King James Version

What Does Revelation 2:3 Mean?

“And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.”

Context

Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;

I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:

And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.

Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.

Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(3) **And hast borne.**—This verse needs some change to bring it into harmony with the best MSS. It should stand, *And hast* (or, *hadst*)* patience, and didst bear for My name’s sake, and didst not weary.* In this last word there is a recurrence to the word (*kopos*) translated labour or toil in Revelation 2:2. They had toiled on to very weariness without wearying of their toil (Galatians 6:9), just as they could not *bear* the evil and yet had *borne* reproaches for Christ’s sake. “There is toil, and patience, and abhorrence of evil, and discernment, and again patience, and endurance, and unwearied exertion. What can be wanting here?” (Dr. Vaughan.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Revelation. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Revelation 2:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.