Revelation 22:18

For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:

For {G1063} I testify {G4828} unto every man {G3956} that heareth {G191} the words {G3056} of the prophecy {G4394} of this {G5127} book {G975}, If {G1437} any man {G5100} shall add {G2007} unto {G4314} these things {G5023}, God {G2316} shall add {G2007} unto {G1909} him {G846} the plagues {G4127} that are written {G1125} in {G1722} this {G5129} book {G975}:

I warn everyone hearing the words of the prophecy in this book that if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues written in this book.

I testify to everyone who hears the words of prophecy in this book: If anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book.

I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto them, God shall add unto him the plagues which are written in this book:

Context

This verse stands as a solemn and final warning near the conclusion of the Book of Revelation, the last book of the Christian Bible. It is part of John's closing testimony, emphasizing the divine authority and integrity of the prophetic words he has recorded. Coming after vivid descriptions of the New Jerusalem and the ultimate victory of God's plan, this admonition serves to seal the book's message, underscoring its sacred and unalterable nature for all who hear it.

Key Themes

  • The Inviolability of God's Word: The primary message is that God's revealed truth, particularly the prophecy of this book, is sacred and not to be tampered with. This warning underscores the inspiration and authority of Holy Scripture.
  • Divine Judgment for Alteration: A severe consequence is pronounced for those who presumptuously "add unto these things." This highlights God's righteous judgment against those who distort or supplement His revealed message.
  • Completeness of Revelation: This warning implies the finality and sufficiency of the prophetic message contained within Revelation, suggesting it is a complete disclosure of what God intends to reveal about the end times and His ultimate plan.

Linguistic Insights

  • The word "testify" comes from the Greek martyrō (μαρτυρῶ), meaning to bear witness or give solemn testimony. It conveys a strong, authoritative declaration, as if under oath, emphasizing the gravity of the warning.
  • "Add unto these things" refers specifically to the prophetic words within the Book of Revelation itself. While it sets a precedent for the integrity of divine revelation, it is a direct caution against inserting new elements into this particular prophecy.
  • "Plagues" (Greek plēgas, πληγὰς) directly connects to the severe judgments described throughout Revelation, such as those associated with the seven last plagues (Revelation 15:1). This signifies a direct, retributive justice from God.

Related Scriptures

This warning echoes similar admonitions found in the Old Testament concerning the integrity of God's commands. For example, Deuteronomy 4:2 states, "Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it." Similarly, Proverbs 30:6 warns, "Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar." The companion warning against taking away from the words of Revelation is found in the very next verse, Revelation 22:19.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a sober reminder of the profound respect due to God's inspired Word. It cautions against any attempt to introduce new doctrines, prophecies, or requirements that are not found in Scripture. For believers, it encourages diligent and careful study of the Bible, ensuring that our understanding and teaching remain faithful to what God has already revealed. It warns against spiritual deception and false teachings that might seek to enhance or alter the divine message, reinforcing the sufficiency of the canonical Scriptures for faith and practice. We are called to receive God's Word as it is, without adding to its claims or promises.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Deuteronomy 12:32

    What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it.

  • Deuteronomy 4:2

    Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish [ought] from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.

  • Proverbs 30:6

    Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

  • Revelation 1:3

    ¶ Blessed [is] he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time [is] at hand.

  • Revelation 22:7

    Behold, I come quickly: blessed [is] he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.

  • Matthew 15:6

    And honour not his father or his mother, [he shall be free]. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.

  • Matthew 15:9

    But in vain they do worship me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men.
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