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Revelation 1:18

I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

Revelation 1:18 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse "I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death." from Revelation 1:18 is a powerful declaration by Jesus Christ about his deity and sovereignty. The phrase "I am he that liveth, and was dead" refers to Jesus' death and resurrection, emphasizing his victory over death. By proclaiming "I am alive for evermore," Jesus affirms his eternal existence and reign as the living God. The concluding statement "and have the keys of hell and of death" symbolizes Jesus' authority over both physical death and spiritual death. This verse highlights Jesus as the conqueror of death, holding the keys that unlock the gates of hell and release believers from its grasp. It serves as a reminder of Christ's power and control over life and death, offering comfort and hope to those who trust in him.

Theological Overview

This powerful verse from the book of Revelation presents a vivid and profound theological statement about the identity and authority of Jesus Christ. The phrase "I am he that liveth, and was dead" refers to Jesus's crucifixion and subsequent resurrection, highlighting his victory over death. The declaration "behold, I am alive for evermore" emphasizes the eternal nature of Christ's existence and his triumph over the grave. The word "Amen" signifies the certainty and truthfulness of Jesus's words. Lastly, the statement "and have the keys of hell and of death" underscores Jesus's authority over both physical and spiritual realms, symbolizing his power to control and conquer death itself. This verse serves as a reminder of Jesus's ultimate victory over sin and death, offering hope and assurance to believers that through Him, they too can have victory over death and eternal life.

Revelation 1:18 in other translations

American Standard Version

and the Living one; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive for evermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.

World English Bible

and the Living one. I was dead, and behold, I am alive forever more. Amen. I have the keys of Death and of Hades.

Douay-Rheims

And alive, and was dead. And behold I am living for ever and ever and have the keys of death and of hell.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And am aliue, but I was dead: and beholde, I am aliue for euermore, Amen: and I haue the keyes of hell and of death.