3:5 3:5

Revelation 3:6

3:7 3:7

Bible Versions

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
He that hath {G2192} an ear {G3775}, let him hear {G191} what {G5101} the Spirit {G4151} saith {G3004} unto the churches {G1577}.
Those who have ears, let them hear what the Spirit is saying to the Messianic communities.”’
He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches.

Revelation 3:6 (KJV) concludes the specific message delivered to the church in Laodicea, yet it serves as a powerful, recurring refrain throughout the opening chapters of the book of Revelation. This concise verse acts as a universal call to spiritual attention, urging every believer to heed the divine communication.

Context

This verse is the final statement in the letter addressed to the church in Laodicea, known for its lukewarm spiritual state (Revelation 3:16). It is one of seven identical exhortations found at the end of each letter to the seven churches of Asia (Revelation 2:7, 2:11, 2:17, 2:29, 3:13, 3:22). Each letter contains specific commendations, criticisms, and promises, but they all culminate in this singular, overarching command to listen.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Spiritual Receptivity: The phrase "He that hath an ear" is not a reference to physical hearing, but to a spiritual capacity for understanding and discernment. It implies that not everyone will grasp the depth or urgency of the message, but those who are spiritually attuned are called to pay close attention. This theme resonates with Jesus' own teachings about having ears to hear.
  • Divine Authority: "What the Spirit saith" emphasizes that the messages are not merely human advice but direct, inspired words from the Holy Spirit, who is God Himself. This underscores the divine origin and infallible nature of the Revelation. It highlights the Holy Spirit's ongoing role in communicating God's will to His people.
  • Universal Application: The phrase "unto the churches" signifies that while each letter was addressed to a specific historical congregation, the principles, warnings, and promises contained within them are applicable to all churches and individual believers throughout history. The Spirit's message transcends time and specific geographical locations.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase for "He that hath an ear" is Ho echōn ous (ὁ ἔχων οὖς), directly translating to "the one having an ear." This construction stresses the active possession of a spiritual faculty. The term "Spirit" (Greek: Pneuma, Πνεῦμα) refers to the Holy Spirit, highlighting His role as the divine messenger and interpreter of God's truth.

Practical Application

Revelation 3:6 challenges believers today to cultivate a spirit of attentiveness and obedience to God's voice. In a world filled with distractions and competing narratives, the call to "hear what the Spirit saith" is more relevant than ever. It encourages us to:

  • Engage with Scripture: The Bible is the primary way the Spirit speaks to us. Regularly studying and meditating on God's Word allows us to discern His voice.
  • Seek Spiritual Discernment: Not all voices are from the Spirit. We must pray for wisdom and discernment to distinguish between divine guidance and worldly influences, remembering to test the spirits.
  • Apply Truth Personally: The messages to the churches, though ancient, contain timeless truths about faithfulness, repentance, perseverance, and spiritual vitality that we must apply to our own lives and the life of our church.

Ultimately, this verse is a profound reminder that God is actively communicating with His people, and our spiritual well-being depends on our willingness and ability to truly listen and respond to His voice.

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.

  • Revelation 2:7

    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.
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