The Grand Finale: Christ’s Farewell and the Church’s Hope
As we reach the climax of the book of Revelation, we find ourselves at the threshold of a new era. The conclusion of this majestic book unfolds in three dramatic parts: Christ’s farewell to his church, the church’s heartfelt echo to Christ’s promise, and the apostolic blessing.
Christ’s Farewell: A Promise of Swift Return
In Revelation 22:20, Jesus says, “Surely I am coming soon.” This promise is not a vague assurance but a solemn oath from the lips of the Savior himself. Just as he ascended into heaven after his resurrection, leaving behind a promise of his gracious presence, so now he departs with a pledge of his speedy return.
But what about the delay? Where is the promise of his return being fulfilled? The answer lies in God’s long-suffering nature toward his enemies. His coming will be sooner than they realize, sooner than they are prepared for, and sooner than they desire. For the church, however, it will be at the right season – a season of perfect timing, orchestrated by the sovereign Lord.
The Church’s Heartfelt Echo: A Cry of Longing
The church responds to Christ’s promise with a resounding “Amen” – a declaration of firm belief and an expression of earnest desire. “Come, Lord Jesus,” the church cries out, echoing the words of the Song of Songs, “Come away, my lover, and be like a gazelle or like a young stag on the spice-laden mountains.”
This is the language of the church of the firstborn, a language that beats with the pulse of the gracious Spirit. We should never be satisfied until we find this spirit breathing within us, making us look for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.
The Apostolic Blessing: A Prayer for Christ’s Grace
The apostle concludes with a benediction, “The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen.” Here, we see clear evidence of the Godhead of Christ, as the Spirit of God teaches the apostle to bless his people in the name of Christ and to ask Christ for a blessing on them.
We should desire nothing more than that Christ’s grace should be with us in this world, preparing us for the glory of Christ in the other world. It is by his grace that we must be kept in a joyful expectation of his glory and become fit for this and persevere in it. His glorious appearing will be joyful and welcome for those who take part in his grace and favor here.
A Final Amen
To this comprehensive prayer, we should all add our heartfelt “Amen.” May we thirst after greater measures of the gracious influences of the blessed Jesus in our souls and his gracious presence with us. For he is our Sun and Shield, the One who bestows favor and honor, withholding no good thing from those whose walk is blameless.
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