Revelation 22:6 (KJV)

What does Revelation 22:6 mean?

Revelation 22:6 says that the words and visions given in the book of Revelation are trustworthy and true, and that God, who spoke through the prophets, has sent his angel to show his servants what is about to happen soon. This verse assures the reader that the message comes from God and is reliable.

In this verse, an angel is speaking to John, the author of Revelation, confirming that everything John has seen and heard in the visions is dependable. The angel points out that the same God who inspired the holy prophets has now sent an angelic messenger to reveal these future events to God’s servants, emphasizing the continuity and authority behind the message.

The Greek behind Revelation 22:6

• The word πιστός (pistos, "faithful") is used here to stress that the sayings are reliable and can be trusted, just as one would trust a faithful friend.
• The word ἀληθινός (alēthinos, "true") adds that these sayings are not just trustworthy but are also genuine and real, not imaginary or false.
• The phrase ἐν τάχει (en tachei, "shortly") carries the sense of something happening soon or quickly, which has led to much discussion about the timing of the events described.
• The word δούλος (doulos, "servants") refers to those who serve God, highlighting that the message is meant for all who are devoted to Him, not just a select few.

Why Revelation 22:6 matters

• This verse reassures readers that the entire message of Revelation is not a human invention but comes with the authority of God, linking it to the tradition of the Old Testament prophets.
• The emphasis on the sayings being "faithful and true" addresses any doubts about the reliability of the visions and prophecies in the book.
• By stating that these things "must shortly be done," the verse connects the urgency of the message to the lives of its first readers, while also shaping how later generations understand the timing and relevance of Revelation’s prophecies.