Revelation 22:12

Jesus Christ repeated His promise to return soon (Revelation 22:7; cf. Revelation 1:3; Revelation 22:20).

"Nowhere is a date set, nor was there any definite promise that the consummation would occur within the lifetime of the first century Christians. Nevertheless, the possibility of the Lord’s advent was always present." [Note: Tenney, p. 150.]

Christ’s words continue through Revelation 22:19. Instead of promising a blessing, as He did earlier (Revelation 22:7; Revelation 16:5), this time He promised to judge. He will reward both the good and the bad. This is a reward that He has to give. This prospect strengthens the warning in Revelation 22:11. Jesus Christ will judge all people finally on the basis of their works (cf. Revelation 20:12; Jeremiah 17:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10-11).

"Whereas salvation is of grace, rewards are according to works." [Note: Smith, A Revelation . . ., p. 302. Cf. Matthew 16:27; Luke 23:41; 1 Corinthians 3:8; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 11:15; 2 Timothy 4:14; Hebrews 2:2; Revelation 2:23; 11:18, 18:6; 20:12, 13.]

"God gives us His salvation, but He pays us for our good works." [Note: Zane C. Hodges, "The Doctrine of Rewards, Part 1: Rewards and Grace," Grace Evangelical Society News 9:5 (September-October 1994):4.]

In view of Jesus Christ’s soon return Christians should be diligent to lay up treasure in heaven while we have the time (Matthew 6:19-21).