How can we ensure we faithfully adhere to the teachings of Revelation 22:19? The Sobering Charge in Revelation 22:19 “And if anyone takes away from the words of this book of prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this book.” (Revelation 22:19) Why This Warning Matters Today • Scripture is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16-17); tampering with it is tampering with God’s own voice. • Deuteronomy 4:2 and Proverbs 30:5-6 give the same command—do not add, do not subtract—showing this standard spans both covenants. • Revelation is the final book; its closing warning seals the entire canon, underscoring our responsibility to preserve every word. Four Core Commitments That Keep Us Faithful 1. Receive the Whole Counsel • Read the entire Bible, not selective portions (Acts 20:27). • Let each passage be interpreted in light of the rest of Scripture. 2. Refuse to Subtract or Dilute • Do not dismiss hard teachings (John 6:60-68). • Guard against cultural pressure that tones down clear commands (Romans 12:2). 3. Resist Adding Human Tradition • Compare every teaching, sermon, or study note with the text itself (Acts 17:11). • Hold fast to what is written; nothing more, nothing less (1 Corinthians 4:6). 4. Respond in Obedience • “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). • Genuine adherence is shown by loving obedience (John 14:23). Practical Safeguards for Everyday Life • Daily Bible reading plan to stay saturated in the text. • Memorize key verses to anchor truth in the heart (Psalm 119:11). • Use reliable translations; check multiple versions when studying difficult passages. • Study in community—Bible-honoring church, small group, or trusted mentor—for mutual accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Keep a humble, teachable spirit, inviting correction whenever Scripture exposes error (Psalm 139:23-24). The Blessing That Awaits the Faithful • Revelation opens with a promise: “Blessed is the one who reads aloud and who hears the words of this prophecy, and who keeps what is written in it” (Revelation 1:3). • By guarding the words of God, we safeguard our share in the tree of life and the Holy City (Revelation 22:14). • Clinging to every word He has spoken secures present stability (Matthew 7:24-25) and eternal reward (Revelation 22:12). |
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