Revelation 22:18-19 I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.
After the open invitation and promise of verses 16-17, there is one more warning to this book. It is a stern warning about changing the words of this prophecy. The use of the word “prophecy” suggests how we should read the book of Revelation. It also challenges us to expand our thinking about the definition of the word or concept of prophecy. What does it mean “to add” to this scroll? This is more than a literary addition or editing, which is how most people interpret this phrase. I suggest it also means in application and interpretation. We must be cautious in our interpretation of this book and not say more than what it says. Keep the central messages at the forefront. The outcome of changing or neglecting the message of Revelation is not being able to participate in God’s plan for new creation.
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