Editing the Prophets?
“I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues which are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his part from the tree of life and the holy city, which are written in this book.” (Revelation 22:18-19)
Now some would say, “It is just a form of an ancient copy-write.” The words are from the Ancient of Days. His severe judgement is reserved for those who would lead His sheep astray. Then it is said, “This curse only appears in the Book of Revelation, that’s hard to understand anyway. We are safe with the rest of The Book.” And we are safe when realizing that “The testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of prophecy.” (Revelation 19:10) From Genesis to Revelation God’s prophets and apostles spoke as they were moved by Jesus’ Spirit.
To “add” or “take away” to appease the crowd …… well, you know, it’s probably not a good idea. To speak for God is to repeat His words. They are found within the pages of His Holy Scriptures. Enough has already been accomplished and recorded to prepare those who are saved, for eternal Life. Now is the time to prepare to meet our Lord and King. Does anyone think God will wave a magic wand and we will become who we want to be when our life here is finished? He creates by speaking. It is up to us to continue hearing.
We have been blessed in the West with so many ways to hear, yet little time is given at His table or in His field. Are we satisfied? In the East they hunger for His word. The New Covenant states, “For all will know Me, From the least to the greatest of them.” (Hebrews 11:11) Pride thinks to be greatest, but who wants to be least? To draw near to Him is all we ask, while knowing it can only be done through His Spirit and His Word.
“It is the Spirit who gives life; The flesh profits nothing; The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life.” (John 6:63) There is only one way to prepare. Jesus must be our priority. His words are “written on our heart” (Hebrews 8:10) as we spend time with the Spirit. Jesus came to bring us an abundant life. (John 10:10) His life. That is something to consider.
Lord, so many things distract us from what our life in You can be. Thank You for Your Spirit who encourages us to draw closer to You. Teach us Your thoughts and ways, and a heart that obeys. We know these petitions can only be answered by Your Spirit. Flesh and can gain nothing without You. Help us, Jesus, to draw near.
Eternity is a long time to be who we will become. God’s will , it is best to listen and obey.
His Family Table 