
William Barclay (1907-1978), an eminent Biblical scholar and historian, writes, "In the ancient world, a pleasant day was called a 'white day.'" Revelation's white stone was a delightful gift to receive! ✞ Sacred Name After that, the two halves guaranteed a warm welcome and safety when visiting the other's home or territory. A white stone was also sometimes split in two as a friendship token. The "Tessera" inscribed with the giver's initials could be wood, stone, or bone in ancient Rome and Greece. An "amulet" in the ancient Roman world was a "talisman" or "good luck charm." This talisman could be in remembrance of someone special. What an honor that will be! ✞ Stone Name SignificanceĪ white stone with a Roman general's name was considered a good luck charm in battle. It is a mark of faithfulness and a job well done. "Revelation's white stone" bears a new name, possibly "Jesus" or the phrase "Devout Christian." "The white stone" in this verse probably grants admission to messianic banquets.
ROMAN TESSERA MOVIE
Like the movie gladiator Russell Crowe, they will rest with honor when they prove their bravery in life's battles. ✞ Gladiator Russell CroweĬhrist calls Christians to be his gladiators.

A Revelation's white stone similarly confirms that the victorious follower will share in Jesus' reign and future glory. The game's master conferred special rights upon outstanding victors. They repeatedly fought until either killed or allowed to retire in case of a draw! The gladiator who had a specially illustrious career when they grew old were permitted an honorable retirement as well as a parting gift of a white gladiator stone. Most gladiators however were former slaves or captives from wars, but some volunteers enlisted for the notoriety. Not only is he a very gifted singer but also a kind and generous Christian family man. While we were on holiday near Verona, the famous singer Andrea Bocelli performed a coliseum show. The coliseums are used today for entertainment, concerts, or other events. One such gladiatorial field at Verona in Italy still stands today, rebuilt as in Roman times. Men and women gladiators sometimes appeared together in the stadium. The word "gladiator" came from the "gladius" sword they carried. Receiving a gladiator stone was one of the highest honors. These letters celebrated faithful service and stood for the Latin "spectatus," meaning "a man or woman of proven valor beyond a doubt, tested and esteemed." In the ancient Roman empire, a victorious gladiator was the most admired hero of all. Upon retiring, the Romans presented a white stone to a victorious swordsman or swordswoman with the letters 'S.P.' inscribed. "Revelation's white stone" for Christians means that Christ grants them the spiritual rewards which only he can give.
ROMAN TESSERA FREE
It was a tally, giving free entry into the arena or a complimentary banquet meal. These sometimes received a "Tessera," a small white stone, or even a wooden or a metal token of a similar size as a one-cent U.S. In Rome, the great houses presented food and money every morning to their dependents. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to whoever receives it." (Revelation 2.17) ✞ Revelation White StoneĮvery Christian who overcomes will receive "Revelation's white stone" inscribed with a new name. To the victorious one, I will give some of the hidden manna. "Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
