King James Version

What Does Revelation 22:7 Mean?

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

Context

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(7) **Behold, I come quickly.**—The words of Christ Himself follow (perhaps quoted by the angel), to confirm the declaration of the last verse. These confirming words are an embodiment of the spirit of the whole Apocalypse. *And behold I am coming quickly!* The Apocalypse is the revelation of the coming One; it reveals the dealings of Him who came, who comes, and is to come. (Comp. Note on Revelation 1:4.) The blessing given in Revelation 1:3 is in part repeated here, but it is a benediction emphatically on those who keep the words of the book. *Blessed is he who keepeth the words of the prophecy of this book.* It is not in reading, or wondering, or talking, but in keeping, that the blessing comes. He that loves Christ will keep His commandments (John 14:15), even as Christ loved His Father, and kept His commandments (John 15:10). Those who so keep the sayings or words of Christ in this book will stand firm as those who have built upon the rock (Matthew 7:24-25). The blessing of Christ to such was victory over death. “If a man keep My saying, he shall never see death” (John 8:51).

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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.