Revelation 2:25
But that which ye have already hold fast till I come.
Original Language Analysis
ὃ
G3739
ὃ
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
2 of 8
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ἔχετε
that which ye have
G2192
ἔχετε
that which ye have
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
3 of 8
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
κρατήσατε
already hold fast
G2902
κρατήσατε
already hold fast
Strong's:
G2902
Word #:
4 of 8
to use strength, i.e., seize or retain (literally or figuratively)
Cross References
Revelation 3:11Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.Revelation 22:7Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.Revelation 3:3Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.Hebrews 10:23Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)Revelation 22:20He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.Romans 12:9Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.Revelation 1:7Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.Hebrews 3:6But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.Hebrews 4:14Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.John 14:3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
Historical Context
Written to believers resisting Jezebel's teaching, this command encouraged the faithful minority to persevere despite social pressure. 'Till I come' reminded them that Christ's judgment—not cultural acceptance—would vindicate their stand. The promise sustained hope during extended persecution before Christ's return.
Questions for Reflection
- How does focusing on Christ's return ('till I come') help you 'hold fast' to truth when cultural pressure mounts?
- What practical disciplines help you maintain a vigorous 'grip' on sound doctrine and holy living?
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Analysis & Commentary
The exhortation to 'hold fast' emphasizes perseverance as evidence of genuine faith. The Greek 'kratēsate' implies vigorous grip, active retention against opposition. Reformed theology affirms the perseverance of the saints—true believers endure to the end not by their own strength but through God's preserving grace. 'Till I come' points to Christ's return as the church's ultimate hope, motivating present faithfulness. Possession of truth creates obligation to maintain it against error.