What does Revelation 3:12 mean?
In this verse Jesus promises to make "the conqueror" a pillar in God's temple. The Greek word nikōn refers to someone who overcomes or obtains victory.It's interesting to note that the ancient city of Philadelphia was vulnerable to earthquakes that collapsed buildings. By contrast, God is suggesting that nothing could cause the conquering believers in Philadelphia to tremble and fall. They would stand tall like firm columns in God's temple, a reference to heaven. When an earthquake struck Philadelphia, the residents left the city in search of a safe place, but the Christian overcomers would remain safe forever in heaven.
Jesus also promised to inscribe on these overcomers the name of His Father, the name of the New Jerusalem, and Jesus' own name. The New Jerusalem will descend from heaven when Jesus establishes His royal residence on earth (Revelation 21:9–27). Hebrews 13:14 points out that believers do not have a permanent residence on earth, but we look forward to living in a permanent one. The permanent city is the New Jerusalem. Possessing the name of our heavenly Father, the name of the New Jerusalem, and the new name of Jesus suggests that believers will receive honors that abide eternally.