Imminence: The familiar
words “the time is near” and “must soon take place” (Rev. 1:1, 3) are repeated in
the epilogue of Revelation (Rev.
22:6, 10). This means the eschatological events of Revelation can break through
at any time. Jesus can even this very day rapture His church and trigger the chain
reaction that will bring an end to this age and usher in the new (Rev. 22:1-2).
This book was written for our sakes (Rev. 22:16) to urge us to heed its warnings
(Rev. 1:3; 22:7, 9) and be ready for the Lord. Jesus adds urgency with the echoes
of “I am coming quickly” (Rev. 22:7, 12, 20). How else shall we respond, but to
cry out with the Apostle, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Rev. 22:20)?
Overcomers: Jesus has repeatedly called all who believe to overcome.[1]
As He nears the end of His message, He once again reminds us that only overcomers
will inherit the New Jerusalem (Rev. 21:7). The traits of overcomers are elaborated
in the epilogue. True believers wash their robes in the blood of the Lamb (Rev.
7:14; 22:14). They continue in their pursuit of sanctification (Rev. 22:11; Heb.
12:14). They maintain separation from their former life of sin (Rev. 21:8, 27; 22:15).
The Lord contrasts this with the devastating obstinacy of the unrepentant. They
will perish in their stubbornness of sin, while God’s elect will persevere in righteousness
and holiness (Rev. 22:11; 1 John 2:29; 3:7). The merciful Savior calls all to repent[2] and come to Him
(Matt. 11:28-29). The water of life is offered without cost (Rev. 22:17; Is. 55:1),
for He has paid the price (Rev. 5:9; 14:3, 4). He bids all who thirst to come to
Him and drink.[3]
[1] This is the Lord’s message in all His letters
to the seven churches: Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 21.
[2] The call to repent resounds in the seven letters.
All but one are urged to repent: Rev. 2:5, 16, 21, 22; 3:3, 19.
[3] Cf. Rev. 7:16; 21:6; 22:17; also John 4:10;
6:35; 7:37; Ps. 36:9; 42:2; 63:1; 143:6; Is. 12:3; 41:17, 18; 55:1.
