In Revelation 22:20, we encounter the Bible’s final recorded statement from Jesus…
“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quickly.’ Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen” (Revelation 22:20-21).
So what did Jesus choose to share as His final message? Well, those last words are, “Surely I am coming quickly.” In fact, this is the third time He has spoken this same message in the concluding chapter of this book (the other two instances appear in verses seven and twelve). This is something that should command our attention, for a repetitive statement usually indicates that someone is seeking to emphasize a point.
For instance, we might respond to a suggested course of action with a simple “no.” Or, we might express our strong aversion to that idea by replying, “no, no, no.” That latter response employs a repetitive statement to make a point, and it’s possible that Jesus has taken a similar approach here in the last chapter of Revelation. But if that is the case, then why would He do so?
One answer relates to how easily we can become absorbed by the seemingly endless array of obligations, responsibilities, and “to-do” lists that accompany the grind of daily life. The stresses of everyday living may obscure the fact that this life only represents a small portion of our existence. For instance, how would our lives differ if we acted on these messages from Revelation 22:7, 22:12, and 22:20? How might things change if we pursued a mindset that aligned with Revelation 22:12: “‘Listen!’ says Jesus. ‘I am coming soon! I will bring my rewards with me, to give to each one according to what he has done'” (GNT).
These verses also remind us that Jesus is certain to show up unexpectedly in the lives of those who fail to look for Him. Therefore, we should seek to cultivate an attitude and lifestyle that honors God and awaits Christ’s return whenever it may occur. In the meantime, Jesus presents us with an opportunity to make a difference in a world that desperately needs it. Thus, we should endeavor to take advantage of those opportunities in light of this cautionary message from Revelation 22:20.
Since we don’t know what the future holds, we should live with the expectation of Christ’s return, and plan as if God will grant us the blessing of a long, good life. And with that, we will close our time in the book of Revelation with the benediction of the final verse…
“May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with you all” (Mounce).
Image Attribution: Make a difference by Nick Youngson CC BY-SA 3.0 Pix4free