The Final Warning and Promise in the Bible is a profound message found in the closing passages of the Book of Revelation. This section serves as both a solemn warning and a hopeful promise, encapsulating the essence of the prophetic visions given to the Apostle John. It is a call to heed the words of prophecy and an assurance of the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Scriptural Context

The Final Warning and Promise is primarily located in Revelation 22:6-21. This passage marks the conclusion of the apocalyptic visions and the entire biblical canon. It is a direct communication from Jesus Christ, delivered through His angel to John, emphasizing the reliability and urgency of the prophetic words.

The Warning

The warning aspect of this passage is clear and unequivocal. Revelation 22:18-19 states: "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. 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, which are described in this book."

This warning underscores the sanctity and completeness of the biblical revelation. It cautions against altering the divine message, highlighting the severe consequences of tampering with God's Word. The warning serves as a reminder of the authority of Scripture and the importance of preserving its integrity.

The Promise

In contrast to the warning, the promise offers hope and assurance to believers. Revelation 22:12-13 declares: "Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me, to give to each one according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End."

This promise affirms the imminent return of Jesus Christ and the certainty of His judgment and reward. It reassures believers of the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate victory over sin and death. The promise of Christ's return is a central tenet of Christian eschatology, providing hope and motivation for faithful living.

The Invitation

Embedded within the final warning and promise is an invitation to all who hear the message. Revelation 22:17 extends this invitation: "The Spirit and the bride say, 'Come!' And let the one who hears say, 'Come!' Let the one who is thirsty come, and the one who desires the water of life drink freely."

This invitation reflects the heart of the gospel, offering salvation and eternal life to all who accept it. It emphasizes the accessibility of God's grace and the open invitation to partake in the blessings of the new creation.

The Affirmation of Christ's Return

The passage concludes with a reaffirmation of Christ's promise to return. Revelation 22:20 states: "He who testifies to these things says, 'Yes, I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!"

This affirmation serves as a final reminder of the certainty and imminence of Christ's return. It is a call for readiness and anticipation, encouraging believers to live in expectation of the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Summary

The Final Warning and Promise in Revelation 22:6-21 encapsulates the dual themes of caution and hope. It underscores the importance of preserving the integrity of Scripture, the assurance of Christ's return, and the invitation to partake in the blessings of eternal life. This passage serves as a fitting conclusion to the biblical narrative, reminding believers of the faithfulness of God's promises and the ultimate fulfillment of His divine plan.