I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.
What does Revelation 22:13 mean?
The Lord Jesus spake by the angel, solemnly confirming the contents of this book, particularly of this last vision. He is the Lord God faithful and true.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Revelation 22:11-13 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Revelation 22:13
I am Alpha and Omega ... - See the notes on Revelation 1:8 , Revelation 1:11 . The idea here is, that he will thus show that he is the first and the last - the beginning and the end. He originated the whole plan of salvation, and he will determine its close; he formed the world, and he will wind up its affairs. In the beginning, the continuance, and the end, he will be recognized as the same being presiding over and controlling all.
Key words
- Alpha
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I am Alpha and Omega,.
- Omega
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I am Alpha and Omega,.
- beginning
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The Ethiopic version adds, "the beginning and end of days", or time.
Context in Revelation 22
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Revelation 22 belongs to the closing movement of the book, especially the section often described as final victory and new creation. Revelation is the New Testament’s climactic apocalyptic prophecy of worship, witness, judgment, cosmic conflict, and the new Jerusalem. Read this chapter with the wider themes of worship, witness, and judgment in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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What Scripture reveals about heaven, the dwelling place of God, the promise of eternal rest, and the hope of being with Christ forever.
Bible verses about justice and mercy
Key texts on public righteousness, neighbor-love, social ethics, compassion, and the prophetic refusal to separate worship from justice.
Passages on the nature of truth, honesty, deception, the word of God as truth, and Jesus' claim to be the truth.
Passages on praising God, singing, prayer, corporate worship, and the spirit in which true worship is to be offered.