What is the meaning of a white stone and a new name received in heaven? Rev.2:17
The ancient Greek culture used a white stone : 1. When acquitted of a crime in court. 2. A stone of honor given to victors in arena games. 3. A sign of open hospitality to be able to receive what was desired, similar to the key to a city today. These would all make sense to the saved as being forgiven of earthly sins due to the covering of Christ’s blood. A sign of victory over Satan’s earthly temptations. Being open to the hospitality of God and receiving the desires of the heart prepared by Christ for those that love and obeyed His instructions while on earth. The mention of a new name also received is likely the name, given by God, that fits the nature of the person. It would be appropriate that God, as the true Father, would be able to give the name as the person enters into a new changed state of eternal life. Name changes occurred throughout scripture when a person was radically changed spiritually and emotionally or as a reward, by God, for their faithfulness. Abraham and John come to mind as examples.