Revelation 3:2

Authorized King James Version

Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

γίνου

G1096

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

γρηγορῶν

G1127

watchful

to keep awake, i.e., watch (literally or figuratively)

καὶ

G2532

and

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

στήριξον

G4741

strengthen

to set fast, i.e., (literally) to turn resolutely in a certain direction, or (figuratively) to confirm

τὰ

G3588

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

λοιπὰ

G3062

the things which remain

remaining ones

ἃ

G3739

that

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

μὲλλει

G3195

are

to intend, i.e., be about to be, do, or suffer something (of persons or things, especially events; in the sense of purpose, duty, necessity, probabili

ἀποθανεῖν

G599

ready to die

to die off (literally or figuratively)

#10

οὐ

G3756

not

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

#11

γὰρ

G1063

for

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

#12

εὕρηκά

G2147

I have

to find (literally or figuratively)

#13

σου

G4675

thy

of thee, thy

#14

τὰ

G3588

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

#15

ἔργα

G2041

works

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

#16

πεπληρωμένα

G4137

perfect

to make replete, i.e., (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute

#17

ἐνώπιον

G1799

before

in the face of (literally or figuratively)

#18

τοῦ

G3588

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

#19

θεοῦ

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Revelation, this passage highlights kingdom of God through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Revelation.

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

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about kingdom of God?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of kingdom of God, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of eschatology and the doctrine of last things?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address the apparent delay of Christ's return and God's justice, and how should the church respond?