What is the meaning of Revelation 22:18? I testify John is not casually sharing an opinion; he is giving sworn, eyewitness testimony. Just as he began the book by declaring, “Grace to you and peace… from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness” (Revelation 1:4-5), he now seals everything he has written with a solemn confirmation. The gravity matches the Old Testament pattern where God’s messengers declared, “Thus says the Lord” (Jeremiah 26:2). John’s “I testify” reminds us of: • Exodus 24:3-4—Moses read the covenant aloud and bore witness to it. • 1 John 1:1-3—the same author testifies to what he has “seen and heard.” • Revelation 21:5—“These words are faithful and true.” The point: Revelation is not optional or symbolic rambling; it is divinely guaranteed truth that demands our trust. to everyone who hears the words of prophecy in this book The invitation is universal: “everyone.” Whether a first-century congregation in Ephesus or a reader today, the promise and warning apply equally. Note the consistent blessing attached to hearing and keeping Revelation: “Blessed is the one who reads aloud, and those who hear and obey” (Revelation 1:3; cf. 22:7). Other Scriptures echo the same call: • Deuteronomy 4:10—God gathered Israel “that they may hear My words.” • Romans 10:17—“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” John labels Revelation a “prophecy,” aligning it with Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Daniel—books that were to be heard, believed, and obeyed. The term also underscores future fulfillment; these are not abstract symbols but certain realities God will bring to pass. If anyone adds to them Here the focus shifts from hearing to tampering. The prohibition against addition mirrors Deuteronomy 4:2 and 12:32: “Do not add to what I command you.” Proverbs 30:5-6 repeats, “Every word of God is flawless… Do not add to His words.” Adding may include: • Tacking on new prophecies that contradict Scripture. • Re-interpreting Revelation to fit human speculation while ignoring its plain meaning. • Diluting uncomfortable truths—softening warnings of judgment or re-imagining the return of Christ. Paul issues a similar warning in Galatians 1:8—“If we or an angel… should preach a gospel contrary… let him be accursed.” Any alteration places a person in spiritual peril because it challenges God’s complete, sufficient revelation (2 Timothy 3:16-17). God will add to him the plagues described in this book The consequence is severe and personal. Throughout Revelation the plagues—seals, trumpets, bowls—are literal judgments (Revelation 6–16). John now applies them individually: whoever dares adjust God’s message invites the same catastrophes. Compare: • Numbers 16:30-35—Korah’s rebellion met swift, supernatural judgment. • 2 Chronicles 26:16-21—Uzziah added to God’s instructions and was struck with leprosy. • Revelation 16:2—“Harmful and grievous sores” fell on those bearing the beast’s mark. The warning underscores divine justice: if one inflates Scripture, God inflates retribution. His word is inviolable; usurping His authority brings the very plagues spoken against rebellion. summary Revelation 22:18 stands as a courtroom oath, a universal charge, a strict prohibition, and a sobering threat. John, under the Spirit’s inspiration, certifies every prophecy in Revelation as perfect and complete. All who hear are accountable to receive it without alteration. To add human ideas, diminish its plain meaning, or reshape its promises invites the full weight of God’s revealed judgments. Scripture ends by safeguarding itself, urging readers to treasure, trust, and obey the final word God has given. |
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