We believe that most of the twelve apostles were martyred during the first century. Paul was beheaded and Peter was crucified. Thomas, it is believed, reached the borders of India preaching the gospel. But he was cruelly martyred.

However, it seems that John was the only survivor by the end of the first century. He was exiled to Patmos (off the coast of Turkey). He must have wondered why but God overruled this so that he could write the book of Revelation.

In chapter 1 the risen Christ appears to him and chapters 2 & 3 give us seven letters to seven churches. In chapters 4 & 5 we have scenes in Heaven. In chapters 6-21 we have future events on earth leading up to final judgments and the reign of Jesus. Chapter 22 verses 6-21 is the epilogue to the book. This can be divided into three parts, each containing our Lord's “I am coming soon”.

Verses 6-11

Note the blessing for keeping the words of this book. Compare chapter 1 verse 3. In verse 8 of chapter 22 John is so impressed with what he has seen in this book that he tries to worship the angel who revealed it. This was forbidden. We worship the members of the Trinity only. In verses 10-11 he is told not to hide the words of the prophecy. But it is clear we are now considering eternity. The wrong doer and the vile continue as they are. The righteous and holy continue as they are.

Verses 12-16

Jesus is coming with rewards. Remember that we are rewarded for our faithfulness not our success in the Christian life. Sadly there are those who are outside the heavenly city. These include those who are called dogs, compare Philippians 3 verse 2 and Deuteronomy 23 verses 17-18. These are referred to as dogs in many versions. It does not mean your pet animal! Note the other classes mentioned in verse 15.

In verse 16 the Lord confirms His authorship to the book. He is the root and offspring of David – that is, He is David's creator and also David's son, through the virgin birth. He is also the bright Morning Star. In many countries the morning star appears just before the dawn. This suggests that Jesus will come for us before He reigns in the world in power and judgment.

Verses 17-21

Note the warning in verse 18 against adding to or taking away from this book.

But is seems that the Holy Spirit will not let John close the book without one more gospel invitation. Note the threefold appeal in verse 17. Jesus confirms this in verse 20 with the words “I am coming soon” and we can be sure that He will keep his promise.

May this glimpse of the ultimate future help us to live more effectively in the present. There is always something we can do. Perhaps there is little time in which to do it.
 

Revd Malcolm Green

Return to top of page