New Testament
Revelation 13:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse emphasizes the principle of justice and retribution.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
Whoever leads into captivity will go into captivity; whoever kills with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.
He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the principle of justice and retribution. It suggests that those who cause others to suffer or be taken captive will themselves face similar consequences. The phrase 'patience and faith of the saints' highlights the endurance required by believers in the face of persecution and injustice. It reassures them that their suffering is not in vain and that God sees their struggles. The verse serves as a reminder that while evil may seem to prevail temporarily, divine justice will ultimately be served. The call for patience indicates that believers should remain steadfast in their faith, trusting that God will bring about justice in His timing. This passage encourages Christians to hold on to their faith and to remain hopeful, even when faced with trials and tribulations, knowing that their perseverance is recognized and valued by God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Revelation 13:10 to your life
In our daily lives, we may encounter situations where we feel wronged or see injustice. This verse encourages us to remain patient and faithful, trusting that God will address these wrongs in His time. Instead of seeking revenge, we should focus on maintaining our integrity and faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 13:10 mean about justice?
Revelation 13:10 highlights the principle of justice, indicating that those who lead others into captivity or violence will face similar consequences. It serves as a reminder that divine justice is inevitable, encouraging believers to trust that God will address injustices in His timing.
How can I apply Revelation 13:10 in my life?
You can apply Revelation 13:10 by practicing patience and faith in the face of injustice. Instead of seeking revenge when wronged, focus on maintaining your integrity and trusting that God will bring about justice. This mindset helps you endure trials with hope.
What does 'patience and faith of the saints' mean?
The phrase 'patience and faith of the saints' refers to the endurance and steadfastness required of believers during times of persecution and suffering. It reassures them that their struggles are seen by God and that their faith will ultimately be rewarded.
Why is the concept of retribution important in Revelation 13:10?
The concept of retribution in Revelation 13:10 is crucial as it emphasizes that actions have consequences. It reassures believers that those who commit injustices will not escape accountability, reinforcing the idea that God’s justice will prevail.

The Book of Revelation
Revelation 1: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
This is the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gives Him to show His servants things which must shortly come to pass, sent and signified by His angel to John, who bears record of the word of God. A blessing is pronounced upon those who read and hear the words of this prophecy and keep the things written therein, for the time is at hand. John writes to the seven churches in Asia, sending grace and peace from Him which is, and which was, and which is to come, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead, who washed us from our sins in His own blood. He declares Himself Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending. John, in the isle of Patmos for the word of God, is in the Spirit on the Lord's day and hears behind him a great voice as a trumpet. Turning, he sees seven golden candlesticks and one like the Son of man among them, clothed to the foot, His head and hairs white as wool, His eyes as a flame of fire, His feet like fine brass, His voice as the sound of many waters, seven stars in His right hand, and a sharp twoedged sword going out of His mouth. John falls at His feet as dead, and the Lord lays His right hand upon him, saying, Fear not, I am the first and the last, He that liveth and was dead and is alive for evermore. He reveals that the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven candlesticks are the seven churches.
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