New Testament
Revelation 3:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Write this to the angel of the church in Philadelphia: These are the words of the one who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. When he opens a door, no one can shut it. When he shuts a door, no one can open it.
Compare translations
And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;
What Revelation 3:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus addresses the church in Philadelphia, emphasizing His authority and holiness. He is described as the one who is 'holy and true,' indicating His divine nature and reliability. The 'key of David' symbolizes His power to grant access to God's kingdom. When He opens a door, it signifies opportunities or blessings that cannot be hindered by anyone. Conversely, when He shuts a door, it represents the closing of opportunities that cannot be reopened by human effort. This verse reassures the believers in Philadelphia that Jesus has ultimate control over their circumstances and destiny, encouraging them to trust in His sovereignty and faithfulness.
How to apply Revelation 3:7 to your life
Trust in Jesus' authority over your life and circumstances. When facing closed doors or challenges, remember that He has the power to open new opportunities. Stay faithful and seek His guidance, knowing that He is in control of your path.
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 John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
John the Apostle
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. 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.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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 3:7
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 3:7
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 3:7 mean?
Revelation 3:7 conveys Jesus' authority over the church in Philadelphia, highlighting His holiness and truth. It emphasizes that He has the power to open and close opportunities, assuring believers that He controls their circumstances.
What is the significance of the 'key of David' in Revelation 3:7?
The 'key of David' in Revelation 3:7 symbolizes Jesus' authority to grant access to God's kingdom and blessings. It signifies His power to determine who can enter and who cannot, reflecting His sovereignty.
How can I apply Revelation 3:7 to my life?
You can apply Revelation 3:7 by trusting in Jesus' authority over your life. When facing challenges or closed doors, remember that He has the power to open new paths and opportunities.
What encouragement does Revelation 3:7 offer to believers?
Revelation 3:7 encourages believers by reminding them that Jesus has ultimate control over their circumstances. It reassures them to remain faithful and trust in His sovereignty and faithfulness.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.