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The "key on the shoulder" is no mere badge of the steward's office; it represents delegated authority. Large wooden locks and keys were used in the East, and these keys were heavy enough to need carrying on the shoulder. But the expression is best regarded as a recognized figure of speech. The figure may receive four illustrations.

I. THE KEY OF COURT OFFICE. As in case of Eliakim.

II. THE KEY OF RABBIS, AS TEACHERS. Remember the expression, "The key of knowledge."

III. THE KEY OF CHRIST, AS HEAD OF THE CHURCH. (Revelation 3:7.)

IV. THE KEYS AS COMMITTED TO PETER. (Matthew 16:19.) - R.T.

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KJV: And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open.

WEB: I will lay the key of the house of David on his shoulder. He will open, and no one will shut. He will shut, and no one will open.