Revelation 21:7

KJV

He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

KJV (with Strong's)

He that overcometh {G3528} shall inherit {G2816} all things {G3956}; and {G2532} I will be {G2071} his {G846} God {G2316}, and {G2532} he {G846} shall be {G2071} my {G3427} son {G5207}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He who wins the victory will receive these things, and I will be his God, and he will be my son.

Berean Standard Bible

The one who overcomes will inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he will be My son.

American Standard Version

He that overcometh shall inherit these things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 21:7 unveils a profound and multifaceted promise to those who demonstrate faithful endurance: they will inherit the fullness of God's new creation, experiencing an intimate, covenantal relationship where God is their Father and they are His beloved children. This declaration serves as a capstone to the vision of the New Jerusalem, cementing the eternal blessedness and secure identity of the redeemed in the presence of the Almighty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 21:7 is situated within the climactic vision of the new heavens and new earth, immediately following the description of the New Jerusalem's descent and God's declaration of dwelling with humanity ([Revelation 21:1-6](/revelation/21-1-6 "Revelation 21:1-6 - The New Heaven, New Earth, and New Jerusalem")). This verse acts as a divine affirmation of the inheritance and relationship for those who belong to this renewed reality. It stands in stark contrast to the subsequent verse, [Revelation 21:8](/revelation/21-8 "Revelation 21:8 - The Fate of the Unbelieving"), which details the tragic fate of the unbelieving and unfaithful, highlighting the critical distinction between those who "overcome" and those who do not. The entire chapter paints a picture of ultimate restoration, intimacy, and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** John's audience in the first century Roman Empire faced significant persecution, social pressure, and the pervasive influence of the imperial cult, which demanded worship of the emperor. The call to "overcome" (Greek: _nikáō_) would have resonated deeply with believers struggling to maintain their faith amidst these trials. The concept of "inheritance" was well-understood in both Jewish and Roman cultures, signifying a secure future and a place within a family or lineage. The promise of God being "his God" and the believer being "my son" draws heavily on Old Testament covenant language, particularly the promises made to Abraham, Israel, and David, which established a unique, familial relationship between God and His chosen people. This promise would have offered immense comfort and hope to those enduring hardship for their faith.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout the book of Revelation and the broader biblical narrative. The theme of **"overcoming"** is a recurring motif, particularly in the letters to the seven churches (e.g., [Revelation 2:7](/revelation/2-7 "Revelation 2:7 - Promise to the Overcomers in Ephesus"), [Revelation 3:21](/revelation/3-21 "Revelation 3:21 - Promise to the Overcomers in Laodicea")), signifying spiritual victory through steadfast faith in Christ amidst tribulation. The **"divine inheritance"** speaks to the comprehensive blessings of the new creation, including access to the tree of life and the city of God, as promised to the faithful (e.g., [Revelation 22:14](/revelation/22-14 "Revelation 22:14 - Blessed are Those Who Wash Their Robes")). Most profoundly, the declaration "I will be his God, and he shall be my son" underscores the theme of **intimate covenant relationship** and **divine adoption**, echoing Old Testament promises where God establishes a father-son relationship with His people (e.g., [2 Samuel 7:14](/2_samuel/7-14 "2 Samuel 7:14 - God's Covenant with David"), [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant")). This verse thus brings to a glorious crescendo the themes of perseverance, reward, and restored fellowship that permeate Revelation [chapter 21](/revelation/21 "Revelation 21 - The New Heaven and New Earth").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **overcometh (Greek, _nikáō'_):** This verb means to subdue, conquer, prevail, or get the victory. It is a recurring and crucial term in Revelation, used seven times in the letters to the churches (Revelation 2-3) to describe those who remain faithful to Christ despite persecution, false teaching, and worldly pressures. The victory is not achieved by human strength but through steadfast faith in Christ, who has already overcome the world ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Christ's Victory Over the World")).
* **inherit (Greek, _klēronoméō'_):** Meaning to be an heir to, or to obtain by inheritance. This word emphasizes a legal and familial right to receive something. In a theological sense, it signifies participation in God's kingdom and blessings, not as a earned reward, but as a gift of grace through sonship. It implies a comprehensive and secure possession of all that God has prepared for His children.
* **son (Greek, _huiós'_):** This term denotes a male offspring, but in a broader sense, it signifies a child or someone in a filial relationship. In the context of divine sonship, it speaks of adoption into God's family, a profound identity that grants privileges, responsibilities, and an intimate relationship with God as Father. This spiritual sonship is the ultimate fulfillment of God's desire for a people who belong to Him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that overcometh":** This phrase identifies the recipient of the promise: those who, through faith in Christ, persevere through trials, temptations, and the pressures of the world, remaining loyal to God until the end. This is not a self-achieved victory but one enabled by Christ's power.
* **"shall inherit all things":** This clause describes the comprehensive nature of the reward. "All things" encompasses the entirety of the new creation, the New Jerusalem, and the full blessings of God's eternal kingdom. It signifies complete participation in God's glory, joy, and presence, far exceeding any earthly possession or human imagination.
* **"and I will be his God":** This is a profound declaration of restored covenant relationship, echoing ancient promises where God pledges His divine presence and protection to His people. It signifies God's complete commitment, faithfulness, and intimate fellowship with the overcomer, fulfilling His ultimate desire to dwell among humanity.
* **"and he shall be my son":** This final clause establishes the deepest level of intimacy and identity. It signifies divine adoption, where the overcomer is brought into a filial relationship with God, enjoying the privileges, love, and security of a beloved child. This sonship is the pinnacle of the believer's identity and relationship with the Creator.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 21:7 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound message. **Covenant Language** is central, particularly in the phrases "I will be his God, and he shall be my son," which directly echoes ancient biblical covenant formulas (e.g., [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant")). This establishes a deep, unbreakable, and familial bond between God and the faithful. The concept of "inheriting all things" functions as **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the immeasurable and comprehensive nature of the blessings, going beyond literal enumeration to convey boundless abundance. Furthermore, the entire verse serves as a **Promise**, offering a future hope and motivation for present perseverance. The recurring motif of "overcoming" throughout Revelation creates a **Leitmotif**, reinforcing the theme of spiritual victory and endurance as a prerequisite for eternal blessedness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 21:7 stands as a cornerstone of eschatological hope, weaving together threads of divine sovereignty, human perseverance, and ultimate restoration. The promise of inheriting "all things" speaks to the comprehensive nature of God's redemptive work, which extends beyond individual salvation to the renewal of all creation. The declaration of God as "his God" and the believer as "my son" signifies the culmination of God's covenantal desire for intimate fellowship with humanity, fulfilling the deepest longings for belonging and identity. This verse underscores the biblical teaching of adoption, where believers, through Christ, are grafted into God's family, receiving the full rights and privileges of sonship, an identity that secures their eternal future and access to God's boundless grace. It is a powerful affirmation of God's faithfulness to His promises and the glorious destiny awaiting those who remain faithful.

* [Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")
* [Galatians 4:7](/galatians/4-7 "Galatians 4:7 - No Longer a Slave but a Son")
* [1 John 3:1-2](/1_john/3-1-2 "1 John 3:1-2 - Children of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 21:7 offers profound comfort, motivation, and a clear vision for the life of a believer. In a world fraught with challenges, temptations, and the erosion of faith, this verse serves as a powerful anchor, reminding us that our present struggles are temporary and purposeful. The call to "overcome" is not a call to self-reliance, but to faithful dependence on Christ, who has already triumphed over sin, death, and the world. Knowing that perseverance leads to inheriting "all things" provides an eternal perspective that redefines our values and priorities, shifting our focus from fleeting earthly gains to enduring heavenly treasures. Furthermore, the promise of intimate sonship with God assures us of His unwavering love, provision, and presence, inviting us to live with the confidence and security of beloved children. This verse challenges us to examine where our true allegiances lie and to live in a manner consistent with our glorious future, demonstrating the character of God's children in every aspect of our lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific challenges or temptations in your life currently require you to "overcome" through faith in Christ?**
* **How does the promise of "inheriting all things" shape your perspective on earthly possessions, ambitions, and difficulties?**
* **In what ways can you more fully embrace your identity as a "son" or "daughter" of God, living in the security and intimacy of that relationship today?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to "overcome" in the context of Revelation?**

Answer: To "overcome" (Greek: _nikáō_) in Revelation means to remain steadfastly faithful to Jesus Christ despite intense pressure, persecution, false teachings, and the allure of the world. It is not about human strength or moral perfection, but about persevering in faith, trusting in Christ's ultimate victory, and refusing to compromise one's allegiance to Him. This theme is central to the letters to the seven churches (e.g., [Revelation 2:7](/revelation/2-7 "Revelation 2:7 - Promise to the Overcomers in Ephesus"), [Revelation 3:5](/revelation/3-5 "Revelation 3:5 - Promise to the Overcomers in Sardis")), where specific promises are given to those who overcome. It implies a spiritual battle against evil forces and worldly systems, won through Christ's power.

**What is implied by "inherit all things"?**

Answer: "Inherit all things" signifies a comprehensive and boundless blessing that awaits the faithful. It refers to a full participation in God's eternal kingdom, the new heavens and new earth, and the New Jerusalem, as described in [Revelation 21:1-6](/revelation/21-1-6 "Revelation 21:1-6 - The New Heaven, New Earth, and New Jerusalem"). This inheritance includes eternal life, freedom from sorrow and pain, dwelling in God's presence, and experiencing the fullness of His glory and joy. It is a secure, divinely granted possession, far exceeding any earthly inheritance, and it underscores the immeasurable generosity of God towards His children.

**How does "I will be his God, and he shall be my son" relate to Old Testament promises?**

Answer: This declaration is a powerful echo and ultimate fulfillment of Old Testament covenant promises, particularly the "I will be your God and you will be my people" formula (e.g., [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant")). The specific promise of father-son relationship also recalls God's covenant with David in [2 Samuel 7:14](/2_samuel/7-14 "2 Samuel 7:14 - God's Covenant with David"), where God promises to be a father to David's offspring. In Revelation 21:7, this promise is extended to all who overcome through Christ, signifying a restored, intimate, and eternal familial relationship with God, where believers are adopted as His beloved children, enjoying all the privileges and security of divine sonship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 21:7 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, for it is through Him alone that anyone can "overcome," "inherit all things," and be brought into a filial relationship with God. Christ Himself is the quintessential Overcomer, having triumphed over sin, death, and the powers of darkness through His crucifixion and resurrection ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). It is by faith in His finished work that believers are empowered to overcome the world ([1 John 5:4-5](/1_john/5-4-5 "1 John 5:4-5 - Faith Overcomes the World")) and persevere through trials. Furthermore, Christ is the ultimate Heir, through whom all things were created and for whom all things exist ([Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16-17 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ's Supremacy")). As co-heirs with Him ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")), believers inherit the boundless blessings of God's kingdom, not by their own merit, but by grace through their union with Christ. Most significantly, it is through Christ's atoning sacrifice and adoption by the Spirit that believers receive the Spirit of adoption, by whom they cry "Abba, Father!" ([Galatians 4:5-7](/galatians/4-5-7 "Galatians 4:5-7 - Adoption as Sons")). Thus, the promise of God being "his God" and the believer being "my son" is fully realized in and through Jesus, who reconciles humanity to the Father, establishing an eternal, intimate, and secure family bond that culminates in the glorious vision of the New Jerusalem.

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

2 Corinthians 6:18

And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

Hebrews 8:10

For this [is] the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:

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.

Revelation 21:3

And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God [is] with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, [and be] their God.

1 John 3:1

¶ Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.

1 John 3:3

And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

Matthew 25:34

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: