King James Version

What Does Revelation 22:7 Mean?

Revelation 22:7 in the King James Version says “Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.”

Revelation 22:7 · KJV

Context

5

And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle , neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

6

And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done.

7

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

8

And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things.

9

Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God.

Read Revelation 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.... This verse from Revelation's vision of river of life, invitation, warnings - eternal blessing, urgent call, maranatha employs apocalyptic imagery rich with Old Testament allusions and symbolic meaning. The Greek text uses vivid apocalyptic language characteristic of Jewish prophetic literature, drawing heavily from Daniel, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Zechariah.

The symbolism must be interpreted within its first-century context while recognizing timeless spiritual realities. The imagery would resonate powerfully with persecuted believers facing Roman imperial cult worship, providing hope that despite present suffering, Christ reigns sovereign and will consummate His kingdom. The apocalyptic genre uses symbolic numbers (seven, twelve, 144,000), colors, beasts, and cosmic imagery to convey theological truth rather than photographic descriptions.

Christologically, Revelation consistently exalts Jesus as the victorious Lamb, the faithful witness, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Every vision ultimately points to Christ's supremacy, His finished redemptive work, and His certain return to judge the living and dead and establish the new creation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

John received this revelation circa AD 95 during Domitian's persecution, exiled on Patmos for his testimony. The seven churches of Asia Minor faced increasing pressure to participate in emperor worship and pagan religious practices. Refusal meant economic hardship, social ostracism, and potential martyrdom. Understanding this context illuminates Revelation's encouragement to faithful endurance.

The apocalyptic genre was familiar to first-century Jewish and Christian readers. Rather than newspaper-style predictions, apocalyptic literature uses symbolic imagery to reveal spiritual realities behind earthly events, encourage the faithful, warn the unfaithful, and assert God's ultimate sovereignty over history. Parallels with Daniel, Ezekiel, and intertestamental apocalyptic writings would help original readers decode the symbols.

Rome's imperial cult demanded worship of Caesar as divine, placing Christians in impossible situations—compromise their faith or face persecution. Revelation identifies Rome as "Babylon" and assures believers that despite appearances, the Lamb conquered through His death and resurrection, and all earthly kingdoms will submit to His reign.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Revelation 22:7 reveal God's character, particularly His sovereignty, holiness, and justice?
  2. What specific encouragement or warning does this verse offer for maintaining faithful Christian witness amid cultural pressure?
  3. How does this passage point to Christ's victory and the hope of new creation, and how should that shape your present priorities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
ἰδού,1 of 13

“Behold”

G2400

used as imperative lo!

ἔρχομαι2 of 13

“I come”

G2064

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

ταχύ.3 of 13

“quickly”

G5035

shortly, i.e., without delay, soon, or (by surprise) suddenly, or (by implication, of ease) readily

μακάριος4 of 13

“blessed”

G3107

supremely blest; by extension, fortunate, well off

ὁ5 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

τηρῶν6 of 13

“is he that keepeth”

G5083

to guard (from loss or injury, properly, by keeping the eye upon; and thus differing from g5442, which is properly to prevent escaping; and from g2892

τοὺς7 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

λόγους8 of 13

“the sayings”

G3056

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a

τῆς9 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

προφητείας10 of 13

“of the prophecy”

G4394

prediction (scriptural or other)

τοῦ11 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

βιβλίου12 of 13

“book”

G975

a roll

τούτου13 of 13

“of this”

G5127

of (from or concerning) this (person or thing)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Revelation. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Revelation 22:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Revelation 22:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Revelation 1:3Revelation 3:11Revelation 22:20Revelation 22:12Revelation 22:9-10Revelation 16:15

Test Your Knowledge

Revelation 22 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRevelation Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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