Definition: [I am] he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Revelation 1:18. It's a really rich and complex verse, but we can understand it in simpler terms. Here’s what it means, explained as best as possible: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying that God himself is alive and has absolute control over the end times. It’s not just any God; this is the God of the Bible – the God who created everything. Let's unpack the parts: “I am he that liveth, and was dead…” - This part refers to Jesus Christ. He was once dead, a very defeated and powerless figure on Earth. “…and, behold, I am alive for evermore…” – This is a strong statement of God’s eternal existence. It means God isn't just currently alive, but he will always be alive. He's not limited by time or death. “Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.” - This is where it gets really interesting. "Keys" are a metaphor. They represent control and access to something powerful – things that can lead to destruction and despair. “Of Hell”: Hell refers to the place where God judges those who have rejected him and are eternally separated from him. It's a place of unimaginable suffering and punishment. “Of Death”: Death is the end of life, the cessation of existence. This verse suggests that God has ultimate control over death itself. He can open or close pathways to it. So, what does this all mean? It's a message of hope and ultimate victory. God is not just present in the world; he’s actively controlling everything that happens, including the end times. He has the power to judge, to protect, and ultimately, to bring about a new era where all things are settled. Important Note: This is a complex passage with many layers of meaning. It's often interpreted as a prophecy about the final judgment and the establishment of God’s kingdom. In short, Revelation 1:18 tells us that God is eternally alive and holds ultimate power over all things – including the end times. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious scholar. This explanation is based on common interpretations of the verse within Christian theology. Would you like me to delve deeper into any specific aspect of this verse, such as: The symbolism of keys? Its connection to other biblical passages?