Keeping God's Word

A Requirement for Survival in the Last Days

(Verses in the book of Revelation)

In these passages, the term "God's Word" refers to the message of the Bible. These verses may specifically focus on Jesus' words, on God's commands, or on the prophecy of the book of Revelation; but it's all God's Word.
 

What does it mean to "keep" God's Word?

It doesn't mean...

• Storing it in a Bible on the shelf.
   
• Putting it on a piece of jewelry, bookmark, keychain, etc.
   
• If this is all you do, it will have no effect on your heart.

It does mean...

• Paying attention to it.
   
• Treasuring it in your heart.
   
• Doing what it says.

If you aren't "keeping" God's Word...

• The opposite of "keeping" God's Word is "denying" it - Revelation 3:8 (the last 2 phrases describe parallel concepts).
   
• God commands you to start "keeping" it - Revelation 3:3. (If you don't, you won't be ready for his coming.)
   

The need to "keep" God's Word in your heart

You have a moral obligation do it; God commands that you do it.

• It's the only way you can be ready for the future - Revelation 3:3 (and other verses).

If you do it...

• You are blessed - Revelation 1:3; 22:7. (The focus here is on paying attention to the book of Revelation.)
   
• You are one of God's servants, just like the angels - Revelation 22:9b!
   

The possibility of trials in our lives

• If you "keep" God's Word, the Devil may bring you trials - Revelation 12:17. (This verse is an example from the end times, but is typical of what happens at any time.)
   
• If this happens, be patient and endure the trials - Revelation 14:12. You will have victory, even if the trials kill you! (This is the worst-case scenario, which will happen to many of Jesus' followers during the end times - see v. 13.)
   
• If you remain faithful, God may protect you from some of the trials that the world will experience - Revelation 3:10.
   

In addition to God's Word, we also need to "keep" God's works. We need to do what he says.

• This is the application of Scripture (God's Word) to life. It does not refer to religious rituals and activities.
   
• There are great blessings for those who do this - Revelation 2:26.
   
• This specific illustration is from Jesus' comments to a group who claimed to be "Christian," but who tolerated sexual sin and idolatry. (Merely claiming to "disapprove" of these sins isn't enough. Jesus knows our attitudes, values, thoughts and desires, as well as our actions - see Revelation 2:23.)

Being ready for Jesus' coming is like keeping one's clothes on - Revelation16:15. Don't be caught unprepared!

Dennis Hinks © 2007
071025