Revelation 1:6
Verse
Context
John Greets the Seven Churches
5and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and has released us from our sins by His blood,6who has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and power forever and ever! Amen.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Kings and priests - See on Pe1 2:5 (note), Pe1 2:9 (note). But instead of βασιλεις και ἱερεις, kings and priests the most reputable MSS., versions, and fathers have βασιλειαν ἱερεις, a kingdom and priests; i.e. a kingdom of priests, or a royal priesthood. The regal and sacerdotal dignities are the two highest that can possibly exist among men; and these two are here mentioned to show the glorious prerogatives and state of the children of God. To him be glory - That is, to Christ; for it is of him that the prophet speaks, and of none other. For ever and ever - Εις τους αιωνας των αιωνων· To ages of ages; or rather, through all indefinite periods; through all time, and through eternity. Amen - A word of affirmation and approbation; so it shall be, and so it ought to be.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And hath--rather as Greek, "And (He) hath." made us kings--The oldest manuscripts read, "a kingdom." One oldest manuscript reads the dative, "for us." Another reads "us," accusative: so Vulgate, Syriac, Coptic, and ANDREAS. This seems preferable, "He made us (to be) a kingdom." So Exo 19:6, "a kingdom of priests"; Pe1 2:9, "a royal priesthood." The saints shall constitute peculiarly a kingdom of God, and shall themselves be kings (Rev 5:10). They shall share His King-Priest throne in the millennial kingdom. The emphasis thus falls more on the kingdom than on priests: whereas in English Version reading it is equally distributed between both. This book lays prominent stress on the saints' kingdom. They are kings because they are priests: the priesthood is the continuous ground and legitimization of their kingship; they are kings in relation to man, priests in relation to God, serving Him day and night in His temple (Rev 7:15; Rev 5:10). The priest-kings shall rule, not in an external mechanical manner, but simply in virtue of what they are, by the power of attraction and conviction overcoming the heart [AUBERLEN]. priests--who have pre-eminently the privilege of near access to the king. David's sons were priests (Hebrew), Sa2 8:18. The distinction of priests and people, nearer and more remote from God, shall cease; all shall have nearest access to Him. All persons and things shall be holy to the Lord. God and his Father--There is but one article to both in the Greek, therefore it means, "Unto Him who is at once God and His Father." glory and dominion--Greek, "the glory and the might." The fuller threefold doxology occurs, Rev 4:9, Rev 4:11; fourfold, Rev 5:13; Jde 1:25; sevenfold, Rev 7:12; Ch1 29:11. Doxology occupies the prominent place above, which prayer does below. If we thought of God's glory first (as in the Lord's Prayer), and gave the secondary place to our needs, we should please God and gain our petitions better than we do. for ever and ever--Greek, "unto the ages."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And hath made us kings and priests,.... The Alexandrian copy, and Complutensian edition, read, "a kingdom, priests"; and the Vulgate Latin version, "a kingdom and priests"; and the Arabic version, "a kingdom of priesthood"; reference seems to be had to Exo 19:6, "and ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests"; which the Jerusalem Targum renders, "ye shall be unto me", , "kings and priests"; and so the Targum of Jonathan ben Uzziel paraphrases it thus, "and ye shall be before me", "kings" crowned with a crown, "and priests" ministering. Hence it is a common saying with the Jews, that all Israelites are the sons of kings (o); and sometimes their doctors are called , "kings of the law" (p): and they ascribe the same thing to the word of the Lord as is here attributed to Jesus Christ: so the Targum of Jonathan on Deu 28:13 paraphrases the words, "the word of the Lord shall appoint or constitute you kings, and not private persons. Likewise they say (q). "that even a Gentile, if he studies in the law, is , "as an high priest". All which may serve to show to what the reference is had in the text, and from whence the language is taken. But the words are used in a higher and greater sense. The saints are made "kings" by Christ; they are so now; they have received a kingdom of grace, which cannot be taken away; and they have the power of kings over sin, Satan, and the world, and all their enemies; and they live and fare like kings, and are clothed like them, in rich apparel, the righteousness of Christ; and are attended as kings, angels being their lifeguards; and they will appear much more so hereafter, when they shall reign on earth with Christ a thousand years, shall sit upon the same throne, and have a crown of life and righteousness given them, and at last be introduced into the kingdom of glory. And they become such by being the sons of God, which power and privilege they receive from Christ, and so are heirs of God, and joint heirs with him, and by being united to him. And he also makes them "priests" to offer up the spiritual sacrifices of prayer and praise, and those of a broken heart, and of a contrite spirit, and even their souls and bodies, as a holy, living, and acceptable sacrifice unto God, by anointing and sanctifying them by his Spirit: and they are made such by him to God, and his Father; not to men, nor to angels. Now to him that has shown so much love, and bestowed such high favours and honours, is the following ascription made, to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever, Amen. The glory of his deity, and of all his offices; of his being the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead, and the Prince of the kings of the earth; and of all the benefits and blessings, favours and honours, received from him by his people: and "dominion"; over all creatures, and over all his saints, and especially in his kingdom, in the last days, which will be an everlasting one; and which is continually to be wished and prayed for, that it would come, and come quickly. "Amen"; so let it be, and so it shall be, (o) Misn. Sabbat, c. 14. sect. 9. T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 67. 1. & 111. 1. & 128. 1. Raya Mehimna in Zohar in Lev. xii. 1. (p) Shirhashirim Rabba, fol. 1. 2. Vid. Jarchium in. Psal. lxviii. 14. (q) T. Bab. Bava Kama, fol. 38. 1.
Revelation 1:6
John Greets the Seven Churches
5and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and has released us from our sins by His blood,6who has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and power forever and ever! Amen.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Revelation) Revelation 1:1-18
By Zac Poonen2.6K1:00:50REV 1:4REV 1:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on the major doctrines presented in Revelation 1:4-7. These verses contain a condensed version of the entire New Testament teaching. The speaker highlights seven key points from these verses, including the fact that the word of God is meant to make believers perfect and is the testimony of Jesus Christ. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes the theme of the second coming of Christ, stating that Jesus will come again and every eye will see Him. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of being a bond servant of God, fully surrendering every aspect of one's life to Him.
(Pdf Book) the Royal Priesthood
By Basilea Schlink2.4K00:00EbooksBlessing OthersPriestly MinistryNUM 6:272CH 30:27ISA 59:2MAT 5:21MRK 11:25PHP 2:17JAS 5:161PE 2:91JN 3:22REV 1:6Basilea Schlink emphasizes the significance of the priestly ministry of blessing, illustrating how blessings can transform lives, as exemplified by Father Bodelschwingh's blessing of a child. She highlights that as members of the royal priesthood, Christians are called to bless others rather than criticize, and that true blessings come from a life of holiness and repentance. Schlink warns against the hindrances to effective prayer and blessing, urging believers to cleanse themselves daily to fulfill their priestly duties with authority. The sermon calls for a return to a life of sacrificial love and intercession, reflecting the heart of Jesus in a world in need of salvation. Ultimately, she challenges the church to rise up as a royal priesthood, ready to bless and intercede for a world facing divine judgment.
Levitical Ministry - Part 3of4
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K40:12MinistryMAL 3:1MAT 6:33EPH 5:27TIT 2:141PE 2:9REV 1:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the nature and purpose of the ministry of preaching the word of God. They emphasize the importance of understanding and redefining the ministry in order to fulfill the Lord's desires. The speaker refers to passages from the book of Malachi and the letter to Titus to highlight the coming of the Lord and the need for purification and redemption. They also mention the various ministries that have taken place in different parts of the world throughout the year.
How Do You Measure Up?
By Rolfe Barnard1.2K44:52Christian LivingMAT 6:33LUK 19:31JHN 6:35ROM 12:12CO 5:201PE 2:9REV 1:6In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a Jew who approached him and expressed a desire to have what the preacher had. The preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life that attracts others to Jesus. He highlights that God has entrusted his people with the responsibility of preaching the gospel to the world. The preacher challenges the audience to evaluate their own lives and actions to see if they are truly representing Christ.
(Pdf Book) Seven Heavenly Things
By Bakht Singh1.2K00:00New BirthEbooksEternal LifeJER 31:3MAT 4:17MAT 5:8JHN 3:3JHN 3:16ROM 3:231TH 2:12HEB 12:141JN 1:9REV 1:6Bakht Singh emphasizes the necessity of being born again to enter the everlasting Kingdom of God, as highlighted in John 3. He outlines seven heavenly things: the Everlasting Kingdom, Everlasting Love, Everlasting Sacrifice, Everlasting Life, Everlasting Victory, Eternal Judgment, and Everlasting Condemnation. Singh explains that through Jesus' sacrifice, believers can regain the privileges lost by Adam and become heavenly kings. He stresses the importance of a pure heart to receive the gift of eternal life, which is essential for enjoying God's love and grace. Ultimately, he invites listeners to seek forgiveness and experience the transformative power of the new birth.
Corinthians: Principles Governing Body Functioning
By Stephen Kaung1.1K1:19:04EXO 23:15MAT 6:331CO 14:1REV 1:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being diligent in our daily lives as believers. He encourages the congregation to come prepared and ready to contribute when they gather together. He uses the example of the children of Israel bringing their offerings to the temple as a way to illustrate the need for diligence and preparation. The speaker also highlights the need to recognize Jesus as the head of the church and to see ourselves as members of the body of Christ, regardless of our background or differences.
A Royal Priesthood
By David Davis65247:46EXO 19:42CH 29:12CH 29:11HEB 2:111PE 2:9REV 1:6This sermon emphasizes the call to be a royal priesthood, drawing from the story of Hezekiah's revival in 2 Chronicles and the concept of worship as central to experiencing revival. It highlights the importance of worship in the Old Testament revivals and the need for believers to cleanse themselves, remove spiritual garbage, and prepare for the presence of God through worship. The sermon culminates in a call for believers to embrace their identity as a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and to deepen their commitment to worship and praise the Lord.
The Four W's 03 the Worship of God
By Stan Ford41654:50GEN 22:8GEN 46:13REV 1:6REV 5:12REV 13:8In this sermon, the preacher starts by mentioning a recent travel experience and a conversation with a woman who was excited about reading the last book of the Bible. The preacher emphasizes that God is too big for a solo or a quartet, and instead, the twenty-four elders in the Bible sing a powerful song of worship. The preacher highlights the importance of giving and how we only see what we give away. He encourages the audience to be friendly and generous, using the Bible verse "he that would have friends, would show himself friends." The sermon concludes with the congregation learning and singing a hymn together.
Ministry of Intercession
By Paris Reidhead18629:47IntercessionEXO 28:1MAT 6:33HEB 4:141PE 2:9REV 1:6REV 5:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the power of prayer and the importance of believing in God. He shares a story about a man in Wales who, despite being isolated and out of touch with the world, was awakened to pray during the Dunkirk evacuation. The speaker emphasizes that although there may not be direct proof of the man's prayers leading to the safe return of soldiers, he believes that God can work through those who truly believe in Him. The sermon also highlights the responsibility of believers to intercede for others and the need for revival in the church.
Study Notes - the Tabernacle
By Walter Beuttler1EXO 25:9EXO 27:9EXO 29:43EXO 30:34LEV 1:4JHN 6:35HEB 7:25HEB 8:5HEB 9:4HEB 10:11PE 2:5REV 1:6Walter Beuttler preaches on the purpose and typology of the tabernacle, highlighting how God used offerings and rituals to mend the broken fellowship with sinful man. The tabernacle symbolizes Christ, the Church, and the believer, showcasing God's desire to meet, accept, forgive, reveal, dwell, speak, and receive from sinners. The construction, names, and position of the tabernacle emphasize divine design, material, and location, reflecting God's redemptive plan and the believer's pilgrimage and access to God's presence.
An Ark of Gopher Wood for Noah
By George Warnock0EXO 19:6HEB 4:161PE 2:5REV 1:6REV 20:6The preacher delves into the concept of believers being of royal lineage in Christ, highlighting the unique privilege of NT believers as royal priests, able to offer spiritual sacrifices through Jesus Christ. This royal priesthood is made possible by Jesus, our great High Priest, granting us complete access to the Father. The sermon emphasizes the responsibility that comes with this privilege, urging believers to represent the King of kings in their daily lives and conduct, bearing the family likeness of their heavenly Father.
A Chosen Generation
By G.W. North0Chosen GenerationRedemptionEXO 12:13JHN 1:121CO 6:20EPH 1:7COL 1:13HEB 9:121PE 1:21PE 2:9REV 1:6G.W. North emphasizes the significance of being a 'chosen generation' as articulated in Peter's first epistle, particularly in 1 Peter 2:9. He explains that the blood of redemption was first shed in Egypt, highlighting the personal nature of the Passover and the necessity for each individual to partake in their own redemption. Unlike the Old Covenant, where multiple blood offerings were required, the New Covenant encapsulates all redemption in the singular sacrifice of Jesus. North encourages believers to recognize their identity as royal priests and precious individuals called to proclaim God's virtues, having been brought from darkness into His light.
The Kingdom of Heaven
By George Warnock0GEN 1:12PSA 110:1MAT 13:31MAT 24:14MRK 4:28JHN 12:24EPH 2:15HEB 10:7HEB 12:22REV 1:6George Warnock preaches about the rebuilding of the Tabernacle of David, signifying the day of the Royal Priesthood where Christ, as King and Priest, unites with believers to make them 'kings and priests unto God.' Jesus taught in parables to reveal the mysteries of the Kingdom, emphasizing its gradual growth and development rather than a sudden appearance. The Kingdom of God expands beyond one nation to encompass all the earth through the preaching of the gospel, transforming believers into a heavenly people known as 'The City of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem.' The fruition of the Kingdom is likened to the 'full corn in the ear,' symbolizing Jesus enthroned and embodied in the lives of His faithful followers.
Benediction to Corinthians
By Clement of Rome0ROM 15:331CO 1:2JUD 1:25REV 1:6Clement of Rome sends messengers Claudius Ephebus, Valerius Bito, and Fortunatus to the Corinthians, urging them to bring back news of peace and harmony among the believers. He expresses a deep longing for the restoration of good order in the community, desiring to rejoice in their unity. Clement concludes with a prayer for the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ to be with all who are called by God, giving glory, honor, power, majesty, and eternal dominion to Him forever.
Epistle 273
By George Fox0JOB 22:21PRO 8:18PRO 23:5HEB 1:3HEB 11:131PE 1:23REV 1:6George Fox preaches about the importance of being strangers and pilgrims to the world and all visible things, emphasizing the need to focus on the Creator, the Lord God Almighty, rather than temporary earthly possessions. He highlights the deceitfulness of outward riches and possessions that can easily vanish, urging believers to seek durable and true riches found in God's grace and everlasting life. By being above worldly attachments and rooted in the invisible life and power of God, one can experience the enduring birth of the immortal seed and inherit the heavenly riches and possessions that come from knowing the Lord God Almighty.
Princes of the Sanctuary.
By F.B. Meyer0Royal PriesthoodOvercoming PowerROM 8:37ROM 12:12CO 5:17EPH 2:6PHP 4:13COL 3:1HEB 4:161PE 2:91JN 5:4REV 1:6F.B. Meyer emphasizes that being in the sanctuary is not sufficient; we must embody the qualities of princes within it. This regal identity is characterized by humility, peace, and self-control, and is only attainable through our relationship with the exalted Lamb, who makes us both kings and priests. As priests, we are called to present ourselves as living sacrifices and intercede for the world, while as kings, we are empowered to overcome sin and live in victory through God's grace. Meyer encourages believers to recognize and embrace their royal status in Christ, which is rooted in holiness and blamelessness.
Ezekiel 44:1
By Chuck Smith0Second Coming Of ChristProphecy FulfillmentISA 9:7ISA 55:11MAT 6:10MAT 24:21MAT 25:341TH 4:172TH 2:82PE 3:3REV 1:6REV 19:11Chuck Smith emphasizes the imminent return of Christ, detailing the events that must precede His coming, including the rapture of the church, the tribulation, the revelation of the anti-Christ, and the battle of Armageddon. He highlights the purpose of Christ's return, which is to establish God's kingdom, restore the earth, and honor those who have served Him. Smith reassures believers of the certainty of Christ's coming, referencing the fulfillment of over 300 prophecies regarding both His first and second comings. He encourages the congregation to recognize the signs of the times and to trust in God's unwavering promise.
An Atheist Answered
By T. De Witt Talmage0EXO 27:21MAT 8:4LUK 10:31ACT 6:7HEB 7:11PE 2:9REV 1:6The preacher delves into the significance of priests in the Bible, highlighting their role as sacred or consecrated individuals who serve deity. While most references to priests in the New Testament pertain to Jewish ceremonial officials, Acts 14:13 mentions a priest of the pagan cult of Zeus. Jesus is portrayed as our Great High Priest, emphasizing His continuous intercession for us. The sermon also touches on believers in Revelation being described as priests who will reign with Christ, showcasing the dual nature of priests in the Bible.
The Royal Simplicity
By G.W. North0The Significance of CommunionRoyal HeritageGEN 14:18EXO 12:8PSA 24:1MAT 26:26LUK 22:19JHN 6:35ROM 8:171CO 11:23HEB 7:1REV 1:6G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the simple elements of bread and wine in the context of God's royal invitation to His feast, contrasting the Corinthians' misunderstanding of Jesus' lordship. He reflects on how these elements, chosen by Jesus, symbolize a profound truth about God's purpose and the honor bestowed upon humanity. North urges the congregation to recognize the importance of these symbols, which have deep roots in biblical history, connecting them to figures like Melchisedec and Abraham. The sermon calls for a deeper appreciation of the simplicity and richness of God's provision, reminding believers of their royal heritage as children of God.
Set Apart
By C.H. Spurgeon0Priesthood of BelieversHolinessEXO 19:6ISA 61:6MAT 6:33ROM 12:11CO 10:31PHP 4:6COL 3:23HEB 13:151PE 2:9REV 1:6C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that believers are spiritually designated as priests of the Lord, called to live distinctly for God and engage in holy service. He encourages Christians to prioritize their spiritual duties over worldly distractions, presenting their lives as a continuous offering of prayer, praise, and testimony. Spurgeon reminds us that while we may participate in everyday activities, our true calling is to serve God and reflect His holiness in all we do. He urges believers to embrace their sacred duty and adorn themselves with holiness as they minister before the Lord.
The Lord's Supper. Cont.
By George Cutting0GEN 40:23ACT 20:71CO 11:261CO 11:281PE 2:5REV 1:6George Cutting preaches about the importance of partaking in the Lord's supper with reverence and gratitude, reflecting on the sacrifice of Jesus and eagerly anticipating His return. He highlights the neglect and ingratitude shown by some towards this sacred act, contrasting it with the deep love and sacrifice of Christ. Cutting emphasizes the need for self-judgment before partaking in the Lord's supper, acknowledging our unworthiness and focusing on the worthiness of Christ who died for us.
A New Priesthood Arises
By George Warnock0Faithful LeadershipNew Beginnings1SA 1:201SA 2:351SA 3:11SA 4:111SA 4:221SA 7:21SA 10:191SA 16:1HEB 5:6REV 1:6George Warnock emphasizes the transition from the corrupt priesthood of Eli to the rise of Samuel, a faithful servant of God, who was born from Hannah's deep cries for a son. This new priesthood symbolizes hope and a fresh vision from the Lord during a time of spiritual darkness in Israel. Warnock draws parallels between Samuel's emergence and the need for a new generation of believers who will embody Christ's image and serve as God's oracles in a confused world. He highlights that God's plans unfold in His timing, and true victory comes from reliance on Him rather than human efforts. The sermon concludes with the reminder that even in defeat, God's presence and purpose remain steadfast, as seen in the return of the ark of the covenant.
The Hallway to the Saints' Rest
By Richard Baxter0MAT 8:27MAT 25:23ROM 8:11CO 6:21CO 15:521TH 4:161TI 6:152PE 2:9REV 1:6REV 6:16Richard Baxter preaches about the pathway to Paradise, emphasizing the removal of barriers by Christ to enter Heaven. He discusses the significance of the Second Coming of Christ, the Resurrection of the Body, the Judgment, and the Coronation as key events leading to Paradise. Baxter highlights the assurance of triumph for believers, the resurrection of the body, the solemnity of judgment, and the royal coronation awaiting the faithful.
Lead the Way
By C.H. Spurgeon0Leadership in FaithInfluence of Christians in SocietyDEU 28:13MAT 5:14MAT 28:19ROM 12:22CO 5:20EPH 2:19PHP 2:15COL 3:11PE 2:9REV 1:6C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that obedience to the Lord positions believers as leaders rather than followers, as stated in Deuteronomy 28:13. He asserts that God's blessings empower Christians to influence society positively, compelling the world to recognize Christ's authority. Spurgeon challenges believers to reject the spirit of the age and instead assert their identity as priests and kings in Christ, leading with confidence rather than succumbing to societal pressures. He calls for a bold proclamation of faith, urging Christians to take their rightful place in society and not allow their beliefs to be marginalized.
Speak a Word to Bring Back the King
By Paris Reidhead0PSA 19:12PSA 27:11PSA 51:1ISA 55:7REV 1:6Paris Reidhead preaches about the importance of recognizing and repenting from sin in order to bring back the King, symbolizing Jesus Christ, to reign in our hearts. He delves into the story of David's fall and restoration, emphasizing the need for humility, confession, and seeking forgiveness to restore our relationship with God. Reidhead highlights how worldly pursuits, overfamiliarity with truth, and the allure of sin can lead us away from God's will, just like Absalom's rebellion against David. He challenges listeners to speak a word of brokenness, confession, and repentance to bring back the King to His rightful place in their lives, homes, and churches.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Kings and priests - See on Pe1 2:5 (note), Pe1 2:9 (note). But instead of βασιλεις και ἱερεις, kings and priests the most reputable MSS., versions, and fathers have βασιλειαν ἱερεις, a kingdom and priests; i.e. a kingdom of priests, or a royal priesthood. The regal and sacerdotal dignities are the two highest that can possibly exist among men; and these two are here mentioned to show the glorious prerogatives and state of the children of God. To him be glory - That is, to Christ; for it is of him that the prophet speaks, and of none other. For ever and ever - Εις τους αιωνας των αιωνων· To ages of ages; or rather, through all indefinite periods; through all time, and through eternity. Amen - A word of affirmation and approbation; so it shall be, and so it ought to be.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And hath--rather as Greek, "And (He) hath." made us kings--The oldest manuscripts read, "a kingdom." One oldest manuscript reads the dative, "for us." Another reads "us," accusative: so Vulgate, Syriac, Coptic, and ANDREAS. This seems preferable, "He made us (to be) a kingdom." So Exo 19:6, "a kingdom of priests"; Pe1 2:9, "a royal priesthood." The saints shall constitute peculiarly a kingdom of God, and shall themselves be kings (Rev 5:10). They shall share His King-Priest throne in the millennial kingdom. The emphasis thus falls more on the kingdom than on priests: whereas in English Version reading it is equally distributed between both. This book lays prominent stress on the saints' kingdom. They are kings because they are priests: the priesthood is the continuous ground and legitimization of their kingship; they are kings in relation to man, priests in relation to God, serving Him day and night in His temple (Rev 7:15; Rev 5:10). The priest-kings shall rule, not in an external mechanical manner, but simply in virtue of what they are, by the power of attraction and conviction overcoming the heart [AUBERLEN]. priests--who have pre-eminently the privilege of near access to the king. David's sons were priests (Hebrew), Sa2 8:18. The distinction of priests and people, nearer and more remote from God, shall cease; all shall have nearest access to Him. All persons and things shall be holy to the Lord. God and his Father--There is but one article to both in the Greek, therefore it means, "Unto Him who is at once God and His Father." glory and dominion--Greek, "the glory and the might." The fuller threefold doxology occurs, Rev 4:9, Rev 4:11; fourfold, Rev 5:13; Jde 1:25; sevenfold, Rev 7:12; Ch1 29:11. Doxology occupies the prominent place above, which prayer does below. If we thought of God's glory first (as in the Lord's Prayer), and gave the secondary place to our needs, we should please God and gain our petitions better than we do. for ever and ever--Greek, "unto the ages."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And hath made us kings and priests,.... The Alexandrian copy, and Complutensian edition, read, "a kingdom, priests"; and the Vulgate Latin version, "a kingdom and priests"; and the Arabic version, "a kingdom of priesthood"; reference seems to be had to Exo 19:6, "and ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests"; which the Jerusalem Targum renders, "ye shall be unto me", , "kings and priests"; and so the Targum of Jonathan ben Uzziel paraphrases it thus, "and ye shall be before me", "kings" crowned with a crown, "and priests" ministering. Hence it is a common saying with the Jews, that all Israelites are the sons of kings (o); and sometimes their doctors are called , "kings of the law" (p): and they ascribe the same thing to the word of the Lord as is here attributed to Jesus Christ: so the Targum of Jonathan on Deu 28:13 paraphrases the words, "the word of the Lord shall appoint or constitute you kings, and not private persons. Likewise they say (q). "that even a Gentile, if he studies in the law, is , "as an high priest". All which may serve to show to what the reference is had in the text, and from whence the language is taken. But the words are used in a higher and greater sense. The saints are made "kings" by Christ; they are so now; they have received a kingdom of grace, which cannot be taken away; and they have the power of kings over sin, Satan, and the world, and all their enemies; and they live and fare like kings, and are clothed like them, in rich apparel, the righteousness of Christ; and are attended as kings, angels being their lifeguards; and they will appear much more so hereafter, when they shall reign on earth with Christ a thousand years, shall sit upon the same throne, and have a crown of life and righteousness given them, and at last be introduced into the kingdom of glory. And they become such by being the sons of God, which power and privilege they receive from Christ, and so are heirs of God, and joint heirs with him, and by being united to him. And he also makes them "priests" to offer up the spiritual sacrifices of prayer and praise, and those of a broken heart, and of a contrite spirit, and even their souls and bodies, as a holy, living, and acceptable sacrifice unto God, by anointing and sanctifying them by his Spirit: and they are made such by him to God, and his Father; not to men, nor to angels. Now to him that has shown so much love, and bestowed such high favours and honours, is the following ascription made, to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever, Amen. The glory of his deity, and of all his offices; of his being the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead, and the Prince of the kings of the earth; and of all the benefits and blessings, favours and honours, received from him by his people: and "dominion"; over all creatures, and over all his saints, and especially in his kingdom, in the last days, which will be an everlasting one; and which is continually to be wished and prayed for, that it would come, and come quickly. "Amen"; so let it be, and so it shall be, (o) Misn. Sabbat, c. 14. sect. 9. T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 67. 1. & 111. 1. & 128. 1. Raya Mehimna in Zohar in Lev. xii. 1. (p) Shirhashirim Rabba, fol. 1. 2. Vid. Jarchium in. Psal. lxviii. 14. (q) T. Bab. Bava Kama, fol. 38. 1.