A.T. Robertson Commentary Revelation 3:9

A.T. Robertson Commentary

Revelation 3:9

1863–1934
Southern Baptist
A.T. Robertson
A.T. Robertson

A.T. Robertson Commentary

Revelation 3:9

1863–1934
Southern Baptist
SCRIPTURE

"Behold, I give of the synagogue of Satan, of them that say they are Jews, and they are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee." — Revelation 3:9 (ASV)

I give (διδω). Late omega form for διδωμ, but the -μ form in 17:13 (διδοασιν). These Jewish converts are a gift from Christ. For this use of διδωμ see Ac 2:27; 10:40; 14:3. There is ellipse of τινας before εκ as in 2:10 (εξ υμων) and see 2:9 for "the synagogue of Satan."

Of them which say (των λεγοντων). Ablative plural in apposition with συναγωγης. On the construction of εαυτους Ιουδαιους εινα see on 2:9 (Ιουδαιους εινα εαυτους, the order of words being immaterial).

But do lie (αλλα ψευδοντα). Present middle indicative of ψευδομα, explanatory positive, addition here to κα ουκ εισιν of 2:9, in contrast also with ο αληθινος of verse 7 and in Johannine style (John 8:44; 1 John 1:10; 1 John 2:4).

I will make them (ποιησω αυτους). Future active indicative of ποιεω, resuming the prophecy after the parenthesis (των--ψευδοντα, which say--but do lie).

To come and worship (ινα ηξουσιν κα προσκυνησουσιν). "That they come and worship" (final clause, like facio ut in Latin, with ινα and the future active of ηκω and προσκυνεω). The language is based on Isa 45:14; 60:14. The Jews expected homage (not worship in the strict sense) from the Gentiles, but it will come to the Christians at last (1 Corinthians 14:24). Later Ignatius (Philad. 6) warns this church against Judaizing Christians, perhaps one result of an influx of Jews.

And to know (κα γνωσιν). Continuation of the purpose clause with ινα, but with the second aorist active subjunctive rather than the less usual future indicative. See both constructions also with ινα in 22:14. Probably a reminiscence of Isa 43:4 in εγω ηγαπησα σε (I loved thee), first aorist active indicative.