What is the meaning of Revelation 3:22?

He

Jesus Christ is the One speaking (Revelation 1:17-18; 3:14).

• The same voice that calmed storms (Mark 4:39), raised the dead (John 11:43-44), and spoke creation into existence (John 1:1-3) now addresses His people.

• Because every word He speaks is trustworthy (John 14:6; Revelation 19:11), the verse carries divine authority that cannot be ignored.

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who has an ear

This phrase singles out every individual capable of responding.

• Physical hearing is assumed; spiritual attentiveness is the issue (Matthew 13:9; Romans 10:17).

• No one is excluded—young or old, new believer or mature saint—because all are accountable to God’s revealed truth (2 Timothy 3:16).

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let him hear

Hearing means more than receiving sound; it involves obedient response.

• In Scripture, “hear” often equals “obey” (Deuteronomy 6:4-5; James 1:22).

• Genuine listening produces action—repentance, faith, and perseverance (Revelation 2:5; Hebrews 12:25).

• Refusal to heed brings judgment, as seen in Israel’s history (2 Chronicles 36:15-16).

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what the Spirit says

The Holy Spirit is the messenger, making Christ’s words living and active (John 16:13-15).

• He convicts (John 16:8), guides (Romans 8:14), and empowers believers to obey (Galatians 5:16).

• The Spirit never contradicts Scripture; He illuminates its meaning and presses it upon hearts (1 Corinthians 2:10-12).

• This highlights the triune cooperation of Father, Son, and Spirit in communicating God’s will.

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to the churches

Although addressed to seven specific congregations (Revelation 2–3), the message applies to every assembly of believers across time.

• The plural “churches” underscores collective responsibility as well as individual accountability (Ephesians 4:4-6).

• Each church is called to examine itself in light of Christ’s commendations and warnings (Revelation 3:1-3, 14-19).

• The verse reaffirms that local churches remain under Christ’s direct oversight (Colossians 1:18).

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summary

Revelation 3:22 closes the letters to the seven churches with a universal summons: because Jesus speaks with absolute authority, everyone capable of spiritual hearing must listen and obey the Holy Spirit’s message. The call extends to all believers and every congregation, urging attentive, responsive hearts that translate hearing into faithful action.