Revelation 3:12

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Him {G846} that overcometh {G3528} will I make {G4160} a pillar {G4769} in {G1722} the temple {G3485} of my {G3450} God {G2316}, and {G2532} he shall go {G1831} no {G3364} more {G2089} out {G1854}: and {G2532} I will write {G1125} upon {G1909} him {G846} the name {G3686} of my {G3450} God {G2316}, and {G2532} the name {G3686} of the city {G4172} of my {G3450} God {G2316}, which is {G3588} new {G2537} Jerusalem {G2419}, which {G3588} cometh down {G2597}{G2597} out of {G1537} heaven {G3772} from {G575} my {G3450} God {G2316}: and {G2532} I will write upon him my {G3450} new {G2537} name {G3686}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will make him who wins the victory a pillar in the Temple of my God, and he will never leave it. Also I will write on him the name of my God and the name of my God’s city, the new Yerushalayim coming down out of heaven from my God, and my own new name.

Berean Standard Bible

The one who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will never again leave it. Upon him I will write the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God (the new Jerusalem that comes down out of heaven from My God), and My new name.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 3:12 conveys a profound promise from Jesus Christ to those who overcome spiritual challenges and remain faithful. This verse, addressed to the steadfast church in Philadelphia, assures believers of an eternal, secure, and intimate relationship with God, characterized by an unshakeable place in His presence, divine identification, and a transformative union with Christ Himself. It speaks to the ultimate reward for perseverance: permanent belonging and an unveiled intimacy with the Triune God in the New Creation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of the letter to the church in Philadelphia, one of the [seven churches of Asia Minor](/revelation/2-1 "Revelation 2-3 - Letters to the Seven Churches") addressed in Revelation chapters 2 and 3. Unlike several other churches that received strong rebukes, Philadelphia is unique in receiving virtually no criticism, only commendation. Jesus praises their faithfulness despite having "little strength," for keeping His word, and for not denying His name ([Revelation 3:8](/revelation/3-8 "Revelation 3:8 - Philadelphia's Faithfulness")). The promise in verse 12 serves as a direct and magnificent reward for their steadfastness, offering a vision of eternal security and divine intimacy that stands in stark contrast to the transient struggles of their earthly existence. It is the culmination of the promises given to overcomers throughout the letters, emphasizing the ultimate triumph of those who endure.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Philadelphia was a city prone to frequent and devastating earthquakes, which often necessitated rebuilding and led to a pervasive sense of instability. Its inhabitants often had to "go out" of their homes for safety. The imagery of being made "a pillar in the temple" would have resonated deeply with a people familiar with architectural instability and the importance of strong foundations. Furthermore, in the ancient world, it was common practice to erect pillars or monuments to honor significant individuals or events, often with names or inscriptions carved upon them. To have the names of God, the New Jerusalem, and Christ's new name inscribed upon them would signify ultimate honor, ownership, and an unchangeable status, contrasting sharply with the shifting allegiances and pagan cults prevalent in the Roman Empire. The "temple" (Greek: *naos*) refers specifically to the inner sanctuary, the dwelling place of the deity, underscoring the intimate and sacred nature of the promised presence.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme in this verse is the **Reward for Overcoming**. The condition "Him that overcometh" (Greek: *nikao*) is central, echoing similar promises made to the other churches, such as the right to eat from the [tree of life](/revelation/2-7 "Revelation 2:7 - Promise to Overcomers") or not being hurt by the [second death](/revelation/2-11 "Revelation 2:11 - Promise to Overcomers"). This emphasizes the necessity of spiritual endurance and faithfulness in the face of trials and opposition. Another significant theme is **Permanence and Security**. To be made "a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out" directly addresses the human longing for stability and an eternal home, providing assurance of an unbreakable bond with God, far surpassing any earthly security. Finally, **Divine Identification and Ownership** is powerfully conveyed through the writing of names. The inscription of "the name of my God," "the name of the city of my God, new Jerusalem," and "my new name" signifies ultimate belonging, protection, and a profound, intimate relationship with the Triune God, marking the believer as eternally consecrated and uniquely identified with the divine, as also seen in [Revelation 22:4](/revelation/22-4 "Revelation 22:4 - God's Name on Their Foreheads").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Overcometh (Greek, _nikáō'_):** This primary verb means "to subdue, conquer, prevail, or get the victory." In Revelation, it signifies spiritual victory achieved through faithfulness to Christ, even unto death, in the face of worldly pressures, persecution, and the deceptive influences of evil. It is not a victory earned by human strength, but by enduring in Christ.
* **Pillar (Greek, _stŷlos'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to stiffen," this noun refers to a post or column. Figuratively, it denotes support, strength, and stability. In ancient architecture, pillars were essential structural elements and were often erected as monuments to signify honor, permanence, and importance. To be made a pillar in God's temple implies an honored, secure, and permanent position within the very presence of God.
* **New (Greek, _kainós'_):** This adjective describes something "new" especially in freshness, quality, or kind, as opposed to *neos* which refers to something new in age. When applied to "new Jerusalem" or "my new name," it signifies a fresh, unprecedented, and superior reality—a new creation that is qualitatively different and superior to the old.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God,"**: This clause establishes the condition for the promise and the first aspect of the reward. The "overcomer" is the one who perseveres in faith despite trials, remaining loyal to Christ. The reward is to be made a "pillar" (a symbol of strength, stability, and honor) within the "temple of my God" (the innermost sanctuary, signifying an intimate and permanent dwelling in God's direct presence).
* **"and he shall go no more out:"**: This phrase emphasizes the eternal security and permanence of the overcomer's position. Unlike the instability of earthly life or the temporary nature of human dwellings, this promise guarantees an unshakeable, eternal dwelling with God, free from any expulsion or departure.
* **"and I will write upon him the name of my God,"**: This signifies divine ownership, protection, and identification. To have God's name written upon someone indicates that they belong to God, are His possession, and are under His authority and care, much like a seal or brand.
* **"and the name of the city of my God, [which is] new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God:"**: This inscription links the overcomer to God's ultimate, eternal dwelling place for His people. The "new Jerusalem" is not an earthly city but a heavenly, perfected city, symbolizing the consummation of God's redemptive plan and the eternal home of the redeemed. To have its name written signifies citizenship and belonging to this divine, eternal community.
* **"and [I will write upon him] my new name."**: This final inscription signifies a unique, deep, and personal intimacy with Christ. "My new name" likely refers to a name that fully encapsulates Christ's post-resurrection glory, authority, and redemptive work, a name fully known only in the eschatological reality. To bear this name implies a profound, transformative union and identification with the glorified Christ.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 3:12 is rich with **Symbolism** and **Metaphor**. The image of a "pillar in the temple" is a powerful **metaphor** for strength, stability, and an honored, permanent position within God's sacred presence. It contrasts with the literal instability of the earthquake-prone city of Philadelphia, offering a spiritual reality of unshakeable security. The act of "writing names" upon the overcomer is highly **symbolic**, representing divine ownership, intimate identification, and a transformative change in status and identity. The "name of my God" symbolizes belonging and protection; the "name of the city of my God, new Jerusalem" symbolizes eternal citizenship and participation in the perfected divine community; and "my new name" symbolizes a deeper, more personal revelation and union with the glorified Christ. The phrase "he shall go no more out" serves as a **contrast** to the temporary nature of earthly existence and the historical experience of the Philadelphians, emphasizing the eternal permanence of the overcomer's dwelling.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 3:12 encapsulates profound theological truths regarding God's faithfulness, the nature of salvation, and the believer's eternal destiny. It underscores the concept of eternal security, not as a license for complacency, but as a promised outcome for those who persevere in faith, reflecting God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people. The multiple names written upon the overcomer signify a multi-faceted divine ownership and identification, establishing the believer's identity firmly within the Triune Godhead and His eternal kingdom. This promise speaks to the ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling with humanity, where believers are not merely guests but integral, permanent fixtures in His glorious presence, experiencing an unparalleled intimacy and belonging that transcends all earthly limitations.

* [Revelation 2:7](/revelation/2-7 "Revelation 2:7 - Promise of the Tree of Life to Overcomers")
* [John 10:28](/john/10-28 "John 10:28 - Eternal Security of Believers")
* [Revelation 21:2](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The New Jerusalem Descends")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 3:12 offers immense encouragement and a powerful call to spiritual perseverance for believers today. The promise to "him that overcometh" reminds us that the Christian life is not passive but an active journey of faith, often involving spiritual warfare and the need for steadfast endurance against worldly pressures, temptations, and opposition. Our eternal reward and secure place in God's kingdom are intrinsically linked to our faithfulness and perseverance in Christ. This verse provides deep comfort and assurance, emphasizing that our identity in Christ is permanent and secure; we are not temporary residents but eternal "pillars" in God's dwelling, firmly established by His grace. Understanding that God's name, the New Jerusalem's name, and Christ's new name will be written upon us profoundly shapes our identity, giving us purpose, confidence, and a sense of ultimate belonging. This divine branding transforms our perspective, directing our gaze toward the glorious future hope of the New Jerusalem—a perfect, eternal home with God, free from all sorrow, suffering, and evil, as promised in [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears or Death").

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you currently being called to "overcome" or persevere in faith?**
* **How does the promise of being a "pillar in the temple of my God" impact your understanding of your eternal security and significance in God's kingdom?**
* **What does it mean to you personally that God's name, the New Jerusalem's name, and Christ's new name will be written upon you? How does this shape your identity and sense of belonging?**

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

Answer: In Revelation, "overcometh" (Greek: *nikáō*) refers to those who conquer or prevail spiritually. This victory is not achieved through human strength or merit, but through steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, enduring persecution, resisting false teachings, and remaining loyal to His name even unto death. It signifies a life lived in fidelity to Christ despite intense opposition, trusting in His ultimate victory. This theme is central to the letters to the [seven churches](/revelation/2-1-3-22 "Revelation 2-3 - Letters to the Seven Churches"), where promises are consistently given to those who overcome.

**What is the significance of being a "pillar in the temple of my God"?**

Answer: The imagery of a "pillar in the temple" conveys several profound meanings. Historically, pillars symbolized strength, stability, and honor, often erected as monuments to significant individuals or events. In the context of Philadelphia, a city prone to earthquakes, the promise of an unshakeable pillar would have been especially comforting, signifying permanence and security. The "temple" (Greek: *naós*) refers to the inner sanctuary, the most holy place where God dwells. Therefore, to be a pillar in God's temple means to have an honored, secure, and permanent place in the very presence of God, never to "go no more out." This contrasts sharply with the temporary and often unstable nature of earthly existence.

**Why are three names written on the overcomer in this verse?**

Answer: The inscription of three names—"the name of my God," "the name of the city of my God, new Jerusalem," and "my new name" (Christ's)—signifies a complete and multi-faceted divine identification and ownership.
* **"The name of my God"**: Indicates divine possession and protection, marking the believer as belonging to God.
* **"The name of the city of my God, new Jerusalem"**: Symbolizes the believer's citizenship in God's eternal kingdom and their secure place within the ultimate dwelling place of God's people, as described in [Revelation 21](/revelation/21 "Revelation 21 - The New Heaven and New Earth").
* **"My new name"**: Refers to Christ's own new, glorified name, signifying a deeper, more personal revelation of His identity and a unique, intimate union with the believer. It underscores a profound, transformative relationship with the resurrected and glorified Lord.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 3:12 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. He is the supreme Overcomer, who "has overcome the world" ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")) and through His death and resurrection, has triumphed over sin, death, and the powers of darkness ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). It is His victory that enables believers to overcome; we are made overcomers only "through him who loved us" ([Romans 8:37](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors Through Christ")). Christ Himself is the true "pillar" and foundation of God's eternal temple, the Church, built upon Him as the chief cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ the Cornerstone")). Our secure and permanent place in God's presence is not earned but gifted through our union with Him. Furthermore, the names written upon the overcomer are ultimately derived from Christ: the name of God is revealed through Him ([John 17:6](/john/17-6 "John 17:6 - Jesus Reveals God's Name")), the New Jerusalem is His bride and dwelling place where He is the temple ([Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - God and the Lamb are the Temple")), and "His new name" signifies the full revelation of His glorious identity as the Lamb who was slain and is now King of kings and Lord of lords ([Revelation 19:12-16](/revelation/19-12-16 "Revelation 19:12-16 - The Rider on the White Horse")). Thus, the promises of Revelation 3:12 are not merely abstract rewards, but an invitation to share in Christ's own victory, glory, and eternal intimacy with the Father.

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 22:4

And they shall see his face; and his name [shall be] in their foreheads.

Revelation 21:2

And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

Revelation 14:1

¶ And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty [and] four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.

Galatians 2:9

And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we [should go] unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.

Jeremiah 1:18

For, behold, I have made thee this day a defenced city, and an iron pillar, and brasen walls against the whole land, against the kings of Judah, against the princes thereof, against the priests thereof, and against the people of the land.

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].

Hebrews 12:22

But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,