Revelation 5:10

KJV

And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} hast made {G4160} us {G2248} unto our {G2257} God {G2316} kings {G935} and {G2532} priests {G2409}: and {G2532} we shall reign {G936} on {G1909} the earth {G1093}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You made them into a kingdom for God to rule,
cohanim to serve him;
and they will rule over the earth.”

Berean Standard Bible

You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign upon the earth.”

American Standard Version

and madest them to be unto our God a kingdom and priests; and they reign upon the earth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 5:10 is a pivotal declaration within the heavenly throne room scene, celebrating the Lamb's worthiness to open the scroll. It articulates the profound new identity and future destiny of those redeemed by Christ's blood, proclaiming that God has transformed them into "kings and priests" who are destined to "reign on the earth." This verse encapsulates the eschatological hope and the Christ-purchased authority and access granted to believers, foreshadowing their co-regency with Christ in His coming kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 5:10 is embedded within the climactic worship scene of [Revelation 5](/revelation/5 "Revelation 5 - The Lamb and the Scroll"), which immediately follows the majestic vision of God enthroned in [Revelation 4](/revelation/4 "Revelation 4 - The Throne Room of God"). After a search for one worthy to open the seven-sealed scroll, the Lamb, Jesus Christ, is revealed as the only one qualified because He "was slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation" ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - Worthy is the Lamb")). Verse 10 is part of the "new song" sung by the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders, expressing the *result* of the Lamb's redemptive work: the transformation of the redeemed into a royal priesthood with a future reign. This declaration sets the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the opening of the scroll.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The audience of Revelation, likely believers in Asia Minor during a period of Roman imperial persecution (possibly under Domitian), would have keenly felt the oppressive power of earthly kings and the demands of the imperial cult. In this context, the declaration that *they* would be made "kings and priests" and "reign on the earth" offered profound counter-cultural hope and encouragement. It directly challenged the prevailing political and religious order, asserting God's ultimate sovereignty and the future vindication of His persecuted people. The concept of a "kingdom of priests" has roots in [Exodus 19:6](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - A Kingdom of Priests") and is echoed in [Isaiah 61:6](/isaiah/61-6 "Isaiah 61:6 - Priests of the Lord"), signifying a people set apart for divine service and possessing unique access to God. John's vision reinterprets and expands this Old Testament promise through the lens of Christ's finished work.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Revelation and broader biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **Redemption and Atonement**, as the status of "kings and priests" is directly attributed to the Lamb's sacrificial blood ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - The Lamb's Redemption")). It highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Kingdom**, emphasizing that God's ultimate plan involves not just saving humanity but also empowering them to participate in His righteous rule. The dual identity of **Royal Priesthood** is central, affirming believers' direct access to God (priests) and their conferred authority (kings), a concept also found in [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood"). Finally, the explicit mention of reigning "on the earth" underscores the **Eschatological Hope** of a future, tangible kingdom where Christ and His redeemed co-rule, bringing about justice and righteousness in a restored creation, a hope further expounded in [Revelation 20:6](/revelation/20-6 "Revelation 20:6 - Reigning with Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **made (Greek, _poiéō'_ G4160):** This verb signifies an active, deliberate act of creation or transformation. Here, it underscores God's sovereign agency through the Lamb in conferring a new status upon the redeemed. It's not something earned by human effort but a divine impartation, a making or constituting of a new reality for believers.
* **kings (Greek, _basileús'_ G935):** Derived from a word implying a "foundation of power," this term denotes a sovereign ruler. In the context of Revelation, it speaks to the authority and dominion that the redeemed will exercise in God's coming kingdom. This is a share in Christ's own kingship, indicating a future role of co-regency and administration in the divine government.
* **priests (Greek, _hiereús'_ G2409):** This word refers to one who mediates between God and humanity, offering sacrifices and interceding. For believers, it signifies direct access to God, the privilege of offering spiritual sacrifices (e.g., praise, service, prayer), and participating in God's redemptive work. It points to an intimate, unhindered relationship with the Divine, fulfilling the Old Testament ideal of a "kingdom of priests."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And hast made us unto our God kings and priests":** This clause reveals the immediate and profound consequence of the Lamb's redemptive work. The "us" refers to those redeemed "by thy blood" ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - Redeemed by Blood")), signifying all believers from every nation. The verb "hast made" (KJV, past tense) indicates a completed action, a present reality of status conferred by God. This status is dual: "kings" implies authority, dominion, and a share in Christ's rule, while "priests" denotes direct access to God, the ability to serve Him, and to offer spiritual worship. This dual identity elevates believers to a position of immense privilege and responsibility before God.
* **"and we shall reign on the earth.":** This second clause specifies the future outworking of the conferred status. The future tense "shall reign" points to an eschatological fulfillment, a time when the redeemed will actively participate in Christ's kingdom established on the earth. This reign is not merely spiritual but implies a tangible, administrative role in a restored world. It signifies the ultimate triumph of God's purposes, where His people, once persecuted and marginalized, will exercise righteous authority under Christ's supreme rule, reversing the effects of sin and Satan's dominion.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs significant **Symbolism**, particularly in the titles "kings and priests." These are not merely descriptive but carry rich theological weight, drawing from Old Testament promises of a priestly kingdom ([Exodus 19:6](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - A Kingdom of Priests")) and New Testament affirmations of believers' identity in Christ ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")). The declaration also functions as a **Prophetic Declaration**, announcing a future reality (the reign on earth) that is guaranteed by the Lamb's finished work. There is also a subtle **Contrast** implied between the current suffering and marginalization of believers (as understood by John's audience) and their glorious future of reigning authority.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 5:10 profoundly articulates the eschatological hope and the present reality of the believer's identity in Christ. It underscores that our status as "kings and priests" is not earned but is a gracious gift, purchased by the sacrificial blood of the Lamb. This dual role signifies both our privileged access to God (priestly function) and our future participation in His sovereign rule (kingly function). The promise of reigning "on the earth" affirms God's commitment to the restoration of creation and His intention to share His dominion with His redeemed people, ultimately fulfilling His original purpose for humanity to exercise righteous stewardship. This verse also connects the Old Testament promises of a priestly kingdom to their New Testament fulfillment in Christ and His church, highlighting the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

* [Exodus 19:6](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - A Kingdom of Priests"): "And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation."
* [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood"): "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light."
* [Revelation 20:6](/revelation/20-6 "Revelation 20:6 - Reigning with Christ"): "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 5:10 offers immense encouragement and a clear vision for the believer's identity and destiny. It reminds us that our worth and purpose are not defined by earthly standards or temporary circumstances, but by the eternal decree of God, made possible through Christ's sacrifice. As "kings," we are called to exercise spiritual authority in our lives, over sin, and in our sphere of influence, living as ambassadors of God's kingdom. As "priests," we have direct, unhindered access to God's presence, empowered to offer Him worship, intercession, and lives of consecrated service. This future hope of reigning on the earth should inspire us to live with a kingdom mindset today, actively pursuing justice, righteousness, and the spread of the Gospel, knowing that our present faithfulness contributes to God's ultimate plan for a restored creation. This verse transforms our perspective on suffering and challenges, anchoring our hope in a glorious future where Christ's reign, and ours with Him, will be fully realized.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding your identity as a "king and priest" in Christ change your perspective on your daily life and responsibilities?**
* **In what practical ways can you exercise your "priestly" function of offering spiritual sacrifices and intercession in your current circumstances?**
* **How does the promise of reigning "on the earth" shape your hope for the future and motivate your actions in the present?**
* **What does it mean to live with a "kingdom mindset" in a world that often operates contrary to God's values?**

### FAQ

**Who are 'us' in this verse?**

Answer: The "us" in [Revelation 5:10](/revelation/5-10 "Revelation 5:10 - Kings and Priests") refers to the redeemed people of God, those who have been purchased by the blood of the Lamb. As stated in the preceding verse, [Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - Redeemed from Every Nation"), they are gathered "out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation." This signifies that the promise of being kings and priests, and reigning on the earth, is for all believers from all times and places, forming the universal church, the body of Christ.

**When will believers reign on the earth?**

Answer: The phrase "we shall reign on the earth" points to an eschatological fulfillment. While believers possess spiritual authority and a kingly identity now, the full, tangible reign is generally understood to occur in a future age. Many interpretations connect this reign with the millennial kingdom, as described in [Revelation 20:4-6](/revelation/20-4-6 "Revelation 20:4-6 - The Millennial Reign"), where believers who participate in the first resurrection reign with Christ for a thousand years. Others see it extending into the new heavens and new earth, where God's people will forever dwell and serve Him in a restored creation ([Revelation 21-22](/revelation/21 "Revelation 21 - The New Heaven and New Earth")). Regardless of the precise timing, the verse unequivocally promises a future, literal reign on a renewed earth.

**How are believers 'kings and priests' now?**

Answer: While the full manifestation of reigning on the earth is future, believers are already "kings and priests" in a spiritual and positional sense. As priests, we have direct access to God through Christ, no longer needing an earthly mediator ([Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14-16 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Christ Our High Priest")). We are called to offer spiritual sacrifices of praise, worship, and service ([Hebrews 13:15-16](/hebrews/13-15-16 "Hebrews 13:15-16 - Sacrifices Pleasing to God")) and to intercede for others. As kings, we share in Christ's authority over sin and the powers of darkness ([Colossians 1:13](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13 - Delivered from Darkness")), are seated with Him in heavenly places ([Ephesians 2:6](/ephesians/2-6 "Ephesians 2:6 - Seated with Christ")), and are called to exercise dominion in our lives and spheres of influence as representatives of His kingdom. This present reality is a foretaste and guarantee of our future, more complete reign.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 5:10 finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. It is *He* who, as the [Lamb slain](/revelation/5-6 "Revelation 5:6 - The Lamb Who Was Slain"), has purchased this exalted status for humanity. Christ Himself is the quintessential King, the [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings"), and the ultimate High Priest, who has entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all to secure our access to God ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Our Great High Priest")). Our identity as "kings and priests" is entirely derivative of His. We reign because He reigns, and we have access to God because He, as our High Priest, has opened the way. This verse beautifully illustrates the concept of believers being "in Christ," sharing in His victory, His authority, and His eternal ministry. Our future reign on the earth is not an independent dominion but a co-regency with the resurrected Lord, a participation in His established kingdom, reflecting His glory and extending His righteous rule throughout a renewed creation. Thus, Revelation 5:10 is a profound declaration of the church's destiny, wholly secured and defined by the Lamb who is worthy.

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 1:6

And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him [be] glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Daniel 7:27

And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.

Revelation 20:6

Blessed and holy [is] he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

Revelation 22:5

And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

Daniel 7:18

But the saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever.

1 Peter 2:5

Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 2:9

But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: