Then he said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord, the God of the spirits of the prophets, sent his angel to show his servants what must soon take place. “Look! I’m coming soon. Favored is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy contained in this scroll.” Now I bear witness to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy contained in this scroll: If anyone adds to them, God will add to that person the plagues that are written in this scroll. If anyone takes away from the words of this scroll of prophecy, God will take away that person’s share in the tree of life and the holy city, which are described in this scroll. The one who bears witness to these things says, “Yes, I’m coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! (Revelation 22:6-7, 18-20, CEB)
I have always wondered about this passage.
Now I bear witness to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy contained in this scroll: If anyone adds to them, God will add to that person the plagues that are written in this scroll. If anyone takes away from the words of this scroll of prophecy, God will take away that person’s share in the tree of life and the holy city, which are described in this scroll.
Does this mean this scroll as in Revelation? or this scroll as in the whole of the Bible?
I am sure you have heard recently (Meaning the last 100 -200 years) people quote this about the whole Bible. We can’t change it because God said that you can’t add or remove from the Bible. Well, actually Revelation was written way before the Bible was formed as a book. But God could have known Revelation would be included and put that in there for the whole Bible. Also true.
So which is it? I honestly don’t have a good answer.
Either way, it is interesting to ponder, and know we can ask when the kindom is fulfilled.
For now, don’t worry about it, and love people, sharing grace and mercy.
Loving People. Loving God.