Revelation 22:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Revelation 22:20
20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
Chapter Context
Revelation 22 is a apocalyptic vision chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, holiness, redemption. Written during the end of the first century CE (c. 95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Emperor worship intensified under Domitian, pressuring Christians to compromise their exclusive loyalty to Christ.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Revelation and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Revelation 22:20
20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
Analysis
Surely I come quickly (Ναὶ ἔρχομαι ταχύ, Nai erchomai tachy)—Christ's final promise in Scripture is not slow timing but certain swiftness when the hour arrives. Tachy conveys imminence and suddenness, not chronological nearness. This echoes His earlier warnings: "Behold, I come as a thief" (16:15).
Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus (Ἀμήν ναὶ ἔρχου κύριε Ἰησοῦ, Amēn nai erchou kyrie Iēsou)—John's response is the church's perpetual cry: Maranatha (1 Cor 16:22). The double affirmation (Hebrew Amen + Greek nai) expresses wholehearted longing. This is no mere resignation to fate, but passionate desire for Christ's return. The church that truly loves His appearing (2 Tim 4:8) doesn't dread judgment but yearns for the Bridegroom. To pray "Come, Lord Jesus" is to confess this present evil age cannot satisfy—only Christ's visible reign will suffice.
Historical Context
Written circa AD 95 during Domitian's persecution, Revelation concludes with Christ's promise and John's response from Patmos exile. The book's seven churches endured Roman imperial cult pressure, economic persecution, and martyrdom threats. Christ's promise "I come quickly" assured suffering saints their affliction was temporary—vindication was certain. The early church regularly prayed Maranatha ("Our Lord, come!"), likely at the Lord's Supper, expressing eager eschatological hope that sustained them through persecution.
Reflection
- Do you genuinely long for Christ's return, or does the thought unsettle you—and what does your answer reveal about your heart's true treasure?
- How should the certainty of Christ's sudden return shape your daily priorities, relationships, and use of time and resources?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Revelation 1:2, John 21:25, 1 Corinthians 16:22
- References Lord: Isaiah 25:9, 2 Timothy 4:8
- Parallel theme: Revelation 22:7, 22:10, 22:12, 22:18, Hebrews 9:28