Revelation 11:17 — “saying: ‘We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, the One who is and who was, because you have taken your great power and have begun to reign.’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse is part of a prayer of worship spoken by the twenty-four elders in heaven after the seventh trumpet sounds. The elders express deep gratitude to God. They call Him “Lord God Almighty,” which highlights His absolute power and authority. They also describe Him as “the One who is and who was,” pointing to His eternal nature—He has always existed and always will.
The main reason for their thanksgiving is clear: God has taken hold of His great power and begun to reign. While God has always been in charge, this verse marks a moment where His rule is being openly shown, especially in contrast to the rebellion and darkness that has filled the earth up until this point.
This is the moment heaven has been waiting for—when God finally steps in, silences evil, and sets things right.
Historical Context
For the early church, this verse would have been a powerful encouragement. Christians were being pressured, persecuted, and even killed under the rule of Rome. Earthly rulers claimed power and demanded loyalty. But here, the heavenly elders declare that true power belongs to God, and He has begun to reign.
This would have reminded believers that no matter how strong evil seemed, God’s rule was real and unstoppable. It was a message of hope for people suffering injustice, pointing to a future where God’s justice and goodness would finally take over the world.
Theological Implications
This verse speaks of God’s sovereignty, meaning He has total authority and control. Though evil has been allowed to operate for a time, there is a point when God says, Enough. At that moment, He fully takes hold of His power and establishes His reign in an open and undeniable way.
It also reminds us that God is worthy of thanksgiving, not only for what He has done in the past, but for what He is doing now and will do in the future. His power is not hidden forever. It will be revealed, and His rule will bring everything under His perfect will.
The phrase “have begun to reign” teaches that God’s kingdom is both already present and still unfolding. It is here, and it is coming in greater fullness.
Literary Analysis
The verse is written as part of a heavenly song of worship, spoken with joy and reverence. The phrase “Lord God Almighty” appears multiple times in Revelation and always emphasizes God’s unmatched strength and holiness.
The line “the One who is and who was” appears often in the book (see Revelation 1:4, 4:8), usually followed by “who is to come.” But here, the future phrase is left out—possibly because He has now come, and the long-awaited future is unfolding in the present.
The structure builds intensity: a title of worship, followed by a reason for giving thanks, and then the powerful statement that God is now actively reigning. It’s a victory proclamation.
Biblical Cross-References
- Revelation 1:8 – “I am the Alpha and the Omega… who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
- Daniel 4:34 – “His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation.”
- Psalm 93:1 – “The Lord reigns, he is robed in majesty.”
- 1 Corinthians 15:24-25 – Christ will reign until He has put all enemies under His feet.
- Luke 1:33 – “His kingdom will never end.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse is a bold reminder that God is not silent or inactive. Even when evil seems loud and out of control, God is on His throne. His kingdom is coming. His power will be fully shown.
This should give us confidence and peace in uncertain times. We may not see everything made right yet, but we know who holds all authority—and He is already moving.
This verse also calls us to worship with thankfulness. Gratitude is not just for blessings we’ve received, but also for who God is and the promises He’s keeping. The elders give thanks not just for what God did, but because He reigns—and that’s more than enough reason to worship.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t leave the world in the hands of injustice and rebellion forever. He steps in to take His rightful place. His rule is not about control for control’s sake—it’s about restoring peace, justice, and goodness to a broken world.
God’s love is also seen in His patience. He waited for people to repent. But now, out of love for truth and for His people, He moves forward with judgment and restoration.
God reigning is good news because He is good, just, and merciful. His rule is not like flawed human governments—it’s perfect in every way.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is at the center of this reign. Earlier in Revelation, He is described as the Lamb who was slain and the One who is worthy to open the scroll—the unfolding of God’s plan for the world (Revelation 5:6-10). Jesus is both Savior and King.
In Matthew 28:18, after His resurrection, Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Revelation 11:17 shows that authority now being fully expressed as He reigns forever.
Jesus is not just the One who saves us—He is the One who will rule the world in righteousness. The elders’ worship reflects the joy of knowing Christ is finally reigning over all.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean in my life that God has begun to reign?
- How can I practice thankfulness, even before I see the full outcome of God’s plans?
- What encourages me about knowing God’s power is real and eternal?
- Am I living as if Jesus truly has all authority in heaven and on earth?
- How does this verse help me respond to fear, uncertainty, or injustice in the world?