King James Version

What Does Revelation 3:13 Mean?

Revelation 3:13 in the King James Version says “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Revelation 3:13 · KJV

Holy Spirit

Context

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.

14

And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; of the Laodiceans: or, in Laodicea

15

I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.

Read Revelation 3 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The repeated refrain 'He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches' emphasizes personal responsibility to respond to divine revelation. Spiritual hearing requires regenerate hearts—the Holy Spirit must grant ears to hear (Ezekiel 12:2). This is corporate address ('churches,' plural) reminding each congregation that messages to one apply to all. Reformed theology affirms the Spirit's internal testimony makes Scripture effectual; mere exposure to truth without spiritual illumination leaves hearers deaf to its claims.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This formula concludes each letter to the seven churches, underscoring that these were circular messages for all congregations, not private correspondence. In an oral culture, public reading in worship gatherings was primary Scripture distribution. The call to hear engaged listeners personally while recognizing corporate application.

Reflection Questions

  1. How can you cultivate spiritual attentiveness to 'hear' what the Spirit says through Scripture beyond mere intellectual understanding?
  2. What does the corporate nature ('churches') of this address teach about the church's role in understanding and applying God's Word?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
ὁ1 of 10
G3588

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

ἔχων2 of 10

“He that hath”

G2192

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

οὖς3 of 10

“an ear”

G3775

the ear (physically or mentally)

ἀκουσάτω4 of 10

“let him hear”

G191

to hear (in various senses)

τί5 of 10

“what”

G5101

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

τὸ6 of 10
G3588

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

πνεῦμα7 of 10

“the Spirit”

G4151

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

λέγει8 of 10

“saith”

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

ταῖς9 of 10
G3588

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

ἐκκλησίαις10 of 10

“unto the churches”

G1577

a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth

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 3:13 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 3:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Revelation 2:7

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