New Testament
Revelation 13:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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.
Compare translations
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.
What Revelation 13:10 means
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.
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
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Andrew Brings Simon to Jesus (John 1:40–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter

Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Revelation 13:10
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Revelation 13:10
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Revelation
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
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.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.