The Last Words In The Bible

The Bible contains rich and invaluable wisdom that has guided humanity for thousands of years. As we reach the final pages, we’re left with impactful parting words that summarize the Bible’s universal teachings.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The very last words in the Bible are “the grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen” (Revelation 22:21).

In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the context around these famous final words. We’ll analyze their meaning, discuss who wrote them, and reflect on how they bring the Bible to a thoughtful close.

Examining the Literal Final Words

The Exact Phrasing and Translation

The very last words of the Bible are found in Revelation 22:21, which states in Koine Greek: “Ἡ χάρις τοῦ κυρίου Ἰησοῦ μετὰ πάντων.” This phrase is most commonly translated into English as “The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all.”

The word “grace” here refers to the unmerited favor and blessing of God towards humankind. Jesus is specifically mentioned as the source of this divine grace. The final word “all” indicates that this grace is available to everyone universally.

The Location Within Revelation

The book of Revelation was likely the last book of the Bible written. It contains apocalyptic visions and prophecies recorded by the Apostle John. The last words are contained in Revelation 22:21, which is the final verse of the final chapter.

This verse concludes not only the book of Revelation but the entire biblical canon. The placement of this benediction at the very end signifies that the whole of Scripture culminates with an expression of Christ’s favor poured out on all people.

The Intended Meaning and Impact

The phrasing of Revelation 22:21 serves as a fitting conclusion to the Scriptures for several reasons. First, it reminds us that above all, the teachings of the Bible are meant to reveal God’s grace and salvation offered through Christ.

Though Revelation contains mystifying symbolism and warnings of judgment, it ends on a note of hope – that God desires to bless everyone. Additionally, the universal scope of “all” people receiving grace emphasizes that the gospel is good news for the entire world, regardless of gender, ethnicity, status, or background.

In short, these final words capture the amazing message of God’s unconditional love and forgiveness available to all through faith in Jesus Christ. What a beautiful, hope-filled benediction to close the Holy Bible!

Understanding the Book of Revelation

The Authorship of Revelation

The Book of Revelation is traditionally attributed to John the Apostle, one of Jesus’s original twelve disciples. Most scholars believe it was written around 95 AD when John was an old man exiled on the island of Patmos.

The text identifies the author as “John” and states that he was on Patmos when he received his visions. Early Christian writers like Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria, and Tertullian all quoted from Revelation and attributed it to John.

However, some modern scholars have questioned if the stylistic differences between Revelation and John’s other writings like the Gospel of John suggest they had different authors. There is an early Christian tradition that the author was another John called John the Presbyter, though this remains a minority view.

Regardless of the uncertainties around its authorship, the Book of Revelation has been widely accepted into the New Testament canon since the early church.

Key Themes and Imagery

Revelation is filled with vivid imagery and symbolism. Some of the key themes and images include:

• The second coming of Jesus Christ – Revelation prophesies the return of Christ and the establishment of a new heaven and new earth.
• Judgment and destruction – Much of the book details God’s judgment on evil, including the destruction of Babylon (representing the Roman Empire which persecuted Christians).
• Cosmic conflict – Revelation depicts a cosmic battle between the forces of good and evil, with frequent references to Satan, demons, angelic warfare, plagues, and catastrophes.
• Worship scenes – John has visions of worship taking place in heaven, symbolized by images like multitudes singing praise, twenty-four elders surrounding God’s throne, and the Lamb (Christ) on the throne.
• Colorful gemstones – Precious stones like jasper, emerald, and sapphire are mentioned throughout, highlighting the splendor of God’s majesty.
• Symbolic numbers – Certain numbers like 7, 12, and 1,000 frequently appear, often representing completeness or totality.

Revelation is filled with rich symbolism and metaphorical language. Understanding this imagery provides insight into the book’s central themes of Christ’s return, God’s judgment of evil, and the final restoration of all things.

Relation to Other Books of the Bible

Revelation draws heavily on Old Testament prophetic books like Daniel, Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Zechariah. It continues and expands on many of their apocalyptic themes and images. For example, theangelic interpretation of visions in Revelation is similar to parts of Daniel, as is the beast with ten horns representing an evil ruler in Daniel 7.

Revelation also contains many allusions to New Testament books. Christ is depicted as the slain and victorious Lamb, echoing John’s Gospel. The letters to the seven churches call to mind other New Testament epistles.

The cosmic battle between Satan and God draws on the theme of spiritual warfare in the Gospels and Epistles.

So while Revelation has distinctive features, it is deeply rooted within the prophetic and apocalyptic traditions of both Old and New Testaments. It takes up many biblical themes and expands on them in dramatic fashion as it prophesies how God’s purposes recorded throughout Scripture will ultimately be fulfilled.

Conclusion

In just a few short words, the Bible’s final passage distills profound spiritual wisdom into a beautiful benediction. We’re reminded about grace, community, and carrying God’s blessings forward into the world.

The last words offer readers comfort, hope, and a sense that Scripture has fully equipped them for a righteous life. After such vivid prophetic visions, we end on a gentle note that perfectly encapsulates the Bible’s compassionate heart.