Who is the “One Who Overcomes”? A Special Individual or Many?

Question: In the messages to the seven churches, the phrase “He who overcomes” appears at the end of each message. Does this refer to one special person or to many people?

Answer: When Jesus addressed the seven churches in Revelation chapters 2 and 3, He warned, encouraged, and then promised rewards. These rewards are given to “the one who overcomes” (Greek: ho nikōn), which literally means “the conqueror” or “the victor.” For example, in the message to Thyatira, Jesus says:

Revelation 2:26 
“The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations.”

“Overcoming” here refers to faithful perseverance in the Christian life despite trials, temptations, and persecution (cf. Romans 5:3-5; James 1:12). It is not about being sinless but about remaining faithful and obedient until the end.

Now, does this “one who overcomes” mean a single, special person, or is it a group?

Some might assume it refers to a solitary hero, but the context and biblical usage suggest it includes all believers who faithfully endure. Consider a parallel: a teacher might say, “Whoever passes my exam will receive a prize.” Even though “whoever” is singular, it applies to all who pass, whether one or many.

Similarly, the Greek singular form here refers to any individual believer who overcomes. This means all who remain faithful will receive the promised reward.

The Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of an athletic contest to make a similar point:

1 Corinthians 9:24
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.”

Paul emphasizes the serious effort required in the Christian walk. The “one prize” is a metaphor for the ultimate reward of eternal life and reigning with Christ. This does not mean only one believer will be saved but underscores the call to earnest perseverance.

Furthermore, Jesus speaks about many coming from east and west to share in the kingdom blessings:

Matthew 8:11
“I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.”

This confirms that the promise is open to a multitude, not a single individual. However, Jesus also warns that not everyone will enter:

Luke 13:24 
“Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.”

This aligns with the biblical teaching on perseverance (Hebrews 3:14) — salvation requires ongoing faithfulness, not just an initial profession.

The phrase “the one who overcomes” includes all believers who persevere in faith and obedience until the end. It is not about a single “super-Christian” but a call to faithful endurance for all. The promised reward, such as authority over nations, symbolizes participation in Christ’s reign (cf. 2 Timothy 2:12; Revelation 3:21).

Therefore, the Christian life is a call to persistent faithfulness, turning away from sin, and following Jesus wholeheartedly. May we all strive to be overcomers, assured of God’s blessings.

May the Lord bless you.

Print this post