What does Revelation 22:15 mean?

For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie. Revelation 22:15

Explanation

Revelation 22:15 is a verse that describes a state of exclusion from the New Jerusalem, as envisioned by the apostle John in his apocalyptic revelation. The verse lists a number of archetypal sinners who are barred from entering the holy city, which is presented as a place of purity and light, where God dwells with His people. The “dogs” in this context likely refer to the morally impure or those living outside the bounds of the community’s moral code. “Sorcerers” imply those who engage in occult practices or illicit supernatural dealings. “Whoremongers” (sexually immoral persons), “murderers,” “idolaters” (those who worship false gods), and all who love and make lies represent a spectrum of vices that are incompatible with the holiness required to enter the New Jerusalem.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the Book of Revelation, the last book in the New Testament, believed to be written by the apostle John around 95 AD while he was in exile on the island of Patmos. The historical context is the early Christian church experiencing persecution under the Roman Empire. The book is an apocalyptic text, filled with symbolic imagery and prophetic visions of the end times, the final judgment, and the establishment of God’s kingdom.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse highlights the idea of divine justice and the separation of the righteous from the unrighteous. It stresses the consequences of moral choices and the belief in an ultimate divine judgment. From a Christian perspective, the current world is marked by sin, but a future redemption and renewal are promised, in which purity will be restored. It underscores the necessity of repentance and the rejection of sinful behaviors to be in communion with God.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Revelation 22:15 urges believers to examine their own lives and to turn away from practices that are morally or spiritually corrupt. It serves as a call to holiness and to align one’s actions with the values of the faith. It also instills hope that there is a reward for living a righteous life, advocating for a sense of responsibility and integrity in daily conduct.

Cross-References

• Revelation 21:8 – “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”
• Galatians 5:19-21 – “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word translated as “dogs” (κύνες) can imply impurity or scavenging, indicating a form of disdain. “Sorcerers” (φαρμακοὶ) relates to the use of drugs or potions, perhaps linked to magical practices. “Whoremongers” (πόρνοι) commonly referred to those engaged in sexual immorality. “Idolaters” (εἰδωλολάτραι) is straightforward, relating to the worship of idols. “Love” (φιλέω) and “make” (ποιέω) in “loveth and maketh a lie” suggest an active participation in deception.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The exclusion of certain behaviors or individuals from holy places is a common motif in various religions. Ancient purity codes often dictated who or what was unclean and therefore unable to participate in sacred rituals or enter sacred spaces. The idea of certain acts leading to exclusion from divine favor is also seen in many religions, drawing lines between acceptable and unacceptable behaviors that align with the society’s moral compass.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science generally does not address moral or ethical judgments as described in Revelation 22:15, as these are outside the purview of empirical assessment. However, psychology and the social sciences may examine the impacts of behaviors such as dishonesty, violence, and other ethical breaches on individual well-being and societal functions, framing them as social health or deviance issues rather than spiritual conditions.

commentaries

Interpretations of this verse among biblical scholars and theologians vary, but commonly they agree on the symbolic nature of the text. Some emphasize the contrast between the redeemed and the unredeemed, underscoring the verse as a stark reminder of the Christian eschatological hope. Others focus on the call to ethical living, viewing it as a moral guide for believers. Commentators often note that while the verse presents exclusions based on behaviors, the overall message of Revelation includes the possibility of redemption and repentance through Jesus Christ.