Jesus was to be coming soon

JESUS WAS TO BE COMING SOON
EDITED BY GLENN PEASE
Revelation22:2020He who testifies to these things
says, "Yes, I am coming soon."Amen. Come, LORD
Jesus.
BIBLEHUB RESOURCES
Longing For Christ's Advent
Revelation22:20
S. Conway
As to the expression"quickly," it is to be understood either on the principle
(1) that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years; or
(2) that there are many advents of Christ besides that last glorious one of
which the New Testamentsays so much.
In support of this it is to be noted that the prophecies of this book, as other
prophecies, referto classes ofevents, and not exclusively to any one event.
Hence, whereverthere is like conduct, whether goodor evil, there will be like

recompense. Persecuting governments, and religions upholding them, will
bring down on themselves Divine judgments. Such conditions of things were
present when St. John wrote, and the punishment of them was speeding on to
its fulfilment. So we prefer to understand the words of our text. Now, of the
comings of Christ there are four, though not to all of them can the "quickly"
of the text be applied, except on the principle first named above, and which St.
Peterteaches us.
I. TO PUNISH NOTORIOUS WRONG. The destructionof Jerusalemwas
then, when St. John wrote, nigh at hand. The overthrow of the persecuting,
paganRoman empire was not far off; and, againand again, in the judgments
that have befallen nations and wickedrulers and Churches, of which the
records of history tell so much, may be seenfulfilments of this word. And
without any vindictive spirit, from pure love of truth and righteousness, and
from concernfor human well being, the faithful Church has responded, and
will respond, to the announcement of Christ's advent for this end: "Amen.
Even so," etc. What a solemn reminder does this give to those who, in daring,
presumptuous way, sin againstGod! In the midst of their proud defiance of
the Lord, he may - it is likely that he will - come and judge them for their sins.
II. TO REIGN ON EARTH. That he will thus come the Scripture statements
plainly declare. And these statements are very numerous. This coming of the
Lord is perpetually referred to in the New Testament, and is predicted
likewise in the Old Testament. No doubt the apostles believedit would be in
their time. The Lord had not said it would not, and hoping that it might - their
wish becoming father to their thought - they spoke and wrote as if it would.
We are distinctly forbidden to look to them for information as to the date of
this advent, for the Lord said to them, "It is not for you to know." Therefore
any words of theirs that seemto imply, as they do, the speedycoming of
Christ, are to be read with this remembrance, that it was not given to them to
speak authoritatively on this matter. And in the later Epistles it is evident that
their earlier thoughts had become modified, and they had learnt to

contemplate as probable the fact that the Lord's advent would not be in their
time; and hence they give directions for the ordering of the Church after they
are gone (cf. SecondEpistle to Timothy, etc.). And the declarations concerning
our Lord's advent to reign on earth are to be understood literally. Many, no
doubt, affirm that they are to be all interpreted of a spiritual reign, and to be
explained as figures, metaphors, and the like. But we have a principle of
interpretation laid down for us in the predictions concerning our Lord's first
advent. What was there said of him literally came to pass. A large part of the
gospelhistory may be compiled from those ancient prophecies which told of
what literally came true in the life and death of our Lord. The Scriptures were
fulfilled in him in no figurative, but in a literal sense. So was it, and, therefore,
we believe, so will it be. And when we think of what is involved in the coming
of our Lord to reign - of glory to God, of goodto man - how canthe Church
do otherwise than say, "Amen. Even so," etc.?
III. TO RECEIVE US UNTO HIMSELF. For death is for us practically a
coming of the Lord. We go to be with him; he comes to receive us. And this, at
the furthest, will be "quickly." "Brief life is here our portion." Few and evil
are the days of our pilgrimage. And to this coming the believer assents.Not
from any fretful longing to have done with this life - such longing is always
more or less morbid, though explicable and excusable under the distressing
circumstances in which it is felt and uttered - but to Christians, as to others,
life is and should be sweet, precious, clung to. But his "Amen" here is that of
submission, of cheerful assentand acquiescence to the Lord's will. For him
death has no terrors, but is the entrance on eternaljoy. Nevertheless, the ties
of earth, the claims and needs of those we love, are many and strong, and
therefore for their sake life is precious. Otherwise death has no sting.
IV. TO JUDGE THE WORLD. This is not the same as his coming to reign.
Then he shall come for his saints, but in this last advent he shall come with
them. Then shall the greatwhite throne be setup, then shall be gatheredall
nations, and then the final judgment take place. And this, too, for eachone of

us, comes "quickly." Forafter death it virtually takes place. We eachgo to
our "ownplace." But can we eachone sayconcerning this coming of the Lord,
"Amen. Even so," etc.? -S.C.
Biblical Illustrator
He which testifieth these things, saith, surely I come quickly.
Revelation22:20
On the coming of Christ
A. Stirling, LL. D.
I. SOME OF THE GREAT EVENTS WHICH WILL MOST
UNQUESTIONABLYTAKE PLACE AT OUR SAVIOUR'S SECOND
APPEARANCE.
1. He will come againwith inexpressible dignity and grandeur.

2. The resurrection of the dead is another glorious result of our Saviour's
secondappearance.
3. The dissolution of this globe will be the awful consequence, also, ofour
Saviour's reappearance.
II. FOR WHAT PURPOSE THESE GREAT EVENTSWILL TAKE PLACE
ON OUR SAVIOUR'S REAPPEARANCE.
1. Jesus will come againto vindicate the honour of the Divine administration,
and to evince the admirable wisdom and justice with which it has been
administered.
2. The eternal separationof the virtuous from the wicked.
3. The equitable and unerring distribution of eternal rewards and
punishments which will then take place.Lessons:
1. The considerationof our Saviour's secondcoming to reward every one
according to his works, should have a permanent influence on our present
temper and conduct.
2. The appointment of our Saviour to be our Judge is a merciful
condescensionto the weaknessand imperfection of our natures, which would
be overwhelmed by the infinite splendour of that Almighty Being, in whose
presence the angels covertheir faces with their wings, which would be
otherwise dazzled with such immensity of glory.

(A. Stirling, LL. D.)
Even so come, Lord Jesus
Man hailing the judgment
Homilist.
There are four states ofmind amongstmen in relation to the lastday. Some
are indifferent to it, as were the antediluvians in relation to the Deluge;some
scornfully deny it, as did the infidels in the days of Peter;some are horror-
strickenat it, as were the demoniacs in the time of Christ; and some welcome
it, as John did now. Three things are implied in this laststate of mind —
I. A CONVICTION THAT SUCH A DAY WILL DAWN.
II. A CONVICTION OF PREPAREDNESSTO ENTER ON THE TRIAL.
III. A CONVICTION THAT THE RESULTS OF THAT DAY WILL BE
FRAUGHT WITH PERSONALGOOD.
(Homilist.)
Yearning for Christ
R. Redford, LL. B.
A state of expectationtries faith and feeds it too. The veil which hides,
suggests. A doubtful bestowment, to be able to raise it before the time! Hope
nurses energy. Energy is trained in mingled knowledge andignorance.

I. THE EFFACING OF OUR SOULS FOR THE FULNESS OF
FELLOWSHIP WITH CHRIST. The life we live is a longing. There is discord
which only Jesus canresolve. There is possibility which in the light of His
presence will see this out into fact. Gloom, in which we wait with our eyes
towards the east, waiting for the sun-rising. We are children crying for the
Comforter.
II. THE PURPOSE OF OUR HEARTS TO BE PREPARED FOR THE
HIGHER SERVICE. Come and give us our place in Thy kingdom. Come and
take up the fruits of our life into Thy garner, and make them the seed-cornof
the everlasting future. The response of the lips will be the key-note;the fullest
most varied existence willnever lose it; on that the music will restand melt
into the praise of Heaven.
(R. Redford, LL. B.)
Sudden death
R. S. Storrs, D. D.
The primary reference in the words may be, and probably is, to His coming
for the initiation of those augustprocedures in history which are prophetically
recordedin the Book ofRevelation;but also there may be an underlying
reference in them to His appearing at death to the individual disciple. The
death of the believer is always, in a true sense, the coming of Christ to him.
Applying the words in this way, then, as having a possible personal relationto
ourselves, the question naturally occurs:Can we take up and repeat this reply
of the apostle, "Amen. Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus?" Johnevidently
spoke thus in all sincerity and solemnearnestness.But we may not feel,
perhaps, that John was a type for us, since he surpassedus in so many things.
He was "the beloved disciple." He had been admitted to a peculiar personal
intimacy with Christ. Especially, perhaps, we think he could saythis when he

may have been at this time — it is not certain — in the decline of life, or
already advancedin years;when, at any rate, he was dwelling in a world
unfriendly to him and to his faith, without companions, without a home, a
lonely exile upon the rock of Patmos. It was then only natural and proper, we
may think, that he should utter this prayer to Christ. But we may not so freely
repeatit after him. There is a certaintremor of hesitation, natural to the
heart, in echoing the words. We have no right to offer such a prayer. Even
John did not offer it until the Masterhad manifestedto him His purpose of
coming quickly, and then he simply responded to the declared will of the
Lord. We may do that, I think, with equal cheerfulness and gladness. When
the Masterforewarns us that His coming is to be sudden and speedy, we may
take up without hesitation, if we are His followers, the words of the apostle:
"Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!" The example of John justifies us in this.
He was an eminent disciple; he had had peculiar intimacy of relation with the
Master. But he was still a man who neededforgiveness, evenas you and I do.
He was a man only sanctified in part, as you and I are. Yet he spoke these
words, because he knew the Masterfully. He had knownHim on earth, and he
had now seenHim in heaven. He knew the sovereigntyof the Lord, but he
knew as well His spirit of self-sacrifice;he knew how He had died on the Cross
when He need not have done so unless He had chosen, for the salvationof
sinners. Therefore, knowing His tenderness as well as His holiness, His infinite
sympathy as well as His sovereignand unlimited power, he could say: "Even
so, I am not timid before Thy coming; Thy word does-notsmite me with fear.
Come, Lord Jesus. If we are, then, in fellowshipwith John, through a similar
faith in the Divine Master, we also may take up and echo his words. Consider
also why Christ comes at death to His disciple; what things He comes to
accomplish.
1. He comes for the recognitionof characterin His beloved. Forthis, in part,
His approachand death are made.
2. He comes also for the consummation of character in the disciple; not only to
recognise it, but to bring it to its completeness.EveryChristian grace has its
vital root in faith, that is, in loyal and undoubting confidence towardthe Son

of God. And preciselyas this faith becomes clearand firm, in that proportion
the graceswhichspring from it are multiplied and enriched, are raisedto a
sweeterand mightier supremacy. When, then, at last faith culminates in
vision, and we see the Lord — not merely in the evangelicalrecords, not
merely in the worship of the Church, or its manifesting sacraments, but "face
to face" — then every grace which has been within us, in element and germ,
shall rise to sudden superlative completeness, andto the fulness of perfect
exhibition.
3. He comes, too, for the coronationof character, as wellas for its recognition
and its supreme consummation. Character, rootedin faith towards Himself, is
the one thing precious on earth to Christ. The production of it in the human
soul was the very purpose of His coming in the incarnation. His whole life on
earth bore evidently upon this result. Every miracle said, "Believe in Me."
Every gracious word of promise attractedto such belief in Him. And when
this faith is ready to be transferred to the skies, Christ comes atdeath to
consummate and to crown it. That is the fulfilment of His purpose in
Redemption. He must crown the spirit which He seeksand loves. Therefore it
was that John could say, "Amen. Even so, Lord, come quickly." And so we
need not, either of us, fear, if we are in the faith and fellowship of John, to
take upon our lips the same sublime and solemn words.
4. I think that here is suggesteda fair preliminary test of experience in us.
Suppose that Christ were to come to us at this moment, that for us the earth
swung suddenly awayinto darkness and silence, that unto us the heavens were
opened" would He find in us that which He at this instant would acceptand
approve? Should we be able to welcome Him now at that swift coming?
5. If we can meet this testwe need no more to be afraid of sudden death.
Within ourselves is that which Christ Himself hath wrought, in which He has
gladness. Thenwe shall share, when we die, in the glory of the transfigured

Lord; not seeing it merely, as silently and suddenly it came to the Apostles,
but ourselves being participants in it. And that will be all that death is to the
disciple.
(R. S. Storrs, D. D.)
COMMENTARIES
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
(20) He which testifieth these things . . .—Better, He saith, who testifieth these
things, Yea, I am coming quickly. We have here the final witness;it is in the
words of the faithful and true witness Himself. It is the answerto the repeated
cry, “Come;” it is the warning to those who forgetHim; it is introduced with
the emphatic yea! “Yea, I am coming quickly.” The answerbreaks forth in
prayer from the prophet’s lips—Amen. (We must omit “even so”)Come, Lord
Jesus. The prophet is the mouthpiece of the Church; his desire is one with the
desire of all who love Christ’s appearing.
BensonCommentary
Revelation22:20. He which testifieth these things — Even all that is contained
in this book;saith — Forthe encouragementofthe church in all her
afflictions, and the warning of all her opposers and persecutors;Surely I come
quickly — To judge and punish all my enemies, and the enemies of my cause
and people; and to establishmy church in a state of perfect and everlasting
happiness. The apostle expresseshis earnestdesire and hope of this, by
answering, Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus — Accomplish thy promises in
order: and finally crownthe faith, patience, and constancyof thy servants
with eternal life.
Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary

22:20,21 After discovering these things to his people on earth, Christ seems to
take leave of them, and return to heaven;but he assures them it shall not be
long before he comes again. And while we are busy in the duties of our
different stations of life; whateverlabours may try us, whateverdifficulties
may surround us, whatever sorrows maypress us down, let us with pleasure
hear our Lord proclaiming, Behold, I come quickly; I come to put an end to
the labour and suffering of my servants. I come, and my reward of grace is
with me, to recompense, with royal bounty, every work of faith and labour of
love. I come to receive my faithful, persevering people to myself, to dwell for
ever in that blissful world. Amen, even so, come, Lord Jesus. A blessing closes
the whole. By the grace ofChrist we must be kept in joyful expectationof his
glory, fitted for it, and preserved to it; and his glorious appearance will be
joyful to those who partake of his grace and favour here. Let all add, Amen.
Let us earnestlythirst after greatermeasures of the gracious influences of the
blessedJesus in our souls, and his gracious presence withus, till glory has
made perfect his grace towardus. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and
to the Holy Ghost;as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world
without end. Amen.
Barnes'Notes on the Bible
He which testifieth these things - The Lord Jesus;for he it was that had,
through the instrumentality of the angel, borne this solemn witness to the
truth of these things, and this book was to be regardedas his revelationto
mankind. See the notes on Revelation1:1; Revelation22:16. He here speaks of
himself, and vouches for the truth and reality of these things by saying that he
"testifies" ofthem, or bears witness to them. Compare John 18:37. The fact
that Jesus himself vouches for the truth of what is here revealed, shows the
propriety of what John had saidin the previous verses about adding to it, or
taking from it.
Saith, Surely I come quickly - That is, the development of these events will
soonbegin - though their consummation may extend into far distant ages, or
into eternity. See the notes on Revelation1:1, Revelation1:3; Revelation22:7,
Revelation22:10.

Amen - A word of solemn affirmation or assent. See the notes on Matthew
6:13. Here it is to be regarded as the expressionofJohn, signifying his solemn
and cheerful assentto what the Saviour had said, that he would come quickly.
It is the utterance of a strong desire that it might be so. He longed for his
appearing.
Even so - These, too, are the words of John, and are a response to what the
Saviour had just said. In the original, it is a response in the same language
which the Saviour had used, and the beauty of the passageis marred by the
translation "Evenso." The original is, "He which testifieth to these things
saith, Yea - ναὶ nai - I come quickly. Amen. Yea - ναὶ nai - come, Lord Jesus."
It is the utterance of desire in the precise language whichthe Saviourhad
used - heart responding to heart.
Come, Lord Jesus - That is, as here intended, "Come in the manner and for
the objects referredto in this book." The language, however, is expressive of
the feeling of piety in a more extended sense, and may be used to denote a
desire that the Lord Jesus would come in any and every manner; that he
would come to impart to us the tokens ofhis presence;that he would come to
bless his truth and to revive his work in the churches;that he would come to
convert sinners, and to build up his people in holiness;that he would come to
sustain us in affliction, and to defend us in temptation; that he would come to
put a period to idolatry, superstition, and error, and to extend the knowledge
of his truth in the world; that he would come to set up his kingdom on the
earth, and to rule in the hearts of people; that he would come to receive us to
his presence, andto gather his redeemed people into his everlasting kingdom.
It was appropriate to the agedJohn, suffering exile in a lonely island, to pray
that the Lord Jesus wouldspeedily come to take him to himself; and there
could have been no more suitable close ofthis marvelous book than the
utterance of such a desire. And it is appropriate for us as we finish its
contemplation, disclosing so much of the glories of the heavenly world, and

the blessednessofthe redeemed in their final state, when we think of the
earth, with its sorrows, trials, and cares, to respond to the prayer, and to say,
"Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly." Forthat glorious coming of the Sonof
God, when he shall gather his redeemed people to himself, may all who read
these notes be finally prepared. Amen.
Jamieson-Fausset-BrownBible Commentary
20. Amen. Even so, come—The Song ofSolomon (So 8:14) closes with the
same yearning prayer for Christ's coming. A, B, and Aleph omit "Evenso,"
Greek, "nai":then translate for Amen, "So be it, come, Lord Jesus";joining
the "Amen," or "So be it," not with Christ's saying (for He calls Himself the
"Amen" at the beginning of sentences, ratherthan puts it as a confirmation at
the end), but with John's reply. Christ's "I come," and John's "Come," are
almost coincidentin time; so truly does the believer reflect the mind of his
Lord.
Matthew Poole's Commentary
See Poole on"Revelation22:13"
Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible
He which testifieth these things,.... Not the angel, Revelation22:16 nor John,
who sometimes used this way of speaking, John21:24 but Christ, as appears
from what follows;for he
saith, surely I come quickly; who not only asserts the speediness ofhis coming,
as in Revelation22:7 but expressesthe certainty of it, so that it ought not to be
doubted of by any, especiallyby his own people; though it may seemto be
deferred, and, upon that account, be derided by ungodly men; and Christ may
have some respect, in this strong repetition of it, to the certainty of the
punishment that will then be inflicted upon such who add to, or diminish from
this book;for he himself will certainly come in person, and execute the
vengeance threatened. Johnnext puts his

Amen to it, signifying his assentunto it, declaring his faith in it, and
expressing his earnestdesire after it, and wish for it: and in words at length
adds,
even so come, Lord Jesus;quickly, speedily as thou hast said, and in all thy
glory; set up thy kingdom, let that come, introduce thy people into it, and
destroy thine enemies;this he said as one that loved the appearance ofChrist,
longed for it, hastenedto it, and was impatient at the delay of it.
Geneva Study Bible
{10} He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even
so, come, Lord Jesus.
(10) A divine confirmation or sealing of the supplication first from Christ
affirming the same and denouncing his coming againstall those that will put
their sacrilegioushands here: then from John himself, who by a most holy
prayer calls Christ to take vengeance onthem.
EXEGETICAL(ORIGINAL LANGUAGES)
Cambridge Bible for Schools andColleges
20. Surely] The word is that rendered Even so in Revelation1:7, and in the
next clause here, and which might be better rendered Yea. It should be
omitted in the next clause, so that the whole will read, “He that testifieth these
things saith, ‘Yea [in answerto the prayers of Revelation22:17]I come
quickly.’ Amen: come, Lord Jesus.
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 20. - He which testifieth these things saith - viz, the Lord Jesus, as in
ver. 16 - Surely I come quickly; yea, I come quickly. As the book opens, so it
closes withthis promise. This is the anchor and stay of the faithful, the sound

of an alarm and a warning cry to the wicked. Amen. Even so, come, Lord
Jesus. Omit "evenso." Thus in calm and patient hope the apostle answers his
Lord. So the writer who delivers the messageis the first to proclaim his belief
in what is herein contained.
STUDYLIGHTRESOURCES
Albert Barnes'Notes onthe Whole Bible
He which testifieth these things - The Lord Jesus;for he it was that had,
through the instrumentality of the angel, borne this solemn witness to the
truth of these things, and this book was to be regardedas his revelationto
mankind. See the notes on Revelation1:1; Revelation22:16. He here speaks of
himself, and vouches for the truth and reality of these things by saying that he
“testifies” ofthem, or bears witness to them. Compare John 18:37. The fact
that Jesus himself vouches for the truth of what is here revealed, shows the
propriety of what John had saidin the previous verses about adding to it, or
taking from it.
Saith, Surely I come quickly - That is, the development of these events will
soonbegin - though their consummation may extend into far distant ages, or
into eternity. See the notes on Revelation1:1, Revelation1:3; Revelation22:7,
Revelation22:10.
Amen - A word of solemn affirmation or assent. See the notes on Matthew
6:13. Here it is to be regarded as the expressionofJohn, signifying his solemn
and cheerful assentto what the Saviour had said, that he would come quickly.

It is the utterance of a strong desire that it might be so. He longed for his
appearing.
Even so - These, too, are the words of John, and are a response to what the
Saviour had just said. In the original, it is a response in the same language
which the Saviour had used, and the beauty of the passageis marred by the
translation “Evenso.” The original is, “He which testifieth to these things
saith, Yea - ναὶ nai- I come quickly. Amen. Yea - ναὶ nai- come, Lord Jesus.”
It is the utterance of desire in the precise language whichthe Saviourhad
used - heart responding to heart.
Come, Lord Jesus - That is, as here intended, “Come in the manner and for
the objects referredto in this book.” The language, however, is expressive of
the feeling of piety in a more extended sense, and may be used to denote a
desire that the Lord Jesus would come in any and every manner; that he
would come to impart to us the tokens ofhis presence;that he would come to
bless his truth and to revive his work in the churches;that he would come to
convert sinners, and to build up his people in holiness;that he would come to
sustain us in affliction, and to defend us in temptation; that he would come to
put a period to idolatry, superstition, and error, and to extend the knowledge
of his truth in the world; that he would come to set up his kingdom on the
earth, and to rule in the hearts of people; that he would come to receive us to
his presence, andto gather his redeemed people into his everlasting kingdom.
It was appropriate to the agedJohn, suffering exile in a lonely island, to pray
that the Lord Jesus wouldspeedily come to take him to himself; and there
could have been no more suitable close ofthis marvelous book than the
utterance of such a desire. And it is appropriate for us as we finish its
contemplation, disclosing so much of the glories of the heavenly world, and
the blessednessofthe redeemed in their final state, when we think of the
earth, with its sorrows, trials, and cares, to respond to the prayer, and to say,
“Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly.” For that glorious coming of the Son of

God, when he shall gather his redeemed people to himself, may all who read
these notes be finally prepared. Amen.
Copyright Statement
These files are public domain.
Bibliography
Barnes, Albert. "Commentaryon Revelation22:20". "Barnes'Notes onthe
Whole Bible". https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/revelation-
22.html. 1870.
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The Biblical Illustrator
Revelation22:20
He which testifieth these things, saith, surely I come quickly.
On the coming of Christ
I. Some of the greatevents which will most unquestionably take place at our
Saviour’s secondappearance.
1. He will come againwith inexpressible dignity and grandeur.

2. The resurrection of the dead is another glorious result of our Saviour’s
secondappearance.
3. The dissolution of this globe will be the awful consequence, also, ofour
Saviour’s reappearance.
II. For what purpose these greatevents will take place on our Saviour’s
reappearance.
1. Jesus will come againto vindicate the honour of the Divine administration,
and to evince the admirable wisdom and justice with which it has been
administered.
2. The eternal separationof the virtuous from the wicked.
3. The equitable and unerring distribution of eternal rewards and
punishments which will then take place.
Lessons:
1. The considerationof our Saviour’s secondcoming to reward every one
according to his works, should have a permanent influence on our present
temper and conduct.

2. The appointment of our Saviour to be our Judge is a merciful
condescensionto the weaknessand imperfection of our natures, which would
be overwhelmed by the infinite splendour of that Almighty Being, in whose
presence the angels covertheir faces with their wings, which would be
otherwise dazzled with such immensity of glory. (A. Stirling, LL. D.)
Even so come, Lord Jesus.
Man hailing the judgment
There are four states ofmind amongstmen in relation to the lastday. Some
are indifferent to it, as were the antediluvians in relation to the Deluge;some
scornfully deny it, as did the infidels in the days of Peter;some are horror-
strickenat it, as were the demoniacs in the time of Christ; and some welcome
it, as John did now. Three things are implied in this laststate of mind--
I. A convictionthat such a day will dawn.
II. A conviction of preparedness to enter on the trial.

III. A conviction that the results of that day will be fraught with personal
good. (Homilist.)
Yearning for Christ
A state of expectationtries faith and feeds it too. The veil which hides,
suggests. A doubtful bestowment, to be able to raise it before the time! Hope
nurses energy. Energy is trained in mingled knowledge andignorance.
I. The effacing of our souls for the fulness of fellowship with Christ. The life
we live is a longing. There is discord which only Jesus canresolve. There is
possibility which in the light of His presence will see this out into fact. Gloom,
in which we wait with our eyes towards the east, waiting for the sun-rising.
We are children crying for the Comforter.
II. The purpose of our hearts to be prepared for the higher service. Come and
give us our place in Thy kingdom. Come and take up the fruits of our life into
Thy garner, and make them the seed-cornofthe everlasting future. The
response ofthe lips will be the key-note; the fullest most varied existence will
never lose it; on that the music will rest and melt into the praise of Heaven.
(R. Redford, LL. B.)
Sudden death

The primary reference in the words may be, and probably is, to His coming
for the initiation of those augustprocedures in history which are prophetically
recordedin the Book ofRevelation;but also there may be an underlying
reference in them to His appearing at death to the individual disciple. The
death of the believer is always, in a true sense, the coming of Christ to him.
Applying the words in this way, then, as having a possible personal relationto
ourselves, the question naturally occurs:Can we take up and repeat this reply
of the apostle, “Amen. Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus?” Johnevidently
spoke thus in all sincerity and solemnearnestness.But we may not feel,
perhaps, that John was a type for us, since he surpassedus in so many things.
He was “the beloved disciple.” He had been admitted to a peculiar personal
intimacy with Christ. Especially, perhaps, we think he could saythis when he
may have been at this time--it is not certain--in the decline of life, or already
advancedin years;when, at any rate, he was dwelling in a world unfriendly to
him and to his faith, without companions, without a home, a lonely exile upon
the rock of Patmos. It was then only natural and proper, we may think, that
he should utter this prayer to Christ. But we may not so freely repeat it after
him. There is a certain tremor of hesitation, natural to the heart, in echoing
the words. We have no right to offer such a prayer. Even John did not offer it
until the Masterhad manifested to him His purpose of coming quickly, and
then he simply responded to the declaredwill of the Lord. We may do that, I
think, with equal cheerfulness and gladness. Whenthe Masterforewarns us
that His coming is to be sudden and speedy, we may take up without
hesitation, if we are His followers, the words of the apostle:“Amen. Even so,
come, Lord Jesus!” The example of John justifies us in this. He was an
eminent disciple; he had had peculiar intimacy of relation with the Master.
But he was still a man who needed forgiveness, evenas you and I do. He was a
man only sanctifiedin part, as you and I are. Yet he spoke these words,
because he knew the Masterfully. He had knownHim on earth, and he had
now seenHim in heaven. He knew the sovereigntyof the Lord, but he knew as
well His spirit of self-sacrifice;he knew how He had died on the Cross when
He need not have done so unless He had chosen, for the salvationof sinners.
Therefore, knowing His tenderness as well as His holiness, His infinite
sympathy as well as His sovereignand unlimited power, he could say: “Even
so, I am not timid before Thy coming; Thy word does-notsmite me with fear.

Come, Lord Jesus. If we are, then, in fellowshipwith John, through a similar
faith in the Divine Master, we also may take up and echo his words. Consider
also why Christ comes at death to His disciple; what things He comes to
accomplish.
1. He comes for the recognitionof characterin His beloved. Forthis, in part,
His approachand death are made.
2. He comes also for the consummation of characterin the disciple; not only to
recognise it, but to bring it to its completeness.EveryChristian grace has its
vital root in faith, that is, in loyal and undoubting confidence towardthe Son
of God. And preciselyas this faith becomes clearand firm, in that proportion
the graceswhichspring from it are multiplied and enriched, are raisedto a
sweeterand mightier supremacy. When, then, at last faith culminates in
vision, and we see the Lord--not merely in the evangelicalrecords, notmerely
in the worship of the Church, or its manifesting sacraments, but “face to
face”--thenevery grace which has been within us, in element and germ, shall
rise to sudden superlative completeness, andto the fulness of perfect
exhibition.
3. He comes, too, for the coronationof character, as wellas for its recognition
and its supreme consummation. Character, rootedin faith towards Himself, is
the one thing precious on earth to Christ. The production of it in the human
soul was the very purpose of His coming in the incarnation. His whole life on
earth bore evidently upon this result. Every miracle said, “Believe in Me.”
Every gracious word of promise attractedto such belief in Him. And when
this faith is ready to be transferred to the skies, Christ comes atdeath to
consummate and to crown it. That is the fulfilment of His purpose in
Redemption. He must crown the spirit which He seeksand loves. Therefore it
was that John could say, “Amen. Even so, Lord, come quickly.” And so we

need not, either of us, fear, if we are in the faith and fellowship of John, to
take upon our lips the same sublime and solemn words.
4. I think that here is suggesteda fair preliminary test of experience in us.
Suppose that Christ were to come to us at this moment, that for us the earth
swung suddenly awayinto darkness and silence, that unto us the heavens were
opened” would He find in us that which He at this instant would acceptand
approve? Should we be able to welcome Him now at that swift coming?
5. If we can meet this testwe need no more to be afraid of sudden death.
Within ourselves is that which Christ Himself hath wrought, in which He has
gladness. Thenwe shall share, when we die, in the glory of the transfigured
Lord; not seeing it merely, as silently and suddenly it came to the Apostles,
but ourselves being participants in it. And that will be all that death is to the
disciple. (R. S. Storrs, D. D.)
Copyright Statement
Text Courtesyof BibleSupport.com. Used by Permission.
Bibliography
Exell, JosephS. "Commentary on "Revelation22:20". The Biblical
Illustrator. https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/tbi/revelation-
22.html. 1905-1909. New York.
John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible

He which testifieth these things,.... Not the angel, Revelation22:16 nor John,
who sometimes used this way of speaking, John21:24 but Christ, as appears
from what follows;for he
saith, surely I come quickly; who not only asserts the speediness ofhis coming,
as in Revelation22:7 but expressesthe certainty of it, so that it ought not to be
doubted of by any, especiallyby his own people; though it may seemto be
deferred, and, upon that account, be derided by ungodly men; and Christ may
have some respect, in this strong repetition of it, to the certainty of the
punishment that will then be inflicted upon such who add to, or diminish from
this book;for he himself will certainly come in person, and execute the
vengeance threatened. Johnnext puts his
Amen to it, signifying his assentunto it, declaring his faith in it, and
expressing his earnestdesire after it, and wish for it: and in words at length
adds,
even so come, Lord Jesus;quickly, speedily as thou hast said, and in all thy
glory; set up thy kingdom, let that come, introduce thy people into it, and
destroy thine enemies;this he said as one that loved the appearance ofChrist,
longed for it, hastenedto it, and was impatient at the delay of it.
Copyright Statement
The New John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible Modernisedand adapted
for the computer by Larry Pierce of Online Bible. All Rightes Reserved,
Larry Pierce, Winterbourne, Ontario.
A printed copy of this work can be ordered from: The Baptist Standard
Bearer, 1 Iron Oaks Dr, Paris, AR, 72855

Bibliography
Gill, John. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "The New John Gill
Exposition of the Entire Bible".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/geb/revelation-22.html. 1999.
Geneva Study Bible
10 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even
(10) A divine confirmation or sealing of the supplication first from Christ
affirming the same and denouncing his coming againstall those that will put
their sacrilegioushands here: then from John himself, who by a most holy
prayer calls Christ to take vengeance onthem.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Beza, Theodore. "Commentaryon Revelation22:20". "The 1599 Geneva
Study Bible". https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/gsb/revelation-
22.html. 1599-1645.
Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible
Amen. Even so, come — The Song of Solomon(Song of Solomon8:14) closes
with the same yearning prayer for Christ‘s coming. A, B, and Aleph omit

“Evenso,” Greek, “{(nai}”:then translate for Amen, “So be it, come, Lord
Jesus”;joining the “Amen,” or “So be it,” not with Christ‘s saying (for He
calls Himself the “Amen” at the beginning of sentences,rather than puts it as
a con)firmation at the end), but with John‘s reply. Christ‘s “I come,” and
John‘s “Come,” are almostcoincidentin time; so truly does the believer
reflectthe mind of his Lord.
Copyright Statement
These files are a derivative of an electronic edition prepared from text
scannedby Woodside Bible Fellowship.
This expanded edition of the Jameison-Faussett-BrownCommentary is in the
public domain and may be freely used and distributed.
Bibliography
Jamieson, Robert, D.D.;Fausset,A. R.; Brown, David. "Commentary on
Revelation22:20". "CommentaryCritical and Explanatory on the Whole
Bible". https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/jfb/revelation-22.html.
1871-8.
Robertson's WordPictures in the New Testament
He which testifieth (ο μαρτυρων— ho marturōn). That is Jesus (Revelation
1:2) who has just spoken(Revelation22:18).
Yea: I come quickly (Ναι ερχομαι ταχυ — NaiΝαι — erchomaitachu).
Affirmation againof the promise in Revelation22:7, Revelation22:12. On
Αμην ερχου Κυριε Ιησου — Nai(Yes) see Revelation1:7 for the Lord‘s assent
to the call. Then John expresses his absolute belief in the Lord‘s promise:

“Amen: come, Lord Jesus” (Αμην— Amēnερχου — erchouΚυριε — Kurie
Iēsou). On Ιησου — Amēn see Revelation1:7. On Μαρανα τα — erchou see
Revelation22:17. Note Kurie with IēsouAs in 1 Corinthians 12:3; Philemon
2:11. ForPaul‘s confidence in the deity of Christ and the certainty of his
secondcoming see Titus 2:13; 2 Timothy 4:8. Marana tha (1 Corinthians
16:22).
Copyright Statement
The Robertson's WordPictures of the New Testament. Copyright �
Broadman Press 1932,33,Renewal1960. All rights reserved. Used by
permission of Broadman Press (Southern BaptistSunday SchoolBoard)
Bibliography
Robertson, A.T. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "Robertson'sWord
Pictures of the New Testament".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/rwp/revelation-22.html.
Broadman Press 1932,33.Renewal1960.
Vincent's Word Studies
Even so ( ναὶ )
Omit.
Copyright Statement
The text of this work is public domain.

Bibliography
Vincent, Marvin R. DD. "Commentaryon Revelation22:20". "Vincent's
Word Studies in the New Testament".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/vnt/revelation-22.html.
Charles Schribner's Sons. New York, USA. 1887.
Wesley's ExplanatoryNotes
He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so,
come, Lord Jesus.
He that testifieth these things — Even all that is containedin this book.
Saith — Forthe encouragementofthe church in all her afflictions.
Yea — Answering the call of the Spirit and the bride.
I come quickly — To destroy all her enemies, and establishher in a state of
perfect and everlasting happiness. The apostle expresses his earnestdesire and
hope of this, by answering, Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!
Copyright Statement
These files are public domain and are a derivative of an electronic edition that
is available on the Christian ClassicsEtherealLibrary Website.

Bibliography
Wesley, John. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "JohnWesley's
Explanatory Notes on the Whole Bible".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/wen/revelation-22.html. 1765.
John Trapp Complete Commentary
20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even
Ver. 20. Even so;Come, Lord Jesus]This is the common and constantvote of
all goodpeople; and is therefore pinned as a badge upon their sleeve, 1
Thessalonians 1:10. {See Trapp on "1 Thessalonians 1:10"}
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Trapp, John. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". JohnTrapp Complete
Commentary. https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/jtc/revelation-
22.html. 1865-1868.

Expository Notes with PracticalObservations onthe New Testament
That is, Jesus Christ, the faithful and true Witness, from whom St. John
receivedthis revelation, as he formerly had done the holy gospel, saith, Surely
I come quickly.
Where note, 1. That this prophecy or promise of Christ's secondcoming to
judge the world, is here left as Christ's secondcoming to judge the world, is
here left as Christ's lastword upon record; it is almostthe last word in the
Bible, doubtless, that it might be seriouslyminded and frequently
remembered by us. Christ had in this chapter twice before, namely, at
Revelation22:7; Revelation22:12, testifiedthat he came quickly; yet he
repeats it here again, to excite us to prepare for it, and to live continually in
the expectationof it.
Note, That as Christ has severaltimes in this chapter given us the assurance of
the certainty of his coming, so he prefixes an, Ecce, orBehold, before it,
Behold! I come quickly; and here he prefixes the word surely before it, Surely,
I come quickly, to awakenthe security, and leave the incredulity of sinners
without excuse, who live as if they did not believe any such day would come.
To the fore-mentioned assurance ofthe certainty of our Saviour's coming, St.
John, in the name of the whole church, subjoins a hearty Amen, an earnest
wish, a passionate desire and longing for our Lord's coming, saying, Even so,
come, Lord Jesus, as thou has promised, and thy people long expected.
Learn hence, 1. That the coming of Christ to judgment is a truth firmly
believed, and earnestly desired by all goodchristians.

St. John here, in the name of the church, takes, as it were, the word out of
Christ's mouth like a quick echo, and presently improves the promise into a
prayer. Christ's farewell word to his church is, I come quickly; the church's
farewellwuit to Christ is, Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly.
Quest. But why is Christ's secondcoming so exceedinglydesired by his church
and children?
Ans. For finishing the days of sinning, and destroying the works ofSatan; for
accomplishing the number of his own elect, and for hastening his kingdom;
for freeing the creature from subjection to vanity; for manifesting the glory of
his justice and mercy, and for putting his saints into the full and final
possessionoftheir promised inheritance.
Learn, 2. That it is the unfeigned desire of God's faithful servants, to have the
full fruition of Jesus Christ; this is the habitual desire of their hearts, that
Christ would come, and receive them to himself, though at the same time they
may tremble at some circumstances ofhis coming: there is a degree of sinful
bondage, which hinders much our spiritual confidence nad boldness;but the
more holy we are, the more emboldened we shall be againstthe day of
judgment.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography

Burkitt, William. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". ExpositoryNotes with
PracticalObservations onthe New Testament.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/wbc/revelation-22.html. 1700-
1703.
Charles Simeon's Horae Homileticae
DISCOURSE:2536
THE COMING OF CHRIST DESIRED
Revelation22:20. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly;
Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
IN the Book ofRevelationis contained a series ofprophecies, from the
apostolic age to the end of the world. To them must nothing be added: from
them must nothing be withdrawn. To alter any thing contained in them is at
the peril of our souls. In perfectagreementwith them will every event be
found at the last: the Church will triumph; her enemies will be put to shame;
and the Lord Jesus Christ, into whose hands all things are committed, will be
glorified in all. Speedily, too, will this desirable result appear: for “He who
testifieth of these things,” even the Lord Jesus Christ, the Judge of quick and
dead, says, “SurelyI come quickly.” And his belovedApostle, to whom he had
revealedthese things, welcomedthe glorious consummation, saying, “Amen.
Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”
Now, in these words we see Christ’s coming to judgment,

I. As a period to be expected—
Of this period the whole Scriptures testify—
[In the Old Testamentindeed, little, in comparison, is spokenof it: yet we can
have no doubt but that it was known, not only to the descendants ofAbraham,
but even before the flood: for St. Jude tells us, that Enoch, the seventh from
Adam, prophesied respecting it, saying, “Behold, the Lord cometh, with ten
thousand of his saints, to execute judgment upon all [Note: Jude, ver. 14,
15.].” In the New Testamentit forms a very prominent part of the inspired
records;continual reference being made to that period, and the circumstances
that shall then take place being fully developed. The person of the Judge, the
manner of his advent, the establishmentof his tribunal, the solemnities of his
judgment, the final sentence whichhe will pronounce, and the eternal states of
men fixed in perfect accordancewith it, are all described, with a minuteness
which places every thing, as it were, before our eyes, and enables us to
anticipate with certainty the whole process [Note:Matthew 25:31-34.]— —
—]
And it is now fast approaching—
[Time, in our eyes, appears long: but “with God, one day is as a thousand
years, and a thousand years as one day.” Our blessedLord, when on earth,
spake of it as near at hand. St. Paul adverted to it in such strong terms, that
he was misunderstood by many, whose misconceptions he afterwards removed
by a more plain and full declarationrespecting it. Since the period that this
revelation was given to John, above seventeenhundred years have elapsed:so
that, if at that time it could be said by our Lord, “Surely I come quickly,”
much more must it be true at this day. Even in reference to the general
judgment, it is true; because the time that shall intervene before it, is no more,

in comparisonof eternity, than the twinkling of an eye. But, in reference to
individuals, it is true, even in the most obvious and literal sense:for our time
is only like a shadow that departeth, and hasteth awaylike the eagle in its
flight. “Surely,” my beloved brethren, as it respects every one amongstus,
“the Judge is at the door.” For aught that we know, we may this very day or
hour be summoned into his presence, andreceive at his hands our final doom
— — —]
Yet, awful as the future judgment will be, we may well contemplate it,
II. As an event to be desired—
Not that it is desirable to all: for, when it shall arrive, many will call upon the
rocks to fall upon them, and the hills to cover them from the presence of their
Judge. To those only canit be an object of desire, who are “prepared to meet
their God.” For this high attainment three things are requisite:
1. A view of salvation, as wrought out by Christ—
[The proud self-righteous moralist can never desire that day. He may indeed
so harden himself in unbelief, as to feel no dread of judgment; and so deceive
his ownsoul, as to think that the issue of it will be favourable to him. But he
cannot look forward to that event with real satisfaction. He knows not what it
is to be “looking for, and hasting unto, the coming of the day of Christ.” He
has no solid ground of hope: when he reflects candidly on his state, he cannot
but feelsome secretmisgivings, that all will not be well with him; and,
consequently, he cannot really desire that day: on the contrary, it would be a
satisfactionto him to be informed that there should be no discrimination of
persons, and that all should sleepa perpetual sleep.]

2. A hope of salvation, as obtained through Christ—
[It is not a mere knowledge ofthe Gospelthat will bear up the soul in the
prospectof that greatevent. There must be in us some consciousness thatwe
have fled to Christ for refuge, and laid hold on the hope that is setbefore us. It
is a small matter to us that Christ has come into the world, and died for us, if
we have not somewhatof a well-grounded hope of an interest in him. When
we can see the promises as freely made to us, and are enabled to rest upon
them, then may we look forward with composure to the dissolutionof our
earthly tabernacle, and to the transmissionof our souls to “an house not made
with hands, eternal in the heavens [Note:2 Corinthians 5:1.].”]
3. An earnestof salvation, as already enjoyed in Christ—
[This is given to many of God’s favoured people: and, though I saynot that it
is necessaryto saving faith, I must say, that without it no man can cordially
adopt the language ofmy text, and say, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”We must
have some assurance ofour acceptance withGod, before we can really desire
to enter into his presence;and some sense ofan interest in Christ, before we
can truly “love his appearing.” But if “the Spirit of God bear witness with our
spirits that we are his children,” then may we number death amongst our
“treasures [Note:1 Corinthians 3:22.],” and “desire to depart, that we may be
with Christ.” Then may we adopt the triumphant language ofthe Apostle, and
say, “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” for then our
greatenemy is slain, and “God has given us the victory through our Lord
Jesus Christ:” yea, “deathis swallowedup in victory [Note: Isaiah25:8. with 1
Corinthians 15:54-57.],” andheaven itself is commencedin the soul.]
Observe, then—

1. How sadis the prospectof those who are yet in their sins!
[Whether ye will believe it or not, know assuredly, that the Lord Jesus Christ
is coming quickly, to callyou into judgment: and to him shall ye give account,
not only of your words and actions, but of the most “secretcounsels ofyour
hearts.” How terrible is this thought to those who have never repented of their
sins, nor ever sought for mercy through the Redeemer’s blood! I would that I
might prevail upon you, my beloved brethren, to lay to heart this awful
consideration, whilst it may yet avail for your good. But let death once execute
his commission, and drag you to the judgment-seatof Christ, and all your
future regrets will be in vain: your sentence willthen be pronounced upon
you, and your doom be sealedfor ever — — —]
2. What a sweetreality is there in religion!
[See what the Gospelcaneffect—caneffectevenin this present life! what
peace it can bring into the soul; and what an assurance respecting its eternal
interests!I will not presume to say that it will open to a man the book of God’s
decrees, andshew him his name written in heaven; but it will give him a
confidence respecting the issue of the future judgment, and a joyful
anticipation of eternal blessedness. Only therefore seek anacquaintance with
the Lord Jesus, andan experience of his love; and then may you look forward
to his advent with exceeding joy, and welcome it as the consummation and
completion of your bliss.]
Copyright Statement

Bibliography
Simeon, Charles. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". Charles Simeon's
Horae Homileticae.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/shh/revelation-22.html. 1832.
Matthew Poole's EnglishAnnotations on the Holy Bible
See Poole on"Revelation22:13"
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Poole, Matthew, "Commentaryon Revelation22:20". Matthew Poole's
English Annotations on the Holy Bible.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/mpc/revelation-22.html. 1685.
Justin Edwards' Family Bible New Testament
He; Jesus Christ.

I come quickly; to call eachone to give an accountof his stewardship, and to
enter, according to his conduct and character, onthe retributions of eternity.
Whateverwe do for our ownsalvation, or that of others, we must do soon;for
in the grave to which we are hastening, there is no work. Ecclesiastes 9:10.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Edwards, Justin. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "FamilyBible New
Testament". https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/fam/revelation-
22.html. American TractSociety. 1851.
Cambridge Greek Testamentfor Schools andColleges
20. Ναὶ.… “Yea (in answerto the prayers of Revelation22:17)I come
quickly.”
Copyright Statement
Bibliography

"Commentary on Revelation22:20". "Cambridge Greek Testamentfor
Schools and Colleges".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/cgt/revelation-22.html. 1896.
Hawker's PoorMan's Commentary
come, Lord Jesus.
This is a most gracious repetition of Jesus's promise to his Church. It ought to
be often in our thoughts. The Lord was then at the door of departure. He
looks back once more. Before be takes a farewell, he sets his sealto his
testimony, and, in his very last words, puts a surely to his often before
repeatedpromise, and saith, surely I come quickly! And God the Holy Ghost
by John, in the name of the Church, makes answerto his gracious promise,
and saith, evenso come Lord Jesus!Oh! precious Lord! is it not as if to say,
though I leave off speaking publicly to the Church; I do not leave you in
private. My heart, my affections are with you. I wilt come again, and take you
to myself, that, where I am, there you may be also. Surely I come quickly!
Even so, come Lord Jesus!
Copyright Statement
Bibliography

Hawker, Robert, D.D. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "Hawker'sPoor
Man's Commentary".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/pmc/revelation-22.html. 1828.
Coffman's Commentaries on the Bible
He who testifieth these things saith, Yea: I come quickly. Amen: come, Lord
Jesus.
In this terse statement, "Christ sums up the book."[92]This also has the
utility of revealing Christ as the author of the two previous verses. Theyare
Christ's words, not even John's, much less the words of some nameless scribe.
Yea; I come quickly. Amen: come, Lord Jesus ... See under Revelation22:17
for further discussionof the use of these expressions in the New Testament
church. As Caird summed it up:
No one who has ever read John's book can have any doubt about what the
prayer is asking. It is a prayer that Christ will come againto win in the faith
of his servants the victory which is both Calvary and Armageddon.[93]
Caird also pointed out the responsive nature of this verse, indicating "its
standing in the liturgical setting of the eucharist, answeredby the eucharistic
prayer maranatha (1 Corinthians 16:22)."[94]Beckwithalso identified these
last words with the maranatha of 1 Corinthians 16:22.[95]See under
Revelation22:17 for the mystical double meaning of this expression. Any
argument from this that the early Christians expected the literal return of
Christ in their generationis absolutelyuntenable. Many scholars do not
understand how the church of all ages prays, "Oh, Lord come," without any

sense offailure due to his not having come in his SecondAdvent, even yet; but
the answeris right here in the double meaning of this passage.
As Criswellsaid:
It is hard for us finite creatures of the dust and of time to realize, that there is
no such thing as "time" with God. He sees the beginning; he sees the end; he
sees the present; and all are alike to him. Even to us the coming of the Lord
"is near," as near as the length of our life away.[96]
[92] J. R. Dummelow, op. cit., p. 1092.
[93] G. B. Caird, op. cit., p. 288.
[94] Ibid.
[95] Isbon T. Beckwith, op. cit., p. 780.
[96] W. A. Criswell, op. cit., IV, p. 180.
Copyright Statement
James Burton Coffman Commentaries reproduced by permission of Abilene
Christian University Press, Abilene, Texas, USA. All other rights reserved.
Bibliography

Coffman, James Burton. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "Coffman
Commentaries on the Old and New Testament".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bcc/revelation-22.html.
Abilene Christian University Press, Abilene, Texas, USA. 1983-1999.
Whedon's Commentary on the Bible
5. John’s final welcome to the Coming—BENEDICTION, Revelation22:20-
21.
20. Testifieththese things—Jesus,who attests his sending the revelation, and
the deep dangerof corrupting or undermining his truth.
Come, Lord Jesus—Come with that coming which brings the final glory. Note
Revelation22:17.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Whedon, Daniel. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "Whedon's
Commentary on the Bible".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/whe/revelation-22.html. 1874-
1909.

Expository Notes ofDr. Thomas Constable
Evidently John now quoted Jesus" promise to come soon. Christ"s promise to
come soonwas His response to the prayers of the Spirit, the bride, and the
faithful hearers ( Revelation22:17). "He who testifies to these things" is Jesus.
The things in view are the words of Jesus in Revelation22:12-19, but beyond
that everything in this book (cf. Revelation1:2). This is the third time in this
pericope that we read that Jesus Christ promised to come quickly ( Revelation
22:7; Revelation22:12). How can we doubt His word?
"Noris it here alone, but throughout the New Testamentin general, that such
expressions are used. Everywhere is the promised Apocalypse of the Lord
Jesus representedas close athand, liable to occurat any time. The impression
thus made upon the early Christians was, that Christ might come at any day
or hour, even in their own lifetime. Exactlywhen he would come, was
nowhere told them....
"Ever, as the Church moves on through time, and above all in the days in
which we live, the next thing for every Christian to be looking for in this
world is the coming of Christ to fulfill what is written in this Book. The Bible
tells of nothing betweenus and that day." [Note:Seiss, p523.]
John added his "amen" affirming his belief that Jesus would come soon, and
he voiced his personal petition that He would do so as He promised. This verse
and the next are the only ones in Revelationthat refer to Jesus Christ as the
"Lord Jesus,"thoughthis title is common in other New Testamentbooks. It
acknowledgesJesus" deityand thus His right to judge.
Copyright Statement

Bibliography
Constable, Thomas. DD. "Commentaryon Revelation22:20". "Expository
Notes ofDr. Thomas Constable".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/dcc/revelation-22.html. 2012.
Schaff's Popular Commentary on the New Testament
Revelation22:20. He which testifieth these things saith Yea: I come quickly.
Amen: Come, Lord Jesus. The structure of this verse resembles whatwe have
already found to be that of Revelation22:17, an exchange ofsentiment
betweenthe Lord and the believer. Jesus Himself speaks first, testifying to
that greattruth of His Coming which has been the main theme of the whole
revelation of this book; and adding, as suited the moment at which we have
arrived, that He comes ‘quickly.’ To this the believer or the Church answers
‘Amen,’ and then adds, ‘Come, Lord Jesus.’The Coming of Christ has been
the source ofher hope, the spring of her joy, throughout all her troubles.
When she hears that it is at hand, what can she do but lift up her head and cry
‘Come’?
Nothing now remains but that the Apostle, as he had begun at chap.
Revelation1:4 in epistolaryform, should in like manner close. He does it with
a benediction which ought to read differently from that of the Authorised
Version, The grace of the Lord Jesus be with the saints. The words are in
striking harmony with what we have found to be the tone and characterof the
whole book. It was especiallyintended to describe the fortunes of ‘the saints;’
it was written for their sakes,to encourage and strengthenthem; it has now

reacheda point at which we behold nothing but saints in the new heavens and
new earth; and its closing salutation is to them.
Amen, so let it be.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Schaff, Philip. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "Schaff's Popular
Commentary on the New Testament".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/scn/revelation-22.html. 1879-
90.
JosephBenson's Commentaryof the Old and New Testaments
Revelation22:20. He which testifieth these things — Even all that is contained
in this book;saith — Forthe encouragementofthe church in all her
afflictions, and the warning of all her opposers and persecutors;Surely I come
quickly — To judge and punish all my enemies, and the enemies of my cause
and people; and to establishmy church in a state of perfect and everlasting
happiness. The apostle expresseshis earnestdesire and hope of this, by
answering, Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus — Accomplish thy promises in
order: and finally crownthe faith, patience, and constancyof thy servants
with eternal life.

Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Benson, Joseph. "Commentaryon Revelation22:20". JosephBenson's
Commentary. https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/rbc/revelation-
22.html. 1857.
George Haydock's Catholic Bible Commentary
-21
He that giveth testimony of these things, i.e. God, and Jesus Christby an
Angel, saith, surely, (or even so, or truly, these are certain truths) I come
quickly, to rewardthe goodand punish the evil. To which words St. John
himself replieth with a zealous prayer and earnestdesire, saying, Amen, let it
be so. --- Come, Lord Jesus:come, and remain always in my soul by thy grace,
and make me partakerof thy glory for ever and ever. Amen. (Witham) ---
Conclusion. The Church in sighs and groans, and by the mouth of her
children, solicits the coming of Jesus Christ, her divine Spouse. The fruit to be
drawn from the perusal of this sacredbook, is ardently to desire the kingdom
of God, to sigh after the day of eternity, to feel the weight of the yoke of the
present life, and the disgrace of our exile, and to live here below as strangers.
Enkindle in me, O Lord, this desire;enable my poor soul to join with the
beloved disciple in this prayer: Come Lord Jesus;that she may go and lose
herself in Thee, who art her Centre, her God, her All.

====================
====================
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Haydock, George Leo. "Commentaryon Revelation22:20". "George
Haydock's Catholic Bible Commentary".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/hcc/revelation-22.html. 1859.
Gary Hampton Commentary on SelectedBooks
Jesus says he will come suddenly and John adds his prayer for a speedy
coming to those of verse 17.
Copyright Statement

Bibliography
Hampton, Gary. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "GaryHampton
Commentary on SelectedBooks".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/ghc/revelation-22.html. 2014.
E.W. Bullinger's Companion Bible Notes
quickly. Greek. tachu, as verses:Revelation22:7, Revelation22:12. The
seventh and lastsolemn warning by the Lord Himself, in Rev., of His coming.
It is the one greatsubjectof the whole book, which is all prophecy. Amen. See
Revelation3:14 and 2 Corinthians 1:20.
Even so. The texts omit; and link "Amen" with John"s response, as Revised
Version.
LORD. App-98. The use of the word "Lord" shows the utterance to be
John"s. None of His people, when He was on earth, were ever so irreverent as
to address Him as "Jesus",
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Bullinger, Ethelbert William. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "E.W.
Bullinger's Companion bible Notes".

https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bul/revelation-22.html. 1909-
1922.
Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - Unabridged
come, Lord Jesus.
Amen. Even so, come. The Song of Solomon(Song of Solomon8:14) closes
with the same yearning prayer. A B 'Aleph (') omit "Even so" [ nai (Greek
#3483)]. Translate, 'So be it (but 'Aleph (') omits Amen also), come, Lord
Jesus:' joining "Amen," or 'So be it,' not with Christ's saying (for He calls
Himself the "Amen" at the beginning of sentences, ratherthan make it a
confirmation at the end), but with John's reply. Christ's "I come," and John's
"Come," are almostcoincident: so truly does the believer reflectthe mind of
his Lord.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Jamieson, Robert, D.D.;Fausset,A. R.; Brown, David. "Commentary on
Revelation22:20". "CommentaryCritical and Explanatory on the Whole
Bible - Unabridged".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/jfu/revelation-22.html. 1871-
8.

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
(20) He which testifieth these things . . .—Better, He saith, who testifieth these
things, Yea, I am coming quickly. We have here the final witness;it is in the
words of the faithful and true witness Himself. It is the answerto the repeated
cry, “Come;” it is the warning to those who forgetHim; it is introduced with
the emphatic yea! “Yea, I am coming quickly.” The answerbreaks forth in
prayer from the prophet’s lips—Amen. (We must omit “even so”)Come, Lord
Jesus. The prophet is the mouthpiece of the Church; his desire is one with the
desire of all who love Christ’s appearing.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Ellicott, Charles John. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "Ellicott's
Commentary for English Readers".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/ebc/revelation-22.html. 1905.
Foy E. Wallace'sCommentaryon the Book of Revelation
Verse 20: He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen.
Even so, come, Lord Jesus. Since Johnwas here writing the epilogue to the
apocalypse, andthe vision had been completed, the reference to these words of
Jesus was the quotation of what he had said to John in the vision. And the

words, surely, I come quickly, were not in reference to the secondcoming of
the Christ; but rather the promise to the churches in tribulation. He had so
promised, and that repeatedly, to come in the events ready to occur; and the
promise had been repeatedto eachof the sevenchurches in various forms.
These events were shortly to take place and Jesus wouldtherefore in keeping
with his promise come quickly. John had testified that Jesus had so promised-
-and he consistently, believingly and confidently responded, Even so, come,
Lord Jesus. And it is the recordedfact that their Lord Jesus did come in the
events of that generationto which John belonged, the words of Jesus himself
being true (Matthew 23:36--24:34 --and He whose very name was THE
FAITHFUL AND TRUE and THE WORD OF GOD (chapter 19;11-13)was
the surety for their fulfillment at that time. The word amen meant so may it
be; and even so meant, exactlyin that manner. The word even connectedwith
so meant "precisely," andprecise means minutely exact, not varying in the
slightestdegree from truth and accuracy;and so is an adverb of manner--
therefore, the words amen, even so, come, Lord Jesus, meant"so may it be in
this manner, come Lord Jesus."This was the apostle's six-wordclosing prayer
to the Lord who had testified to him these things on the Aegeanisland.
Copyright Statement
These files are a derivative of an electronic edition available at
BibleSupport.com. Public Domain.
Bibliography
Wallace, FoyE. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "FoyE. Wallace's
Commentary on the Book of Revelation".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/foy/revelation-22.html. 1966.
Treasuryof Scripture Knowledge

come, Lord Jesus.
which
18
Surely
7,10,12
Amen
1:18; Song of Solomon 8:14; Isaiah25:9; John 21:25; 2 Timothy 4:8; Hebrews
9:28; 2 Peter3:12-14
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Torrey, R. A. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "The Treasuryof
Scripture Knowledge".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/tsk/revelation-22.html.
Walter Scott's Commentary on Revelation
THE LORD'S FINAL MESSAGE TO THE CHURCH.
Revelation22:20. — "He that testifies these things says, Yea, I come quickly.
Amen; come, Lord Jesus."In the preceding message,whichis one of a stern
character, the Lord speaks in the first person; here the change to the third

person is to be noted, but in both messagesChristis the testifier. "These
things" refer to all contained in the Apocalypse. Thus the whole contents of
the book are vouched for by the Lord Himself.
"Yea, I come quickly." It is the final messageto the Church. It is the last word
from Heaven till He come. The Old Testamentwas closedby the
announcement of His Coming. The New Testamentis closedby the intimation
of the same grand event. But whilst the Coming is equally applied to the
descentinto the air (1 Thessalonians 4:1-18)as to His return to Mount Olivet
(Zechariah 14:1-21), yet the connectionis very different. Grace and judgment
respectivelystand related to these two comings, or rather to the two stages of
the one Coming. The Old Testamentcloses witha threatened curse. The New
Testamentcloseswith a benediction of grace. Compare the last verse in each
book.
"Yea" is the confirmation, the absolute certainty, of the truth stated, "I come
quickly." This is His lastspokenword. He has kept silence now for about two
thousand years. But the event for which the Church prays and hopes is about
to be fulfilled. The Lord is at hand. It has been a weary time, a waiting time, a
suffering time, but His Coming, or presence, shallturn the gloom of night into
gladness and everlasting joy. The shadows oftime are passing away, and the
first faint streaks ofan eternal day, which knows neither evening nor tears,
are almostdiscernible. Hold on, ye weariedpilgrim host! Joy comethin the
morning. We wait for Him, not for the fulfilment of prophecy. Is His Coming
a reality in our souls? Does it influence the life, and shape the conduct, and
impart vigour as we press on?
THE ANSWERING VOICE OF THE CHURCH.

20. — John, as the representative of the Church, answers the Lord's
declaration. Doubtless his words formed the expressionof his own desire. The
agedSeerhad witnessedvisions and sights;had been the spectatorand actor
in scenes overwhelminglygrand, but on the fulfilment of this greatfact they
all repose:the personalreturn of the Lord. This was announced by the
coming One Himself, and the heart of the agedapostle is thrilled. But led and
controlled by the ever-presentHoly Ghosthe not only gives expressionto his
own feelings, but voices those of the whole Church, "Amen; come, Lord
Jesus." The Yea and Amen, Greek and Hebrew affirmatives, are united in the
introduction to the book (Revelation1:7). Here they are separated. The Lord
assures us of the certainty of His Coming, "Yea, I come." The Church rejoices
in the immutability of His word, "Amen; come." Canthis word fail?
Impossible. Will the Lord not keepHis tryst with His people? Surely.
"Quickly" He comes. Ah! it seems long. But according to divine reckoning the
Lord has not been away quite two full days (2 Peter3:8). "The Lord is not
slack concerning His promise." The persecutions and sorrows ofIsrael, the
sins and griefs of a strickenearth, and the hopelessnessanddistractions of the
professing Church callaloud for a Deliverer. All is the merest patchwork in
political government and social legislation. A strong governing hand is
needed, and this need will soonbe met in Christ Jesus. But we have a personal
interest in Him Who is Coming. For us He died, for us He lives, and for us He
comes. "Amen; come, Lord Jesus," is the ardent exclamation of the Church of
God.
Copyright Statement
These files are a derivative of an electronic edition available at
BibleSupport.com. Public Domain.
Bibliography

Scott, Walter. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "WalterScott's
Commentary on Revelation".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/sor/revelation-22.html.
E.M. Zerr's Commentary on SelectedBooksofthe New Testament
He which testiﬁeth these things means Christ according to the statementin6
uickly is also statedin verses7,12andexplained in connectionwith those
passages. The word surely is added at this place for the sake ofemphasis. The
attitude of John to that announcement is that which every faithful disciple will
have. In 2 Timothy 4:8 the apostle Paul is speaking of the crown to be given
him at the coming of Christ. He says it will be for him but not for him only; it
will be unto all them also that love his appearing. If a man is living a righteous
life he will not dread to think either of death or the judgment.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Zerr, E.M. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". E.M. Zerr's Commentary on
SelectedBooksofthe New Testament.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/znt/revelation-22.html. 1952.
Hanserd Knollys' Commentary on Revelation
Revelation22:20

Revelation22:21. This was the usual salutation of the apostles in their Epistles
unto the churches of saints, 2 Corinthians 1:2; 2 Corinthians 13:14. All saving
grace and spiritual peace, do flow from God through Jesus Christ, unto the
churches and saints of God. Amen.
I conclude with an invitation to all the people of God to come out of
BABYLON.
And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, come out of her my people,
that ye be not partakers of her sins; and that ye receive not of her plagues. {
Revelation18:4} This call is the call of God our Saviour unto all his people in
mystical Babylon (Papal Rome)to come out of HER. Come out of her my
people: which call of Christ was given by an audible voice, And I heard
another voice from heaven, saying, etc. And this call from heaven is urged and
enforcedupon the people of God by two cogentarguments or reasons, 1. That
ye be not partakers of HER sins2. That ye receive not of her plagues.
Two things in this call need explanation, 1. What this voice was? 2. What it is
to come out of HER? To both these I shall speak briefly, and then proceedto
speak more largely of this call.
First, this voice hath heaven's authority, It was from heaven, to wit, the voice
of Christ in the ministry of the gospelordinarily, and by the powerful efficacy
of the Holy Spirit also, Forour gospelcame not unto you in the word only, but
also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance. {1
Thessalonians 1:5} So had the voice of the angels of God by whom Christ then
spake unto his servant John , { Revelation14:6-13}with a loud voice, {
Revelation14:7} which St. John heard from heaven. { Revelation14:13} And
so have the voice of the faithful ministers of God, by whom Christ also now

speaks unto his people, He that heareth you, heareth me, etc. to wit, heavens
authority. {Luke 10:16}
Secondly, to come out of HER, is to separate themselves from the church of
Rome, which is now become a false church, calledthe great whore, and
mother of harlots. { 2 Corinthians 6:14-18}2 Corinthians 6:17, Wherefore
come out from among them, and be ye separate, saiththe Lord. The Lord
Jesus Christ would have his people to be separatedunder the gospelfrom the
unbelieving Jews, and their false worship (which Christ calledvain worship.) {
Matthew 15:8-9} And St. Paul did separate the disciples from the Jewish
synagogue ofunbelievers. { Acts 19:8-9}And also from idolatrous gentiles,
that worship images, (as the church of Rome doth) and from their idol
temples, churches, and chapels;for the gentile papists, and church of Rome,
their pope, cardinals, Jesuits, and all the roman priests do tread under foot
the holy city. { Revelation11:2} Jerusalemviz. the church and people of God,
What agreementhath the Temple of Godwith idols? For ye are the Temple of
the living God, as God hath said, { Leviticus 20:24-26;Leviticus 26:12} I will
dwell among them, and walk among them; And I will be their God, and they
shall be my people: wherefore come out from among them, and be ye
separatedsaith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing. { 2 Corinthians
6:16-17, etc}The papists images, crosses, crucifixes;their consecratedwafers,
holy waters, and saints pictures, the image of the Virgin Mary, and of our
Saviour upon the cross, unto which images the popish priests and people fall
down and worship; yea their Ave Maria, and prayers to saints deceased, all
their holy bells, beads, prayer books, and candles, etc. are all as an unclean
thing, and ought to be separatedfrom, and not touched by the people of God,
whom Christ calls upon with a loud voice to come out from among them.
These two particulars explained the argument which Christ urgeth to enforce
this his call unto his people followeth, That ye be not partakers of HER sins,
and that ye receive not of HER plagues. As if Christ had said, I do by the voice
of my faithful ministers call and command you my people to come out of

mystical Babylon (Papal Rome)and to separate yourselves from the church of
Rome, which is fallen, is fallen from her apostolicalpurity in doctrine,
worship, and discipline or ecclesiasticalgovernment, and is become as harlot,
a false church, the greatWhore, the mother of harlots, and abominations of
the earth, the synagogue ofSatan, the habitation of devils, the hold of every
foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. But if you my people
(as if Christ had said) will not obey my voice, nor hear my call; if you will not
come out from the church of Rome, and separate yourselves from the papists,
and leave going to and worshipping in their popish temples, churches, chapels,
and private cloisters, nunneries, priories, religious houses, meeting places, and
holy roods of auricular confession, etc. then in the first place you will be
partakers of their sins, that Isaiah, you will become guilty of their will
worship, and spiritual fornication, { Revelation17:2} of their impenitency
added upon their iniquities. And in the next place you shall receive of her
plagues, death and mourning and famine, etc. { Revelation18:8} And these
shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without
mixture into the cup of his indignation. { Revelation14:9-12}
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Knollys, Hanserd. "Commentary on Revelation22:20". "HanserdKnollys'
Commentary on Revelation".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/hkc/revelation-22.html.
D.S. Clark's Commentary on Revelation

V:20. "He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly." And
John responds: "Amen, Even Song of Solomon, come. Lord Jesus."
This coming has, in my humble judgment, no reference to the technical second
personalcoming of Christ, else it would not be describedas "quickly," and as
something which in John"s day "must shortly come to pass."
We believe that Christ will come again, we believe that coming will be
personal, but we submit that it is an inaccurate and unscholarly piece of
interpretation to apply these passagesin Revelationto that event. But the
"coming quickly" evidently referred to events in John"s immediate
foreground, and which concernedthe churches to which he addressedthese
words. True reverence for the Scriptures will seek to understand them in the
meaning intended by the writer, and will seek to put upon them the
constructionthat is evident and natural from the writer"s viewpoint. The wise
expositorwill hold fast to this sound rule of interpretation.
The judgment upon the Jewish and Roman persecutors, and the vindication of
the persecutedsaints most naturally fall in line with the significance of
"coming quickly," and with John"s response:"Evenso come, Lord Jesus."
Thus we close this book of The Revelationso full of solemn warnings, and dire
judgments, fitted to fill us all with awe, and to strike fearinto the heart of the
impenitent sinner. But through all the thunder of doom and the smoke of
judgment we read the lessonof hope and cheer. The loftiestoptimism grows
out of the study of these solemn scenes.
Who can miss the lessonthat the enemies of God and of the church are
doomed to fall; but that Christ"s cause is always and everywhere triumphant,

that the omnipotent God is on the side of his church and no weaponformed
againstit shall prosper; but through all the revolutions and persecutions and
dissolutions of earth and time he will bring it off triumphant and present it to
himself a glorious church not having spot nor wrinkle nor any such thing.
Every judgment recordedin the book of Revelationspells victory for the
church of God, — and the end — the beatific destiny of the new Jerusalem
where they shall be his people and he shall be their God.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Revelation22:20. He who testifies these things says:Yea, I come quickly.
Amen, come Lord Jesus. He who testifies these things is Christ (comp. at ch.
Revelation1:2; Revelation1:5). The "Amen, come Lord Jesus," is spokenby
the Spirit through Jesus, orby John in the Spirit.
The "I come quickly," is the sum of the prophetic announcements of the book.
That the church with full confidence may saythe Amen, come Lord Jesus, is
the greatpracticaldesignof this book. Where this designis accomplished,
there all tribulation, anxiety, and pain are overcome, and there fidelity shall
be found to be invincible. Bengel, "The expressionthese things refers to the
whole book, Revelation22:6; Revelation22:18;John 21:24, ‘This is the
disciple who testifies of these things.'"

Revelation22:21. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christbe with all saints. The
variations in the text have arisen from a comparisonof the forms of salutation
used by Paul at the close ofhis epistles;which was the more natural, as John
himself undoubtedly had respectto these Pauline salutations (comp. at ch.
Revelation1:4). The reading followedby Luther: "The grace of our Lord
Jesus Christ be with you all," agrees literally with the conclusionof the epistle
to the Romans. The "with all," which Tischendorf has admitted into the text,
suits as little as the "with you all." The circle of readers was not definitely
enough marked by it. It must at the close be once more distinctly expressed,
that the book is the property of the whole Christian church on earth, that all
who belong to the number of saints are warranted and bound to seek in it
their edification, and must give an accounthow they have used the means of
salvationit provided. When it shall be said, Give an accountof thy
stewardship, the word here "with all saints" will also come to be mentioned.
PRECEPTAUSTIN RESOURCES
THE LAST PROMISE
Dr. W. A. Criswell
Revelation22:20-21
10-6-63 10:50 a.m.

On the radio and on televisionyou are sharing the services ofthe First Baptist
Church in Dallas. You are looking upon one of the most momentous days I
could imagine in the life of any pastoranywhere. After preaching through the
Bible for seventeenyears, eightmonths, we have come to the last, the
concluding, the benedictory, closing verse of the Holy Scriptures. This is a
day that has meant more to me than most any that any pastorcould ever
share or enjoy.
Many, many years ago, whenI beganpreaching through the Bible, the
prophecy was made that I would lose my congregation. People willnot come
to hear just the Bible. Their ears must be tickledwith fancies of the passing
fashion and scene. And to commit yourself just to preach the Bible, the whole
Word of God, the Old Testament, the Minor Prophets, the small and general
epistles, would be to lose the interest of the congregation. This has been
sustainedfor a longerperiod of time than I suppose any other minister has
ever carried a series ofsermons since Jesus came into the world – for over
seventeenyears, almosteighteen.
And the joy that has come to my heart in standing here this Lord’s Day! This
is one of the largestchurch auditoriums in America, and you must remember
at 8:15 o’clock, atan earlier morning hour, we had an audience
approximately this large. This is the secondtime our people by the thousands
have filled this greatauditorium. Coming to hear what? The latest fancy?
Politics? Fads? Notions? Economic theories? Discussions ofcurrent events?
Not at all! Nor ever at all! Coming to listen to a man open the Bible and
expound the Word of the living God. The personaljoy that I feelin this hour
is beyond description.
Nor could I say in sentence and in word the depth of the riches I have
discoveredin my ownsoul and in the Holy Word of Godduring these last and
severalyears. We’ve been on the floor of God’s unfathomable, illimitable

depths of His oceans oflove and revelation, finding pearls and jewels. And for
all of the few that we have found and discussed, there are ten thousand others
equally as glorious and great, lying there waiting to be seenby the ears of men
and to be enjoyed by the hearts and souls of His people.
We have now come to the end of the Revelationand to the end of the Bible.
And our text, these last and closing verses whichclose the canonof the Holy
Scriptures are these: Revelation22:20-21:
come, Lord Jesus. The grace ofour Lord Jesus Christbe with you all. Amen.
And the Book is closed! There are no more prophets to proclaim the mind of
God. There are no more apostles to write with infallible authority. There are
no more instructions and mandates from heaven. The visions recorded here
reachto the end of time and into the eternity of the eternities. They
encompass allhistory, all ages, andall dispensations. There is one great
remaining event, and that is the parousia, the presence, the descent, the
coming, the return of our Lord Godfrom heaven.
This is the lasttime His voice is heard on earth. The next time we hearthe
voice of the Son of Man, it will be when He descends in glory with the shout,
with the voice of the archangeland with the trump of God [1 Thessalonians
4:16]. This last and concluding sentence, these lastverses that close the canon

of the Holy Scriptures, are so full of the truth of God, as though the Holy
Spirit did sum up in these few words the whole revelationand testimony of the
Lord through the ages: first, the certainty of His coming, the lastpromise of
God. Second, the last word of a man, the affirmation, the lastprayer that fell
from the lips of a human being – and third, and last, the last benedictory
remembrance of the love and grace ofthe Lord Jesus upon His people.
"He which testifieth these things saith, Surely, surely, I come quickly"
[Revelation22:20]: an avowalof the certainty of our Lord’s return. This has
been the text and the theme of the Apocalypse. Revelation1:7: "Behold,
behold, He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see Him."
And in the greatepilogue that closesthe Apocalypse, the visions ceaseatthe
fifth verse of the twenty-second, the last chapter. Beginning at the sixth verse,
John writes an epilogue. And in those closing verses ofthe final epilogue,
three times does the Lord Himself make that sublime and exalted
announcement. In the seventh verse:"Behold, I come quickly." In the
twelfth verse:"Behold, I come quickly." And in the concluding, the twentieth
verse:"He which testifieth these things saith, Surely, surely, I come quickly."
The Bible opens with a promise of a coming Lord. And the Holy Spirit closes
the Scriptures with a promise of the coming againof our Lord. In the Book of
Genesis, in the third chapter, in the [fifteenth] verse, our Lord said to the
serpent, that demon devil, the dragon that has brought the heartache and the
tears sowing down this earth with death and sorrow, the Lord said to that
serpent:

I will put enmity betweenthee and the woman,
and betweenthy seedand her Seed;
It shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise His heel.
And according to the sixteenth chapter of the Book of Romans and the
twentieth verse, there are two comings promised by the Lord God. In that
first promise, in the garden of Eden, the first coming of our Lord is when
Satanshall bruise our Savior, "shallbruise Thy heel." And the Lord was
crucified in ignominy, in shame, in sorrow, in tears and agony, His life and
blood poured out because ofour sin. "Thou shalt bruise His heel."
But there is another part to that promise. There is a day coming avows the
Lord God when the Christ of heavenshall crush his head, when God shall
reign over His people in triumph, when righteousness shallfill the earth as the
waters coverthe sea, when the Lord in His personal glory shall reign over His
own redeemedpeople. Two comings in that first promise, and the Bible opens
with it, and the Bible closedwith that same promise.
First: He is to come. He is to come that He might be crushed and bruised and
crucified and made an offering for sin. He is to come to die as the Redeemer
for the souls of men. Hundreds of years passed. Millenniums passedand the
Lord didn’t come. Whenfinally He did arrive, "He came unto His own, and
His own receivedHim not. He was in the world, and the world was made by
Him, and the world knew Him not" [John 1:10-11].

The thousands of the generations had forgottenthe promise or else they
scoffedat its fulfillment. When finally an announcement came that He had
arrived, they pointed out the place where He was to be born, but never took
the time to journey the five miles from Jerusalemto Bethlehem, to look upon
this promised Savior of the world.
But howeverlong the delay, and howevermen forgotand scoffed, and
howeverjust a few of the faithful band waited for the ConsolationofIsrael,
like old Simeon, and like the prophetess Anna, yet He came. He came! In
keeping with the holy immutable promise of God, the Lord Jesus came. It is
thus in the text that God speaks in closing His Bible, "Surely, surely, surely, I
come, I come." And howeverinfidels may scoff, and howeverothers may
reject, and howeverthe centuries may grow into the millenniums, that is the
indubitable and immutable Word and promise of the Lord God: Surely,
surely He comes!
It is interesting to see the first time God uses that word "surely." In the
secondchapterof the Book of Genesis, the Lord said to Adam and to Eve,
"Thattree, that tree – interdicted and forbidden – thou shalt not eat of it, for
in the day that thou eatestthereof, thou shalt surely die" [Genesis 2:17].
"Surely," the first time God uses that word "surely."
It is also interesting to see the secondtime that word "surely" is used. "And
the serpent – the subtle demon dragon, Satan – and the serpent said unto the
woman, ‘Yea, did God saythou shalt surely die?’" Look at the secondtime
that word is used. "Ye shall not surely die" [Genesis 3:4].

And the denial of the Word of God is always the beginning of a fall. "Surely,
surely, thou shalt die," says the Lord God, "in the day you eatthereof." And
Satansays, "Yea, did God say? Ye shall not," answeredSatan, "surelydie."
Oh, my soul, my soul. Whatever that "surely" meant, when God first said it is
what that "surely" means when God lastuses it. "In the days that thou eatest
thereof, thou shalt surely die," and when Adam partook of that fruit that day,
his souldied! [Genesis 2:17, 3:6].
And in the day of the Lord, 2 Peter3:8, the day of the Lord is a thousand
years, and in the day of the Lord, Adam’s body died! Isn’t it strange in the
long recordof the longevity of men, there has never been a man yet that
outlived that thousand year day of the Lord? Adam died in, Adam died when
he was 930 years of age, and Methuselah, the oldestof men, died when he was
969 years of age.
"In the day that thou eatestthereof, thou shalt surely, surely die." Every
grave cut into this earth, every tear that falls on the ground, every heartache,
every pain, every sorrow, every despairis an exclamationpoint after God’s
"surely, surely, thou shalt die."
But there is a second"surely." There is a second"surely!" There is another
part to that promise. There is another side to that awful curse of death and
despair. He is coming! He is coming! He shall come who shall bruise Satan’s
head and crush his life. He is coming. There’s a Redeemercoming! There’s
a Savior who is coming.
One of the most interesting of all of the passagesin this Hebrew that you’ll
read in the Old Testamentis this one. "And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she

conceived, and bare Cain, and she said, I have gotten a man from the Lord"
[Genesis 4:1]. That’s the way it is translated in the King James Version, out
of which I always preach.
But the Hebrew of that is a startling and an amazing thing on the part of Eve
as she remembered God’s promise of a coming Redeemer. "And she bare
Cain and she said, Qaniti, Qaniti, where she named him Cain, Qaniti ish eth-
Jehovah." Qaniti, Qaniti. "I have gotten, I have acquired," ish, "a man,"
eth-Jehovah, "evenGod." "I have gotten a man, even the Lord Jehovah."
When that child was placed in the bosom of Eve, she thought he was the
answerto that promise from the Lord. He had come. He had come. The final
ultimate and glorious Redeemer, He had come. And she thought it was Cain.
She was mistaken, we know. But the promise and the hope and the
expectancyof that coming Lord never died in the earth or in the hearts of
men.
In the fourteenth verse of Jude, Jude says:"Enoch, the seventh from Adam,
prophesied, Behold, behold, He cometh with ten thousand of His saints."
Job satin the ash heap, in despairand in agonyand with the sores covering
his body, and Job cried:
I know that my Redeemerliveth, and that He shall stand at the latter day
upon the earth:

Jesus was to be coming soon

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