Revelation 2:3

Authorized King James Version

And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐβάστασας

G941

hast borne

to lift, literally or figuratively (endure, declare, sustain, receive, etc.)

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ὑπομονὴν

G5281

patience

cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy

ἔχεις

G2192

hast

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

διὰ

G1223

for

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ὄνομά

G3686

a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)

#10

μου

G3450

of me

#11

κεκοπίακας

G2872

hast laboured

to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard

#12

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#13

οὐ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#14

κέκμηκας

G2577

fainted

properly, to toil, i.e., (by implication) to tire (figuratively, faint, sicken)

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to Revelation. The concept of divine revelation reflects the ultimate establishment of divine rule over creation. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to apocalyptic literature revealing God's ultimate victory, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within imperial persecution under Domitian's demand for emperor worship. The author writes to address persecuted Christians in Asia Minor facing pressure to compromise, making the emphasis on kingdom of God particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address the apparent delay of Christ's return and God's justice, and how should the church respond?
How does the kingdom of God theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?