Revelation 3:13
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἔχων
He that hath
G2192
ἔχων
He that hath
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
2 of 10
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
τί
what
G5101
τί
what
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
5 of 10
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πνεῦμα
the Spirit
G4151
πνεῦμα
the Spirit
Strong's:
G4151
Word #:
7 of 10
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
λέγει
saith
G3004
λέγει
saith
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
8 of 10
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Historical Context
This formula concludes each letter to the seven churches, underscoring that these were circular messages for all congregations, not private correspondence. In an oral culture, public reading in worship gatherings was primary Scripture distribution. The call to hear engaged listeners personally while recognizing corporate application.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you cultivate spiritual attentiveness to 'hear' what the Spirit says through Scripture beyond mere intellectual understanding?
- What does the corporate nature ('churches') of this address teach about the church's role in understanding and applying God's Word?
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Analysis & Commentary
The repeated refrain 'He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches' emphasizes personal responsibility to respond to divine revelation. Spiritual hearing requires regenerate hearts—the Holy Spirit must grant ears to hear (Ezekiel 12:2). This is corporate address ('churches,' plural) reminding each congregation that messages to one apply to all. Reformed theology affirms the Spirit's internal testimony makes Scripture effectual; mere exposure to truth without spiritual illumination leaves hearers deaf to its claims.