These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.

REVELATION 17:14KJV
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Revelation 17:14 (KJV)

What does Revelation 17:14 mean?

Revelation 17:14 describes a final conflict where powerful forces oppose "the Lamb" (a title for Jesus), but the Lamb defeats them because he holds the highest authority as "Lord of lords, and King of kings." Those who are with him are described as "called, and chosen, and faithful," highlighting their special relationship and loyalty to him.

In the book of Revelation, John is being shown visions about the end times. Here, he sees a group of rulers or powers making war against Jesus, who is pictured as the Lamb. The verse emphasizes Jesus' ultimate victory and authority, and it points out that his followers share in that victory because of their calling and faithfulness.

The Greek behind Revelation 17:14

  • "Lamb" (ἀρνίον, arnion): This word is used throughout Revelation to refer to Jesus in a way that highlights his sacrifice and gentleness, even as he triumphs over his enemies.
  • "Overcome" (νικάω, nikaō): The Greek word means to conquer or be victorious. Its use here stresses that the Lamb's victory is certain and complete, not just a temporary win.
  • "Called" (κλητοί, klētoi), "chosen" (ἐκλεκτοί, eklektoi), and "faithful" (πιστοί, pistoi): These three words describe the people with the Lamb. "Called" means invited or summoned, "chosen" means specially selected, and "faithful" means trustworthy or loyal. Together, they show that the Lamb’s followers are not just random supporters but have a special, committed relationship with him.

Why Revelation 17:14 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that evil or opposing powers might ultimately win; it states plainly that the Lamb will overcome because of who he is.
  • The verse highlights the unique status of those with the Lamb, showing that being "called, chosen, and faithful" is central to their identity and role in the story.
  • Revelation 17:14 connects to the wider passage by showing the contrast between worldly powers and the authority of Jesus, setting up the hope and confidence that runs through the rest of the book.

Where else these words appear

“war” Greek G4170 · used in 6 verses

  • James 4:2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.
  • Revelation 2:16 Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
  • Revelation 13:4 And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?

“called” Greek G2822 · used in 11 verses

  • Matthew 20:16 So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.
  • Romans 1:6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:
  • 1 Corinthians 1:1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,

“chosen” Greek G1588 · used in 23 verses

  • Matthew 20:16 So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.
  • Mark 13:27 And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven.
  • 2 Timothy 2:10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

“overcome” Greek G3528 · used in 24 verses

  • Luke 11:22 But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.
  • 1 John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
  • Revelation 3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.