious destiny of believers in Christ. They are transformed, given authority, and called to serve as both kings and priests in God’s kingdom. It speaks to the intimate relationship between God and His redeemed people, as well as their future participation in the reign of Christ on earth. It is a reminder of the hope and purpose that believers have as they await the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plans.

Reflection

This verse assures believers of their royal and priestly calling, both in their present identity and in the future fulfillment of reigning with Christ. It invites confidence in the secure purposes of God and a life lived in light of that coming reign.