Scripture text: Revelation 22:10-21
Lesson Context: The book of Revelation reveals what John saw in a vision while he was banished on the Isle of Patmos for preaching the gospel. As chapter 22 opens, John introduces us to the river of life, the tree of life and the blessings they both provide to the believers who will inhabit the New Jerusalem (Revelation 22:1-2). He writes that the believers will see God’s “face” and carry His name, His mark of identification on their foreheads (Revelation 22:4-5). Then Jesus told John all that he had seen in his vision was true and faithful (Revelation 22:6-7). This is where today’s lesson begins.
Paths, Advent, Separation (Revelation 22:11-5).
Two Types (vv.10-11).
“And he said unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophesy of this book: for the time is at hand.” John was still being addressed by an angel of the vial of plagues (Revelation 22:9). This angel was John’s guide to the New Jerusalem (Revelation 22:1, 8-10). The fact that the time is at hand gives an heightened sense of the necessary fulfillment of prophecy.
“He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be flthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” After reading the prophecy of the book, those who are still “unjust” should remain “unjust” and those who are still “filthy” should remain “filthy.” But the prophecy will further confirm, strengthen, and sanctify those who are “righteous” or upright with God and who are “holy.”
Second Coming (vv. 12-13).
“And behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Once the end time starts, Jesus will “come quickly,” taking everyone by surprise who are left behind after the church has been caught up (Matthew 24:32-34). Then Jesus said when He returns “my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” The word “reward” means “whatever is due.” This means that Jesus’ “reward” can either be favorable or unfavorable. Jesus will deal with every person according to their deeds or the things they have done concerning others.
“I am Alpha and Omega.” (vs. 13).
God the Father is identified as “Alpha and Omega” which are the first and the last in the Greek alphabet. Now in this verse, Jesus describes Himself in the same way, while giving the meaning of the words “Alpha and Omega” as the beginning and the end, the first and the last. In the gospel of John 10:30, says the Father and the Son are one. God the Father and Jesus the Son are both equal in eternal existence.
Promising, Longing, Closing (Revelation 22:20-21).
Reaffirmation (v. 20a).
“He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly.” Even though the angels brought the revelation to John, ultimately it is Jesus’ message that they share. His coming will be completely unexpected and sudden. In response Jesus’ words “Surely I come quickly,” John answered with a short prayer saying “Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” The word “Amen” is a Hebrew expression of confirmation.
References: International Sunday School Lesson And Commentary, 2021-2022 KJV Standard Lesson Commentary