Definition: And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him [be] glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really powerful verse from Revelation 1:6. It’s a big statement about our relationship with God! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, it says: “God has given us special roles and privileges to worship him and work for him.” Let's unpack that a little more: “And hath made us kings…” : This means God is now treating us as rulers – not just in our lives, but as leaders. He’s giving us authority and responsibility within the context of his kingdom. “…and priests unto God…” : Priests were important figures in ancient Jewish religious life. They served as intermediaries between God and people, offering sacrifices and performing rituals to honor him. So, we're now being called to be a special kind of people who are connected to God through worship and service. “…and his Father…” : This is a crucial part – it means that God is our Father. It’s not just any father, but the Father of all creation. What does this mean for us? We’re Called to Worship: It signifies that we are now valued and important enough to be worshipped. We're Called to Serve: We have a responsibility to serve God and his purpose on Earth. It means working towards good, following his will, and striving to live righteously. God’s Glory & Dominion: The phrase "for ever and ever" emphasizes that this role – being kings and priests – is eternal. It means our lives are intertwined with God's glory and the reign of His kingdom. It suggests a future where God will ultimately rule over all things. In short, Revelation 1:6 tells us that God has given us a unique position in his plan for humanity—a position of leadership, worship, and service. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted symbolically, but it's also seen as a promise of God’s ultimate victory and restoration. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of Revelation 1? Discuss the meaning of the phrase "kings and priests"? Provide a little context about how this verse fits into the larger story of the Bible?