Journal: Grace Theological Journal
Volume: GTJ 03:2 (Fall 1982)
Article: The Overcomer of the Apocalypse
Author: James E. Rosscup

GTJ 3:2 (Fall 82) p. 261

The Overcomer of the Apocalypse

James E. Rosscup

The problem of the identity of the “overcomer” in the book of Revelation has resulted in a multiplicity of interpretations. Interest in this issue has been heightened by a number of recent publications. However, only the view that all genuine believers are “overcomers,” not only those who are “more victorious” in their Christian living, does justice to all the evidence. Thus, erroneous ideas of what it means to be an “overcomer” must be refuted. Maintaining the viewpoint that all true believers are “overcomers” also involves a defense of the doctrines of eternal security and of the perseverance of the saints.

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In Revelation 2–3, Christ addresses seven historical churches of Asia in which he discerns certain spiritual conditions. Similar conditions recur in churches that claim his name down through the centuries. In a letter to each of the seven churches he promises a specific blessing to every person who overcomes (νικάω), “to overcome,” “be victor”). It is profitable to inquire into the nature of the blessing (reward) for overcoming, but the main purpose in this article is to address one question: who is the overcomer who receives the reward?

A Survey of Main Views

The leading interpretations are:

A saved person who retains salvation, which some forfeit

Those persuaded to this view often hold that all seven promises pertain only to that number among the saved who finally prove

GTJ 3:2 (Fall 82) p. 262

faithful, whether or not their commitment reaches martyrdom. In this interpretation, some who once were truly saved do not persevere; they forfeit the privilege of ever receiving the final reward, understood as eternal salvation, which Christ promises the overcomer.1 A variation, however, is the position of Kiddle. He sees the overcomer as especially the martyr in all seven letters, and limits him only to the martyr in two cases.2

A saved person who conquers, distinguished from a defeated Christian

This interpretation is to the effect that the overcomer is only the more victorious believer, so only such a one will receive the rewards Christ promises. The saved person with much unfaithfulness mingled with some fruit in his life will still remain saved eternally. He stands simply to fail to gain aspects of reward that are held to be distinct from salvation, bl...