And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great.

REVELATION 19:5KJV
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Revelation 19:5 (KJV)

What does Revelation 19:5 mean?

Revelation 19:5 describes a voice coming from the throne, calling on all of God's servants and everyone who reveres Him, no matter their status, to praise God. The verse emphasizes that worship and praise are due to God from all who serve and respect Him, both "small and great."

In the scene of Revelation 19, this command comes as part of a larger moment of celebration in heaven, following the defeat of evil powers. The voice is not identified, but its authority is clear since it comes from the throne—often a symbol of God's rule. The call is directed to "servants" and "those who fear Him," meaning everyone loyal to God, regardless of their position or importance.

The Greek behind Revelation 19:5

  • θρόνος (thronos): This word means "throne" and points to the seat of authority. The voice coming from the throne signals that the call to praise carries divine authority.
  • δοῦλος (doulos): Translated as "servants," this Greek word often means "slaves" or "bondservants," highlighting a relationship of devoted service to God.
  • φοβέω (phobeō): Here translated as "fear," this word means to have reverence or deep respect. The verse includes not just formal servants but all who honor God.
  • μικρός (mikros) and μέγας (megas): These words mean "small" and "great," showing that the call to praise is for everyone, regardless of rank or status.

Why Revelation 19:5 matters

  • Revelation 19:5 makes it clear that praise is not limited to a special group but is the response of all who serve or respect God, breaking down any spiritual hierarchy.
  • The verse connects the worship in heaven to the actions of God's people, showing that heavenly praise is something everyone is invited to join.
  • By coming from the throne, the command to praise underlines that worship is not just a suggestion but a response to God's authority and victory described in the surrounding verses.

Where else these words appear

“Praise” Greek G134 · used in 9 verses

  • Luke 2:13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
  • Luke 19:37 And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen;
  • Acts 3:8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.

“small” Greek G3398 · used in 30 verses

  • Matthew 10:42 And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.
  • Luke 7:28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.
  • Galatians 5:9 A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.

“throne” Greek G2362 · used in 50 verses

  • Matthew 5:34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:
  • 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.
  • Revelation 7:11 And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God,

“fear” Greek G5399 · used in 90 verses

  • Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
  • Luke 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
  • Acts 13:16 Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.