Luați, acuma, seama, bine! Mărturisesc, pentru oricine, Fiindcă vreau, ca să se știe: Cuvintele, din prorocie – Care în carte sunt trecute, Spre-a vi se face cunoscute – Dacă le-aude cineva, Să nu-ndrăznească-apoi, cumva, S-adauge, ceva, la ele. Păstrați cuvintele acele, Așa cum fost-au ele zise, Și cum au fost, în carte, scrise! Dacă adaugă ceva, La ele-n urmă, cineva, Și Dumnezeu – la rândul Lui – Adăuga-va omului, Toate urgiile prezise, Care, în carte, au fost scrise.
What Does This Mean?
This verse from Revelation warns anyone who hears the prophecy contained in this book that if they add anything to it, God will add plagues upon them as described in the book. The speaker is John, warning about the consequences of altering divine revelation.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a special recipe for making the best cookies ever. Your friend tries to add chocolate chips when you didn't ask. That would be like changing God's recipe for how we should live our lives as described in this book. If someone does that, they might get into trouble.
Historical Background
Revelation was written by John the Apostle around 95 AD during Emperor Domitian’s reign when Christians faced persecution. The audience consisted of early Christian communities facing challenges from both Roman authorities and internal heresies. The warning to not alter the words reflects a serious caution against tampering with divine truth.
Living It Out Today
In today's context, this verse reminds us about integrity in sharing religious teachings. For instance, if someone teaches about Christianity but adds their own beliefs that contradict what is written in the Bible, they risk misleading others and facing spiritual consequences.
Topics
integritydivine revelationconsequences of disobediencefaithfulness in teachingbiblical authorityspiritual guidance
John the Apostle is speaking, giving a direct testimony to those who hear or read his prophecy.
What are the plagues mentioned in Revelation 22:18?
The plagues refer to divine punishments described throughout the Book of Revelation, which include various calamities and disasters intended as judgment.
Why is it important not to add to God's word?
Adding to God’s word can lead to confusion and misinterpretation of His message. It undermines the authority and purity of the divine revelation.
How does Revelation 22:18 apply to modern preaching or teaching?
It reminds teachers and preachers to stay true to biblical teachings without adding personal opinions, ensuring they do not lead others astray.