How does Revelation 22:18 warn against altering God's Word in our lives? A solemn testimony from the final chapter “ I testify to everyone who hears the words of prophecy in this book: If anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book.” – Revelation 22:18 What “adding” looks like today • Introducing new revelations that contradict Scripture • Softening or re-wording verses to fit current cultural moods • Elevating traditions, opinions, or experiences to equal authority with the Bible • Selectively emphasizing favorite passages while ignoring the rest • Re-editing moral standards that Scripture states plainly The consequence named • “God will add to him the plagues described in this book.” – A literal, personal judgment paralleling the very calamities poured out in Revelation – Underscores God’s jealousy over His Word; altering it invites the same wrath reserved for unrepentant rebels Why this warning matters for everyday discipleship • Guards the integrity of the gospel we share with family and neighbors • Protects the church from deception that begins with just a small textual twist • Anchors moral and doctrinal certainty in a confusing age • Strengthens personal assurance: if what we believe is unchanged, our hope is unchanged Echoes throughout Scripture • Deuteronomy 4:2 – “Do not add to what I command you or subtract from it...” • Proverbs 30:5-6 – “Every word of God is flawless... Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you and prove you a liar.” • Galatians 1:8-9 – a curse pronounced on anyone preaching “a gospel contrary” to the apostolic message • Jude 3 – “contend earnestly for the faith once for all delivered to the saints.” • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – all Scripture “God-breathed,” fully sufficient for life and godliness Practical guardrails for remaining faithful • Read entire passages, not isolated verses, to capture context • Memorize key texts to keep truth on the tongue and in the heart • Compare every teaching—podcast, book, sermon—with the plain sense of Scripture • Encourage mutual accountability: small-group study that tests ideas against the text • Welcome the whole counsel of God, even when it confronts personal preferences Living confidence in the unaltered Word • Scripture stands complete; nothing lacking, nothing expendable • The Lord who speaks is the Lord who saves—His Word carries the same authority as His throne • Treasuring an unmixed Bible keeps worship pure, witness clear, and hope secure |
    |