Scripture Reading: Revelation 22:6-21
The epilogue of the book of Revelation highlights two final themes ... the authenticity of the book and the approaching wonder of the return of Christ.
As Christ is called "faithful and true" in Revelation 3:14 and 19;11, so His words are "faithful and true" in Revelation 21:5 and 22:6. There is a marked emphasis in Revelation on what John has written (Rev 1:3,11,19; 14:13; 19:9). Now, there is a stern warning to anyone who might deliberately change what is written, distorting what God has revealed (Rev 22:18,19).
What a grace from God that He has given us His revealed truth in a book. Let us take His book to heart, with all our might.
The Bible ends with a repeated reference to the return of Christ. There is a three-fold declaration of Jesus here ... "Behold, I am coming quickly" (Rev 22:7,12,20). And there is a three-fold response ... "The Spirit and the Bride say, 'Come.' And let the one who hears say, 'Come.' . . . Come, Lord Jesus" (Rev 22:17,20).
The heartfelt longing of God's people is to 'groan' (Rom 8:23), eagerly awaiting His return, so that the consummation of all things might be brought to the appointed end. Such longing shapes our thinking and steels our hearts with strength.
