I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy contained in this book: If anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book. And if anyone takes away from the words of this book of prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city that are described in this book. Revelation 22:18-19
New English Translation
As we close out our series on the book of Revelation, we find that chapter 22 takes us back to where we started in Revelation: Let’s Keep it Simple. Here we learn that we’re supposed to approach the book of Revelation and all that it holds with responsible respect. Rather than picking and choosing what we want it to say, trying to guess when the second coming will happen, or twisting it to match our agenda, we need to read what God said and let that be good enough.
Yes, Revelation is confusing. Yes, it can seem like a lot. However, I think through this series we proved that there is much we can take away from it despite the many areas we might not understand. I encourage you to ask God to reveal new and amazing things to you each time you read Revelation. But I also encourage you to listen for what He is revealing rather than combing through for what you want it to say.
Though it can be tempting to interpret the Scriptures that we do not understand in certain ways simply so we can reconcile the fact we don’t completely understand, sometimes we have to be okay with God knowing more than we do. I think God would agree with that statement considering He ended Revelation with a warning to anyone who tampers with what He said.
Here’s my challenge for you: Whether it be the book of Revelation, the Gospels, or any other books of the Bible, let God speak through them rather than reading your own desires into the text. Ask yourself this question: Am I seeking out my truth or am I seeking His truth? Do I want a certain message or do I want God’s message for me? Be open; be real. If you struggle with this, ask God to help you take a step back and simply receive from Him rather than fabricate your own truth. Above all, let God speak to you. He gave us Scripture so we can learn from Him. Honor Him in how you approach Scripture and He will reveal so much more than you ever imagined.