Title [Rev 22:1-21]
Revelation 22 is the conclusion of the entire Bible. By saying “I am coming soon” three times (7, 12, 20), it confirms that the second coming of Jesus is a sure event above all else, and instructs the saints to live in preparation for the second coming. With the title of the promise of Jesus, who said, “I am coming soon,” we will introduce the text and share grace.
1. He showed me the river of the water of life.
It is said that this river makes the leaves of the trees on the left and right grow lush and produce fruit every month, and the leaves make all the nations revive (2). But the important lesson is that this river of water of life flows from the throne of God and of the Lamb. It shows that there is only one God who can revive the people of all nations. Jesus incarnated for this work, and we are the blessed ones who have received that benefit. But those who want this water of life should come and drink it without cost. Revelation 22:17 says, “The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come. He who hears will say, ‘Come,’ and he who thirsts will come, and whoever wants, let him receive the water of life without price.” Even now, we need to know that God is inviting us to provide the water of life. In John 4, the meeting of Jesus with the woman of Suga is recorded. It happened at Jacob's well, and the conclusion is that the water Jesus gives will become a spring of water that springs up to eternal life (13-14). We will receive eternal life through Jesus on earth and in heaven.
2. It is said that the word of revelation was given for the churches (16).
“I, Jesus, have sent my messengers for the churches to testify of these things to you” (16). Human history will proceed according to God's predestination and providence. However, the Lord who loves the church gave the word of revelation in advance for two purposes. One is to encourage, comfort, and give hope to the church. When tribulation and persecution are given, even the church can become tired and discouraged. Therefore, it is to persevere and overcome well by foretelling what will happen in the future. The other is to prepare. It is a very precious and blessed thing to strengthen our faith and prepare faithfully for all the work the Lord has entrusted to us. Thank you for the Lord's consideration for the church and I hope that you will become all the saints who accept it with faith.
3. He was told not to add or subtract from the prophecies that were tested (18-19).
“I testify to every one who hears the words of the prophecies of this book, if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the prophecy of this book, God will He will take away your participation in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are written in this book” (18-19). There are many cases in which we cannot receive and preach God's word purely, and add or subtract according to human desires. It is never desirable. In addition to these, it is said that the plagues witnessed in the Book of Revelation will be added to them. Therefore, when unwholesome mystics deceive the saints, they should not fall for them. If they are excluded from the prophecies of this book, they will participate in the tree of life and the holy city. I hope that you will not be shaken by the claims of liberals who analyze the Word with rational judgment and disbelieve. Right faith is believing based on only the 66 books of the Bible. I hope that the whole church will be armed with this faith.
4. He said that he would come soon (7, 12, 20).
Hebrews 10:37 says, “After a little while, he who is coming will come, and he will not delay.” This is a reference to the imminent return of Jesus. Let's find out in the text what our lives should be like in preparation for the imminent Second Coming.
① We must become those who keep the words of prophecy. “Behold, I am coming soon, and blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book” (7). Revelation 1:3 says, “Blessed are those who read and hear the words of this prophecy, and those who keep what is written in them, for the time is near.” Let us follow the written word thoroughly so that we may receive great blessings.
② You have to work hard. “Behold, I am coming soon, and my reward is with me, to repay each one according to what he has done” (12). God never turns away from our hard work for Him. Even if you do it voluntarily out of gratitude for your grace, He will repay you with even better things. I hope that we will become saints who diligently do the Lord's work in the midst of these expectations and hopes.
③ We must become those who welcome and wait for the Second Coming. “The one who testified of these said, ‘Truly, I am coming soon.’ Amen, come, Lord Jesus” (20). There should not be any disapproval or rejection of the Lord's coming. We must become believers who sincerely welcome them. Those who are eagerly waiting for the Lord and are ready will be delighted and thrilled when they hear that He is coming soon. Now, as we wrap up the Book of Revelation, I hope that the whole church will become a firm believer in waiting for the Lord's return.