Revelation 22:20 contains the final promise of Jesus Christ recorded in the Bible, stating ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ This is met with the apostle John’s immediate, faith-filled response on behalf of the church: ‘Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!’ The verse encapsulates the ultimate hope of all Christians—the certain and imminent return of their Savior.
Christians throughout history have shared a profound hope: the glorious return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This anticipation is captured in one of the Bible’s most powerful declarations, found in its final chapter. This verse represents a sacred moment where God’s promise and humanity’s prayer come together in unwavering faith.
In the final verses of the Book of Revelation, we find the powerful promise of Revelation 22:20: “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” This verse is not just an ending but a declaration of hope. It affirms the truth of Jesus’ coming Kingdom and serves as a beacon for all who trust in Him. This article will explore the profound meaning of these words, examining Jesus’ final assurance and the church’s faithful response.
These words from Jesus are more than a closing statement; they are a living promise that shapes our present and secures our future. We will explore how Jesus, the Son of God, offers both comfort and conviction in this verse, and how His church responds with steadfast faith. Join us as we examine the powerful promise of Revelation 22:20 and discover why it continues to inspire hope and faithful living today.
What is the Powerful Promise of Revelation 22:20?
Unpacking the Final Words of Scripture
As some of the final words in the Bible, Revelation 22:20 holds immense power. This verse contains a profound statement from our Lord Jesus Christ and elicits an eager response from His people. It declares: “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20).
This verse is not a suggestion but a divine, unwavering declaration in which Jesus affirms His certain return. The phrase “surely I am coming soon” highlights the absolute certainty of His second coming and its readiness in God’s sovereign timing. This does not mean an immediate arrival, but an imminent event in God’s plan (2 Peter 3:8-9). Therefore, believers are called to live in a state of watchful expectation.
This promise, coming directly from Jesus, is His solemn testimony (Revelation 22:16). Through it, He reaffirms His control over all things and His faithfulness to His word. This divine assurance gives believers incredible hope, reminding us that His plan is unfolding perfectly and that His return will mark the culmination of all history.
The Church’s response, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”, is an equally crucial, heartfelt prayer. This collective cry expresses the deep longing of God’s people for Christ’s glorious return, echoing the hope of saints throughout history. It affirms our belief in His promised advent and signals our readiness to welcome Him as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (Revelation 19:16).
- Certainty: Jesus’ return is an absolute truth, guaranteed by His own word.
- Imminence: It is an event that is ready to happen according to God’s perfect timing.
- Longing: Believers eagerly await His appearing, praying for His swift return.
A Promise for Every Believer
The promise of Revelation 22:20 is a universal hope that extends to every believer. It is not for a select few but embraces all who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ. This promise serves as a constant source of comfort and strength, providing a clear sense of purpose amid life’s challenges.
This divine promise has profound implications for daily living. It reminds us that our present struggles are temporary and points toward an eternal future with Christ. Jesus made a similar promise to His disciples: “I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also” (John 14:3). This same assurance resonates with believers today, fueling our endurance and encouraging our faithfulness.
His return signifies the ultimate victory over sin and death, marking the end of all suffering and injustice. For those facing persecution or hardship, the cry “Come, Lord Jesus” is a beacon of hope. It affirms the foundational truth that God will right every wrong and wipe away every tear (Revelation 21:4).
For every Christian, this promise means:
- Ultimate Hope: We anticipate a glorious future free from pain and sorrow.
- Divine Justice: God will ultimately prevail over all evil and wickedness.
- Personal Reunion: We will be forever with the Lord, in His direct presence.
- Empowered Living: Knowing He is coming motivates us to live holy and purposeful lives (1 John 3:2-3).
Therefore, this promise calls us to live with eager expectation and compels us to share the hope we have found in Jesus Christ. His identity as the Son of God, who died and rose again, is the bedrock of this glorious expectation.
Who is Speaking in Revelation 22:20?
Understanding the voices in Revelation 22:20 brings immense clarity and comfort. This pivotal verse contains a divine declaration and a fervent human response, beautifully encapsulating the heart of Christian hope.
The Testimony of Jesus: ‘Surely I am coming soon’
The first voice in Revelation 22:20 is that of our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, speaking with absolute authority and certainty. His promise, “Surely I am coming soon,” is not a mere suggestion but a divine decree that guarantees His return.
This statement reinforces Jesus’s identity as the Son of God, who holds all power and authority as the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end (Revelation 1:8). This promise also echoes His earlier words to His disciples, when He assured them, “I will come again and will take you to myself” (John 14:3).
Jesus’s imminent return is a central pillar of Christian faith, affirming His power over time and history. The certainty of His coming provides profound hope, reminding believers that their trials are temporary and their eternal dwelling with Him is secure.
The Apostle John, the divinely inspired author of Revelation, faithfully recorded this declaration [1]. Therefore, this statement represents Jesus’s final direct words to His Church within the Bible’s prophetic scope.
The Response of the Church: ‘Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!’
Following Jesus’s majestic declaration is the heartfelt reply of the Church. This response, given through John on behalf of all believers, is a dual expression of affirmation and yearning.
The word “Amen” signifies absolute agreement and affirmation. As a universally adopted Hebrew term, it means “so be it” or “truly” [2]. By saying “Amen,” the Church wholeheartedly accepts Jesus’s promise and declares its faith in His word.
Immediately after “Amen” is the prayerful plea, “Come, Lord Jesus!” This is more than an agreement; it is an urgent cry of longing that reflects the Church’s deep desire for the return of its Savior. This fervent prayer encapsulates the ultimate hope of believers, who eagerly await His glorious appearing.
This response mirrors the early Church’s prayer, “Maranatha,” meaning “Our Lord, come!” (1 Corinthians 16:22). It expresses:
- Faith: Believing in His word and promise.
- Hope: Looking forward to His second coming with great expectation.
- Love: A deep affection for Jesus, desiring His presence above all else.
- Anticipation: A readiness and eagerness for the consummation of His kingdom.
In conclusion, Revelation 22:20 is a powerful dialogue between Christ and His people. It contains Jesus’s certain promise of return and the Church’s unwavering, hopeful plea for Him to come, serving as a final, comforting assurance for every believer.
What is the Context of This Final Prayer?
The Climax of the Book of Revelation
Revelation 22:20 marks the powerful climax of the entire biblical narrative, capturing the final, fervent prayer of God’s people. This verse brings the Book of Revelation to its conclusion, fulfilling the book’s stated purpose: to show God’s servants “what must soon take place” (Revelation 1:1).
Throughout its pages, readers witness cosmic battles, earthly judgments, and the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ over evil. The book describes the fall of Babylon, the defeat of Satan, and the creation of a new heaven and earth, where the holy city, the New Jerusalem, descends from God (Revelation 21:1-2). This grand vision culminates in an urgent dialogue between the returning Lord and His eager Church. All of the book’s prophecies and promises point to this final moment, fulfilling a longing for Jesus’ return that has echoed throughout history as the ultimate hope of every believer.
A Divine Assurance After Warnings and Promises
The prayer “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20) is not born of despair but springs from a foundation of divine assurance. While the Book of Revelation contains stern warnings against sin and apostasy, it also overflows with glorious promises. It reveals God’s righteous judgments on a fallen world, yet it also assures believers of eternal life and a new creation free from suffering.
Immediately preceding this prayer, Jesus Himself speaks three times, declaring, “And behold, I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:7, 12, 20). These are not vague statements but definite assurances from the Son of God, confirming the believer’s future and giving profound meaning to their present hope. The Church’s call for Jesus to “come” is therefore a confident, faith-filled response. It is a joyful affirmation of His faithfulness and an acknowledgment of His divine authority as the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end (Revelation 22:13). His return represents the ultimate fulfillment of both justice and grace for His people.
How Does Revelation 22:20 Read in Different Bible Versions?
Comparing Revelation 22:20 across various Bible versions reveals a powerful and consistent message. Although the wording may differ slightly, the central promise of Jesus’ imminent return remains unchanged. This remarkable consistency affirms the integrity of God’s Word through centuries of translation.
Comparing KJV, NKJV, and ESV
The King James Version (KJV), New King James Version (NKJV), and English Standard Version (ESV) are respected for their accuracy and shared translation philosophies. A comparison of these versions highlights the unchanging nature of this final prophetic promise.
Here is how Revelation 22:20 appears in these esteemed versions:
| Bible Version | Revelation 22:20 |
|---|---|
| King James Version (KJV) | He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. |
| New King James Version (NKJV) | He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.” Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! |
| English Standard Version (ESV) | He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! |
The similarity across these versions is profound. The KJV, a foundational text for English speakers, uses traditional phrasing. Building on this legacy, the NKJV offers minor updates for clarity while preserving a poetic feel. Both versions use “quickly” to emphasize the certainty and swiftness of Christ’s return. [3]
In contrast, the ESV, known for its word-for-word approach, uses “soon.” While “quickly” can imply speed, “soon” highlights the nearness of the event. Despite this minor difference, all three versions end with the church’s unified prayer: “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” This shared response powerfully demonstrates the believer’s constant hope for His return.
Understanding NIV and NLT Translations
The New International Version (NIV) and the New Living Translation (NLT) focus on accessibility, prioritizing clear, contemporary language. Despite their different approach, they convey the same divine assurance found in Revelation 22:20.
Let’s examine how these modern translations present this crucial verse:
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New International Version (NIV):
“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”
The NIV’s use of “Yes” provides a direct and emphatic affirmation of Jesus’ promise. This wording underscores the absolute certainty of His word, resonating powerfully with a contemporary audience while retaining the verse’s profound meaning.
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New Living Translation (NLT):
“He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon!’ Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!”
The NLT translates ideas for maximum clarity, making the text highly understandable. By introducing Jesus as “the faithful witness,” it emphasizes His authority and the reliability of His promise. This phrasing creates a passionate exchange between Christ and His church: “Yes, I am coming soon!” followed by the eager reply, “Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!”
Though translation philosophies differ, from the formal KJV to the modern NLT, the foundational truth of Revelation 22:20 remains secure. [4] Each version communicates Jesus’ promise with clarity and conviction. Ultimately, every translation beautifully captures both the divine assurance of Christ’s return and the church’s eager longing for it. This powerful consistency is a testament to the unchanging nature of God’s Word.
How Should We Live in Light of Jesus’ Promised Return?
Living with Hope and Urgency
The profound declaration in Revelation 22:20, “Surely I am coming soon,” reshapes our earthly perspective by filling our hearts with an enduring hope. This hope is not a wish but a certainty, inspiring us to await our Lord’s triumphant return and embrace a divine urgency in our daily lives.
Our hope stems from Jesus’ faithful promise that He will come again. This truth strengthens us through life’s trials and reminds us that our ultimate home is with Him (John 14:1-3). As we live with eager anticipation, Peter urges us to “set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:13, ESV).
This hope, however, does not lead to passivity. Instead, it ignites a holy urgency, calling us to live purposefully so that we are found faithful when He returns. As Paul reminds us, it is time to “wake from sleep” because “our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed” (Romans 13:11). Our lives, therefore, should reflect this imminent expectation.
Living with hope and urgency means:
- Pursuing Holiness: We strive to live lives pleasing to God, seeking purity and righteousness (1 John 3:2-3).
- Redeeming the Time: We make the most of every opportunity, recognizing that each day is a gift from God (Ephesians 5:15-16).
- Exercising Patience: We endure hardship with grace, trusting in God’s perfect timing (James 5:8).
- Staying Vigilant: We remain spiritually alert, praying constantly and watching for His coming (Matthew 24:42).
Sharing the Gospel with Compassion
The hope of Jesus’ promised return compels us to action, driving us to share His life-changing message. With the Great Commission as our primary directive (Matthew 28:19-20), we carry out this mission with deep compassion for a lost world—for all who live without the peace and promise we have in Christ.
Understanding Jesus’ impending return adds weight to our evangelism, showing it to be not merely a good idea, but an essential and urgent task. Every soul needs to hear the good news that salvation is found in Jesus alone (Acts 4:12). Our message offers true freedom and provides eternal life to those who believe.
Compassionate evangelism is more than just speaking words; it involves showing genuine love for others. It means seeing people as God sees them, recognizing their spiritual need, and offering them the same hope we possess (1 Peter 3:15). This sharing must always be done in love and without judgment.
Therefore, we are called to:
- Speak the Truth in Love: We share the Gospel gently, with words full of grace (Ephesians 4:15).
- Be Prepared to Explain: We can articulate why we believe, offering clear answers about our faith.
- Live Out Our Faith: Our actions should align with our message, providing a powerful testimony.
- Pray for the Lost: We earnestly intercede for those who do not know Jesus, asking God to open their hearts.
- Go into All the World: Whether locally or globally, we are Christ’s ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20).
Holding Fast to the Faith
In a world of shifting values and spiritual deception, holding fast to the faith is crucial. The promise in Revelation 22:20 anchors us by reminding us of the immutable truth of Christ’s return. This promise gives us the strength to persevere, calling us to remain steadfast in our belief and practice.
The Bible warns us of challenges like trials, temptations, and false teachings (2 Timothy 4:3-4). However, our hope in Jesus’ return fortifies us against these difficulties. We are called to contend earnestly for the faith (Jude 1:3) by standing firm on biblical truth and refusing to waver in our commitment to Christ.
Holding fast also means being deeply rooted in the Christian community, where we support and encourage one another through times of doubt and difficulty. As the body of Christ, we await His glorious appearing together (Hebrews 10:24-25), and our shared conviction strengthens us all.
To hold fast to the faith, we should:
- Remain Rooted in Scripture: We diligently study God’s Word as our ultimate authority (2 Timothy 3:16).
- Engage in Regular Prayer: We maintain constant communication with God, our source of strength.
- Participate in Christian Fellowship: We gather with other believers to build each other up in faith.
- Resist Worldly Influences: We set our minds on eternal things and do not conform to the patterns of this world (Romans 12:2).
- Persevere Through Trials: We trust God’s faithfulness in every circumstance, knowing He will never abandon us.
In conclusion, the powerful hope of Revelation 22:20 calls us to a life of purpose—one of hopeful urgency, compassionate evangelism, and unshakeable faith. Jesus Christ is Lord. He died, rose again, and He is coming back. This is our blessed hope and our living truth.
Frequently Asked Questions about Revelation 22:20
What is the meaning of Revelation 22:20?
Revelation 22:20 holds profound meaning for Christians, as it captures the essence of biblical hope. In this pivotal verse, Jesus Christ Himself declares, “Surely I am coming soon.” This is a direct and unwavering promise from our Lord.
His declaration provides immense comfort and certainty, assuring believers that His return is not just a possibility but a divine guarantee. This promise serves as the culmination of all biblical prophecy.
The Church’s response, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”, is equally significant. This is not just a simple prayer but a heartfelt expression of faith, longing, and eager anticipation. It signifies our readiness for His glorious return.
Ultimately, this verse encapsulates the destiny of the faithful: the establishment of Christ’s eternal kingdom. It reminds us to live with vigilance and a hopeful spirit as we wait (Titus 2:13).
- Jesus’ Assurance: The phrase, “Surely I am coming soon,” underscores the certainty and imminence of His second advent (John 14:3).
- The Church’s Prayer: “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” is a collective yearning for the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan (1 Corinthians 16:22).
- Core Message: The verse powerfully affirms the future physical return of Jesus Christ and urges believers to remain steadfast in their faith and hope.
What does Revelation 22:20-21 mean together?
As the final words of the Bible, Revelation 22:20-21 form a powerful and conclusive statement. These verses beautifully intertwine the promised return of Jesus with His enduring grace.
Verse 20 sets the stage for the culmination of history by declaring Jesus’ imminent return and the Church’s eager reception. This promise, in turn, fuels our hope and encourages our perseverance.
Verse 21 offers a final, comforting benediction: “The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all the saints. Amen.” This deeply significant blessing reminds us that God’s grace sustains us as we await His coming.
Taken together, these verses teach a comprehensive truth: our hope in Christ’s return is not based on our own merit but is firmly rooted in His abundant, sustaining grace (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Together, they teach us several vital truths:
- Hope and Grace: Our future hope in Jesus’ return is intrinsically linked to His present grace, which empowers us to live righteously while we wait (2 Corinthians 13:14).
- Divine Faithfulness: God’s plan, from creation to consummation, is marked by His steadfast love, and His grace covers us until the very end.
- Call to the Saints: The blessing in verse 21 is specifically for “all the saints,” confirming that God’s favor, protection, and strength are upon His chosen people (Philippians 4:23).
- A Full Circle: The Bible comes full circle, beginning with creation and ending with the promise of a new creation, secured by Jesus’ return and His enduring grace.
Why is this verse considered the ultimate hope for Christians?
Revelation 22:20 is considered the ultimate hope for Christians because it directly addresses our deepest spiritual longings. The verse confirms the future physical return of Jesus Christ to earth, an event that is the cornerstone of Christian eschatology.
His return signifies the end of all suffering, sin, and death, promising a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:4). The promise of this future reality offers believers profound comfort and motivation.
Furthermore, Jesus’ return means eternal, unbroken fellowship with Him, allowing us to finally see Him face to face (1 John 3:2). This glorious fulfillment of our salvation validates every promise God has made and strengthens our faith amidst trials.
The hope presented in Revelation 22:20 also motivates us to live holy lives and share the Gospel with others, desiring for them to join us in this blessed hope (1 Peter 1:3-4).
- Fulfillment of Salvation: Jesus’ return completes the work of redemption, marking the full realization of our adoption as God’s children (Romans 8:23).
- End of Suffering: The second coming heralds a world free from pain, sorrow, and injustice, where all things will be made new (Revelation 21:5).
- Eternal Presence with Christ: This is the ultimate aspiration of every believer: to dwell with our Lord forever (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
- Validation of Scripture: The promise of His return confirms the authority of God’s Word, showing that He is faithful to fulfill His every promise.
- Motivation for Living: This hope inspires believers to live with purpose and steadfastness, as we are called to be prepared for His arrival (Matthew 24:44).
Sources
- https://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionaries/bakers-evangelical-dictionary/john-the-apostle.html
- https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h543/kjv/wlc/0/
- https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2016/01/whats-the-difference-between-the-kjv-and-nkjv/
- https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2004/novemberweb-only/niv-nlt-survey.html