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Revelation 22:18
Verse
Context
Nothing May Be Added or Removed
17The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” Let the one who hears say, “Come!” And let the one who is thirsty come, and the one who desires the water of life drink freely.18I 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.19And if anyone takes away from the words of this book of prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and the holy city, which are described in this book.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any man shall add - Shall give any other meaning to these prophecies, or any other application of them than God intends, he, though not originally intended, shall have the plagues threatened in this book for his portion.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For I testify--None of our manuscripts have this. A, B, Vulgate, and ANDREAS read, "I" emphatic in the Greek. "I testify." unto these things--A, B, and ANDREAS read, "unto them." add . . . add--just retribution in kind.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I testify to every man,.... These are not the words of a scribe, who having wrote out a copy of this book, added the following adjuration to it, to deter persons from adding to it, or diminishing it; for the book is not yet finished, and both Christ and John speak after this; and to insert such a passage into the text would be a bold and daring action; nor are they even the words of John, the inspired writer of it, but of the Lord Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, as appears from Rev 22:16 who in a most solemn manner declares to every man, high or low, rich or poor, of whatsoever character, or however dignified, either in a civil or ecclesiastic way, that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book read or explained, if any man shall add unto these things. To "add" to the things contained in this book, is not to deliver, or write an exposition of it, in a modest manner, with a sincere view to give light into it, agreeably to the analogy of faith; for to expound Scripture, or to preach from it, consistent with it, is not to add unto it, but to give the sense of it; but then may it be said to be added unto, and so this book, when it is wrested and perverted, and a false gloss is put upon it, as the Pharisees did upon the law; and when unwritten traditions are made to be equal to it, or above it, as the same persons made the traditions of the elders, whereby they transgressed the law, and made the word of God of none effect, and so broke through the precept given, Deu 4:2 as do the Papists in like manner; and when men pretend to visions and revelations, and make them the rule of faith and practice, and to confirm things that are neither in this book, nor in any other part of the word of God; and when men interpolate it, and set up human fictitious writings upon equal authority with it; which shows the authenticity of this book, and of all the whole Scripture, and the perfection of it, whose canon is closed with it: the punishment of such a crime follows, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book; the things threatened to the antichristian party, Rev 2:22 the seven last plagues in which the wrath of God is filled up, which will be inflicted on the same, Rev 16:1, the lake of fire and brimstone, into which the beast, the false prophet, the devil, and all wicked men will be cast, Rev 19:20 see Pro 30:5.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:18-19 I solemnly declare: John issues an oath to protect the integrity of the book of Revelation. He declares a curse upon anyone who alters the contents of the book or its message (cp. Deut 4:2; 12:32). The curse contrasts with the statement of blessing on all who read aloud, listen to, and obey the prophecy (Rev 1:3). At the time Revelation was written, scribes would sometimes alter books to suit their own views. Early Christians quickly developed means of authenticating both messages and messengers (see John 21:24; 1 Cor 16:21; Gal 6:11; Col 4:18; 2 Thes 3:17; 1 Jn 4:1-3). • Since the time of the early church, the scope and content of the New Testament has been established as the measure of the Christian proclamation. Yet the church continues to be plagued by those who would attempt to reconstruct the borders of Scripture by adding other works that they believe are of equal status with the Bible or by arguing that certain segments of the Bible are unreliable creations of human effort and perception. The genuine church has rejected and will continue to reject efforts to redefine the boundaries of the canon as human and even demonic attempts to alter the basis of the Christian faith.
Revelation 22:18
Nothing May Be Added or Removed
17The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” Let the one who hears say, “Come!” And let the one who is thirsty come, and the one who desires the water of life drink freely.18I 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.19And if anyone takes away from the words of this book of prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and the holy city, which are described in this book.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Jude #1 Ch. 1:1-4 Introduction
By Chuck Missler7.9K1:18:03JudeDEU 4:2MAT 6:332TH 2:3REV 22:18REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the book of Jude and its purpose. He explains that Jude had to write this book because there were false teachers infiltrating the church. These false teachers were turning the grace of God into lasciviousness and denying the Lord Jesus Christ. The preacher also provides an outline of the book, highlighting that it begins and ends with assurance for the Christian.
Anabaptist History - Part 1
By Walter Beachy2.1K53:11Anabaptist HistoryJUD 1:3REV 22:18In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing the importance of knowing history and encourages the audience to learn about their own family roots. He shares a personal story about his grandmother who had polio and emphasizes the need to appreciate and learn from the past. The speaker then introduces the book of Jude and highlights a phrase from it that will serve as the theme for the week. He mentions the availability of outlines and overheads for the sermon but acknowledges that they may not be ideal for this particular setting.
The Value of a Righteous Man
By Carter Conlon2.0K49:57RighteousGEN 1:1REV 22:18In this sermon, the preacher highlights the increasing darkness and evil in society, with people having no shame in discussing inappropriate topics. He emphasizes the importance of living for God and being a vessel for His glory and power. The preacher refers to the story of David in 1 Chronicles 21, where God sent a plague as a consequence of David's prideful act of numbering Israel. The sermon emphasizes the power of a righteous life in restraining evil and being a testimony of God's presence.
The Prayer Never Repeated
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K1:29:47Prayer LifeREV 22:18In this sermon, the preacher recounts a story about a meeting where there were only a few people in attendance. Despite the lack of financial resources and apparent lack of interest from the crowd, the preacher felt compelled by God to continue. He shares how a woman in the audience, who had a son with a deep boot, eventually raised her hand when asked if anyone wanted to be healed. The preacher then emphasizes the importance of watching and praying, using the example of Moses' plea to God in Numbers 11. He warns against procrastination and urges listeners to respond to God's call for salvation now. The preacher concludes by acknowledging that the church has lost its fire and calls for a revival of the Holy Spirit's power.
(Through the Bible) Proverbs 26-31
By Chuck Smith1.6K1:26:06PRO 13:24PRO 29:17REV 22:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that there are several things in life that never say they are enough. He mentions the examples of people dying every day, the barren womb, the dry earth, and fire. The preacher also discusses the consequences of mocking one's parents and disobeying them, using the imagery of ravens and eagles. He then reflects on three things that he finds wonderful but cannot fully understand: the way of an eagle in the air, the way of a serpent on a rock, and the way of a ship in the sea. The sermon concludes with the preacher discussing various aspects of life, including the behavior of an adulterous woman, the disquietude of the earth, the wisdom of small creatures like ants and locusts, the dangers of seeking quick wealth, the importance of rebuking rather than flattering, and the consequences of robbing one's parents and having a proud heart. Throughout the sermon, the preacher references biblical verses to support his points.
Testing the Spirits & Lying Prophets
By Philip Powell8661:07:22REV 22:18In this video, the speaker addresses a crowd and encourages them to be quiet for the video recording. However, he tells the viewers at home to feel free to express their agreement or disagreement. He mentions a man from England who encouraged people to wait for something called "it," but the speaker disagrees with this approach, stating that the word of God should be analyzed and examined. He then briefly mentions a story from the Bible about an evil king named Ahab and a man named Naboth. The speaker warns against casting away rational thinking and warns against confusing the Holy Spirit with other spirits.
The Word of God
By Hans R. Waldvogel64820:09Word Of GodGEN 3:15JER 15:16JHN 1:1JHN 1:14REV 22:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of finding God's presence and fulfillment in our lives. He uses the analogy of a man whistling for his dog to illustrate how God is always near, even when we may not see or hear Him. The preacher also highlights the significance of the Bible as a life-giving word that can transform us into living epistles of Christ. He encourages believers to seek and discover God's presence in the world around them, rather than waiting for some external sign or event. The sermon concludes with the reminder that Jesus Christ will be glorified in those who believe and that the world is waiting for the manifestation of the sons of God.
Sola Scriptura 2
By Anton Bosch61045:29Sola ScripturaDEU 4:2PSA 119:89PSA 119:92PSA 119:105PSA 119:111PSA 119:116PSA 119:120REV 22:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding that God operates by order and structure. He uses the example of the law of gravity to illustrate that just as gravity works consistently everywhere, God's laws and order are constant and unchanging. The preacher also addresses the misconception that God is caught by surprise or makes decisions on a whim. He highlights that God is a God of order and structure, as seen in the creation account and the establishment of the Sabbath. The sermon concludes with a reminder from the book of Revelation that adding or taking away from God's Word has serious consequences.
The Eternal Spirit the Gifts That Ceased
By Willie Mullan54651:24Eternal SpiritDEU 31:26ISA 28:11ACT 16:101CO 14:202TI 4:112TI 4:20REV 22:18In this sermon, the speaker focuses on 2 Timothy chapter 4 and verse 11. The speaker mentions that Paul had many companions during his missionary journeys, including Silas, Timothyus, and Luke. These companions helped Paul in various ways, such as writing letters on his behalf. The speaker also references a story from Acts where Paul is bitten by a venomous snake but remains unharmed. The speaker concludes by mentioning Peter's role as a teacher and pastor, as well as his gift of discerning spirits. The sermon ends with a brief mention of starting a new topic on the analysis of man in the following week.
The Power of God's Word
By Zac Poonen44325:18GEN 1:3REV 22:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of God's spoken word, starting from Genesis where God's creative power is displayed through His spoken word. It highlights the significance of opening ourselves to God's word found in the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation. Jesus' early life and ministry underscore the value of studying and applying God's word, as seen in His responses to temptation with scripture. The sermon stresses the transformative power of God's word, likening it to food for spiritual strength, a sword against Satan, and a source of guidance and correction for righteous living.
Trends & Roots in Om Devotional Eng - Germ
By George Verwer1231:08:52GermanACT 13:2REV 22:18In the sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of honest communication, particularly in the area of finance. They mention the Love Europe leaflet as an example of their efforts to improve communication. The speaker also discusses the use of cassette tapes and video tapes as trends in communication, highlighting their usefulness in sending messages and sharing testimonies. Additionally, the sermon emphasizes the reliance on God for provision and the importance of trust in Him, referencing Proverbs 3:5-6. The speaker also mentions the use of computers for better organization and encourages the audience to embrace technology.
Spiritual Fruit
By Denis Lyle01CO 13:8EPH 2:202PE 1:20JUD 1:3REV 22:18Denis Lyle addresses the issue of whether the Bible is enough or if more is needed, focusing on the dangers of seeking extra-biblical revelations and the undermining of the authority of Scripture. He highlights examples of individuals like Oral Roberts, Kenneth Hagin, and various cults who claim to receive special revelations, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the Bible as the complete and final revelation from God. Lyle asserts that special revelations were continual in the past but are now unnecessary as the Bible is complete, efficacious, and authoritative, warning against the dangers of seeking new revelations that can lead to error and fanaticism.
The Rule of Faith
By Ian Paisley0DEU 4:2MAT 15:3JHN 8:322CO 2:17GAL 1:8COL 2:81TH 5:212TI 3:162PE 3:16REV 22:18Ian Paisley preaches about the importance of upholding the Sacred Scriptures as the Word of God and the ultimate authority in matters of faith and doctrine. He emphasizes the need to test all teachings and traditions against the standard of the Bible, rejecting anything that contradicts its clear teachings. Paisley highlights the denial of the sufficiency of Scripture and the right of private judgment by the Papal priesthood, leading to dangerous doctrines and practices. He exposes the falsification of Scriptures by the Popish priesthood to support unbiblical traditions like penance, human merit, and purgatory. Paisley condemns the violent hostility of Popery towards Bible societies and the burning of Bibles as evidence of their opposition to the Word of God.
Only Scripture - 3
By Anton Bosch0DEU 4:2MAT 15:6ACT 20:271CO 4:6GAL 1:81TH 5:202TH 2:9REV 22:18Anton Bosch emphasizes the importance of not adding to the Scriptures, highlighting the severe curses pronounced by God, Moses, Jesus, and Paul on those who do so. He warns against the trend of adding traditions, church council decisions, and other extra-biblical teachings that distort the truth. The sermon underscores the need to test all teachings against the Word of God, rejecting anything that cannot be supported by clear and unequivocal Scripture, regardless of how appealing it may sound.
On Corrupting the Word of God
By John Wesley0Integrity in PreachingSincerity in Ministry2CO 2:17REV 22:18John Wesley preaches on the integrity of preaching the Word of God, emphasizing the importance of sincerity and the dangers of corrupting Scripture through human mixtures and false interpretations. He argues that true preachers must convey the genuine message of God without alteration, and that their actions should reflect their words to gain the trust of their audience. Wesley warns against those who dilute the gospel for personal gain or to please others, stressing that the true purpose of preaching is the spiritual benefit of the listeners. He concludes that preachers must boldly proclaim the entirety of Scripture, regardless of its reception, as they are accountable to God for their message.
An Address to the Different Religious Societies on the Sacred Import of the Christian Name
By Rice Haggard0ISA 48:11ISA 62:2JHN 10:16JHN 17:11ACT 10:341CO 1:101CO 13:4EPH 4:3REV 21:9REV 22:18Rice Haggard preaches about the importance of unity and love among Christians, emphasizing the need to set aside denominational divisions and come together under the simple principles of the Gospel. He highlights the dangers of partyism, human inventions, and man-made rules that have led to division and strife within the church. Haggard calls for a return to the original teachings of Jesus Christ, promoting a church united in faith, love, and adherence to the Scriptures.
It's Supper Time. Where's Martha? - Serving Gifts
By Denis Lyle0JHN 14:12ACT 2:22ACT 5:16ROM 1:81CO 12:12CO 5:72CO 12:72TI 4:20HEB 13:8REV 22:18Denis Lyle delves into the topic of whether God performs miracles today, exploring the concept of sign gifts and the historical context of miracles in the Bible. He emphasizes that while God is capable of miracles, the purpose of miracles in the Bible was to authenticate messengers of God and confirm His Word, particularly during specific periods like the days of Moses and Joshua, Elijah and Elisha, and Christ and the apostles. Lyle addresses the misconception that miracles should be a normal experience for believers today, highlighting the unique nature of the apostolic age and the specific purpose miracles served in confirming God's messengers and His Word.
The Divine Word and the Doom of Its Defacers
By Horatius Bonar0The Consequences of Tampering with God's WordThe Authority of ScriptureREV 22:18Horatius Bonar emphasizes the sanctity and perfection of God's Word, warning against the grave consequences of adding to or taking away from Scripture, as outlined in Revelation 22:18-19. He highlights the responsibility of believers to honor the Bible, recognizing it as the complete revelation of God's character and will. Bonar stresses that tampering with the Word is a serious sin, leading to dire consequences, including the loss of one's part in the Book of Life and the Holy City. He calls for a reverent approach to Scripture, urging believers to treat it with the utmost respect and seriousness. The sermon serves as a reminder of the eternal implications of how we engage with God's Word.
Roman Catholicism
By Thomas Watson0DEU 31:11ECC 5:4ISA 53:10EZK 23:37LUK 11:52ROM 5:6EPH 5:23COL 2:9COL 2:19HEB 10:121JN 5:21REV 13:1REV 14:9REV 22:18Thomas Watson preaches a sermon warning against idolatry, specifically addressing the errors and dangers of Roman Catholicism. He highlights the soul-damning nature of idolatry, the spiritual adultery it entails, and the opening it provides to God's judgments. Watson dissects various popish doctrines such as the worship of the pope, transubstantiation, denial of Scripture to the common people, salvation by personal merit, and the belief in purgatory. He also condemns practices like praying to saints and angels, image-worship, and the denial of Christ's sufferings in His soul. Watson concludes by emphasizing the unscriptural, carnal, unedifying, proud, immoral, toothless, bloody, blasphemous, ridiculous, God-provoking, and soul-destroying nature of Roman Catholicism, urging believers to keep themselves from idols.
The Simplicity of the Gospel of Christ
By Benjamin Franklin0REV 22:18Benjamin Franklin preaches about the simplicity and clarity of the Gospel of Christ, emphasizing that it was meant for all people, regardless of their wisdom or education. He highlights the importance of adhering to the teachings of the Bible without adding or taking away from it, as seen in scriptures like Galatians 1:8 and Revelation 22:18-19. Franklin stresses the necessity of belief in Jesus and obedience to His commands for salvation, as indicated in Mark 16:16 and Acts 2:38. He concludes by urging listeners to follow the Bible as the ultimate guide for faith and practice, ensuring a clear path to salvation and eternal life.
The Canon of the New Testament
By F.F Bruce0JHN 16:13ACT 20:321CO 2:131TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:122PE 1:212PE 3:16REV 22:18F.F. Bruce delves into the historical research behind the formation of the New Testament canon, exploring how the Holy Spirit guided the selection and collection of the writings. The sermon discusses early lists of New Testament books by Marcion and the Muratorian Fragment, highlighting the gradual recognition of the twenty-seven books. It emphasizes the importance of determining divinely authoritative books for Christian doctrine and disputes with heretics, leading to the formal inclusion of the New Testament books in the canon by the Church. The sermon concludes by affirming the Church's right choice in selecting the New Testament books over other early documents and apocryphal writings.
Matchless and Incomparable Riches of Free Grace
By Thomas Brooks0GraceHope in ChristEPH 2:8REV 21:6REV 22:18Thomas Brooks emphasizes the boundless nature of God's free grace, which offers hope and comfort even to the worst of sinners. He explains that this grace exists for God's glory, to prevent human boasting, and to ensure that blessings are secure for all believers. Brooks encourages despairing souls to abandon their hopelessness and embrace the life-giving waters of grace, regardless of their past sins or current fears. He highlights that true happiness and blessedness come not from our works but solely from God's grace.
The Reckless Penknife
By T. De Witt Talmage0PSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 40:8JER 36:23MAT 24:35JHN 1:1ROM 10:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12REV 22:18T. DeWitt Talmage preaches about the importance of honoring and respecting the Word of God, using the story of King Jehoiakim cutting up the scroll with his penknife as a cautionary tale. He emphasizes the impossibility of destroying the Word of God and the consequences of rejecting or altering it. Talmage challenges the audience to accept the Bible in its entirety, highlighting its divine wisdom and the futility of trying to undermine its authority. He warns against infidelity and the dangers of disregarding the Bible's teachings, urging listeners to embrace its truths and find solace and guidance in its promises.
Books Which Will Never Die
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 119:89PRO 30:5ISA 26:14ISA 40:8MAT 24:35JHN 1:12TI 3:16HEB 4:121PE 1:24REV 22:18J.C. Philpot discusses the enduring impact of certain books that contain the seeds of self-renewing life, contrasting them with the vast majority that fade into obscurity. He highlights the importance of books that appeal to the universal aspects of human nature, whether secular or spiritual, as they transcend time and remain imperishable. Philpot emphasizes the significance of the Bible, which stands the test of time against all attacks and remains as the eternal word of God, unlike the works of infidel writers that are destined for oblivion.
Rev. 22:18-19. the Divine Word, and the Doom of Its Defacers
By Horatius Bonar0The Consequences of Tampering with God's WordThe Authority of ScriptureREV 22:18Horatius Bonar emphasizes the sanctity and perfection of God's Word in his sermon on Revelation 22:18-19, warning against the grave consequences of adding to or taking away from Scripture. He highlights that the Bible is not merely a human text but a divine revelation that demands respect and responsibility from its readers. Bonar stresses that tampering with the Word is a serious sin, leading to dire consequences, including the loss of one's place in the Book of Life and the Holy City. He calls for a reverent approach to Scripture, recognizing its authority and the dangers of modern interpretations that seek to diminish its truth. Ultimately, Bonar urges believers to honor God's Word as the ultimate expression of His character and will.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any man shall add - Shall give any other meaning to these prophecies, or any other application of them than God intends, he, though not originally intended, shall have the plagues threatened in this book for his portion.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For I testify--None of our manuscripts have this. A, B, Vulgate, and ANDREAS read, "I" emphatic in the Greek. "I testify." unto these things--A, B, and ANDREAS read, "unto them." add . . . add--just retribution in kind.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I testify to every man,.... These are not the words of a scribe, who having wrote out a copy of this book, added the following adjuration to it, to deter persons from adding to it, or diminishing it; for the book is not yet finished, and both Christ and John speak after this; and to insert such a passage into the text would be a bold and daring action; nor are they even the words of John, the inspired writer of it, but of the Lord Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, as appears from Rev 22:16 who in a most solemn manner declares to every man, high or low, rich or poor, of whatsoever character, or however dignified, either in a civil or ecclesiastic way, that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book read or explained, if any man shall add unto these things. To "add" to the things contained in this book, is not to deliver, or write an exposition of it, in a modest manner, with a sincere view to give light into it, agreeably to the analogy of faith; for to expound Scripture, or to preach from it, consistent with it, is not to add unto it, but to give the sense of it; but then may it be said to be added unto, and so this book, when it is wrested and perverted, and a false gloss is put upon it, as the Pharisees did upon the law; and when unwritten traditions are made to be equal to it, or above it, as the same persons made the traditions of the elders, whereby they transgressed the law, and made the word of God of none effect, and so broke through the precept given, Deu 4:2 as do the Papists in like manner; and when men pretend to visions and revelations, and make them the rule of faith and practice, and to confirm things that are neither in this book, nor in any other part of the word of God; and when men interpolate it, and set up human fictitious writings upon equal authority with it; which shows the authenticity of this book, and of all the whole Scripture, and the perfection of it, whose canon is closed with it: the punishment of such a crime follows, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book; the things threatened to the antichristian party, Rev 2:22 the seven last plagues in which the wrath of God is filled up, which will be inflicted on the same, Rev 16:1, the lake of fire and brimstone, into which the beast, the false prophet, the devil, and all wicked men will be cast, Rev 19:20 see Pro 30:5.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:18-19 I solemnly declare: John issues an oath to protect the integrity of the book of Revelation. He declares a curse upon anyone who alters the contents of the book or its message (cp. Deut 4:2; 12:32). The curse contrasts with the statement of blessing on all who read aloud, listen to, and obey the prophecy (Rev 1:3). At the time Revelation was written, scribes would sometimes alter books to suit their own views. Early Christians quickly developed means of authenticating both messages and messengers (see John 21:24; 1 Cor 16:21; Gal 6:11; Col 4:18; 2 Thes 3:17; 1 Jn 4:1-3). • Since the time of the early church, the scope and content of the New Testament has been established as the measure of the Christian proclamation. Yet the church continues to be plagued by those who would attempt to reconstruct the borders of Scripture by adding other works that they believe are of equal status with the Bible or by arguing that certain segments of the Bible are unreliable creations of human effort and perception. The genuine church has rejected and will continue to reject efforts to redefine the boundaries of the canon as human and even demonic attempts to alter the basis of the Christian faith.