King James Version

What Does Revelation 3:11 Mean?

Revelation 3:11 in the King James Version says “Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.”

Revelation 3:11 · KJV

Context

9

Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.

10

Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

11

Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.

12

Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.

13

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Read Revelation 3 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.... This verse from Revelation's vision of letters to sardis, philadelphia, laodicea - dead religion, faithful witness, lukewarmness employs apocalyptic imagery rich with Old Testament allusions and symbolic meaning. The Greek text uses vivid apocalyptic language characteristic of Jewish prophetic literature, drawing heavily from Daniel, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Zechariah.

The symbolism must be interpreted within its first-century context while recognizing timeless spiritual realities. The imagery would resonate powerfully with persecuted believers facing Roman imperial cult worship, providing hope that despite present suffering, Christ reigns sovereign and will consummate His kingdom. The apocalyptic genre uses symbolic numbers (seven, twelve, 144,000), colors, beasts, and cosmic imagery to convey theological truth rather than photographic descriptions.

Christologically, Revelation consistently exalts Jesus as the victorious Lamb, the faithful witness, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Every vision ultimately points to Christ's supremacy, His finished redemptive work, and His certain return to judge the living and dead and establish the new creation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

John received this revelation circa AD 95 during Domitian's persecution, exiled on Patmos for his testimony. The seven churches of Asia Minor faced increasing pressure to participate in emperor worship and pagan religious practices. Refusal meant economic hardship, social ostracism, and potential martyrdom. Understanding this context illuminates Revelation's encouragement to faithful endurance.

The apocalyptic genre was familiar to first-century Jewish and Christian readers. Rather than newspaper-style predictions, apocalyptic literature uses symbolic imagery to reveal spiritual realities behind earthly events, encourage the faithful, warn the unfaithful, and assert God's ultimate sovereignty over history. Parallels with Daniel, Ezekiel, and intertestamental apocalyptic writings would help original readers decode the symbols.

Rome's imperial cult demanded worship of Caesar as divine, placing Christians in impossible situations—compromise their faith or face persecution. Revelation identifies Rome as "Babylon" and assures believers that despite appearances, the Lamb conquered through His death and resurrection, and all earthly kingdoms will submit to His reign.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Revelation 3:11 reveal God's character, particularly His sovereignty, holiness, and justice?
  2. What specific encouragement or warning does this verse offer for maintaining faithful Christian witness amid cultural pressure?
  3. How does this passage point to Christ's victory and the hope of new creation, and how should that shape your present priorities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ἰδού,1 of 12

“Behold”

G2400

used as imperative lo!

ἔρχομαι2 of 12

“I come”

G2064

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

ταχύ·3 of 12

“quickly”

G5035

shortly, i.e., without delay, soon, or (by surprise) suddenly, or (by implication, of ease) readily

κράτει4 of 12

“hold that fast”

G2902

to use strength, i.e., seize or retain (literally or figuratively)

ὃ5 of 12

“which”

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

ἔχεις6 of 12

“thou hast”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

ἵνα7 of 12

“that”

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

μηδεὶς8 of 12

“no man”

G3367

not even one (man, woman, thing)

λάβῃ9 of 12

“take”

G2983

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

τὸν10 of 12
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

στέφανόν11 of 12

“crown”

G4735

a chaplet (as a badge of royalty, a prize in the public games or a symbol of honor generally; but more conspicuous and elaborate than the simple fille

σου12 of 12

“thy”

G4675

of thee, thy

Study Guide

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 3:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Revelation 3:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

James 1:12Revelation 22:12Revelation 2:10Revelation 2:252 Timothy 4:81 Peter 5:3-4

Test Your Knowledge

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