Key

Frequently mentioned in Scripture. It is called in Hebrew "maphteah, i.e., the opener (Judg. 3:25); and in the Greek New" "Testament kleis, from its use in shutting (Matt. 16:19; Luke" "11:52; Rev. 1:18, etc.). 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. Isa. 22:22)." "The word is used figuratively of power or authority or office (Isa. 22:22; Rev. 3:7; Rev. 1:8; comp. 9:1; 20:1; comp. also "Matt. 16:19; 18:18). The "key of knowledge" (Luke 11:52; comp." Matt. 23:13) is the means of attaining the knowledge regarding "the kingdom of God. The "power of the keys" is a phrase in" general use to denote the extent of ecclesiastical authority.