Key: Frequently mentioned in Scripture.1. It is called in:
a. Hebrew maphteah, i.e., the opener
(Judges 3:25)
b. The Greek New Testament kleis, from its use in shutting
(Matthew 16:19; Luke 11:52; Revelation 1:18) etc.
2. Figures of ancient Egyptian keys are frequently found on the
monuments, also of Assyrian locks and keys of wood, and of a large
size (comp.)
(Isaiah 22:22)
3. The word is used figuratively of power or authority or office
(Isaiah 22:22; Revelation 3:7; Revelation 1:8) comp.
(Revelation 9:1; 20:1) comp. also
(Matthew 16:19; 18:18)
4. The "key of knowledge"
(Luke 11:52) comp.
(Matthew 23:13) is the means
of attaining the knowledge regarding the kingdom of God.
5. The "power of the keys" is a phrase in general use to denote the
extent of ecclesiastical authority.
