Why do some people think that Revelation 22:18 is speaking of the Bible as a whole?

Question

First off, some books of the NT had not yet been written when John wrote the book of Revelation, and even those that had been written and were in existence at that time had not yet been gathered into one compilation.

Secondly, the warning uses the words “the prophecy of this book” and also “the words of the book of this prophecy.” The word book in both instances is singular.

Thirdly, it is also interesting to note that John himself added to scripture after writing the book of Rev., which is generally conceded to have been written while he was on the Isle of Patmos. It was long after John left Patmos that he wrote his first epistle.

Fourthly, in the OT also are found similar vigorous denunciations and commands that there shall not be added to the words that were written. (See Deut. 4:2. and Deut. 12:32). If the same interpretation and argument was applied to them as is applied to the closing verses of the book of Revelation, there would be no scriptures after the writings of Moses.

Dreads, what bearing does that have on the idea that Rev 22:18 is speaking of the Book of Revelation and not the entire Bible? I also believe that if anything contradicts the Gospel that has been preached to us then we should reject it. But is Paul saying that God will not ever reveal more of his words than that which he has already revealed? Is Paul saying God will stop speaking to his children after the Bible is compiled?

Answer 1

You'll never get a satisfactory answer to this one. I agree with you that the passage must be read to mean Revelations......but with Christians, it is convenient to make that applicable to the whole Bible........

Answer 2

It could be because of 22:14 "Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the Tree of Life, & may enter through the gates into the city.
Deut 28:15 also gives a warning, I think its to do with the
Commandments.

Answer 3

Why not read Joseph Smith explanation in the DC?

It is the last days it talks about!

And coming of the savior.

Rev is supposed to be the first book, but certain interest group put it in the back.

Answer 4

Don't forget what paul tells the galatians in chapter 1:

6I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned! 9As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let him be eternally condemned!

10Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Answer 5

I agree with you. This passage is frequently misinterpreted. It seems very clear to me that the meaning is as you explained it. He that has ears, let him hear.......