What does Revelation 22:7 mean?

Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. Revelation 22:7

Explanation

Revelation 22:7 is a statement attributed to Jesus Christ, conveying the imminence of His return and emphasizing the importance of adhering to the teachings found within the Book of Revelation. In this verse, the phrase “I come quickly” suggests urgency and the nearness of Christ’s second coming. The term “blessed” points to a state of favor and happiness, suggesting that those who obey the words of Revelation will experience divine approval and reward. The phrase “keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book” implies a diligent observance and adherence to the messages, warnings, and promises detailed in the prophetic visions given to John, the author of the Revelation.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation, also known as the Apocalypse, was written by John who was exiled on the island of Patmos. It is generally dated to the end of the 1st century AD, a time when early Christians often faced persecution from the Roman Empire. Revelation was written to encourage believers to remain faithful despite oppression. The verse in question reflects a common theme in early Christianity, the Parousia or the Second Coming of Christ, an event anticipated by believers to bring final judgement and the fulfillment of God’s kingdom on Earth.

Theological Insights

The verse has been interpreted in various ways across different theological perspectives. In the Preterist view, the promise to “come quickly” is believed to have been fulfilled in the events of the first century, specifically the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. Historicists interpret “coming quickly” as a long process unfolding through church history. Futurists maintain that the verse predicts an event still to come, and Dispensationalists often see it as a prelude to the Rapture. Furthermore, Amillennialists consider “coming quickly” as symbolic for Christ’s ongoing presence rather than a literal return.

Practical Applications

Revelation 22:7 serves as a reminder to individuals to live with a sense of expectancy and readiness for the return of Jesus Christ. It encourages a proactive and obedient lifestyle, keeping one’s life in alignment with the teachings of the Bible. Christians may find this call to watchfulness to be a motivation for ethical living, evangelism, and maintaining hope in the face of adversity.

Cross-References

• Revelation 22:12 – “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.”
• Revelation 3:11 – “Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.”
• Matthew 24:42-44 – “Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.”

Language Study

The key phrase “I come quickly” is derived from the original Greek “ἔρχομαι ταχύ” (erchomai tachu), where “ἔρχομαι” (erchomai) means “I come” or “I am coming,” and “ταχύ” (tachu) translates to “quickly” or “soon.” The word “tachu” does not necessarily imply immediate action but rather imminence and certainty. Additionally, “keepeth” from “τηρῶν” (tērōn) conveys active watching or guarding, suggesting ongoing, vigilant obedience.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The theme of a divine figure returning to judge or renew the world is common in various religious and mythological traditions. In Norse mythology, the concept of Ragnarök involves the return of gods and the end of the world in a battle. In Hinduism, the god Vishnu is said to return in different avatars to restore dharma. Zoroastrianism speaks of a savior, Saoshyant, who will bring the renovation of the world. While differing in details, these parallels show a human fascination with prophetic end-of-times scenarios.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understanding does not encompass the metaphysical claims found in Revelation 22:7, as science deals with empirical evidence and natural laws. The verse speaks to a supernatural event outside the realm of scientific inquiry. However, the sense of urgency in “I come quickly” is interesting to note, as human perception of time is a topic of study in psychology and neuroscience, with a recognition that subjective time can differ greatly from objective, measured time.

commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators have provided insights into Revelation 22:7. Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the certainty and nearness of Christ’s return and the importance of steadfastness in faith. The MacArthur Study Bible notes that “come quickly” does not necessarily mean Christ’s return is immediate but that when it begins, it will transpire swiftly. The New International Commentary on the New Testament underscores the blessing promised to those who “keepeth the sayings,” highlighting the importance of heeding the apocalyptic warnings and being spiritually prepared. Other commentaries, like those from the perspective of Liberation theology, might focus on the verse encouraging social justice and active engagement with the world in anticipation of Christ’s return.