“And made us a kingdom and priests to His God and Father” — these words from Rev’elation 1:6 describe not a future status, but an already present reality for those whom Christ has redeemed. Through His sacrifice every believer receives a new identity, a new calling, and a new mission.
Context: first redemption — then title
“To Him who loves us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and made us a kingdom and priests to His God and Father…” Rev 1:5–6
Notice the sequence: first love and redemption — then a new identity. No one becomes a “priest” by personal merit. This status is the result of what Christ has done for us.
“Priests” — direct access to God
In the Old Testament, the priest had a special role: he entered the sanctuary and represented the people before God. An ordinary Israelite could not do this. But Christ as the High Priest “opened the veil” — and now every believer has direct access to the Father:
“Therefore, brothers, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus.” Heb 10:19
Prayer is not a privilege only for a spiritual leader. Every believer is a priest and comes to God personally.
“Kingdom” — mission in the world
The apostle Peter uses a similar image:
“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” 1 Pet 2:9
To be a “kingdom” means not merely to have dignity, but to have a mission: to reveal the King — Christ — in your surroundings. Priests in the Old Testament also taught, offered sacrifices, and blessed. In the same way, the believer: his way of life, service, and words — these are priestly work in daily life.
Practical meaning
Understanding this verse changes the believer’s self-understanding:
- Prayer is not a request through a mediator, but personal access to the Father.
- Daily life is no less “spiritual” than Sunday worship. It is priestly work.
- Everyone has a mission — regardless of position in the church.
“A kingdom and priests” is not an elite status, but God’s calling for every believer. Through Christ — direct access to God and a specific mission in the world.
