Revelation 22:6-7, 18-20
6 The angel said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord, the God who inspires the prophets, sent his angel to show his servants the things that must soon take place.”
7 “Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.”
18 I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. 19 And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.
20 He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.”
Spoiler Alert
Some people read the end of a book before they start reading at the beginning. This happens for a variety of reasons, including reducing anxiety, learning the outcome of the story, and assessing the book’s quality. In a world of uncertainty, knowing the ending provides predictability, and the reader’s focus shifts from what is going to happen to how it happens.
Revelation is not only at the end sequentially, but it is also the last book added to the Protestant Bible. It was written by John of Patmos to the churches in Asia Minor. It was composed in the first century and added to the Bible in the late fourth century. The book was clearly important to the early church…but it took a while to catch on.
In case you have not heard, the Book of Revelation is difficult to understand. John Wesley himself wrote in his journal about Revelation, “Oh how little do we know of this deep book! At least how little do I know!” The imagery of these apocalyptic visions with exotic metaphors, allegories, and symbolism make interpretation difficult. Despite these obstacles, we can still take encouragement from the passages that are clear.
“Look, I am coming soon!” (v. 7)
One thing we know for certain is the urgency of the message. If repetition is a sign of importance (it is), then we need to appreciate that “I am coming soon” repeats nine times in the book and three times in this closing chapter.
The command to “look” compels us to maintain expectancy. This is not a casual affair. Just like the parable of the ten virgins (Matt. 25), we need to be ready and prepared for the delayed bridegroom. Be watching. Be waiting. Look. Be prepared and stay on the edge of your seat.
“Yes, I am coming soon.” (v. 20)
John attributes these statements to Jesus. He wants to assure us that the message of this book—this scroll—is authoritative. Jesus is alerting his followers to remain resolute and devoted. This message, delivered by our risen Lord to John, is valid and true. This is the testimony of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
Jesus blesses those who read Revelation and do as Christ commands, even though we may not understand it all. What are Christ’s commands?
- Watch
- Wait
- Look
- Be ready for His return
How does John respond to these words of Christ?
- Amen (I agree) (v. 20)
- Come, Lord Jesus (Invite Him)
- Prayer for the Church
“The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen.” (v. 21)
Now that we have looked at the last chapter of the Bible, we know God is preparing the way for the Second Coming of Christ. And that means…
(**spoiler alert**)
- God is in control
- Jesus Christ claims final victory over evil
- God’s people persevere
- All of creation is redeemed
Author: Bryan Merrill
Other scriptures for today:
- Luke 1:46b-55
- Isaiah 33:17-22
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