Revelation 22:10 — Then he told me, “Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this scroll, because the time is near.”
Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, the angel gives John a clear instruction: “Do not seal up the words of the prophecy.” In other words, this message isn’t supposed to be hidden or delayed—it’s meant to be shared, read, and responded to. The reason is just as direct: “because the time is near.”
This is a call to urgency. The message of Revelation isn’t a secret puzzle for a distant future—it’s a call to action now. God wants His people to understand what He’s doing and prepare their hearts accordingly. The events of Revelation, while some are still to come, begin with truths that matter today.
The angel’s instruction is very different from what we see in some Old Testament visions. For example, the prophet Daniel was told to seal up his vision until the appointed time (Daniel 12:4). But here in Revelation, the time is no longer far off. God’s redemptive plan is active and moving forward. People need to hear it now.
Historical Context
John received the vision of Revelation while exiled on the island of Patmos around A.D. 95. The early church was under heavy pressure. Believers were facing persecution, false teachings, and growing weariness. They needed hope. They needed clarity. And they needed truth that would strengthen their faith.
This command not to seal the scroll would have encouraged them. It meant the message of Revelation wasn’t just for some future generation—it was for them, right then. They were part of God’s unfolding plan. The words were trustworthy, and they were meant to be heard, understood, and obeyed.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that God desires His truth to be made known. He is not a distant God who hides His will in mystery. While there are symbols and visions in Revelation, the heart of the message is clear: Jesus wins, sin is judged, and eternal life is given to those who belong to Him.
It also teaches us something about the timing of God. The phrase “the time is near” doesn’t mean everything would happen within a few days or years. It means the next major step in God’s plan—Jesus’ return—is the next event on the timeline. Nothing else needs to happen first. We are living in that “near” window, and we have been ever since Jesus ascended to heaven.
Because the time is near, the message of this book must not be ignored or delayed. It calls for readiness.
Literary Analysis
This verse functions as a turning point. The visions are mostly complete, and now the focus shifts to personal response and application. The command to not seal up the prophecy contrasts with the sealed scrolls seen earlier in Revelation (such as in chapters 5 and 6). Those were waiting to be opened at the right time. But now, at the end of the book, the message is ready and open.
The phrase “the time is near” is meant to stir urgency. It appears at the beginning of the book (Revelation 1:3) and now again at the end, forming a bracket around the entire message. This repetition emphasizes that Revelation is not just about what will happen someday—it speaks to our lives now.
Cross-References
- Revelation 1:3 — “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy… because the time is near.”
- Daniel 12:4 — “Seal the words of the scroll until the time of the end.”
- Romans 13:11 — “The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber… our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.”
- Matthew 24:44 — “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”
- 2 Peter 3:9 — “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse is a strong encouragement to take God’s Word seriously. Revelation isn’t meant to confuse or scare—it’s meant to awaken and equip. The command not to seal the scroll means we are supposed to read it, understand it, and live by it.
This verse also calls us to urgency. We don’t know when Jesus will return, but we do know that we’re closer today than ever before. That truth should affect how we live, how we share our faith, and how we obey God’s Word.
It also challenges us to resist spiritual laziness. This world is not all there is. God is moving, His plan is unfolding, and He has called us to be ready and active in our faith.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t hide the truth from His people. He reveals it. He gives warning and hope. He shows us what’s ahead so we can be prepared. That’s what He’s doing in this verse. He doesn’t want anyone to be surprised or caught off guard—He wants everyone to have the chance to respond.
God’s openness in giving us His Word is part of His grace. He invites us to walk in the light, not in confusion or fear. His love is seen in His clarity and His call to be ready.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the one who gave this revelation to John (Revelation 1:1), and He is the one who is coming soon. Throughout the book, Jesus is shown as Savior, Judge, King, and Lamb. He is central to every vision and every promise.
Because of Jesus, the message of Revelation is one of hope, not terror. He took the judgment of sin on Himself, and He invites us into eternal life with Him. That’s why the message must not be sealed—because it’s all about Him and the salvation He offers.
In John 14:29, Jesus said, “I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.” Revelation 22:10 is a continuation of that same heart—Jesus wants us to believe and be ready.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean to you personally that the message of Revelation is meant to be open and known?
- How does the phrase “the time is near” affect the way you think about your life and your priorities?
- In what ways can you live more alert and ready for Jesus’ return?
- How can you encourage others to read and understand the truths of Revelation?
- What does this verse reveal about God’s desire for His people to know and trust Him?