Chapter CONTEXT from MHCC: A description of the heavenly state, under the figures of the water and the tree of life, and of the throne of God and the Lamb. (1-5) The truth and certain fulfilling of all the prophetic visions, The Holy Spirit, and the bride, the church, invite, and say, Come. (6-19) The closing blessing. (20,21). I also recommend reading John Gill’s introduction to Revelation 22.
Our main text for today is part of the final epilogue of the Apostle John’s Book of Revelation. In verses 16-21 we have all the key components to summarize the Book in short order:
v.16 – Christ’s testimony that He will return
v.17 – Christ’s final invitation to Salvation
v.18/19 – Christ’s final warning to those who would tamper with the Word of God.
v.20 – John’s appeal for Christ’s quick return
v.21 – John’s final blessing upon the saints
Matthew 24:36 makes it clear that no one knows when Christ will return, only that we are to be ever ready for that day. In fact, Jesus Himself told us via His disciples to watch and pray.
Thank God for the Assurance you have of Christ’s Second Coming
For the assurance, we have of his second coming to judge the world.
I bless you that you have fixed a day on which you will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom you have appointed; and of this you have given assurance to all by raising him from the dead. Acts 17:31(ESV)
That in that day the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of the Lord Jesus: 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8(ESV) And he will come to be glorified in his saints and to be marveled at among all who have believed; 2 Thessalonians 1:10(ESV) for, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. 1 Thessalonians 4:14(ESV)
That he shall then send his angels to gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, Matthew 13:41(ESV) and to gather his elect from the four winds; Matthew 24:31(ESV) and then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Matthew 13:43(ESV)
And I then, according to your promise, am waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells: Lord, grant that, since I am waiting for these, I may be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace; 2 Peter 3:13-14(ESV) and then Come Lord Jesus! Come soon! Revelation 22:20(ESV)
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