Revelation 22:6 — The angel said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord, the God who inspires the prophets, sent his angel to show his servants the things that must soon take place.”
Explanation of the Verse
This verse acts like a stamp of truth on everything that has just been revealed in the book of Revelation. The angel tells John that what he’s seen and heard isn’t a dream made up in his mind or a message that might change later—it’s trustworthy and true. These are real promises from a real God, and they are going to happen.
The angel also points back to the God who gave this message. He’s described as the Lord, the God who inspires the prophets. That means the same God who spoke through Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel is the One speaking now. God hasn’t changed. He has always revealed His plans through His messengers.
Finally, the verse says these things must soon take place. That phrase doesn’t mean every detail will happen instantly, but rather that what’s been promised is set in motion. God’s plan is active, and His return isn’t a distant idea—it’s something we should live ready for.
Historical Context
John received this message while exiled on the island of Patmos, likely around 95 A.D. The early church was facing hardship and persecution. Many believers were discouraged, waiting for Jesus’ return and wondering if God had forgotten them. Revelation, and especially this final chapter, was meant to reassure them.
In that context, this verse reminded believers that they weren’t holding on to fantasy—they were holding on to truth. The God who had always kept His promises in the past would do it again. His message could be trusted.
Theological Implications
This verse tells us something key about the nature of God: He speaks truth, and He keeps His word. God doesn’t leave His people in the dark. He shows us what we need to know. He’s not distant or silent—He sends messengers, speaks through prophets, and gives His people hope and direction.
It also reinforces that the events described in Revelation are not random or symbolic alone. They are purposeful, and they are part of God’s plan. The “must” in “must soon take place” shows God’s authority and control. History is not spiraling—it’s being guided by His hand.
Literary Analysis
This verse functions like a shift in the final chapter of Revelation. Up until now, John has been describing what he saw. But beginning here, the message turns more personal and direct—like a conclusion or final charge.
The phrase “trustworthy and true” appears earlier in Revelation 21:5, and it serves to bookend the final visions. It’s a literary tool meant to give the reader assurance: this isn’t just a hopeful thought—it’s dependable.
The mention of “the God who inspires the prophets” is a deliberate connection to the entire story of Scripture. It ties the ending of the Bible back to the beginning and middle, showing that all of God’s Word fits together and points in the same direction.
Cross-References
- Revelation 21:5 — “These words are trustworthy and true.”
- 2 Peter 1:21 — “Prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets… spoke from God.”
- Amos 3:7 — “Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.”
- Isaiah 46:10 — “I make known the end from the beginning… My purpose will stand.”
- Matthew 24:35 — “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that God’s Word can be trusted. In a world full of false promises, changing opinions, and uncertainty, God’s truth stands firm. What He says will happen, will happen.
This should stir up both comfort and urgency. Comfort because we know how the story ends, and urgency because we are part of what God is doing right now. Jesus is coming again. The time is closer than we think.
It also reminds us not to lose heart when the world seems dark. God hasn’t forgotten His promises. Everything He said is still moving forward, exactly as He planned.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t leave His people guessing. He gives them a message they can hold on to. When God says, “These words are trustworthy and true,” it’s like He’s taking His people by the hand and saying, “You can rely on Me.”
God’s love is shown in His faithfulness. He could have left us without warning or direction—but instead, He revealed His heart and His plan through prophets, angels, and His Word. He wants us to be ready, not scared. And He wants us to know that our future with Him is secure.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Everything in Revelation points back to Jesus. He is the Lamb, the King, the Judge, and the Savior. He is also the Word made flesh (John 1:14), the One who embodies all truth.
Jesus Himself is described earlier in Revelation as “faithful and true” (Revelation 19:11). This verse echoes that. The message is trustworthy because it comes from the One who is trustworthy.
In John 14:29, Jesus told His disciples, “I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.” Revelation 22:6 is a continuation of that same idea. Jesus wants His followers to have confidence in His promises, because He always does what He says.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Do you believe God’s Word is trustworthy and true? Why or why not?
- How does this verse affect your confidence in the promises found in Revelation?
- What are some areas in your life where you need to be reminded that God is in control?
- How can you live with a sense of readiness, knowing that these things “must soon take place”?
- What does this verse teach you about how God communicates with His people?