Reward for the victor

The lecture focuses on the repeated phrase in the Book of Revelation addressed to the seven churches: “He who overcomes”, explaining that the spiritual life is a life of struggle and warfare, and that overcoming is possible through God’s grace and is rewarded with great heavenly promises given by Christ Himself.

First: Overcoming as a spiritual requirement

His Holiness explains that Christ did not promise salvation through faith alone without struggle, but repeated seven times: “He who overcomes.” Overcoming is a practical path in which the believer resists evil, the world, and the warfare of the enemy.

Second: Christ as the perfect example of overcoming

Christ presented Himself as an example by saying: “Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” He overcame temptation, death, and every corrupt thought, becoming the path the believer follows to conquer.

Third: Christ’s promises to the overcomers

The Pope presents the promises Christ gave to each church:

• Eating from the Tree of Life.

• Not being harmed by the second death.

• Receiving the hidden manna and a white stone.

• Having authority over nations.

• Wearing white garments and not having one’s name erased from the Book of Life.

• Becoming a pillar in the temple of God.

• Sitting with Christ on His throne.
  These promises reveal the divinity of Christ, for He grants eternal life and heavenly glory.

Fourth: Overcoming is possible for everyone through grace

Even the one who lost his first love or became lukewarm is invited to “overcome.” This is because God gives strength, grace, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the intercessions of the saints to support the struggler.

Fifth: The meaning of the Tree of Life and the hidden manna

The Pope explains that the Tree of Life symbolizes eternal life with God and may symbolize Christ Himself, “the Life.” The hidden manna symbolizes the inner divine work and the deep spiritual nourishment enjoyed by those who overcome.

Sixth: The second death and deliverance from it

The first death is bodily, but the second death is eternal separation from God. The overcomer will not be touched by the second death but will have a blessed transition with the righteous.

Seventh: Overcoming requires steadfastness and faithfulness

The Pope calls for resisting sin even to blood if necessary, standing firm, and relying on divine strength. The believer overcomes by grace, for “the battle is the Lord’s,” and “without Me you can do nothing.”

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