Revelation 2:7

KJV

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

KJV (with Strong's)

He that hath {G2192} an ear {G3775}, let him hear {G191} what {G5101} the Spirit {G4151} saith {G3004} unto the churches {G1577}; To him {G846} that overcometh {G3528} will I give {G1325} to eat {G5315} of {G1537} the tree {G3586} of life {G2222}, which {G3739} is {G2076} in {G1722} the midst {G3319} of the paradise {G3857} of God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Those who have ears, let them hear what the Spirit is saying to the Messianic communities. To him winning the victory I will give the right to eat from the Tree of Life which is in God’s Gan-‘Eden.”’

Berean Standard Bible

He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who overcomes, I will grant the right to eat from the tree of life in the Paradise of God.

American Standard Version

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches. To him that overcometh, to him will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the Paradise of God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 2:7 concludes the letter to the Ephesian church with a universal call to spiritual discernment and a profound promise of eternal life. It challenges believers to heed the Holy Spirit's message to the churches, assuring those who overcome the trials and temptations of the world that they will be granted access to the tree of life within the paradise of God, symbolizing restored communion and unending sustenance in God's presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the concluding exhortation and promise for the first of seven letters dictated by the resurrected Christ to specific churches in Asia Minor, found in [Revelation chapters 2 and 3](/revelation/2 "Revelation 2-3 - Letters to the Seven Churches"). Each letter follows a consistent pattern: an address identifying Christ, commendation for their faithfulness (if any), rebuke for their failings (if any), an exhortation to repent or persevere, and a final, often eschatological, promise "to him that overcometh." For the Ephesian church, Christ commended their hard work, perseverance, and discernment against false apostles, but sharply rebuked them for having "left their first love" ([Revelation 2:4](/revelation/2-4 "Revelation 2:4 - The Ephesian Church's Lost Love")). The promise in [Revelation 2:7](/revelation/2-7 "Revelation 2:7 - The Promise to Overcomers") thus acts as a powerful incentive for them to return to their initial fervent devotion and to overcome their spiritual apathy, with the ultimate reward of restored fellowship with God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The seven churches were located in the Roman province of Asia (modern-day Turkey), a region deeply integrated into the Roman imperial cult and Hellenistic culture. Ephesus, a major port city and the capital of Asia, was a hub of commerce, politics, and pagan worship, notably home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Christians in these cities faced immense pressure to conform to pagan practices, participate in emperor worship, and contend with various false teachings and heresies that threatened the purity of their faith. The call to "overcome" was not merely spiritual but also a call to steadfastness in the face of social ostracism, economic hardship, and potential persecution for refusing to compromise their allegiance to Christ. The imagery of "paradise" and the "tree of life" would have resonated with both Jewish and Hellenistic audiences, evoking ancient myths of a primordial garden and a golden age, but here imbued with distinct theological meaning rooted in the biblical narrative.
* **Key Themes:** [Revelation 2:7](/revelation/2-7 "Revelation 2:7 - The Promise to Overcomers") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Revelation. The repeated phrase, "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches," underscores the theme of **spiritual hearing and discernment**, emphasizing that divine truth requires more than mere physical audition; it demands receptive hearts and minds attuned to the Holy Spirit's ongoing communication to the universal church. The promise "To him that overcometh" highlights the central theme of **victorious perseverance** in the face of spiritual warfare, worldly pressures, and persecution. This concept of "overcoming" (Greek: *nikaō*) is foundational to the book, appearing repeatedly as a condition for receiving Christ's blessings and sharing in His ultimate triumph, as seen in other letters like the promise in [Revelation 3:21](/revelation/3-21 "Revelation 3:21 - Overcomers will Sit with Christ"). Finally, the reward of eating from the "tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God," introduces the theme of **eternal life and eschatological restoration**. This imagery directly alludes to the Garden of Eden from which humanity was expelled after the Fall ([Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Expulsion from Eden")), signifying the reversal of the curse, the restoration of perfect fellowship with God, and the promise of unending life in the New Creation, a theme further developed in [Revelation 22:2](/revelation/22-2 "Revelation 22:2 - The Tree of Life in the New Jerusalem").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **give (Greek, _dídōmi'_):** This verb signifies a proactive bestowal, a granting or delivering. In this context, it emphasizes the sovereign act of Christ in bestowing a divine privilege and blessing upon the overcomer. It is not something earned by human merit but a gift freely given by the victorious Christ.
* **overcometh (Greek, _nikáō'_):** Meaning to subdue, conquer, prevail, or get the victory. This word implies an active, ongoing struggle against opposing forces—sin, the world system, false teaching, and persecution—culminating in triumph. It denotes a dynamic spiritual victory achieved through steadfast faith and endurance in Christ.
* **paradise (Greek, _parádeisos'_):** Of Oriental origin, this term refers to a park or a garden, specifically an Eden-like place of future happiness. It evokes a lush, enclosed garden, a place of delight and security, signifying the restored, intimate presence of God, a state of ultimate bliss and divine communion that awaits the faithful.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches":** This is a recurring imperative, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual receptivity. It's a call not merely to physical hearing, but to attentive listening, understanding, and obedient application of the divine message. The message originates from "the Spirit," referring to the Holy Spirit, who conveys Christ's words to the collective body of believers ("the churches"), indicating a universal and ongoing relevance of these messages beyond the specific congregations.
* **"To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life":** This clause presents the condition and the primary reward. The promise is exclusively to the "overcomer," highlighting the active, enduring faith required. The "tree of life" is a direct allusion to the tree in the Garden of Eden, access to which was lost after the Fall. Eating from it symbolizes the reception of eternal life, divine sustenance, and perpetual fellowship with God.
* **"which is in the midst of the paradise of God":** This phrase further specifies the location and nature of the reward. The "paradise of God" evokes a restored Eden, a place of perfect communion, peace, and abundance, directly in God's presence. "In the midst of" suggests centrality and full access, implying that the overcomer will enjoy the very heart of God's glorious dwelling and the blessings it contains.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 2:7 is rich in literary devices that enhance its theological depth. The most prominent is **Allusion**, specifically to the primordial Garden of Eden in Genesis. The "tree of life" and "paradise of God" directly recall humanity's original state of perfect communion with God and the subsequent loss of access to eternal life due to sin ([Genesis 2:9](/genesis/2-9 "Genesis 2:9 - The Tree of Life in Eden") and [Genesis 3:22-24](/genesis/3-22-24 "Genesis 3:22-24 - Expulsion from Eden")). This allusion signifies a profound eschatological reversal and restoration, promising that what was lost in Eden will be regained and surpassed in Christ. **Symbolism** is also central, with the "tree of life" symbolizing eternal life, divine sustenance, and restored fellowship with God, and "paradise of God" symbolizing the ultimate dwelling place of God's people, characterized by peace, joy, and His immediate presence. The phrase "He that hath an ear, let him hear" employs **Metaphor**, transforming physical hearing into a spiritual act of discernment and obedience, emphasizing the need for inward spiritual receptivity to God's truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 2:7 encapsulates profound theological truths concerning God's redemptive plan and the destiny of His faithful people. It underscores the active role of the believer in persevering through faith and obedience, while simultaneously highlighting the gracious provision of God. The promise of the tree of life in the paradise of God speaks to the restoration of humanity's original blessed state, not merely returning to Eden but entering into an even greater, perfected communion with God made possible through Christ. This ultimate reward for faithfulness affirms God's covenant loyalty and His desire for intimate fellowship with His creation, a fellowship that sin had broken but which Christ fully restores.

* [Genesis 3:22-24](/genesis/3-22-24 "Genesis 3:22-24 - Humanity Barred from the Tree of Life")
* [Revelation 22:1-2](/revelation/22-1-2 "Revelation 22:1-2 - The River and Tree of Life in the New Jerusalem")
* [1 John 5:4-5](/1_john/5-4-5 "1 John 5:4-5 - Overcoming the World Through Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 2:7 offers a timeless message of hope, challenge, and ultimate reward for believers across all generations. It calls us to cultivate a posture of deep spiritual listening, recognizing that the Holy Spirit continues to speak to the church today, guiding, correcting, and encouraging. This verse reminds us that the Christian life is not passive but an active journey of "overcoming"—conquering sin, resisting worldly pressures, enduring trials, and remaining steadfast in our devotion to Christ, even when it is costly. The promise of the tree of life in the paradise of God provides an eternal perspective, reminding us that our ultimate reward is not found in earthly comforts or fleeting successes, but in restored, unending communion with God Himself. This profound assurance fuels our perseverance, transforming our struggles into opportunities for victorious faith and reminding us that our temporary afflictions are incomparable to the eternal weight of glory awaiting those who remain faithful.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you feel called to "overcome" right now, and how can you rely on the Holy Spirit's power to do so?**
* **How actively are you listening to "what the Spirit saith unto the churches" in your own life and in the broader Christian community?**
* **How does the promise of the "tree of life" and "paradise of God" motivate your perseverance and shape your understanding of eternal life?**

### FAQ

**What does "overcometh" mean in the context of Revelation?**

Answer: In Revelation, "overcometh" (Greek: *nikáō*) refers to those who conquer or prevail in their spiritual walk. This victory is not achieved through human strength but through steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, enabling believers to resist the temptations of sin, endure persecution, reject false teachings, and remain loyal to Christ despite the pressures of the world. It signifies a dynamic, active perseverance in faith, even unto death, as seen in passages like [Revelation 12:11](/revelation/12-11 "Revelation 12:11 - Overcoming by the Blood of the Lamb").

**What is the significance of the "tree of life" and the "paradise of God"?**

Answer: The "tree of life" is an **allusion** to the tree in the Garden of Eden, access to which was lost after humanity's expulsion due to sin ([Genesis 3:22-24](/genesis/3-22-24 "Genesis 3:22-24 - Expulsion from Eden")). Its reappearance signifies the restoration of eternal life, divine sustenance, and unending fellowship with God. The "paradise of God" (Greek: *parádeisos*) also harks back to Eden's garden, symbolizing a place of perfect peace, joy, and intimate communion with God. Together, they represent the ultimate eschatological blessing for believers—a return to and surpassing of humanity's original blessed state, in the very presence of God, where all needs are met and life is eternal ([Revelation 22:1-5](/revelation/22-1-5 "Revelation 22:1-5 - The New Jerusalem and the Tree of Life")).

**Who is "the Spirit" that "saith unto the churches"?**

Answer: "The Spirit" refers to the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity. In Revelation, the Holy Spirit is central to revealing God's truth and empowering believers. The phrase "what the Spirit saith unto the churches" emphasizes that the messages conveyed through John from Christ are not merely human words but divine utterances, inspired and communicated by the Holy Spirit. This highlights the Spirit's ongoing role in guiding, teaching, and speaking to the collective body of Christ throughout history, urging spiritual attentiveness and obedience from all who claim to have "an ear" to hear ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 2:7 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of the promise and the means by which it is attained. He is the ultimate "Overcomer," having conquered sin, death, and the grave through His crucifixion and resurrection ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World"); [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). It is through His finished work that believers are empowered to overcome, for our victory is not our own but a participation in His triumph ([1 John 5:4-5](/1_john/5-4-5 "1 John 5:4-5 - Overcoming Through Faith")). Furthermore, Christ Himself is the true "Tree of Life." He declared, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")). He is the source of eternal life, and to "eat" of the tree of life is to partake of Him, to live in intimate, unending fellowship with Him, the one who grants access to the "paradise of God." His sacrificial death opened the way back to the Father's presence, restoring what was lost in Eden and ushering in a new, eternal covenant where believers can dwell with God forever ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access to God Through Christ")). Thus, the promise of Revelation 2:7 is a glorious invitation to embrace Christ, the Overcomer and the Life-Giver, and through Him, to enter into the fullness of God's eternal presence.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Revelation 2:17

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it].

Revelation 2:11

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

Matthew 11:15

He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Revelation 13:9

If any man have an ear, let him hear.

Matthew 13:43

Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Matthew 13:9

Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Revelation 3:12

Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, [which is] new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and [I will write upon him] my new name.