‏ Revelation of John 3:21

 He that overcometh ( ο νικων ). Absolute nominative again as in 3:12, but resumed this time by the dative  αυτω as in 2:26.

 To sit ( καθισα ). First aorist active infinitive of  καθιζω. This promise grows out of the prophecy that the saints will share in the Messiah's rule, made to the twelve (Mt 19:28; Lu 22:29f.), repeated by Paul (1Co 6:2f.), enlarged in Re 22:1-5 (to last forever, 2Ti 2:11f.). James and John took this hope and promise literally (Mr 10:40) not metaphorically.

 As I also overcame ( ως καγω ενικησα ). First aorist active indicative of  νικαω, looking back on the victory as over in the past. In Joh 16:33 before the Cross Jesus says  Εγω νενικηκα τον κοσμον (perfect active), emphasizing the abiding effect of the victory.

 Sat down ( εκαθισα ). "I took my seat" (Heb 1:3) where Christ is now (Re 22:3; Col 3:1). Cf. 1Jo 5:4; Re 2:27f. Each of these seven messages begins alike and ends alike. Each is the message of the Christ and of the Holy Spirit to the angel of the church. Each has a special message suited to the actual condition of each church. In each case the individual who overcomes has a promise of blessing. Christ the Shepherd knows his sheep and lays bare the particular peril in each case.

Copyright information for RWP